A recent study conducted by the University of Miami has brought to light a pressing issue concerning the structural integrity of 35 luxury buildings located in Miami Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, and Bal Harbour. Among the buildings highlighted are the Porsche Design Tower, Ritz-Carlton Residences, Faena Hotel, Trump Tower III, and Surf Club Towers (North, South, and Hotel Tower). The full list is provided at the end of this article.
Recently, it was revealed that these high-end properties are experiencing a phenomenon known as "subsidence," which refers to the gradual sinking of land due to both geological and human-induced factors.
Causes of Land Subsidence in Miami
The sinking of land in Miami is attributed to a combination of factors. The study identifies two primary causes:
Construction Vibrations: Activities associated with the building of skyscrapers, such as drilling and excavation, contribute to compacting the sand layers beneath these buildings, leading to land subsidence.
Water Movement: The constant interaction between water and Miami's porous soil, whether from tides, storms, or human activities, accelerates ground instability. This process, referred to as "creep deformation," occurs when sand grains are compacted under the weight of structures.
Impact and Effects of the Phenomenon
Between 2016 and 2023, the recorded sinking varies from 0.8 to 3 inches, with some buildings experiencing as much as 8 centimeters of subsidence. While these figures might seem minor, the real issue lies in differential subsidence, where different parts of a building sink at varying rates. This uneven settling can cause cracks, misaligned doors, and, in severe cases, substantial structural instability.
Unlike other cities built on solid rock, Miami is founded on porous limestone covered by sand layers. This geological composition makes the ground particularly susceptible to sinking, especially in areas with extensive construction and rising sea levels.
The Porsche Design Tower: A Symbol at Risk
The Porsche Design Tower, located in Sunny Isles Beach, stands out among the affected buildings. This 195-meter tower, launched in 2017, is famous for its innovative design and unparalleled luxury. Each apartment features robotic elevators that allow cars to be parked within the residences, attracting notable owners like Lionel Messi, Thalía, and Maluma.
According to the study, the Porsche Design Tower has sunk 10 centimeters between 2017 and 2021. Although there is no immediate threat of collapse, the rate of settlement is a concern for experts.
The study underscores the necessity for ongoing monitoring of ground conditions in areas like Sunny Isles Beach, especially after the collapse of the Champlain Towers South in 2021 raised alarms about structural stability in the region. However, the collapse of the Champlain Towers South in Surfside, which resulted in 98 fatalities, was not directly linked to subsidence, according to the study.
Advice for Residents
Residents of affected buildings should proceed with caution. It is crucial to review the building's inspection reports, request information about maintenance and monitoring plans, and invest in ground stability studies.
Miami faces a challenging future regarding urban sustainability. The combination of geological risks and the pressures of real estate development poses significant challenges that the city needs to address with strategic planning and technology.
Complete list of affected buildings: 1. Porsche Design Tower. 2. Ritz-Carlton Residences. 3. Faena Hotel. 4. Trump Tower III. 5. Surf Club Towers (North, South, and Hotel Tower). 6. Regalia. 7. Residences by Armani Casa. 8. Muse Residences. 9. Jade Ocean Condos. 10. Jade Beach Condos. 11. Jade Signature Condos. 12. Chateau Beach Residences. 13. Marenas Beach Resort. 14. Millennium Condominiums. 15. Ocean II, III, and IV. 16. Florida Ocean Club. 17. Trump International Beach Resort. 18. Aqualina Resort and Residences. 19. Mansions at Aqualina. 20. Bentley Residence Development Site. 21. Pinnacle. 22. Double Tree Resort and Spa. 23. Sole Mia Resort. 24. Kings Point Imperial Condo. 25. Fendi Chateau. 26. Oceana Bal Harbour. 27. Marbella Condominium. 28. Waverly. 29. Carlisle on the Ocean. 30. Residence Inn by Marriott. 31. 87 Park Tower. 32. Arte Residence. 33. L’Atelier Condo. 34. Faena House. 35. Luxury Condo Cabarete.
Key Questions about Subsidence in Miami
What is causing the buildings in Miami to sink?
The sinking is primarily due to construction vibrations and water movement interacting with Miami's porous soil, leading to land subsidence.
How does differential subsidence affect buildings?
Differential subsidence causes parts of a building to settle at different rates, which can lead to structural issues like cracks and misaligned doors.
Why is the Porsche Design Tower significant in this study?
The Porsche Design Tower is notable due to its innovative design and high-profile owners, making its subsidence a matter of concern despite no immediate danger of collapse.