I
n the city of Miami, where perpetual innovation reigns supreme, a once-neglected industrial area has blossomed into a luxury haven. Welcome to Merrick Park, Coral Gables' crown jewel, where high-end living, shopping, and dining converge in perfect harmony.

    At its heart lies the Merrick Park District (MPD), a vibrant neighborhood undergoing rapid transformation with sleek, architecturally-stunning residential projects like Merrick Manor, The Henry, Belmont Village, and more. Philippe Diener, a seasoned broker with Brown Harris Stevens, has witnessed this metamorphosis firsthand, calling the area home for over three decades.

    "The MPD's historic Mediterranean style is an antidote to bland modernism," Diener notes, highlighting the district's unique aesthetic. "It's a place where you can walk, live, and play in a family-friendly environment."

    However, Diener acknowledges that the area's density comes with trade-offs: "The buildings are close together, which can limit privacy, views, and natural light." Despite this, he touts the district's walkability and proximity to top-notch schools.

    Roger Development's Oscar Roger sees Merrick Park as a prime destination for both residents and tourists. While traffic is already an issue, the area boasts a unique advantage: the Underline, Miami's equivalent of the High Line, which offers a 10-mile linear park beneath the Metrorail, serviced by a free trolley to Coral Gables' business district.

    Cassia Residences, developed by Alta Developers, broke ground in early 2025 and is set to open in February 2027. This 12-story, 174-residence building features turnkey furnishings packages with RH interior and outdoor collections, catering to flexible ownership models.

    "The MPD has evolved from a blank slate to a thriving community," says Raimundo Onetto, principal and CEO of Alta Developers. "With only a few lots remaining, Merrick Park has become one of the most coveted areas in Coral Gables."

    Coldwell Banker's Nathan B. Zeder credits luxury as the area's biggest draw, citing the Shops at Merrick Park's four million annual visitors. He represents 225 Alesio Ave., a $3.35 million Med-style mansion built in 1924.

    "Merrick Park is where you can shop for a Louis Vuitton purse and an Aston Martin just steps away from each other," Zeder says, highlighting the area's unique retail experience.

    ONE Sotheby's International Realty's Ena Espino Pereda credits the Shops at Merrick Park with fueling growth in the surrounding area. Her firm's upcoming Ponce Park Residences will join 2022's Loews Coral Gables Hotel as a testament to the district's appeal.

    While Coral Gables' schools are among the best in the state, spots can be extremely competitive due to high demand. Realtor Michael Martinez warns that buyers should act quickly: "Merrick Park's growth has transformed Coral Gables into a modern, sophisticated urban enclave while honoring its historic roots."