With more than three decades of experience as an entrepreneur and condo developer in Brazil and the U.S., Claudio Stivelman, CEO of S2 Development, is a creator—and he derives much satisfaction from seeing the results of his endeavors. In fact, he makes each of his developments seem like a musical research project before he puts down the finishing touches. “I like creation,” says Stivelman who was born in Rio de Janeiro and moved to Miami in 1991. “I study the area, read my notes, finish the production, then survey what I did. Like a maestro chooses his violinist, saxophonist and pianist, I coordinate all of my components, then wait for everyone to stand up
and applaud.”

With appropriate bravura, Stivelman has thus approached the development of O Residences in Bay Harbor Islands, a coloratura of boutique island living with plenty of water features and a natural eco-atrium created by a green hanging garden trellis system. “I like the water, and Rio and Miami are the only places I have ever lived,” notes Stivelman. “When I discovered Bay
Harbor Islands, I realized it is a forgotten jewel next to Bal Harbour, a wonderful place to live with all the joys of waterfront living.”

Stivelman is excited about his project in Bay Harbor Islands, which is set to be completed by the end of 2017, and sees it as the type of residential property that will be popular in the future. He named it O Residences and decided on nine floors with 41 one-, two-, and three-bedroom luxury waterfront residences measuring from 1,060-1,466-square feet with six units to a floor, and prices ranging from the $500,000s to upwards of $1 million.

All units have glass-paneled terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors. Kitchens and bathrooms are fitted with European cabinetry, quartz countertops and top-of-the-line fixtures and appliances; bathrooms feature marble floors. Each unit, regardless of size, is “Smart” tech ready so owners can communicate with the valet, security, or front desk at a click or touch of a button. “The interiors are minimalist chic,” says the developer. “Buyers so far are mainly Latins looking for a second home. We also have New Yorkers. All of the interested people find the property to be a wonderful address with a good location surrounded by beautiful parks and water.” In fact, the applause sounds the loudest when owners see the water features. There are waterfalls, a water deck, a private zero-edge Sunset Pool, a boomerang shaped infinity hot tub, cabanas and a boat dock. “I did a deal with a boat company so O Residences owners can make a reservation the day before and have a boat to use at no charge,” says Stivelman.

 “All they pay for is gasoline. I want them to have everything imaginable for perfect island living— everything that I love.” There is also a 1,000-square-foot fitness center with bayfront views, lockers, a steam room and a sauna. The entire property feels like a resort.  Stivelman, who also developed Artech, a $210 million Miami waterfront loft community designed by Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott with a marina and the latest technology, is also excited about his other property-in-progress nearby. MUSE Sunny Isles Beach is S2’s joint venture with Property Markets Group and is aimed at buyers who prefer a small building. It’s a glass 50-story building also designed by Ott and will offer only 68 residences. MUSE will have only 68 residences in an enclave of tranquility directly on Sunny Isles Beach. “The building’s exterior will appear to melt seamlessly into the waves of the Atlantic Ocean,” says Stivelman. “Each residence, from 1,400-1,900 square feet, will be delivered furniture-ready, complete with interior design by Miami’s Antrobus + Ramirez.”

The project should also be completed by the end of 2017, with prices for units going as high as $4 million each. “When steady developers with a track record venture into a good market, they know what to do,” says Stivelman of his current projects. “There is lots of opportunity now for experts. The fun is in the coordination — and of course, the finale.”