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The Service Gap Inside the Ultra-Luxury Home

Why Five-Star Residential Service Still Ends at the Front Door and the New Ownership Model Emerging to Fill the Void

Ralph Choeff

Ralph Choeff

Principal

Choeff Levy Fischman Arcitecture + Design

Ralph Choeff

Principal

Choeff Levy Fischman Arcitecture + Design

Ralph Choeff is the founding partner of Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design. A notable figure in South Florida, Ralph earned his Bachelor of Architecture from New York’s Pratt Institute in 1978. His passion for modern architecture blossomed in New York City, where he was inspired by iconic buildings such as the Lever House and the Seagram Building.

In 1978, Ralph relocated to Miami and opened his practice in 1983 with a mission to create exceptional and well-regarded modern architecture for discerning clients. His innovative approach and refusal to conform to conventional designs quickly earned him recognition, starting with his first Tropical Modern residence on Miami Beach. Throughout the years, Ralph has earned many awards for his work across Florida, the United States, the Caribbean and elsewhere around the world.

Over the past four decades, Ralph along with his partners Raphael Levy and Paul Fischman, has become a leading force in the Tropical Modern architecture movement significantly influencing the architectural landscape of Miami and Miami Beach’s Venetian Islands and North Bay Road. Ralph’s dedication to crafting exceptional, resort-like residences has attracted a clientele that includes high-profile global executives, celebrities, musicians, and professional athletes. His portfolio also includes luxury Miami Beach hotels like the Mondrian South Beach and the Angler’s.

Ralph and his partners continue to expand the practice to meet the growing demand for their unique architectural style, site planning expertise, and implementation skills.

What It Takes to Build at $10M+

From Scarce Waterfront Land and Entitlements to Hurricane Resilience, Custom Design and the High-Stakes Construction Process

Kobi Karp

Kobi Karp

President

Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design

Manny Angelo Varas

Manny Angelo Varas

President

MV Group USA

Kirk Ivy

Kirk Ivy

President and Founder

Ivey Design Build

Todd Tyler

Todd Tyler

Chief Creative Officer

Studio IDC

Gregg Mackell

Gregg Mackell

Principal

HLB Lighting Design

James Galvin
Moderator

James Galvin

Founder

Miami Coastline Management

Kobi Karp

President

Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design

Kobi Karp is the Founder and Principal of Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design, Inc (KKAID). Kobi Karp founded the firm in 1996 and has been the Principal-in-Charge of design since that time. KKAID is a full-service architectural and interior design firm providing a vast array of services, ranging from the design of large-scale, high-rise condominium and hospitality projects to intimate, small-scale low-rise residential and commercial structures.

Educated at the University of Minnesota’s Institute of Technology, Kobi Karp earned degrees in both Architecture and Environmental Design. Subsequently, Kobi Karp began his career working on major hospitality and all- inclusive resort projects throughout the United States and the Caribbean. His restoration design techniques have contributed to a renaissance in one of this country’s most cherished areas, Miami Beach’s Art Deco District which is internationally recognized around the world.

Kobi Karp has developed expertise in design over the last 20 years, working with a wide range of project types, sizes, complexities, and budgets. It is through this last quarter century working in warm weather climates that KKAID has garnered international acclaim and been selected to spearhead numerous resort projects. Developers and builders in the Caribbean, Black Sea region, and the Middle East have relied on the firm for their design eye and planning.

Kobi Karp is a recognized member of the American Institute of Architects, honored for his award-winning designs and buildings and he is a licensed Professional Architect in 9 states and in Abu Dhabi (UAE). His firm has been featured in renowned national and local publications based on their major contributions in the preservation of historical areas.

Kirk Ivy

President and Founder

Ivey Design Build

By helping his family in remodeling their home, Kirk felt a calling and immediately knew that his talents were meant for the building and design industry. Next, Kirk too on a position in construction management on a small plaza project. These two small steps into design and build management were a start towards building Ivey Design Build.

Well known for his honest, competent, and diplomatic style, Kirk has worked in international markets, using his expertise in construction, interior design, and information technology architecture to provide a comprehensive solution for clients. His knowledge and attention to detail are unparalleled, which enabled him to build striking spaces on schedule while conserving budget.

Ivey Design Build has supported the latest update to the Jetlinx airport, luxury apartments in the Ritz Carlton residences, Marquis Building, Trump Towers, Presidential Estate, Bal Harbor Condominium, Armani Building, Turnberry Ocean Club, Regalia among others. Additionally, Ivey has acted as builder to major entities in Jamaica such as Super Clubs, Air Jamaica, Victoria Mutual Building Society. Additionally, Kirk has spearheaded projects for HNW residential clients in Miami, Florida, and the Hamptons.

Following a decade of experience that has yielded exceptional results, Kirk Ivy still has more in store for the company. He aspires to maintain and continue exceeding the high standards of service rendering to all the clients the Ivey experience.

Todd Tyler

Chief Creative Officer

Studio IDC

Todd Tyler is an accomplished interior designer, furniture designer, and creative leader with over two decades of experience in the industry. He is currently the Chief Creative Officer of Studio IDC, a full-service Miami-based interior design and procurement firm specializing in luxury residential and hospitality projects.

After earning his BFA in Interior Design from The Art Institute, Todd worked with Kenneth Brown Design in Los Angeles, then moved on as a Senior Designer with Jennifer Bradford Davis Interior Design, where he collaborated on a range of high-profile residential projects in NYC and Mustique. Todd also served as a furniture designer for Blue Leaf Hospitality, where he created case goods, indoor and outdoor seating, upholstery, tables, and banquettes for the hospitality and commercial industries. His work has been featured in national design publications and received praise for its beauty, functionality, and attention to detail.

Throughout his career, Todd has been recognized for his professionalism and dedication to the tenets of interior design. He draws inspiration from all forms of art, including fine art, film, fashion, music, and theater, and in his downtime can often be found visiting museums around the world. As a former competitive elite gymnast, Todd learned valuable life lessons such as always putting your whole heart into everything you do, discipline, competitive spirit, and accountability, which continue to serve his colleagues and clients today. He is a proud member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and holds certification from the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), two of the most respected professional organizations in the industry.

Gregg Mackell

Principal

HLB Lighting Design

Gregg Mackell brings more than 30 years of experience working on high-end residential projects for discerning private clients and design teams. As the former founder of 186 Lighting Design Group, he led the practice for over two decades before merging with HLB Lighting Design in 2022, uniting two design-driven firms to better serve the luxury residential market.

With a portfolio spanning more than 1,000 private residences, Gregg is known for delivering highly tailored lighting design solutions that respond to each client’s vision and lifestyle. He works closely with owners, architects, and interior designers on bespoke homes, translating design intent into refined, livable environments. His work has been recognized with multiple industry awards, and he is valued for his collaborative approach and ability to navigate detail-driven projects with precision.

James Galvin

Moderator

Miami Coastline Management

James Galvin is the Founder of Miami Coastline Management, an Owners Rep. firm specializing in ground-up commercial real estate development within the multi-family condominium and hospitality sectors. With hands-on experience from notable projects such as The Surf Club, Seaway at The Surf Club, Hillcrest in Surfside, and The Delmore, James also offers comprehensive expertise in the development, planning, and execution of custom single-family residences and condominium build-outs.

James began his career in the South Florida construction industry as an estimator for a local roofing company while pursuing a degree in Construction Management at Florida International University. He simultaneously advanced as a Project Engineer with a local General Contractor while earning his M.B.A. After obtaining his General Contractor’s license, James operated his own construction firm before merging with Shawmut Design & Construction, a leading national builder. Transitioning to the ownership side of the business, he joined Fort Partners' Development Team, managing beachfront projects in Surfside and overseeing pre-development, design, entitlement, execution, and completion phases.

More recently James served as Vice President at DAMAC and the company's first U.S.-based employee, he managed DAMAC’s inaugural U.S. project, The Delmore. His extensive background in construction and development, strategic planning, and project management underscores a career marked by growth, innovation, and leadership in South Florida’s dynamic real estate market.

What It Takes to Sell at $10M+

How Buyer Expectations, Design Decisions, Pricing and Global Marketing Determine Which Trophy Homes Trade

Anastasia Cucu

Anastasia Cucu

COO & Partner

MILAS

Jordan Karp

Jordan Karp

Founder and CEO

Jordan Karp LLC

Alex Ginard

Alex Ginard

Founder

Ginard Studio

Robert Galbo
Moderator

Robert Galbo

Shareholder

Greenberg Traurig

Anastasia Cucu

COO & Partner

MILAS

Anastasia Cucu is a real estate development executive specializing in the acquisition,

development, and delivery of luxury residential communities and bespoke homes. As Chief

Operating Officer of Milas LP, she oversees every stage of the development process, from

sourcing and underwriting opportunities to design coordination, entitlement strategy,

construction execution, financing, and final disposition.

Born in Chișinău, Moldova and based in Miami, Anastasia built her career at the intersection of

business strategy, design, and execution. Her professional path spans acquisitions, brokerage,

project management, operations, and development, giving her a rare ability to navigate the

financial, legal, architectural, and construction disciplines that shape successful real estate

projects. She is known for bringing structure to complexity and for maintaining a hands-on

approach from initial concept through completion.

Under her leadership, Milas has assembled a growing portfolio of residential developments

across Miami's emerging urban neighborhoods, with a focus on creating thoughtfully designed

homes that balance architectural quality, long-term value, and market demand. Her work

includes luxury single-family residences, townhome communities, adaptive reuse opportunities,

and strategic land acquisitions.

Anastasia's perspective extends beyond real estate. Fluent in multiple languages and shaped by

an international upbringing, she draws inspiration from art, philosophy, psychology, and cultural

history as much as from finance and urban development. She believes that exceptional projects

are created when disciplined analysis is paired with imagination, and when economic

performance and human experience are considered equally important.

She is particularly passionate about city-building, neighborhood revitalization, and creating

environments that improve the way people live. Her approach combines rigorous financial

underwriting with a deep appreciation for architecture, landscape, and the emotional impact of

place.

Known for her precision, determination, and ability to move projects forward through

uncertainty, Anastasia is drawn to ambitious endeavors that require vision, resilience, and long-

term thinking. She is committed to building not only successful developments, but lasting

contributions to the communities in which they stand.

Alex Ginard

Founder

Ginard Studio

Alex Ginard, AIA, NCARB, is the Founder and Principal of Ginard Studio, a Miami-based

architecture and interior design firm specializing in luxury residential, multifamily, hospitality, and

mixed-use developments. With more than 20 years of international experience spanning Cuba,

Mexico, and the United States, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective that combines design

excellence, urban planning, construction coordination, and project execution.

Prior to founding Ginard Studio in 2021, Alex spent over six years at Arquitectonica, contributing to

high-profile residential, hospitality, office, and mixed-use projects across South Florida and

international markets. Today, he leads a growing practice that collaborates closely with

developers, investors, and homeowners to transform complex opportunities into successful built

environments.

Through his work with developers throughout South Florida, Alex has developed a practical

approach that aligns design, economics, and execution. His perspective focuses on how

architecture can reduce risk, unlock value, and contribute to the long-term success of a project

while creating meaningful places for people.

Robert Galbo

Moderator

Greenberg Traurig

As a litigation shareholder in Greenberg Traurig’s Miami office, Robert S. Galbo focuses his practice on class actions and complex commercial and real estate litigation matters in federal and state courts. He has represented clients in putative class action lawsuits involving a broad array of products and has litigated claims related to breach of warranties, deceptive and unfair trade practices, negligence, and alleged product failures. His experience in the real estate sector includes advising commercial and residential developers and landlords in disputes involving purchase and sale agreements, rescission, leasing, and tenant issues. He also represents clients in a wide range of complex disputes involving commercial transactions, breaches of contract, business torts, and fraud. Additionally, he provides defense counsel and consulting in claims brought under disability rights laws, including Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Remarks from the Podium

Henrique Driessen

Henrique Driessen

Founder and CEO

Elephant Skin

Henrique Driessen

Founder and CEO

Elephant Skin

Henrique Driessen is the Founder and CEO of Elephant Skin, a global go-to-market partner specializing in luxury real estate developments. With a background in real estate development, he has built his career at the intersection of development, branding and commercial strategy, helping developers translate complex projects into compelling market propositions.

Since founding Elephant Skin in 2017, Henrique has led the company's expansion to eight offices serving clients across the Americas, Europe and the Middle East. The firm has supported more than US$5 billion in real estate sales since its inception through integrated go-to-market strategies for luxury residential developments, branded residences and mixed-use projects.

His work is focused on building go-to-market systems that align strategy, narrative and execution to support long-term asset value, bringing together market intelligence, immersive customer experiences and commercial performance for some of the world's leading real estate developments.

Why Attend Bisnow's Inaugural Ultra-Luxury Home Development Forum

For the first time, Bisnow is entering the residential space and we're starting at the top!
 
South Florida is one of the most active ultra-luxury residential markets in the country, recording 361 home sales above $10M in 2025—the second-highest total on record. But behind the headline-making transactions is an increasingly complex business.
 

Waterfront land is disappearing, teardown prices continue to climb and coastal zoning, insurance exposure and construction costs are changing what can be built and what still pencils. Meanwhile, buyers have become more selective, demanding homes that combine exceptional architecture and interiors with privacy, resilience, advanced technology and a seamless ownership experience.
 

Bisnow’s South Florida Ultra-Luxury Home Summit will bring together the developers, custom builders, architects, designers, brokers and specialists shaping Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach’s $10M–$100M single-family home market. The event will examine the entire life cycle of a trophy residence from acquiring and entitling the land to designing, building, marketing, selling and servicing the home after closing.

What You'll Takeaway:
 

  • How developers are sourcing and underwriting scarce waterfront and barrier-island sites before they reach the broader market.

  • How zoning, entitlements, flood requirements, hurricane resilience and insurance costs are affecting the feasibility and design of $10M–$100M homes.

  • What makes ultra-luxury construction fundamentally different, from bespoke materials and global procurement to exacting clients and highly specialized project teams.

  • Which architectural features, interiors, amenities and technologies are commanding premiums and which expensive design decisions buyers no longer value.

  • Where today’s ultra-wealthy buyers are coming from, how their expectations are changing and what determines whether a trophy home sells quickly or sits.

  • Why five-star service still ends at the front door of many luxury residences and how a new concierge ownership model is emerging to support homeowners after closing.

For questions regarding content and speaking, please email our Event Producer, Elizabeth Herrgott, at elizabeth.herrgott@bisnow.com. Want to get involved? Contact Jordan.Hinsch@bisnow.com to get information on sponsorship, pricing and availability at this event. To request disability-related accommodations, please contact ariel.fromm@bisnow.com no later than seven business days prior to the event.

Venue

Intercontinental
100 Chopin Plaza
Miami, FL 33131

Ballroom: Biscayne & Mezzanine East
Floor: Mezzanine


Discounted valet parking is available at $22 per vehicle

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Agenda

Time Activity
12:00 PM
1:00 PM
Registration, Breakfast & Networking
1:00 PM
1:45 PM
The Service Gap Inside the Ultra-Luxury Home

This panel will examine the largely overlooked service gap between luxury property management and private homeownership and the emergence of a new concierge model designed to fill it. Developers, property managers and industry leaders will discuss who should be responsible for the experience inside the home, how that support can be incorporated before turnover, and whether continuous, residence-level service will become the next defining feature of ultra-luxury living.

1:45 PM
2:00 PM
Networking Break
2:00 PM
2:45 PM
What It Takes to Build at $10M+

This panel will bring together developers, custom builders, architects and project leaders to examine what makes delivering a $10M–$100M single-family residence fundamentally different from other real estate. The conversation will explore how teams source and underwrite irreplaceable land, navigate zoning and entitlements, design for flooding and hurricanes without compromising the architecture, manage bespoke materials and global supply chains, and coordinate the dozens of specialists required to execute a one-of-a-kind home.

2:45 PM
3:30 PM
What It Takes to Sell at $10M+

This panel will bring together brokers, architects, designers and luxury marketing specialists to examine what is moving the $10M–$100M market now. Panelists will discuss where buyers are coming from, how expectations differ among domestic and international purchasers, which features have become baseline requirements and which still command a meaningful premium. The conversation will also explore the relationship between design and resale value, when brokers should enter the development process, how to price a one-of-a-kind property when comparable sales are scarce, and what it takes to market and sell a home to one of the world’s smallest and most private buyer pools.

3:30 PM
4:00 PM
Post-Event Networking

Tickets

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