Landscapes / Open Space

Snapshots of the projects noted below are in the following format:

  • Project / Location
  • Rating System / Award Level / 
    Date Certified
  • Spinnaker Services -- e.g., Consulting, Commissioning, Energy Modeling
  • Architect / Owner / Contractor
  • Square Footage

The Sustainable SITES Initiative (SITES) is a comprehensive land design and development rating system that is being used by both private and public sectors all around the world. SITES certification is given to landscapes, site infrastructure and spaces that demonstrate a high level of environmental and social sustainability. SITES works for all types of projects with or without a building – including parks, university campuses and commercial headquarters – for new construction or major renovation of existing sites.  Learn more about SITES here ... and review a related article written by Spinnaker here.

Skate Free Miami - Lot 11 / Miami, FL  
Pursuing SITES Certification
Spinnaker Services: SITES Consulting

There has long been a skateboard scene in Miami -- skaters from all over travel to skate the city's unique blend of architecture and tropical landscapes -- and for just as long there has been a gaping hole in its recreational services for skaters. With the opening of the state-of-the-art Skate Free Miami / Lot 11 in November 2019, an inspiring home for skateboarders was born. A first-of-its-kind project for the South Florida region, Skate Free Miami features multiple skate areas catering to all skill levels and styles, including challenging contest courses, bowl and transition sections, a "real street" section, and a flexible beginner's area. The Spinnaker Group provided SITES consulting services for this unique project. SITES certification is given to landscapes, site infrastructure and spaces that demonstrate a high level of environmental and social sustainability. The Sustainable SITES Initiative works for all types of projects with or without a building -- including parks, university campuses and commercial headquarters -- for new construction or major renovation of existing sites. The SITES checklist for the Spinnaker team for Skate Free Miami included registering the project for SITES certification, completing construction, and finalizing operations and maintenance procedures as part of the performance period before submitting for certification. Features of the 45,000 sf project include utilization of a unique "saltwater concrete" with basalt rebar to make the hardscape more resilient to saltwater inundation and sea-spray. The landscape is nearly 100% native and completely drought-tolerant. It is built under the I-95 overpass to repurpose an abandoned city parking lot. The site includes BUG-rated lighting fixtures, remediated soils, efficient irrigation ... and more. 

600 Alton Park / Miami Beach, FL 
Pursuing SITES Certification
Spinnaker Services: SITES Consulting

The Spinnaker Group is providing SITES consulting for this exciting project. A gateway Miami Beach development, 600 Alton features 410 residences, and 15,000 sf of beautifully landscaped, pedestrian-friendly retail. 600 Alton connects
SoFi, South Beach and Palm, Hibiscus and Star Islands -- Miami's wealthiest neighborhoods. The Spinnaker Group completed SITES feasibility for the City of Miami Beach and the project’s developer (of the tower you see in the rendering). SITES certification is given to landscapes, site infrastructure and spaces that demonstrate a high level of environmental and social sustainability. The Sustainable SITES Initiative works for all types of projects with or without a building -- including parks, university campuses and commercial headquarters -- for new construction or major renovation of existing sites. SITES features of 600 Alton Park include:

  • Saltwater tolerant turfgrass (seashore paspalum) for sodded areas.
  • Native and adaptive species for trees/palms/landscape beds.
  • Rainwater harvesting efforts including 25,000 sf of buried cisterns.
  • Distinctive site lighting focused on turtle protection and reduced light pollution.
  • Porous pavement in certain areas. Improved soil health across the previously developed site.

500 Alton / Miami Beach, FL  
Project Goal: LEED Gold & SITES Certification
Spinnaker Services: LEED Consulting, Commissioning, Energy Modeling, SITES Consulting
Arquitectonica / Terra Group

Arquitectonica-designed plans for this 46-story, 410-unit residential condominium tower, 15,000-sf retail pavilion,
578-space parking garage, pools, sports facilities, spas, and a new 3-acre park with elevated pathways ... are striking!
These myriad components will be forged on three city blocks between 500 and 700 Alton Road in Miami Beach, the centerpiece of which could become the tallest tower in Miami Beach. The 3-acre park will include a tot lot, dog park, and impressive green space. It will also be connected to the baywalk and beachwalk via an elevated pedestrian bridge. The Spinnaker Group is providing LEED Consulting, Building Commissioning, Energy Modeling and SITES Consulting for this extraordinary and exciting community project, which has a minimum goal of achieving LEED Gold certification.