/images/ppid_59c68470-image-177601002555136314.webp)
What is the story about?
A landmark hotel in Miami was brought down in a controlled implosion on Sunday, April 12, marking the end of a 25-year run and clearing space for a major redevelopment project, the Associated Press reported.
The former Mandarin Oriental, Miami, located on Brickell Key, collapsed in less than 20 seconds after a series of timed blasts around 8:30 am, officials said.
Demolition experts carried out what authorities described as the largest building implosion in Miami in more than a decade. The 23-storey structure came down rapidly as charges were triggered in sequence.
Moments before the collapse, flashes resembling blue- and pink-tinted fireworks were seen near the top floors. Within seconds, the building’s frame gave way, sending up a large cloud of dust.
People gathered at a safe distance to watch the demolition, cheering and recording videos on their phones. Some wore face masks as they moved away from the dust.
Residents living within about 800 feet of the site were advised to remain indoors with windows and doors closed during the blast.
About the hotel
The Mandarin Oriental, Miami opened around 25 years ago and became one of the city’s well-known luxury waterfront hotels. Located on Brickell Key, a man-made island near downtown Miami, the property was known for its views and proximity to the financial district.
Over the years, it hosted business travellers, tourists and high-profile guests, contributing to Miami’s position as a global luxury destination.
Why the building was demolished
According to developer Swire Properties, the demolition is part of a long-planned redevelopment of the site.
The project, called The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, will include two ultra-luxury towers combining hotel and residential spaces and is expected to be completed by 2030.
The operation followed nearly two years of planning and coordination with specialised contractors and city authorities. Developers said implosion was chosen as the safest and most efficient method to complete the demolition while minimising disruption and maintaining the project timeline.
What comes next
With the site now cleared, groundwork is expected to begin for the new development. The upcoming towers are aimed at reshaping Brickell Key’s skyline and meeting growing demand for high-end residential and hospitality spaces.
The demolition marks a transition for the area, as an established property makes way for a larger and more modern project.
The former Mandarin Oriental, Miami, located on Brickell Key, collapsed in less than 20 seconds after a series of timed blasts around 8:30 am, officials said.
What happened during the implosion
Mandarin
Hotel Implosion #Miami pic.twitter.com/eczwQNCWKy
— Carlos Rivero (@cerivero) April 12, 2026
Demolition experts carried out what authorities described as the largest building implosion in Miami in more than a decade. The 23-storey structure came down rapidly as charges were triggered in sequence.
Moments before the collapse, flashes resembling blue- and pink-tinted fireworks were seen near the top floors. Within seconds, the building’s frame gave way, sending up a large cloud of dust.
Image: AP
People gathered at a safe distance to watch the demolition, cheering and recording videos on their phones. Some wore face masks as they moved away from the dust.
Residents living within about 800 feet of the site were advised to remain indoors with windows and doors closed during the blast.
About the hotel
The Mandarin Oriental, Miami opened around 25 years ago and became one of the city’s well-known luxury waterfront hotels. Located on Brickell Key, a man-made island near downtown Miami, the property was known for its views and proximity to the financial district.
Image: AP
Over the years, it hosted business travellers, tourists and high-profile guests, contributing to Miami’s position as a global luxury destination.
Why the building was demolished
According to developer Swire Properties, the demolition is part of a long-planned redevelopment of the site.
The project, called The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, will include two ultra-luxury towers combining hotel and residential spaces and is expected to be completed by 2030.
The operation followed nearly two years of planning and coordination with specialised contractors and city authorities. Developers said implosion was chosen as the safest and most efficient method to complete the demolition while minimising disruption and maintaining the project timeline.
What comes next
With the site now cleared, groundwork is expected to begin for the new development. The upcoming towers are aimed at reshaping Brickell Key’s skyline and meeting growing demand for high-end residential and hospitality spaces.
The demolition marks a transition for the area, as an established property makes way for a larger and more modern project.
/images/ppid_59c68470-image-177600510203099913.webp)