Construction Timeline: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay

The evolution of Sarasota’s waterfront has been defined by moments of architectural brilliance and unparalleled luxury. Perhaps no single name is as synonymous with this transformation as The Ritz-Carlton. Following the resounding success of the first two residential offerings, developer Kolter Urban set out to create a third signature address: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay.

Situated within the multi-billion-dollar Quay Sarasota master-planned district, this 20-story tower represents the next chapter in hospitality-driven living. Here is a definitive timeline of the project, charting its journey from concept to reality.

Early 2024: Project Announcement and Site Preparation

Following the sellout success of the neighboring Ritz-Carlton residences, Kolter Urban officially announced plans for The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay. While Kolter had already established a strong footprint in Sarasota, this project was envisioned to raise the bar again, targeting buyers seeking large-format, turnkey condominiums with brand-backed services. The plan called for just 78 grand waterfront residences, ranging from 3,500 to nearly 6,000 square feet.

Shortly after the announcement, sitework commenced in April 2024. Crews began clearing the premier site located at 555 Quay Commons, preparing for the deep foundations required for the 20-story structure.

Late 2024: General Contractor Selection and Vertical Momentum

By the fall of 2024, the site was transformed. Foundations were nearing 90% completion, and the standard utilities were in place. To lead the vertical construction, Kolter Urban announced in November 2024 that Moss Construction had been selected as the general contractor.

This choice was strategic; Moss Construction had successfully partnered with Kolter Urban on the original Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota, completed in 2021. This selection cleared the way for vertical construction to begin, and the tower soon began to take its physical form along Quay Commons.

Mid-2025: Sales Gallery Opening and Rapid Rise

Construction proceeded ahead of schedule. As the building rose several stories, the vision was brought to life for prospective buyers. In May 2025, Kolter Urban held the grand opening of the on-site Presentation Gallery at 475 Quay Commons. This gallery offered an immersive introduction to the ownership experience, featuring:

• A full-scale designer kitchen vignette.
• A model Owner’s Bath.
• An enhanced scale model of the completed property.
• A private design studio where future residents could personalize their homes.
  Simultaneously, vertical construction accelerated. By September 2025, the concrete structure had reached Level 11, and the installation of the signature floor-to-ceiling glass walls had begun on the lower levels, giving the first clues to the dramatic bay and city views that define the property.

December 2025: Topping Out Ceremony

Exactly on schedule, the project marked its most critical construction milestone to date. In December 2025, Kolter Urban and Moss Construction celebrated the Topping Out of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay. This tradition marks the placement of the final concrete beam on the highest point of the structure, signifying that the 20-story tower had reached its full vertical height. The topping-off confirmed that the project remained on track for its anticipated 2026 delivery.

Now (Early 2026): Interior Build-Out and Final Stages

With the structure reached its full height, the focus has shifted entirely to finishing the 78 limited-edition homes and the expansive amenity spaces.

As of February 2026, John Harper, Development Executive for Kolter Urban, reported that construction is entering the interior build-out phase. This includes:

• Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP): Crews are busy installing the critical systems on the upper levels.
• Residences: The interior build-out is moving floor by floor. Strategic sequences include layout of interior walls, followed by the installation of the high-end floor tile, cabinets, and countertops.

Exterior: The installation of windows and the signature exterior finishes continues to wrap around the building.
The vision for the integrated Harbor Club—the exclusive, 20,000-square-foot amenity collection across the ground floors—is now actively under construction, moving toward its ultimate goal: a planned delivery in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Sarasota Perry

Founding Agent at Compass. Specializing in the curation and sale of Sarasota’s most prestigious branded residences, including The Ritz-Carlton, Waldorf Astoria, and St. Regis. With a deep commitment to white-glove service and market intelligence, I help discerning clients secure their piece of the Florida Gulf Coast’s most exclusive addresses.

Email: perry.corneau@compass.com

Website: http://www.sarasotaperry.com