Zaha Hadid presides over 1000 Museum groundbreaking

Zaha Hadid made a rare public appearance at the groundbreaking for 1000 Museum Friday afternoon, where approximately 200 real estate professionals, condo buyers and invited guests gathered to fete the project’s architect.

Hadid was mobbed by guests attempting to take her photo as she made her way to the podium, where she received a key to the city from Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado and City Commissioner Marc Sarnoff.

“I love Miami,” Hadid told the assembled crowd. “We are extremely excited not only because I will have something of mine in the city, but also because it is a very adventurous project.”

Gregg Covin, one of the developers of the 62-story tower, said he expects construction on the project to last 36 months.

“Hopefully by the end of 2017, we’ll finish it,” Covin said. “We are approaching 50 percent sold right now. People have really responded to Zaha’s brand and her design.”