
Kona Gray - Principal, EDSA
08/07/24 • 86 min
In this episode, we are joined by Kona Gray, Principal at EDSA, for a delightful conversation over gin & tonics and plenty of laughs. Kona shares insights from his remarkable 27-year career at EDSA, an internationally acclaimed landscape architecture firm. Growing up in Liberia with an architect father, Kona was immersed in design from an early age. His experiences attending an international school and exploring the outdoors in Liberia nurtured his appreciation for diverse cultures and the natural world.
With over two decades of experience, Kona has been instrumental in designing and managing a wide range of projects globally, from urban developments to luxurious resort destinations. His visionary approach blends creativity with practical solutions, promoting sustainable and innovative landscapes. As a thought leader in his field, Kona is dedicated to enhancing the human experience through design, making him a highly respected voice in landscape architecture.
Tune in to hear how Kona's passion for connecting humanity to the environment drives his work and inspires his visionary designs.
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.
Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida.
In this episode, we are joined by Kona Gray, Principal at EDSA, for a delightful conversation over gin & tonics and plenty of laughs. Kona shares insights from his remarkable 27-year career at EDSA, an internationally acclaimed landscape architecture firm. Growing up in Liberia with an architect father, Kona was immersed in design from an early age. His experiences attending an international school and exploring the outdoors in Liberia nurtured his appreciation for diverse cultures and the natural world.
With over two decades of experience, Kona has been instrumental in designing and managing a wide range of projects globally, from urban developments to luxurious resort destinations. His visionary approach blends creativity with practical solutions, promoting sustainable and innovative landscapes. As a thought leader in his field, Kona is dedicated to enhancing the human experience through design, making him a highly respected voice in landscape architecture.
Tune in to hear how Kona's passion for connecting humanity to the environment drives his work and inspires his visionary designs.
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.
Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida.
Previous Episode

Alan Ojeda - Founder & CEO, Rilea Group
Join us as we sit down with Alan, sharing a glass of Rioja and delving into his remarkable journey. Growing up in Madrid, Paris, and Ireland, Alan's diverse background laid the foundation for an extraordinary career.
After college, Alan enlisted in the Spanish army, commanding a tank unit. In the early 80s, he ventured to Miami, where he launched his real estate career by constructing a 44,000 SF strip center in 1983. Alan then transitioned to building single-family subdivision homes, completing 200 before shifting his focus to garden-style multifamily apartments, amassing a substantial portfolio.
In the 1990s, Alan began developing office buildings in Brickell, culminating in his most renowned project: 1450 Brickell Avenue, a landmark in Miami’s office market.
Today, the Rilea Group continues to shape Miami's skyline with exciting new projects, including The Rider and Mohawk in Wynwood.
Don't miss this captivating conversation with a true Miami real estate legend!
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.
Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida.
Next Episode

W. Allen Morris - Chairman & CEO, The Allen Morris Company
In this episode, we sip dirty vodka martinis with Miami real estate legend Allen Morris, CEO and Chairman of the Allen Morris Company. With nearly 45 years in the industry, Allen offers a deep dive into what it takes to build a lasting legacy in Miami's competitive real estate market. We discuss the challenges and successes of leading one of the Southeast's most respected development firms and explore their latest projects.
Allen shares his personal journey, from growing up under the influence of his father, L. Allen Morris, who founded the company in 1958, to taking the reins in 1980 at just 28 years old. His passion for creating inspiring, impressive, and life-improving projects shines through as he talks about the company's mission and its impact on communities.
With a portfolio of 87+ successful projects, including the SLS LUX Brickell in Miami, Alhambra Towers in Coral Gables, and Star Metals Offices in Atlanta, Allen's insights are invaluable for anyone in the real estate field. Tune in for a conversation that blends personal stories with professional wisdom, all while enjoying a drink with one of Miami's most influential real estate leaders.
Also check out Allen's book. “All In: How to Risk Everything, for Everything that Matter.”
Want to dive deeper into Miami’s commercial real estate scene?
It’s our favorite topic—and we’re always up for a good conversation. Whether you're just exploring or already making big moves, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or give us a call at 305.498.9410.
Prefer to connect online? Find us on LinkedIn or Instagram—we’re always open to expanding the conversation.
Ben Hoffman: LinkedIn
Felipe Azenha: LinkedIn We extend our sincere gratitude to Büro coworking space for generously granting us the opportunity to record all our podcasts at any of their 8 convenient locations across South Florida.
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