In the world of real estate, few stories are as compelling as that of Robert Rivani. By the age of 33, Rivani had orchestrated over $750 million in deals, all without partners or external capital. As the President of Black Lion, he oversees commercial and residential projects spanning from the prestigious shores of Carbon Beach in Malibu to the vibrant heart of Miami. Much like the apex predator his company is named after, Rivani and Black Lion operate at the pinnacle of the commercial real estate market, embodying the strength and social acumen of a lion's pride.
Rivani’s journey began in humble circumstances before embarking on a path that would lead him to the heights of the real estate industry. Today, he is a trailblazer who, after only a year in Miami, brings elite brands such as Catch, Delilah, Gekko, and Gaia to Miami and the broader U.S. market. His efforts are redefining Miami's real estate landscape, blending luxury, hospitality, and innovative vision.
Robert Rivani sees Miami as a burgeoning global destination. "Miami continues to be a global destination for growth," he says, attributing this to a massive population increase and an influx of businesses and billionaires. Rivani believes that Miami is poised to become the epicenter of the United States, with endless opportunities on the horizon.
Black Lion’s success can be attributed to its relentless innovation and unconventional approach. "We are constantly pushing the envelope and thinking outside the box. We don't do 'normal,'" Rivani states. This philosophy has allowed Black Lion to carve out a unique niche in the competitive real estate market, continually seeking novel solutions and perspectives.
Historically, real estate has been perceived as a staid and uninspiring field. Rivani, however, is bringing a fresh edge to the industry. Inspired by his travels to over 60 countries, he is integrating luxury retail and hospitality into his projects. This global perspective infuses his developments with a unique flair, setting them apart from the competition and attracting discerning clientele.
Rivani’s strategic focus on hospitality groups over condo developers highlights his innovative approach. "Hospitality groups are sexier and attract people more than condo developers," he explains. This emphasis on dynamic, experience-driven projects aligns with his vision of creating vibrant, engaging spaces that captivate and attract people.
One of Black Lion’s notable projects is the introduction of the renowned restaurant Catch to Miami. Rivani recounts how this came about: "Catch was an instantaneous match that happened within one meeting on site. Both parties were incredibly excited at the opportunity to work together." Recognizing the underutilized potential of a space previously occupied by a dart bar, Rivani bought out the existing tenants to pave the way for Catch, envisioning it as an iconic addition to the area.
Robert Rivani's ambitious vision and innovative approach have cemented Black Lion's reputation as a leader in the real estate industry. His story is a testament to what can be achieved through determination, creativity, and a willingness to defy conventional wisdom. As he continues to reimagine Miami’s landscape, his journey serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs and real estate professionals alike, illustrating the power of vision and the potential for extraordinary success.
