The most notable discussion centered on the historic designation application for the property on Granada Boulevard. As presented during the meeting, the residence, constructed in 1925 and designed by architect Martin Hampton, is a prime example of the Mediterranean Revival style that characterizes much of Coral Gables’ early architectural landscape. Historic Preservation Planner Elizabeth Gwyn delivered a detailed presentation. The house is notable for its architectural integrity, despite some modern alterations such as the replacement of original wood casement windows with hurricane impact windows in 2019.

Gwyn’s presentation elaborated on the architectural elements that define the property, including its characteristic Mediterranean Revival features like projecting and recessed bays, barrel tile roofs, and decorative details. The presentation also highlighted the home’s historical context, linking it to George Merrick’s vision of Coral Gables as a Mediterranean-inspired community in the 1920s.

The board engaged in a thorough discussion, considering both the original architectural features and the changes made over time. The property’s eligibility for historic designation rests on its historical cultural significance, architectural significance, and embodiment of the Mediterranean Revival style’s distinguishing characteristics. The board unanimously voted to approve the historic designation, recognizing the home as a vital part of Coral Gables’ cultural and architectural heritage.

In addition to the Granada Boulevard property, the commission tackled a renewal application related to 1256 South Greenway Drive. This property, categorized as a non-contributing resource within the Country Club of Coral Gables Historic District, required a special certificate of appropriateness renewal. The applicant sought approval for the demolition of an existing residence and construction of a new single-family home. This renewal was procedural, necessitated by the expiration of the previous certificate before a building permit could be issued.

The commission also reviewed a design proposal for additions and alterations to the property on Mallorca Avenue, a local historic landmark attributed to H. George Fink and constructed in 1923. The proposal included a one-story addition featuring a flat roof, which required a variance from the zoning code’s typical pitched roof requirement. The discussion covered various architectural details, with board members expressing general satisfaction with the project’s massing and the proposal’s alignment with the existing structure. The motion to approve the design proposal, including the flat roof variance, passed unanimously.

The session also covered updates on several ongoing historic preservation projects within the city, such as work on City Hall, the Alhambra water tower, and the DeSoto fountain.