Architect Hamed Rodriguez plans two-story addition to fire-damaged historic home

The Coral Gables City Council held a Historic Preservation Meeting on May 14, 2025, focusing on a significant property renovation proposal. The meeting primarily discussed a request for design approval for a two-story addition to a residence that has been vacant since a fire rendered it uninhabitable in July 2023.

The property owner, who purchased the house after the fire, plans to add a two-story structure over the existing detached garage and make alterations to the main residence. The proposal includes site work, and notably, no variances are requested. The design has already received approval from the Board of Architects, which confirmed that all comments and conditions from previous reviews have been addressed.

Architect Hamed Rodriguez presented the renovation plans, emphasizing the historical value of the property, which dates back to the 1940s. He noted that the owner initially considered demolishing the house but was persuaded to preserve its character. Rodriguez described the project as a challenge but expressed optimism about transforming the property into a unique home, affectionately referred to as "the pink fink" by the owner.

The existing home is approximately 1,700 square feet, situated on a lot of over 5,000 square feet. The proposed renovations aim to maximize the floor area ratio, adding another bedroom to the residence. The council's discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining the historical integrity of the property while accommodating modern living needs.

As the project moves forward, the council's approval marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to preserve Coral Gables' architectural heritage while allowing for necessary updates to residential properties.