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Historic Preservation Board approves additions and variances for 720 Madera Avenue
Summary
The board approved design changes and three variances for 720 Madera Avenue, including a rear addition connecting the main house to a rear cottage, a pool, and a privacy wall, with conditions and findings that zoning criteria were met.
The Coral Gables Historic Preservation Board unanimously approved a design proposal and three variances for additions and site work at 720 Madera Avenue at its Jan. 16 meeting.
The project, which the board described as a sensitive redesign following earlier feedback, will connect the main 1930s house to an existing detached garage/cottage at the rear, add a pool and pool deck, and include a landscaped privacy wall. The applicant requested variances for maximum ground area coverage, mechanical equipment setback, and the height of a rear privacy wall.
Staff recommended approval for lot coverage and mechanical equipment setback variances but not for the wall height; during discussion the applicant revised the plan so the wall would sit at a 10-foot setback, which staff and the board accepted. Board members said the revised layout better preserved the massing and character of the original house than other options would have.
The motion approved the issuance of a special certificate of appropriateness for the additions and site work and granted the variances with conditions (including staff conditions incorporated into the motion) and a finding that the third variance satisfied the required legal criteria. The board recorded a unanimous roll call in favor of the motion.
Board members asked that materials and minor details (awnings, pool deck finishes and window/door hardware) be reviewed administratively with staff. The applicant indicated intent to retain the original front door and much of the existing roof and exterior character.
