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Commission chooses ‘Carved by Nature’ facade for Miracle Mile mobility hub, approves Gensler contract work
Summary
After reviewing refined facades and rooftop activation concepts from Gensler, the Coral Gables City Commission selected a nature‑inspired metal‑panel design and approved a contract amendment to finalize construction documents for the Parking Garage 1 mobility hub.
Coral Gables commissioners voted Oct. 28 to proceed with a refined “Carved by Nature” facade design for the mobility hub at Parking Garage 1 and to authorize consultant Gensler to complete construction documents under a change order.
Staff and Gensler presented updated elevations that combine a patterned metal screen, integrated landscape niches and public art locations along Miracle Mile and Andalusia Avenue. Commissioners and members of the public described the preferred option as a softer, more “lacy” pattern that filters light into the garage and improves pedestrian experience. Commissioners also reviewed rooftop activation concepts that would expand the rooftop community/restaurant space and include outdoor terraces, performance/activation space, and photovoltaic trellises.
After discussion about building height, ventilation and long‑term reuse potential, the commission voted to adopt the design option (referred to as option 1) and approved a change order to Gensler to complete construction documents and the rooftop build‑out design. The city manager said the selection will allow the project to move to the construction procurement phase and the city to pursue a construction manager at‑risk contract.
What it means: The selected facade is intended to blend urban and biophilic design to better connect the garage with Miracle Mile’s pedestrian environment. Staff emphasized that the building is within existing zoning height limits and that design and engineering choices were made to improve safety, daylighting and future adaptive reuse.
Speakers quoted on the record: • Gensler representative (presentation): “The pattern is intended to evoke a canopy — a veil of light and shadow that activates Miracle Mile while providing daylight inside the garage.” • Mayor Vince Lago: “We need parking to support Miracle Mile; the design must also be an urban asset.”
Actions: Commission selected option 1 (Carved by Nature) for the mobility hub facade and approved a Gensler change order to finalize contract documents for construction. Commissioners asked staff to coordinate final art and landscape selections and to expedite procurement of a construction manager for the construction phase.
