Board approves University of Miami’s Lagores House COA to add elevator, replace windows and improve accessibility

The City of Coral Gables Historic Preservation Board unanimously approved a certificate of appropriateness March 12 for rehabilitation work at the University of Miami’s Lagores House (Apartment Building 35) at 1233 Dickinson Drive.

Architects Daphne Guri (speaker S7) and Fabio Segre (speaker S16) described a project that replaces existing steel‑frame windows with full‑view metal windows and clear, non‑reflective glazing, upgrades building systems, and adds a modest elevator tower and connecting walkways to create ADA access to the second and third floors. Presenters said they had worked with the Board of Architects on details and sought to keep the elevator’s massing understated so it does not compete with the building’s horizontal lines.

Board members questioned the use of reflective glass and energy calculations; the applicants said they would submit glass samples and that they had coordinated mechanical design and energy calculations so clearer glazing could be used without unduly affecting energy performance. The board also discussed texture options for the elevator tower (white stucco vs. smooth synthetic paneling) and confirmed staff conditions to ensure compatibility with the landmark building’s materials and proportions.

Staff and board members praised the design’s sensitivity and voted to approve the COA with the conditions noted in the staff report.