Historic Preservation Board approves several renovation and variance requests; May 5 presentation set for Historic Preservation Month

At its April 23 meeting the Coral Gables Historic Preservation Board approved several design proposals and associated variances for locally significant properties and set outreach steps for Historic Preservation Month.

Key votes and actions at a glance

- 1138 Venicia Avenue (COA SP 2026-010): Board approved one‑story additions and variances for a driveway curb cut and separation requirements; staff conditions included minimizing driveway width and using a differentiated opening that references the original carport. Motion passed unanimously.

- 1233 Anastasia Avenue (COA SP 2026-011): Board approved a new rear two‑story addition sited away from the street and asked the applicant to work with staff on driveway configuration to reduce neighbor impacts; motion and variances approved unanimously.

- 1015 Sevilla Avenue (COA SP 2026-012): This Coral Rock residence (circa 1923) will have a reconstructed detached garage, an expanded breezeway and interior reconfiguration; the board approved the COA and a minor porch setback variance with conditions related to preserving exterior openings and addressing how the breezeway intersects the garage. Vote was unanimous.

- 826 Medina Avenue (COA SP 2026-013): Given septic constraints and the desire to maintain a single‑story cottage character, the board supported reconstructing a failing garage in the same footprint and granted a variance to waive the city's covered off‑street parking requirement; the motion passed unanimously.

The board also designated Miss Shield to prepare and present a statement to the City Commission on May 5 for National Historic Preservation Month and discussed a staff budget request for a homeowner guidelines publication and pending hiring for an assistant preservation officer.

What's next: The board continued one contentious item (547 Alcazar Avenue) after a split vote; that application may return with revisions or be appealed to the City Commission. Staff will coordinate with applicants to satisfy conditions and to document any triggers that should generate future historic review.