The neighborhood of Palm Grove, on the northernmost boundary of the City of Miami, was designated historic in 2009. This 2 block wide by 22 block long area is “Miami’s largest and most eclectic historic district, illustrative of the growth and development of Miami from the 1920s through the late 1950s”. It is bordered on the east by the historic MiMo (Miami Modern) Biscayne Boulevard District, whose mid-century neon-lit motels line the boulevard. This area, after decades of urban decay, is in the midst of a rebirth.

The property, which is “contributing” to the historic district, consists of a main house (1952), addition (1956) and detached cabana (1960) surrounding a pool (1960). Due to the different periods of construction, the style of architecture changes from modest ranch house to flat roofed mid-century modern. On the interior, the patchwork of additions caused problems with functionality and flow.

After decades of neglect, the property was purchased in foreclosure from the bank in late 2015. The roof was partially collapsed, there was visible termite damage in the existing wood floors, and the cast iron pipes were corroded and would all need to be replaced. In order to restore and modernize the house, the roof was removed and the interior stripped down to the CMU block walls so that it could be rebuilt.

When planning the renovation, it was important that the main house and cabana interiors be reoriented around the neglected courtyard and pool, acting as the new center of the house. Impact windows and doors were added throughout, with new double doors replacing small windows along facades that face the courtyard. An authentic Argentine parrilla and custom daybed anchor the courtyard and pool area respectively. Landscaped was added around the perimeter of the house to help with privacy, sound and drainage concerns .

Photos: Courtesy of Photographer Venjhamin Reyes

Architecture + Design: ANDstudio