This is a guest post by our partner organization, the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables
Article by Karelia Carbonell
At its recent Annual Meeting, the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables proudly presented its 2024 “Friend of HPACG” Award to Alex and Marta Silva for embarking on a meticulous restoration project to preserve their 1923 home, designed by H. George Fink. Not only did they save the home from possible demolition, they salvaged and reused many of the original materials such as pine floors, checkered tiles, and original coral rock to retain much of the home’s historical integrity all while being environmentally sensitive.
According to the American Institute of Architects, reusing structures reduces embodied carbon by 50-70%. A 2016 study found that adaptive reuse projects cost less per square foot than new construction. They truly embody the profoundly important task of preserving our City’s architectural and cultural heritage. The dedicated and respectful restoration of their 100-year-old home makes them true friends of HPACG and aligns them perfectly with the organization’s mission of promoting the importance of historic resources and their preservation.
Members were delighted to recognize the Silvas with this well-deserved award. It was an exceptionally special afternoon in a charming home rich in history and character. The Award was established in 2015 to honor individuals and organizations in harmony with the organization’s mission. This recognition is bestowed on Members and Friends of HPACG as per selection by the Board of Directors.
With a solid past and an eye to the future
An introduction about the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables [HPACG] is best served with a quote by former HPACG board member Herbert Brito and past architectural historian for the National Register of Historic Places, who observes, “Without reservation, it is highly apparent that the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables has demonstrated superlative achievement in the field of preservation and has espoused the ideal to save America’s historic places. The focus of HPACG throughout its existence is indicative of its desire to protect properties that convey a special sense of time and place.”
Established in 1991, The Association marked its 32nd anniversary in 2023. With a solid past and an eye to the future, the group continues its mission of promoting the importance of historic resources and their preservation. In carrying out its mission, HPACG has effectively communicated the value of historic preservation to its membership. Through its promotional activities, it has exhibited leadership in issues of importance to historic preservation and has established itself as one of the leaders in statewide preservation advocacy.
Taking an active part
The Association continues to partner with the City of Coral Gables‘ historic preservation efforts, actively supporting applicants seeking Special Certificates of Appropriateness and Determinations of historic designation. Moreover, HPACG disseminates information on local tax incentives available to owners of historic properties as well as advocating the economic value associated with historic homes. According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, historic properties appreciate at rates greater than the local market overall as well as faster than similar, non-designated properties.
In 2023, HPACG and its members successfully advocated for the designation of over 20 distinct properties [more than doubling 2022 numbers] and continued its support for the preservation of The Garden of Our Lord, which when created 70-plus years ago, was one of only three biblical gardens in the United States. The Garden is in jeopardy of being razed to make way for a multi-story condo.
Embracing the calling
Dr Karelia Martinez Carbonell, who has a doctorate in public administration and not-for-profit management, has served as its president since 2013.
Under her leadership, the organization established itself as a 501c3 not-for-profit. For the past decade, it has grown to include a loyal membership group, and a strong cadre of leadership donors. In 2016, an annual giving campaign — the George Giving Society — was introduced to recognize donations of $250 or more. All gifts are unrestricted. Members are listed in the annual Honor Roll of Donors. The organization also boasts close to 2,000 followers on its social media platforms.
Last May, the City of Coral Gables presented the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables with a “Certificate of Recognition” during National Preservation Month.
For the past few years, Karelia, along with former and present board members, has shepherded the organization’s signature preservation project — the historically designated 1926 decorative “White Way” street lights. The organization has worked steadfastly with elected city officials advocating for the preservation, restoration, and maintenance of the landmark lights which were commissioned directly by City Founder George Merrick. Phase one of the restoration, entirely funded by the City, was recently completed. Phase two and three are underway.
Other HPACG initiatives undertaken during the past decade include:
Advocating tirelessly to save the ill-fated La Salle building [eventually demolished in 2019] The 100-year old building was one of the original Coral Gables buildings and the planning office of Founder George Edgar Merrick;
Bringing attention to the city’s modern architectural styles including the Brutalist-style architecture of the former public safety building [presently being repurposed by Mercedes Benz of Coral Gables for its new showroom]; [Mark your calendars May 29-June 1 DOCOMOMO-US will be holding its 2024 National Symposium in Coral Gables at the University of Miami School of Architecture. HPACG is a proud sponsor.]
- Protecting Miracle Mile as a heritage site;
- Placing historical markers around the city;
- Supporting local landmark designations;
Helping to establish an official resolution establishing June 3rd as “Founder’s Day in Coral Gables.” The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Coral Gables Founder George E. Merrick; An annual ceremony has been established to celebrate the day.
- Being a voice for residents who support preservation;
- Educating on issues important to the community;
- Facilitating the return of two original 1920s Arcadian-style “White Way” street lights to the front of the historic Coral Gables Country Club.
And many other fundraising and membership events such as an ongoing “Destination Series” which in 2020 included “Palm Island and the Capone next door: 100 Years since Prohibition”; an annual Bazaar; and interesting and unique Tertulias, the most recent one highlighting the “Tales of the Alhambra” by Washington Irving.
Anchoring history
An organization such as HPACG serves as an invaluable voice by promoting the importance of historic resources and their preservation. It proudly aligns itself with other preservation organizations in the state such as Miami Design Preservation League, Dade Heritage Trust, Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, Docomomo-FL, and others in the ongoing pursuit of preserving places that matter.
With your help…HPACG will continue to advance its mission of preservation—in our community and beyond.
Want to get to know us better? Please visit our website at www.historiccoralgables.org
