Miami Preservation Office denies special certificate for historic home renovations

The City of Miami's Historic Environmental Preservation Board convened on July 1, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the preservation of historic properties within the city. A significant topic of discussion was the proposed alterations to a historic home located at 544 Northeast 75th Street.

During the meeting, staff presented a report indicating that the proposed changes, including window replacements and roofing alterations, did not align with the character of the historic district. The staff emphasized that the new windows, which were horizontal sliding types, were not appropriate for a house built in 1936, as they typically comply with styles from post-1950 constructions. The report highlighted that window openings visible from the right of way are crucial architectural features that should maintain their original character.

Furthermore, the proposed roofing material was criticized for its texture and dark color, which were deemed incompatible with the historic home. The staff concluded that these changes would adversely affect the architectural and aesthetic character of the site, recommending the denial of a special certificate of appropriateness required for such alterations.

Following the staff's presentation, a representative for the property owner, identified as Sasha, expressed a desire to respond to the report. However, the meeting's procedural flow required her to first provide her name and address for the record.

The board's discussions underscored the importance of adhering to preservation guidelines to maintain the integrity of Miami's historic districts. The outcome of this meeting will likely influence future decisions regarding alterations to historic properties in the city, emphasizing the need for compliance with established standards.