What lies behind the historic windows of Coral Gables City Hall? How do you preserve century‑old craftsmanship while strengthening buildings for future generations? And what happens when a community privilege meets modern demands for safety and resilience? Find out at the “Listen & Learn” presentation—hosted by the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables and free to the public—taking place Thursday, June 26 from 3-5 pm in the Margaret M. Beaton Meeting Room at Coral Gables Library (3443 Segovia Street, Coral Gables, FL 33134).
Attendees will enjoy light refreshments, learn from proven experts in window restoration across the region, and hear directly about efforts underway to conserve original City Hall windows. Though no formal presentation materials have been released, the session promises both technical insight and a deeper appreciation of what makes these windows—nestled in our Mediterranean‑Revival landmark—so special.
Preservation in practice: Meet the presenters
Paula and Dean Stanbridge, principals of Professional Revitalization Services LLC (aka PROVIVE), lead the discussion. Their commercial construction company focuses on historical preservation throughout Southwest Florida and has contributed to multiple high‑profile projects, including:
- Dyer Courthouse in Miami: Extensive restoration of bronze‑framed historic windows, a complex project blending heritage and regulatory demands.
- Deering House in Palmetto Bay: Window conservation that highlighted careful matching of original materials and craft methods.
- Coral Gables Congregational Church: Currently underway, this project includes repair of wood‑framed windows affected by age, moisture, and exposure—offering a model for similar restoration at City Hall.
They partner frequently with Richard Heisenbottle Architect and RLA Conservators, specialists in heritage façade and window conservation. Both Stanbridges serve on the board of the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables, reinforcing their deep local and technical commitment.
Why now? Why windows?
Coral Gables City Hall, built in 1928, is a Mediterranean‑Revival icon on the National Register of Historic Places. Yet, structural evaluations in recent years have unearthed critical concerns—from concrete decay to compromised beams. While major renovation efforts take shape, windows have become a flashpoint: should the city preserve original wood frames or replace them with hurricane‑rated steel units?
At a June 12 meeting, City Manager Peter Iglesias emphasized the practical urgency—drawing attention to leaks, storm vulnerability, and code compliance. Preservation advocates, including former city preservation officer Dona Spain, urged restraint and investigation, insisting original windows could be restored with modern protections. The Historic Preservation Board formally recommended retaining and repairing rather than replacing them.
That tension between heritage and hardening is what this presentation aims to shed light on. The Stanbridges will show how proper restoration can deliver both historical fidelity and improved performance—guided by accepted conservation standards and proven techniques.
What to expect at the meeting
- Overview of restoration methods
Participants will delve into real‑world case studies highlighting:- The balancing act between original materials and modern standards
- Technical solutions like epoxy injections, wood consolidation, rust removal, and glazing retrofits
- Steel vs. wood debate: cost, lifespan, aesthetics, and regulatory approval
- Visual presentation
The session will include photos, drawings, and potentially on‑site video (if available) illustrating stages of restoration—from damage assessment to re‑installation. - Q&A opportunity
A moderated portion will allow the public to address questions around feasibility, costs, timelines, and how decisions at City Hall might relate to other preservation efforts across Coral Gables. - Networking, follow‑up
Guests can connect directly with the architects, conservators, and association members. Informal discussion over refreshments will follow the formal presentation, making way for deeper dialogue.
Plan to attend – and RSVP
This presentation is free and open to all—but RSVP is required by Monday, June 23. Reserve your space by emailing info@historiccoralgables.org. Seating is limited in the Margaret M. Beaton Meeting Room; early RSVP is recommended.
Teachable moment for community
Whether you’re a heritage advocate or a practical policymaker, this session offers a timely, technical, and local lens into preservation in action. Windows may seem like a minor component—until they’re central to debates over cost, identity, safety, and civic legacy. The presentation could shape policy outcomes not only for City Hall but for other public and private landmarks too.
With rising storm risks and a mandate to bring historic buildings into the 21st century, the issues discussed on June 26 will resonate far beyond window sashes. They will illuminate how Coral Gables honors its past—even as it secures its future.
Save the date
Listen & Learn: Coral Gables City Hall Window Project
When: Thursday, June 26, 3–5 pm
Where: Margaret M. Beaton Meeting Room, Coral Gables Library (3443 Segovia St.)
Cost: Free with RSVP by June 23 at info@historiccoralgables.org
Featuring: Paula & Dean Stanbridge of PROVIVE, with Richard Heisenbottle Architect and RLA Conservators
Refreshments will be served
For anyone passionate about architecture, history, craft, or community, this is a key moment to connect, learn, and shape the future of one of Coral Gables’ most beloved civic treasures.
