HOW:

​With building and repair costs at all-time highs, complexities associated with century-old structures, and the potential to create greater density on the site, many developers would be incentivized to demolish The Mirasol and build new. However, by returning the existing structure to its original use—a boutique, neighborhood-scale hotel—the building can be preserved, repaired, and made resilient in an economically feasible manner. Other options for the property are too costly to pursue or do not result in an adequately resilient property.

The project proposal includes constructing two new expansion “wings” on the site. Each will be located atop the two existing asphalt surface parking lots on the property. Both new wings will be three to four story, low-rise buildings, proposed as residential and hotel uses. The wings will fill in vacant parcels along the streetscape, while providing complimentary and contextual structures for both the Mirasol and the adjacent neighborhood.

By reconfiguring the site plan and parking areas, the structures will include 117 parking spaces, nearly double the parking on site today. Loading and trash collection have also been carefully planned and incorporated into the site plan, ensuring seamless hotel operations. A site-wide resiliency plan will be implemented as part of the landscaping and stormwater systems.

Each wing will be designed to meet the latest structural, wind and flood standards while creating opportunities to enhance the existing Mirasol’s resiliency. The team is studying a variety of improvements, including but not limited to hurricane-proof roofs, new impact windows and doors, elevating electrical equipment above flood elevations, relocating mechanical equipment, eliminating the north basement, sealing and enclosing the south basement to prevent future water intrusion, upgrading all electrical and plumbing systems, providing emergency generators, and implementing best practices for stormwater management across the site. These measures aim to protect against future storms and flooding, ensuring The Mirasol’s preservation for the next century.

By creating additional density in the expansion wings, the development will allow for greater investment in the Mirasol, allowing for its long-term preservation.

This project represents an exciting vision for The Mirasol’s future, ensuring it remains an important and resilient part of Davis Islands’ history and the “Crown Jewel” of Davis Islands for generations to come.