AS CORAL GABLES MARKS ITS CENTENNIAL, ONE HISTORIC HOME STANDS AS A LIVING TESTAMENT TO THE CITY’S ENDURING VISION.
BY ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
In 1923, the world stood at a crossroads, shaped by the echoes of war and the promise of prosperity. The Treaty of Lausanne was redrawing the Middle East, and hyperinflation gripped the Weimar Republic. Across the Atlantic, America embraced the exuberance of the Jazz Age, believing itself on a trajectory of boundless progress.
That same year, in a stretch of South Florida that had yet to become one of the nation’s most thoughtfully designed communities, a house was built. It would take another two years before Coral Gables was officially incorporated, yet 1325 Obispo Avenue already stood—a quiet testament to the city that was about to take shape.
Now, as Coral Gables celebrates its centennial, the home remains a striking embodiment of the city’s original vision. Its Mediterranean Revival architecture, with its arched windows, intricate details, and lush landscaping, carries the hallmarks of George Merrick’s dream of bringing Old World grandeur to the American tropics. But for current homeowner Christine Francisco, it was more than just aesthetics that made an impression.
“When we first saw 1325 Obispo Avenue, we were immediately captivated by its timeless elegance and historic charm,” she recalls. “Coral Gables has always been a community that values history and character, and this home embodies that spirit to its fullest. We wanted a home that told a story and had soul—and this house certainly does.”
Stepping into 1325 Obispo Avenue, currently available for sale, is like stepping back into another era, yet without sacrificing modern comfort. Every corner of the home reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
“This home is the epitome of 1920s Old Spanish charm—the character and elegance come together effortlessly,” says Jeannine Montes de Oka, Berkshire Hathaway associate who represents the sellers. “From its high ceilings and graceful archways to its glass door knobs, warm wood floors, and big sunlit windows, every detail whispers history. The beautiful lot, complete with a separate carriage house in the back, makes this a true North Gables treasure.”
For a century, homes like this have defined the essence of Coral Gables—not just as architectural artifacts, but as living, evolving spaces. While the city has expanded and modernized, these residences remain as anchors, reminding new generations of the craftsmanship and intention that built this community.
Owning such a home, as historic homeowner Anastasia Andreeva points out, is more than just a real estate decision; it’s a commitment. “Unlike a new construction, where everything is uniform and predictable, historic homes have layers of history woven into their walls,” she explains. “Each detail—from the original hardwood floors to the handcrafted moldings—carries a legacy. For buyers looking at homes like this, I’d say: embrace the quirks, appreciate the craftsmanship, and understand that you’re not just purchasing a home; you’re becoming part of its ongoing story.”
1325 Obispo Avenue is a testament to that very idea. Thoughtfully maintained and carefully updated, it balances historic charm with modern livability. Its design encourages a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle, with sunlight filtering through arched windows and a tranquil backyard offering a private escape.
“We expected to love the aesthetics,” Francisco admits, “but what surprised us most was how the home shaped our daily lives. The layout fosters a beautiful rhythm to the day—morning light pouring into the kitchen, the afternoon breeze drifting through the open archways. There’s a sense of peace here that’s hard to find in newer homes. Despite its age, it has stood the test of time remarkably well.”
And the house is not alone in its endurance. Coral Gables itself has remained remarkably true to its original vision, a rare feat in a region so often shaped by the forces of rapid development. Even as the city has grown, its historic core—marked by grand entrances, lush green canopies, and stately Mediterranean-style homes—has remained remarkably intact, a testament to both community preservation efforts and the deep-rooted appreciation of its residents.
As Coral Gables marks its milestone with centennial celebrations—historical exhibitions, augmented reality tours, and theatrical tributes like Greetings from Paradise—it is homes like 1325 Obispo Avenue that give the city its truest sense of history. While official narratives highlight the grand vision of George Merrick, it is the lived experiences of those who call these houses home that form the heart of Coral Gables’ legacy
“Preserving a historic home is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about honoring the craftsmanship, architecture, and cultural history of a community,” says Andreeva. “Coral Gables was founded on a vision of beauty and longevity, and homes like this one are living testaments to that vision. By maintaining and restoring these homes, we ensure that future generations can experience and appreciate the artistry and character that define this city. It’s a way of keeping history alive while still making it your own.”
This balance between honoring the past and embracing the present is what makes homes like 1325 Obispo Avenue so compelling. The house remains timeless, not because it resists change but because it evolves with care and respect for its original design.
And so, as Coral Gables steps into its next century, 1325 Obispo Avenue stands as both a relic and a residence—proof that history is not just what we commemorate but what we continue to cherish. Unlike the ephemeral celebrations of a milestone year, the home remains steadfast, waiting to welcome its next chapter.
What has made this house endure is not just the quality of its construction or the beauty of its design, but the way it has been loved, lived in, and cared for across generations. In a city that began as a dream and blossomed into a reality, this house, like so many of its neighbors, remains a quiet yet powerful testament to the enduring magic of Coral Gables.
1325 OBISPO AVENUE CORAL GABLES, FL, 33134 OFFERED AT $ 1,799,000
JEANNIE MONTES DE OCA, P.A.
305.965.9242 | jeannie@miamiluxuryresidential.com miamiluxuryresidential.com
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES EWM REALTY
