Hot on the heels of other successful Biscayne Boulevard MiMo motel boutique restorations, like the Motel New Yorker and the Bianco, the crown jewel of Biscayne Boulevard's motel row, the Vagabond, is getting its day in the sun. Developer Avra Jain has submitted plans to the historic preservation board, which will consider them at its Friday meeting, along with plans for the restoration of another neighborhood motel, Carl's Motel El Padre, at the same meeting.
Originally designed by important Miami architect B. Robert Swartburg (he also did the Delano), Jain intends to bring the Vagabondl back to its historic original in a straightforward renovation instead of a more dramatic adaptation to another use as previous schemes had done, making it a cool boutique "for adventuresome tourists and locals." She'll recreate the long-gone pool canopy and terrace bar, add a spa and gym to the semi-submerged rear basement, and add a signature restaurant behind the glassy lobby.
· Vagabond Motel to get another shot at revival [Miami Herald]
· MiMo gem: Vagabond Motel is under contract [Miami Urbanist]
Loading comments...