For over a decade one of the most historic assets of our community has lain dormant and deteriorating. The renovation of Cypress Hall, in Pinecrest Gardens is underway and nearing completion. This space, which formerly housed the café at the historic Parrot Jungle, has been idle since it was extensively damaged by Hurricane Wilma in 2005. Many of our residents and visitors have fond memories of this venue which was a part of the community for nearly 50 years before the tourist attraction moved to Watson Island in 2002.
While efforts to rejuvenate the space in the past have met with controversy, it is now being transformed into a beautiful exhibition and lounge area that will include a coffee counter, modular spaces for art classes, and much need space for lectures and other programming.
The interior remodeling of the entire 4,600 square-foot space includes updating all plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems up to current code – much of the original work in this room dates back to the 1950s. The space will be beautiful and fitting of this historic room. Highlights of the design include large window openings to the botanical gardens, an artist created chandelier and a unique terrazzo floor design. Programming at Cypress Hall will include weekly classes taught by hARTvest; a Miami-based art venture with the mission to nurture, foster and promote interest in fine art. This venue and new programming will continue to add to the prestige of Pinecrest Gardens as South Florida’s Cultural Arts Park.
This project has been a labor of love for our Village Manager, Yocelyn Galliano, and Pinecrest Gardens Director Alana Perez. Together with our staff and contractor, they have been working diligently to ensure the project is completed, as scheduled, by the end of this summer. I thank them all for taking on this endeavor. I look forward to announcing a dedication date so that the entire community can join us for the opening of this wonderful amenity. Please visit www.pinecrestgardens.org for more information about Cypress Hall and our beautiful Pinecrest Gardens.
As always, please contact me at jcorradino@pinecrest-fl.gov with any issues, concerns or questions you may have about our Village.
