Board Will Review Madonna Estate Project on October 6
The Historic and Environmental Preservation Board meets Tuesday to weigh in on plans at 3029 Brickell Avenue.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Historical
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Neighbors and preservationists will watch on October 6 as the Historic and Environmental Preservation Board reviews a new proposal for the former Madonna estate. The 2.7-acre property at 3029 Brickell Avenue sits in a protected conservation area where archaeologists recently discovered 19th-century artifacts and prehistoric remains.
Why it matters
The site lies within a High Probability Archaeological Conservation Area, raising concerns about protecting the Silver Bluff feature during construction. The board’s decision will determine whether the developer must alter site plans to preserve fragile underground history.
The 2.7-acre site was purchased by Brickell Holdings Trust for $29 million in 2022. Preservation officials have recommended shifting a proposed pool 25 feet to avoid repeating damage to the Silver Bluff previously seen at an adjacent property.
The players
Historic and Environmental Preservation Board
The city board responsible for overseeing construction proposals within protected environmental districts.
David Martin
The owner of an adjoining property where previous construction activity caused damage to the Silver Bluff.
The details
The owner seeks to build new structures and a pool on the property, which includes a 1928 mansion. Because the land is inside Environmental Preservation District No. 49, all ground-disturbing activity requires a Certificate to Dig. Officials are closely monitoring the proposal to prevent further destruction of the Silver Bluff after workers previously damaged a 46-foot section at the adjoining lot owned by David Martin.
Timeline
1928: The existing mansion was built.
1975: Environmental Preservation District No. 49 was established.
2022: Brickell Holdings Trust acquired the property.
January 2025: Board approved restoration for the neighboring property.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026: Board will review the construction proposal.
Beyond the 305
This review follows the strict standards established by Environmental Preservation District No. 49 in 1975. The board's current oversight reflects an ongoing city effort to prevent the type of geological damage seen at neighboring sites.
Residents near Brickell Avenue should expect to see board members weighing in on the development plan during Tuesday's meeting. The final decision will set a clear precedent for how the city enforces archaeological protection during future luxury renovations.
The takeaway
The Historic and Environmental Preservation Board must now decide if the developer's requested changes are sufficient to protect the vulnerable Silver Bluff. Neighbors interested in the site's future should track the board's final vote on the proposed 25-foot setback for the pool.
Further reading
For more on the city’s past, explore Miami historical.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Coconut Grove Spotlight.
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