New Book “Coral Gables: The Moderns” Shows City’s Modernist Heritage

Long-time friends and preservation advocates Karelia Martinez Carbonell and Bruce Fitzgerald (posthumously) announce the release of their new book, CORAL GABLES: THE MODERNS: Redefining The City Beautiful 1960-1980.

This compelling work sheds light on a lesser-known yet significant chapter of Coral Gables’ architectural evolution, celebrating the city’s embrace of Modernism in the mid-20th century.

With a shared passion for history, architecture, and preservation, Martinez Carbonell and Fitzgerald have been documenting the diverse architectural styles of Coral Gables for years. This collaboration offers a fresh perspective on the city's distinctive modern structures, built between 1960 and 1980, highlighting the transformative role they played in shaping the built environment.

Traditionally recognized for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, Coral Gables experienced a striking departure from classical aesthetics with the advent of Modernism. The arrival of this sleek, functional style initially sparked surprise, yet ultimately commanded admiration. Architects in the city adapted to this new movement, embracing its clean lines, open spaces, and innovative materials while maintaining sensitivity to Coral Gables’ tropical setting.

Between 1960 and 1980, Coral Gables architects infused Modernist principles with the realities of suburban tropical life. The book invites readers to explore these innovative designs and understand how they shaped the city's architectural identity. By showcasing some of the era’s surviving works, CORAL GABLES: THE MODERNS: Redefining The City Beautiful (1960-1980) reveals an evolutionary journey—one that bridges the past with the present and ensures the appreciation of Coral Gables' modernist heritage for future generations.

The book and fine art prints are available at the publisher’s website: tributestudios.com/cgthemoderns. All proceeds will benefit the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables as a lasting legacy in Bruce's honor who was a true defender of the importance of historic resources and their preservation. 

Karelia Martinez Carbonell is a historian and preservationist dedicated to protecting Coral Gables’ architectural legacy. As President of the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables, she has played a crucial role in advocacy and awareness campaigns for heritage sites.

Bruce Fitzgerald (1941-2025) was an architectural enthusiast and writer passionate about documenting and promoting historical and modernist structures. His work focused on blending historical research with contemporary appreciation for design evolution. Bruce contributed extensively to the creation of this book. His insights will forever remain a foundational part of Coral Gables: The Moderns. And as Bruce would gallantly say, “Who’d a thunk it!”

As board members of the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables, the co-authors extend their gratitude to the organization for underwriting the book and stunning graphic designs, produced by Madrid Brutal. This support has enabled the authors to present Coral Gables’ modernist gems in their full vibrancy and detail throughout the book, also available as fine art framed prints along with a curated selection of “The Moderns.”

The Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables is a non-profit organization committed to safeguarding the city's unique architectural heritage. Through education, advocacy, and outreach, the association works to ensure that Coral Gables’ historical and modernist structures remain integral to its cultural identity.