Thalatta Estate Park, acquired by the Village of Palmetto Bay in 2005, has been closed to undergo renovations and is expected to reopen in early September.
Located at 17301 Old Cutler Rd., the 1925 Mediterranean-Revival estate, carriage house and surrounding bayside property have served as both a public park and a facility for weddings and other special events.
Village special events coordinator Mary Fernandez explained the work that will be done.
“The renovations will include the updating of the interior of the main house,” Fernandez said. “There will be a designated ‘Historical’ room to showcase a little of Thalatta’s past, as well as an educational or meeting space upstairs. For special events, the upstairs will also include a full bath bridal suite. The terrace in the back will be expanded to include a covered ‘porch/terrace’ and we will also be adding muchneeded electrical upgrades.”
Only a week into the renovation project construction crews had demolished the back patio of the main house. Replacing it will be a new covered terrace with a second-story balcony.
“Not only will residents now have access to tour this historical and beautiful home, they can learn more about its colorful past,” Fernandez said.
“We also plan to provide educational opportunities regarding South Florida’s flora and fauna, such as seminars and lectures. This education component is in keeping with the guidelines specified in our Florida Community Trust grant that was provided for the purchase and development of the estate.”
Fernandez said that they hope the improvements will help park usage and entice patrons to explore part of Palmetto Bay’s history.
“Very few homes in this area have kept remnants of the time period where the architecture and design were so unique,” she said. “Places like the Deering Estate, the Stone House, and the Palmetto Bay Montessori campus are just a few examples of homes from that era, and we are proud to include Thalatta Estate on this list.”
The last community event to take place at the estate was the fourth annual “Celebrate Youth Arts Festival” on Apr. 14, which showcased the artistic talents of young people within the community.
“Thalatta Estate is still an outdoor-only venue for special events, as there is no indoor rental space,” Fernandez said. “However, during park operation hours, the first floor of the main house will be open and available for viewing by the visiting public.”
For information and updates on the park’s reopening, call 305-234-6383 or visit the park’s website at www.thalattaestate.com
