The University of Miami is preparing to completely redevelop the aging Mahoney-Pearson dorm complex, replacing it with Gables Village, a new residential district now under review by the City of Coral Gables. The project serves as the third and final phase of UM’s long-term Housing Facilities Strategic Plan, ending a multi-year effort to modernize student housing on-campus. Just a few months ago, campus officials celebrated the opening of the first phase of Centennial Village and are now nearing completion of the second.
The new dormitory complex will comprise of two multi-story buildings designed by Arquitectonica, located at 1201 Stanford Drive and 1101 Stanford Drive. In total, the development will span 573,804 gross SF and introduce more than 1,000 beds, a new dining hall, and a range of amenities for incoming students. According to the University, the project is intended to provide “modern, sustainable housing that enhances the student experience for years to come.”
The first residential building will rise nine stories and include 222 units, providing space for 735 beds. Units will not be limited to shared rooms; instead, the building will offer a mix of double suites, single suites, and single rooms. The second building, slightly taller at ten stories, will contain 207 units with a total of 723 beds, featuring the same unit types. Across the entire complex, single suites represent the most common room type.
While the two towers are physically separate structures, they are unified through a pedestrian-oriented design featuring landscaped walkways and interconnected green spaces that link both buildings. Residents will have access to a variety of amenities, including great rooms and event space, package rooms, a 24,046 SF dining and kitchen facility with seating for 700, and multiple classrooms located on the ground floor.
In addition, each floor will have access to ample natural light, along with access to amenities like viewing rooms, shared kitchens, lounge areas, study rooms, and both collective and private shower rooms, among other features.
As part of the Gables Village redevelopment, the existing Mahoney-Pearson Dining Hall is slated for demolition to make way for the aforementioned new 700-seat dining facility. This replacement is both modern and updated to be closer to residents.
According to elevations provided by Arquitectonica, the official architect of the project, Gables Village will feature a smooth facade complimented by large glass windows, accented in a palette of dark and light green tones alongside white. Unlike many modern apartments in Miami, the design does not include balconies. The first tower is planned to rise 118 FT, while the slightly taller second tower will reach 128 FT.
In addition to the new residential towers, the University will construct a Central Energy Plant adjacent to the existing Mahoney-Pearson Garage. The 8,450 SF plant will house essential infrastructure while also featuring infrastructure space at around 10,720 SF.
The Mahoney-Pearson Garage will continue to serve both residents and commuters, with its entrance relocated to the south side for access at Ponce de Leon Boulevard. Together, the energy plant and existing garage will strengthen campus infrastructure and accessibility, while supporting the functionality and sustainability of the new Gables Village complex.
The Gables Village project is scheduled for review by Coral Gables’ Development Review Committee on November 21st. If the proposal is approved, campus officials are planning to begin construction in summer 2026, with the residential towers and new Central Energy Plant expected to be completed by mid-2029.