In August 2024, the 1918 Aguilar Building in Tampa’s Historic Ybor City came remarkably close to the end of its story. A powerful wind gust from Hurricane Debby struck the recently renovated, century-old masonry building causing the front wall to fail along the roof parapet. The resulting fracture created a continuous path for rainwater to enter between the brick wythes, washing through deteriorated mortar joints and traveling from the roof, inside the building, to the ground floor. What began as storm damage quickly became a race to protect the building’s structure, historic fabric, and future.
While rain was still entering the building, our team began the rescue. The 7th Avenue sidewalk was cordoned off and parapet brick removed. The front wall secured, scaffolding erected, the damaged façade stabilized, and the roof and front wall protected against additional storms. A forensic architect, structural engineers, historic masonry specialists, and water-extraction teams were brought in immediately. Interior shoring supported the roof framing while the unstable parapet was carefully dismantled.
Working closely with the Barrio Latino Historic Commission, the removed brick was cleaned of old mortar and returned to the façade in its original pattern. Behind the restored shell, the interior renovation embraced the historic brick and exposed beams, with open interiors allowing natural light and reconfigured for shared workspaces, gathering areas, and multi-use offices. Modern detailing and restrained finishes complement and contrast the historic masonry. Structural elements were exposed enhancing the workplace character and well-being. Rather than imitate the past, the interior allows old and new to sit beside one another honestly.
