Flamingo Lodge1 Flamingo Lodge Hwy, Homestead, FL

Originally constructed in 1966, this two-story, 60-room motel was destroyed by Hurricane Wilma and later reconstructed, reopening in November 2023. The redevelopment employed retrofitted shipping containers as the primary structural components—an innovative and resilient design solution that reflects modern coastal construction practices. The lodge buildings and restaurant were elevated, with the first floor positioned 13 feet above grade level to provide protection against potential tidal surges. The project required extensive modifications to the containers and site infrastructure to meet Florida Building Code and ADA requirements. These adaptations included the design and installation of compliant ramp systems, structural reinforcements for hurricane resistance, and accessibility improvements throughout the property. Our team was retained to assume management of the project following the termination of the original design-build contractor for non-performance and the subsequent Chapter 7 bankruptcy of the initial container manufacturer during the design phase;  successfully engaged two alternative manufacturers to fabricate the lodging components and a third to complete the public spaces.  The restaurant container structure was completed following lengthy negotiations with prime subcontractor to manage  the container build-out and final site work. Al container interiors were completed on site, including new finishes, kitchens, bathrooms, HVAC systems, and fire/life safety systems after the models were dropped on to the elevated structure. The final room mix comprises studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites, each featuring private balconies overlooking Florida Bay. The property includes a 4,500-square-foot full-service restaurant and bar serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant interior was completed on site following the placement of the containers and includes two prefabricated elevator towers.