Coral Springs staff and architectural review committee express worries about 11-story mixed-use tower planned for downtown
Coral Springs, Florida – City officials and members of Coral Springs’ architectural review committee have raised several questions about a major new development proposed for the heart of downtown. The project, known as 32 Hundred, would replace the existing Bank of America building at 3200 University Drive with a sprawling mixed-use complex, including an 11-story residential tower and new commercial space.
The developer’s plan calls for demolishing the current 17,700-square-foot bank building and constructing a two-story, 18,100-square-foot commercial structure that would face University Drive. Behind this building, the proposal includes a five-story parking garage and an 11-story residential tower oriented toward N.W. 94th Street. The project would include a total of 300 residential units.
City staff, however, have already flagged potential issues with the design. According to minutes from the Dec. 9 architectural review committee meeting, staff expressed concern over how the garage might be visible from nearby streets, even though it would sit behind the main buildings. “The upper floors could be visible from University Drive and should be screened with architectural elements,” the minutes note. Staff also stressed the importance of ensuring that the new development’s look aligns with other buildings in the downtown area.
The architectural review committee echoed several of these concerns. Committee members questioned the materials planned for screening the garage and suggested incorporating public art or other design elements to improve visual appeal. The balcony railings also drew scrutiny. “It was not consistent with the architectural style of the building or Coral Springs,” the minutes said, with committee members recommending that the developer work with staff to explore alternative materials.
Another point of discussion was the height and façade of the proposed residential tower. At 11 stories, the building is taller than many existing structures in the area. The committee recommended adding vertical breaks to the façade to create a more balanced and visually appealing look. “Committee members asked the developer to work with the city staff to address those concerns,” the minutes stated.
The review committee’s input represents one of the earliest steps in the city’s multi-layered development approval process. After architectural review, the project would move to the city commission, which will have the final say on whether the 32 Hundred development proceeds.
While the developer’s proposal promises new commercial space and hundreds of residential units in downtown Coral Springs, city staff and committee members emphasized the importance of maintaining aesthetic harmony with existing buildings. Balancing growth with the city’s established character appears to be a central challenge for this project.
Residents and city leaders will likely follow the review process closely in the coming months, as 32 Hundred could significantly reshape the downtown skyline. The dialogue between the developer, city staff, and the architectural review committee highlights a broader effort to ensure that new construction complements the established downtown environment, while still allowing for modern growth and increased housing options.
With an 11-story tower, expanded commercial space, and a sizable parking garage, 32 Hundred is one of the more ambitious downtown proposals Coral Springs has seen in recent years. The project now faces careful scrutiny to balance design, functionality, and community character before it can move forward.
