About Thalatta

Approximately four acres in size with vast green areas and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, Thalatta offers direct access to the ocean. Its proximity to the water allows for the habitat of herons, pelicans, marine iguanas and other plant and wildlife known to reside in mangroves, which adorn the northeast portion of the property.

The site houses a beautiful two-story vintage residence designed and built by the Connett family, who named it "Thalatta", a Latin variation on the Greek word "thalassa" meaning "the sea." On June 11, 2007, the Village Council honored the original name by naming the property "Thalatta Park."

The structure represents a modest interpretation of the Mediterranean-Revival style, similar to that of the historic Charles Deering Estate immediately located to the North. This style was prevalent at the conclusion of the boom era and typical of the area’s construction style.

A tower located on the third story adds an element of uniqueness for this type of style and period. Characteristics of the style contributing to the architectural significance of the residence include the red clay-tiled roof, stuccoed walls, symmetrical facade, round-arched openings, varied window sizes with broad expanses of wall between them, doorways emphasized with pilasters, random examples of carved and cast ornament and wrought iron elements, decorative original Cuban tile floors and insets, ornamental mantle, carved wood entry doors and moldings, wood ceiling beams and decorative cast plaster brackets.

The property was acquired by the Village in 2005 in an unprecedented effort to preserve an important landmark in South Miami-Dade County. At the time, the Village dedicated 1/3 of its budget to purchase the property for fear that a private developer would demolish the 1926 residence and carriage house to make way for a mini-mansion on the bay.

Update to Thalatta

The Village Council recently approved the Conceptual Site Plan for the property which proposes the following improvements:

• Walking trail
• Pedestrian entrance
• New parking
• Improved entry and courtyard
• Reflecting pool
• Covered special events area
• Food preparation area
• Open outdoor terrace
• ADA restrooms
• Office space
• Meeting room
• Pioneer museum
• Open green area
• Renovations to the historic structures
• Landscaping

The next step is to secure funding to begin the planning phase of the project. The Village is actively seeking support from State and Federal sources to begin the implementation of the concept design.

Click here to see the enlarged Conceptual Site Plan.

Hours of Operation

Thalatta Park is presently closed to the public.

Contact Information

For more information on Thalatta, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 305-259-1234.