We recently caught up with Mr. Jaime Mayo from HNM Architecture, our newest Ocean City Sponsor! He and his partner Michael Hanlon have purchased one of Delray’s treasured old homes at 143 S. Swinton and will make this the headquarters for HNM. This is an original Sundy family home where Delray’s first Mayor, John Shaw Sundy’s sister-in-law, Lina Bossert lived. She ultimately bequeathed it to her nephew Benjamin Sundy, who resided at this address for many years.

Where did you come from and what brought you to Delray Beach?
I was born in Puerto Rico and moved to Boca Raton in 1979. I currently live in Highland Beach.

What inspired you to be an architect?
Growing up in and around an Arthur Vining Davis Community in Boca West, our playground was the homes and architecture that were constantly under construction. Visiting family in Argentina and seeing the architecture there at a young age had an impact on me.

What’s your take on the changes happening in our Village by the Sea?
It is exciting and truly inspirational to see how it has grown and prospered from such humble beginnings and has been able to do so while maintaining its ‘small town charm.’

What’s your favorite feature of Delray Beach?
I love walking around the shops and restaurants in downtown, the public docks just north of the Intracoastal Bridge, and the Beach of course!

Tell us more about 143 S. Swinton:
The original 700 sf structure built in 1917 that was located behind the current structure has since been torn down. The remaining structure built in the 1930’s has over the years been neglected and was ultimately turned into a triplex. Our renovation, addition and adaptive reuse of the historic home will return this house back to its former glory, including renovating its most characteristic component: the exterior front porch facing Swinton, back to its original design and purpose. Our renovation of this historic home into a viable commercial property will not only ensure this historical home’s longevity for generations to come but will also inject some ‘life’ back into this once vibrant corner of downtown Delray.

Why did you want to become part of the Delray Beach Historical Society?
I have always been interested in history, especially local history and being a member of the DBHS will provide more insight on the city’s heritage. It affords us the opportunity to attend DBHS events. I also look forward to being more involved in the local architecture and construction of downtown Delray and the OSSHAD.

What’s the latest news from HNM?
We are excited with the anticipation of moving into our new offices to the OSSHAD in Downtown Delray, where we are creating an adaptive reuse of a historic home at 143 South Swinton Avenue.