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By mikead @ Friday, July 14, 2006 10:41 AM

Randall Davis developments are a huge success nationwide and known for great pre-construction value.

By Steve Finley @ Friday, July 14, 2006 11:09 AM

More planned amenities then any project the Island has ever seen and it will be operated as a condo hotel.

By william corrigan @ Thursday, August 23, 2007 2:59 PM

we almost reserved a unit but were concerned about the location.

By mikead @ Saturday, October 20, 2007 12:47 PM

Ziegler Cooper Architects has designed a resort-style condominium complex for developer Randall Davis Co.

Situated at the southern tip of the Texas Gulf Coast on South Padre Island, The Sapphire will include two 31-story towers with 200 condos, 14 townhouses and a three-story parking facility.

The towers will be connected at the 20th floor, providing residents with access to terraces between the structures.

Scott Ziegler, Ziegler Cooper Architects principal in charge of living places studio, tells MHN that the project has already topped out, and units will be delivered in June 2008. The community was initially planned to be developed in two phases, but because of strong sales, the community is now being built as a single phase.

Condos will range from $450,000 to $900,000 in price, and from 1,400 to 1,900 square feet in size, Ziegler says. They will include 10-ft.-high ceilings and dual views of the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay.

To provide residents with this feature, Ziegler Cooper Architects designed separate balconies that will be located across the corridor from the units. This concept will help create a sense of community, allowing residents to gather on these balconies to enjoy sunsets and Friday night fireworks over the bay.

Two- and three-story townhouses adjacent to the towers range in size from 1,800 to 2,400 square feet, and in price from $700,000 to $1.1 million, Ziegler says. They will feature private pools, yards and garages.

Ziegler Cooper Architects have incorporated several protective techniques into the design of The Sapphire in response to its tropical environment.

The complex will feature a waterproofing membrane and elastomeric coating to protect it from moisture. To deter rusting, the firm has also specified aluminum railings, stainless steel and rust-proof plastic instead of galvanized steel for the project’s construction. Green glass, double thermal-paned windows with white frames will adorn the outside of the development.

These white frames have been designed to reflect the sunlight, creating the illusion that they change colors throughout the day.

Ziegler says that one of his favorite parts of the project is the illuminated lanterns that residents and visitors will see while crossing the causeway to the island. The Sapphire will also include cupolas that will not only be decorative but also serve as a beacon for travelers. In addition, they will screen mechanical equipment.

Common amenities will include a private movie theater, spa, fitness center, teen game room, wine room and a 300-ft.-long infinity edge pool with cabanas.

By Marna @ Sunday, October 21, 2007 5:01 PM

Ruins the sun on the beach ! By 1 pm cast a shadow ....sooo if you want sun and fun,,,,pick a different condo !

By jerry @ Friday, January 04, 2008 1:12 PM

People pay for shade on the beach!

By mikead @ Thursday, March 20, 2008 1:24 PM

The 31-story, resort-style Sapphire condominium is on target for an August completion date.

Situated at the southern tip of the Texas Gulf Coast in South Padre Island, The Sapphire consists of 14 town-house style bungalows and a three-story parking garage.

Initially planned as a two-phase project, it is being built as a single phase due to booming sales. The two towers are connected for the first 19 floors and contain more than 200 units, ranging in size from 1,400 to 1,900 sf.

The 20th floor features private terraces with six-foot-high wind screens. The Sapphire offers each unit dual views of the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay.

The Sapphire was designed by Ziegler Cooper Architects of Houston, under construction by G.T. Leach Construction of Houston, and overall developed by Houston-based Randall Davis Company.

By LARRY MARK POLSKY,ESQ. @ Sunday, May 04, 2008 4:50 PM

A LAWSUIT HAS BEEN FILED IN CAMERON COUNTY DISTRICT COURT BY 5 OWNERS REQUESTING THEIR DEPOSITS BACK DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE ROADS,UTILITIES AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES HAVE NOT BEEN COMPLETED BY THE APRIL 1,2008 DEADLINE SET FORTH IN THE CONDOMINIUM PURCHASE AGREEMENT

By Lucy @ Tuesday, July 15, 2008 12:35 PM

After purchasing a condo at the Sapphire last year I began to worry more and more about the development to the side of us. The Gulfpoint looked like it was ready to be torn down. I had heard that was the plan for the place from other Sapphire buyers as well.
It looks like now instead of removal the place is being gutted and renovated. The one building I can see looks like it is well on it's way to being a modern and actually beautiful structure. I could not be happier. Being a first time condo buyer I was afraid I was too hasty purchasing at the Sapphire and not really looking at the developments in close proximity. I was lucky and will not have to worry about a ugly structure right next door for much longer. But advice to all future Island buyers, take a look at your neighboring develpoments. They do impact you decision and they can rob you of equity if they discourage others not to buy your condo because the neighboring condo's do not look to be up to par. Lesson learned over here.
As for the Sapphire, we could not be happier with our purchase!

By Randall Davis @ Friday, August 08, 2008 1:44 AM

This is an update regarding the impact of Hurricane Dolly on the Sapphire.

The building suffered storm damage.

Preliminary findings indicate significant damage from the water to the two major electrical delivery systems (or buses) for the two towers at Sapphire. These buses were custom built by General Electric and, should they need to be completely replaced, we expect a production and installation duration of approximately 60-75 days. The building is currently being powered by several large generators which provide adequate power to allow the clean up to continue.

Repair and clean up of the storm damage is progressing. We have employed one of the largest and most experienced restoration firms in the country to lead this effort. Crews are working to ensure that any damaged materials and/or finishes within Sapphire are removed as quickly as possible. We have also commissioned testing of all electrical and mechanical systems within Sapphire to ensure they will perform as designed.

We understand that you are anxious to know of your revised closing date and we are working hard every day to formulate this schedule. There are a few unknown variables at this time. Currently, our main focus remains on adjusters identifying all storm damage. It is not until all damage is identified and addressed that we will know the full duration of the repair.

Until permanent power is restored, all systems checked and approved, and the final assessments are made, we will be unable to escort owners through the building.

Due to the hurricane, best estimates for the initial closings currently are for the end of 2008/beginning of 2009. Please keep in mind we have every hope that this estimate can be improved upon.

While there is certainly never an ideal time for a storm to hit, the timing at Sapphire was particularly unfortunate due to its impact on closings.

Days before the storm hit, the Town had orally acknowledged completion of Floors 1-10 and had previously done so for all public areas.

The Certificate of Occupancy was expected to be issued on the Monday before the storm hit on Wednesday.

Despite the setback from the storm, we want to assure you that Sapphire will be restored to its original unparalleled quality level.

We appreciate your patience and understanding regarding this unfortunate event.

Randall Davis
General Partner
Sapphire V.P., L.P.

By Sylvia Sparks @ Tuesday, August 26, 2008 10:58 AM

Randall,

You mean to tell us that SPI's newest, most expensive high rise condo can't easily handle a Cat 2 hurricane without major damage? You got to be kidding me. It sounds like you cut too many corners on the design. (Though obviously not as bad as the leaning Ocean Towers!) What kind of damage can owners expect when a Cat 3 hits the island? No building is completely hurricane proof, I realize that. However you need to be more up front with buyers regarding Sapphire's relative hurricane resistance, which doesn't seem to be very robust after its first significant storm test.

By LARRY MARK POLSKY,ESQ @ Sunday, September 28, 2008 10:56 AM

THE CAMERON COUNTY DISTRICT COURT LAWSUIT AGAINST THE SAPPHIRE WILL BE AMENDED TO INCLUDE COUNTS FOR FAILURE TO COMPLETE THE BUILDING BY THE CONTRACTUAL CLOSING DATE OF OCTOBER 15,2008. A PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER HAS GIVEN A WRITTEN OPINION...THAT AT THE VERY LATEST THE WHOLE PROJECT SHOULD HAVE BEEN COMPLETED BY MAY 23,2008...SOME 2 MONTHS BEFORE "DOLLY"

By Carmen P. @ Monday, September 29, 2008 10:21 PM

It's interesting that some of the agents on this island try to steer buyers into these "newer products", when some of the newer products are actually a lot less hurricane resistant than some (but not all) of the older products. Ocean Towers and Sapphire have both been disasters. Who would have thought that a brand new complex first class complex like Sapphire would literally "short out" after just a basic 100 mph hurricane? I'm not a lawyer, but to me that seems like the building is not suitable for the purpose intended, and the buyers should get their money back. Too much focus on high visibility amenities, and not enough focus on building integrity. Well, whatever sells, right? In a few years most buyers will have completely forgotten about Dolly.

Seriously, how can any potential condo buyer be certain that their purchase will be relatively hurricane resistant, and that the foundation isn't going to cave in after they move in? That original marketing literature for Ocean Towers bragged about the integrity of the foundation, and that' turned out to be the worst part of the whole building. I also seriously doubt if the typical buyer's prepurchase inspection is going to include a foundation or electrical distribution inspection.

I also noticed that a few other beachfront condos lost their roofs, causing serious water damage inside for many owners on floors far below the roof. You would naturally think that a concrete building would be hurricane proof, but in reality it is only as good as the roof and windows. (How many windows did the Radisson lose? Four major hotels were seriously damaged by Dolly? Where are our building standards?)

Buyers might want to consider waiting for new condos to be completed instead of buying at pre-construction bargain prices. That way you don't have to worry about construction problems or delays. There are just too many recent examples of sub-standard construction and delays.

Another thing to consider is our beach erosion, which nobody seems to be addressing adequately. At the rate we're going, 20 years down the road these beachfront condos could be waterfront condos. Perhaps we should require new beachfront builders to also build artificial reefs to protect the shoreline.

Bottom Line: If we continue to let new developers short change our island there won't be a good island for our grandchildren to enjoy.

By Carmen P. @ Monday, September 29, 2008 10:23 PM

By Randall Davis @ Friday, October 03, 2008 12:11 AM

Greetings from Sapphire South Padre, where it is progressively getting better. The new bus duct providing electricity to the building has been ordered from General Electric. We should have full power by December. Elevator repairs are in progress and the elevators should also be operable by December. The restoration company that was hired to remove damaged materials is in the final stages of their efforts. GT Leach is now providing additional construction services to ready your residence for occupancy.

Several residents have inquired about viewing their Sapphire home. You may do so on a floor by floor basis as the condominiums are restored to their original condition. GT Leach is moving from the bottom up; bottom floors will be ready for viewing shortly.

South Padre Island is mostly returning to normal as it relates to hotels and restaurants. We understand the Radisson is opening in October and several notable restaurants on the island have already reopened. The Sheraton next door to the Sapphire is scheduled to reopen in March.

New furnishings have been ordered by our Houston designer, John Robinson, to replace damaged furniture, wall coverings, etc. in the main lobby. This effort also includes repairs or replacement to furnishings in the Wine Room, Teen Room, Fitness Centre, Theatre, and Spa. In a short period of time these common areas will be ready for viewing. Additionally GT Leach has been assigned the task of preparing two new models within the building for viewing. These units will be on the 8th floor and should be ready by year end.

We understand that you are anxious to begin enjoying your residence at Sapphire, and to that end, we are working very hard on a revised schedule of closings. GT Leach currently estimates the earliest closings to be from mid-December to mid-January; however, we will not have definitive information until GT Leach has dissected all of the issues affecting the schedule. If you have any questions in the interim, please contact, as always, Charlene. A further update will be provided in October.

Randall Davis
Sapphire V.P., L.P.
General Partner

By Jesus Garza @ Friday, October 03, 2008 2:43 PM

Randal Davis, you should be ashamed of yourself! This is a BRAND NEW building, and it couldn't even handle a little hurricane like Dolly without major damage. What's going to happen to this building when a REAL hurricane hits the island? What other corners did you cut in the building design? Buyer beware!!!!

By Paul G @ Thursday, January 01, 2009 10:03 AM

Maybe if the Condos were finished, the damage may not have been significant. I do not have a dog in this hunt, but I did witness some of the construction while staying at the Sheridan next door. Trust me, this will be a very nice development for the island.

By Coupon Shopper @ Monday, July 13, 2009 9:50 PM

Looks like Mr. Davis is handing out $25K "summer incentive" discounts, in case you're interested -

http://sapphiresouthpadre.reachlocal.com

Call your local Real estate agent today!

ByJOHN A. OLSON @ Monday, September 21, 2009 11:11 AM

My wife and I looked at this place over the weeked, and I commented "I bet finding someone in charge of this joint will be fun if you have a problem."
Although it's well out of our means in This Life, I was pleased to see Mr. D was letting people know what was going on there. As an attorney, I think that's "Customer Service," whether or not one is happy with what is stated.

By JG @ Tuesday, September 22, 2009 10:37 AM

To people who are saying that hurricane Dolly was not a "real" hurricane... Do you really thing any unfinnished buisness could withstand a hurricane at all?Also, do you realise who Randall Davis is? I thing he deserves a little more respect than what your crediting him for. I'm sure when the Saphire is finnished it will be spectacular, I visited there this summer and I thought it was stunning. The staff in the sales office and front desk was especially helpfull.

By Mike Stuart @ Tuesday, September 22, 2009 10:51 AM

Just look at the Sapphire - it's one of the most spectacular buildings on the Texas coast.
- and has a great future ahead of it.

see alicedonahue.com/Sapphire

for some aerials we just took of this wonder. it's the first building you see approaching the Island by land, sea or the air.

The views are incredible in every direction and it has every amenity you could want in a resort.

By Candy @ Saturday, September 26, 2009 10:27 AM

Looks like the Sapphire developer is advertising his complex all over the net, big time. I guess these condos aren't selling too well. Maybe he also wants to deal with buyers directly, cutting out the agents. Very bad decision from a desperate man, if you ask me.

By C G @ Friday, March 12, 2010 12:50 AM

Parents own a condo in the building. Its absolutely stunning. While the building isn't full to capacity, have seen several people in and out and have met some great people in the teen/rec room. The staff is amazing, always very courteous and accommodating.

Problems with fit and finish of the apartment have been rectified relatively quickly (or at least the work orders placed... independent contractors, what can you do?) The pool is amazing, but the former Holiday Inn next door is a bit of a question. AFAIK, its just sitting there empty.

By Steven Taylor @ Friday, June 11, 2010 7:24 AM

Having worked on several interiors in Randall David buildings and seeing the shoddy workmanship and the constant ripping off of residents, I would warn anyone about purchasing anything built by Mr. Davis.

By Island Watcher @ Friday, June 11, 2010 7:34 AM

based on the current lack of sales at the Sapphire (and the rest of the coast),

the successful half-price new high-rise condo auctions in Galveston,

I would not be surprised to see the remaining Sapphire units come to auction soon. (and sell for about half price).

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