For a custom home builder, historically important homes are of great interest. This city is steeped in architectural history, even spawning the famous School of Architecture home designs. As you drive throughout town, you can’t help but notice the distinct regional style of Sarasota architecture, which was characterized by open-plan structures. The oversized planes of glass were designed to encourage natural illumination and ventilation, and allowed those who lived in paradise to bring the outside in.
Many of the architects who pioneered this regional style eventually became world-famous. Several significant buildings remain in Sarasota even to this day, including the Sarasota City Hall.
The Sarasota architecture school was birthed in the 1940’s and lasted into the late 1960’s. While contemporary Sarasota is vibrant and modern, the legacy of the post-war design can still be seen throughout many neighborhoods. While many historic properties are revered for their beautiful detail, these homes and buildings can be recognized by more practical and clean lines. Interestingly, the old design shares quite a few features with contemporary “green” and sustainably designed homes and buildings. Both old and new utilize natural air flow, passive design, and the connection of the inside and outside. Native plant landscaping is also a common characteristic of the old Sarasota architecture and the new designs.
Sarasota Architecture Homes
The architects at the forefront of the post-war movement were Philip Hiss, Victor Lundy, Jack West, Ralph Twitchell, and Paul Rudolph. Below are some of their most important contributions to our legacy; a complete guidebook to Sarasota architecture can be obtained from the Visitor and Convention Bureau, free of charge.
Lido Shores is a desirable neighborhood between St. Armand’s Circle and Longboat Key. The community boasts private roads and an even more private, gated beach – and boasts the highest concentration of Sarasota School of Architecture homes, including the Umbrella House at 1300 Westway Drive, built in 1953 and designed by Paul Rudolph. The home is an elegant cube on the exterior, and showcases the architect’s command of space and surfaces. The home was purchased in 2005 by museum professionals Vincent and Julie Ciulla, who offer tours of the home, which they faithfully retored after it was partially damaged in a storm.
Located immediately next door to the Rudolph Umbrella House is the original studio of the famous architect Philip Hiss. The structure is a glass rectangle raised on top of stell columns. The studio is also notable because it was one of the very first airpconditioned homes in the area, something we take for granted today. If you visit the Hiss Studio or Umbrella House, you can use your guide to walk by another dozen examples of this golden age of Sarasota architecture. If you leave Lido Shores and head to the tiny Bayfront community of Tahiti Park, you’ll feast your eyes on the beautiful Ralph Twitchell residence.
Examples of Commercial Property
These famous designers didn’t only build homes, though. In addition to the City Hall, Sarasota also offers many other opportunities to view commercial examples of the style throughout town. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is one such historical building, with both the sanctuary and the fellowship hall designed by Victor Lundy between 1959 and 1968. The Southgate Community Center sits on 5 acres along Phillippi Creek and is a beloved iconic spot. Also designed by Lundy, the sleek glass building is the pride of the neighborhood.
Paul Rudolph designed Sarasota’s two high schools, Riverview and Sarasota High. Although the original Riverview High School was torn down in 2009 due to severe maintenance issues, his minimalist, all-white structure is still intact at Sarasota High School.
While we appreciate the past, Lindahl Construction is dedicated to building the most beautiful new homes in Sarasota and Longboat Key. Inspired by the artist’s legacy, we continue the tradition of striking homes which stand the test of time. Call us today for more information on building your new Sarasota home.