A string of ultra-luxury condominium projects are filling in the downtown Sarasota skyline: Auteur, Blvd, Epoch, the Ritz-Carlton Residences at the Quay and, completed last season, 624 Palm.

Affluence has long found a home in Sarasota, but these days we’re experiencing it at a whole new level.

The mega-wealth alighting here is transforming the community. Consider the individual donations of $15 million, $10 million and $5 million made last year to Ringling College, the Van Wezel Foundation and Ringling Museum, respectively. Or the success that cultural institutions like Selby Gardens and Mote Marine Laboratory are having in their historically ambitious capital campaigns—a $92 million goal for Selby’s campus redesign; $130 million for the futuristic Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) to be built near Nathan Benderson Park. Businesses are feeling the effects, too; a longtime Sarasota interior designer, for example, told us recently that her clientele is changing radically: “They’re all younger—in their 50s—and they’re all billionaires.”   

BLVD Sarasota

That brings us to the string of ultra-luxury condominium projects filling in the downtown Sarasota skyline: Auteur, BLVD Sarasota, Epoch, the Ritz-Carlton Residences at the Quay and, completed last season, 624 Palm.

This doesn’t even include other downtown projects like The Collection Condominium on Second Street, where pre-sales are starting at mid-$1 million; The Mark—under construction and taking up a huge chunk of property in the heart of downtown—or The DeMarcay, set to begin rising within the next year on South Palm Avenue. Prices at both start in the upper hundreds of thousands. And across the bridge on Longboat Key, The Residences on Longboat Key has been announced for the site of The Colony tennis resort; prices range from the $4 millions.

Who is buying these $2-million-plus-plus-plus downtown Sarasota apartments, and what is giving their developers the confidence to move forward?

Credit in large part the 2017 federal tax law changes that no longer allow people to write off their state and local taxes. Wealthy people from the Northeast and Midwest are looking at low-tax havens like Florida, and then they’re choosing wealthier Florida markets like Sarasota. (It’s impacting single-family homes, too; more than a dozen in Sarasota County sold for more than $4 million in 2018.)

“We’re seeing more and more people bringing that up, and I think that’s going to help sustain the [luxury] market,” says Jay Tallman, who, along with Charles Githler and Tampa entrepreneur (and Hyatt Regency hotel owner) Dr. Kiren Patel are developing Auteur. “There’s some real wealth at play.”

When Tallman and Githler developed Beau Ciel, the distinctive round luxury condominium tower on Boulevard of the Arts just west of the Hyatt Regency, nearly 20 years ago, prices ranged from $800,000 to a $4 million penthouse.

Auteur, an 18-story tower just east of the Hyatt that they consider “the bookend” to Beau Ciel (it’s designed by the same architect, Chuck Jones of Tampa-based Curt Gaines Hall Jones Architects, but with a more modern look) will have 56 units that start at $2 million, says Tallman, with “estate residences” in the $4 millions. And “there’s a good chance we’ll be combining some units on the top part,” he says. “We could end up with residences in the $7 million range.”

Auteur, like Blvd, rising at the southeast corner of Boulevard of the Arts and Tamiami Trail, the Ritz-Carlton Residences at the Quay, and Epoch and 624 Palm, next-door neighbors 
on South Palm Avenue, have one key commonality: waterfront views.

“I stay in close contact with many of the market’s top realtors,” says Tallman, “and while it appears there’s a lot out there, either currently marketed or in the pipeline, if you start drilling down you realize there’s a limited pool of units with water views. And in our market, the first and foremost criteria is water views.”

Patrick DiPinto of Seaward Development, developer of the boutique waterfront condominium tower, Epoch, on South Palm Avenue, concurs. He says he’s approaching the 50 percent mark for reservations for the 23 units, which range from $3.3 million to $8.5 million for the penthouse. Sixty percent of those are out-of-towners; the rest are locals who want to move off the keys.

“They want to get away from the congestion. They’re done with the traffic. They don’t know what the [redevelopment of the] Colony property will bring. A handful tell me they want to head off the islands because of red tide. And we’ve heard from people they’re heading this way because they want to be closer to the hospital,” DiPinto says.

“Epoch is the last open waterfront with unobstructed views on the bayfront,” he says. “We are confident that we will find those owners.”

 

Blvd Sarasota Building Rendering

BLVD Sarasota

The team behind the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota and The Concession golf club community is building this luxury tower at the southeast corner of Boulevard of the Arts and Tamiami Trail. It’s prominently marketing its adjacency to The Bay, hailing its location as “the new downtown Sarasota.” By January, it was more than 50 percent sold. Completion is expected in first quarter 2020.

DEVELOPER: Core Development

NUMBER OF UNITS: 49

PRICED: From $1.9 million

ADDITIONAL COMPONENTS: For residents, a zero-horizon rooftop pool, wine cellar, fifth-floor pet lawn and grooming station, indoor golf driving range and state-of-the-art fitness center. For the public, a second location for Sean Murphy’s acclaimed Beach Bistro gourmet restaurant.

Courtesy of Sarasota Magazine

New Development in Sarasota

Head to Sarasota’s downtown area, and within minutes, you’ll be surrounded by art, boutique stores, and unique dining experiences.  That’s how you know that you’re in the Rosemary District. In 1884, a land surveyor named Lewis Colson arrived with coworkers from the Florida Mortgage and Investment Company to what would later become Sarasota and collected vital data. Come 1885, Colson decided that he liked the area so much that he would live there. What came after that was a cultural renaissance, forged by the art, music, and dance of the locals.

The eclectic downtown district is where chefs show off their skills with wide-ranging ingredients, where artists show off their skills with splashes of color, and the waterfront sparkles with the light of the sun. But what skyrocketed this distinct downtown to the top of everyone’s ‘to visit’ list has to do with the district’s history.

Redevelopment of the Rosemary District began with the Rosemary District Plan, which restructured the area into a mostly residential zone. The addition of shops and restaurants, combined with the creation of residential housing in an area known for its artistic and cultural offerings has brought many people to the area. Even today, the Rosemary District continues to evolve, replacing worn-out fixtures with modern ones, revitalizing historical buildings, and adding new luxury residential offerings such as BLVD Sarasota.

The most exciting new addition will be quite dramatic. The Bay, located directly on Sarasota Bay adjacent to the Van Wezel performing arts center, will be one of the finest outdoor parks and recreational complexes in the country. The Bay will serve as Sarasota’s social centerpiece incorporating a variety of activities for the entire family.   Festivals and concerts will be held at the outdoor amphitheater continuing the city’s legacy of arts and entertainment. Couples can set out for a romantic night on the town dock their boat at The Bay. Head to the Municipal Auditorium and the Art Center Sarasota or to the highly acclaimed restaurants that dominate the Rosemary District. The Bay is not the only big thing coming to the area.   Keep your eye out for the new Quay Sarasota–an upcoming shopping, residence, business, and lifestyle center located adjacent to the new Westin Sarasota.

Even more exciting, BLVD Sarasota, with just 49 luxury condominiums, is currently under construction leading the renaissance of the area. It has brought an exciting energy to the city’s vibrant downtown arts district that Sarasota has never seen before, with the new Bay and Quay projects right around the corner.

BLVD Sarasota exhibits stunning architecture with panoramic views. Residents are accommodated with a select set of amenities, ranging from a zero-horizon pool that overlooks the city and the bay to a large temperature-controlled wine vault with private lockable showcases on the fifth floor. Located within walking distance of the diverse Rosemary District, and the new bayside projects – The Bay and The Quay. Right around the corner, residents can enjoy Sarasota’s world-class entertainment, museums, art galleries and restaurants it is no wonder why residences nearly halfway sold out.

Our new sales studio is now open, featuring your in-person virtual reality experience at 1266 1st Street, Suite 5, Sarasota. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today or download our Digital Brochure 

The benefits of owning a luxury maintenance-free condominium in the heart of Sarasota are numerous. You’re close to the vibrant arts and culture of the area. You’re only a short bicycle ride or walk to the best beaches in the Florida, and you are surrounded with infinite places to dine, shop and be entertained.  When doing your research for potential new home options, here’s a few things to be sure to check on.

Walkable Location

Don’t underestimate this aspect of your lifestyle. Being able to leave the car at home and walk to your destination makes it easy to live a healthier and happier lifestyle. How close is the coffee shop in the morning?  Can we walk to dinner? Are there great places to jog or workout along the waterfront? Also check the location of the MURT trail too.  Being connected to St. Armands Circle, Lido Key and other popular destinations are a bonus thanks to this amazing trail system.

New Developments in the Area

While Sarasota is already a great place to live, the renaissance of the waterfront and the addition of new and exciting projects are changing the face of the downtown region.  The Rosemary District in particular will benefit from the new shops, restaurants and entertainment at The Quay which is adjacent to the new Sarasota Westin. One look from the rooftop bar to the north, and you’ll see the future of Sarasota. BLVD Sarasota, a new luxury condominium, is now under construction and will include a street-level dining experience. The Bay, an upcoming outdoor entertainment area was just approved, and features a waterfront amphitheater, new modern piers for visiting vessels, and a kayak launch. As an entertainment center, The Bay will work to provide the residents of Sarasota with even more ways to enjoy themselves in Florida’s Cultural Coast.

Modern Features

Luxury features enhance the atmosphere of a spacious living space. While ‘atmosphere’ may be a broad term, it’s something that you’ll recognize immediately. It will be reflected in the flooring, space utilization and kitchen design. Keep an eye out for high end finishes and top-rated appliances, as well as countertops made with natural stone aesthetics and the efficiency of granite or quartz. Purchase early in the construction timeline if you wish to insert your design aesthetics into the space. Personalization options disappear once the contractor starts the interior finishes of each residence, often even before the building is half-way constructed.

Resort-Style Amenities

Newer buildings have raised the bar on standard amenities for new homebuyers.  Just consider this….at BLVD Sarasota, residents will enjoy a rooftop, zero-horizon pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center and a residence gathering space. But the community really separates itself with its ground floor, upscale restaurant, high-tech golf simulator with indoor driving range, and temperature controlled wine with private lockable showcases. There’s even a convenient 5th floor dog walking lawn and dog grooming facility so you don’t have to leave the building.  BVLD’s social room also includes a grand piano, pool table, game areas—even a bar and service kitchen for private events.

The most important thing to keep in mind is to be aware of how well the building location fits with your lifestyle. BLVD Sarasota, a 49-residence luxury condominium is currently under construction in the heart of the New Downtown Sarasota, located on the southeast corner of Boulevard of the Arts and Tamiami Trail. It is surrounded by the  exciting energy of the city’s vibrant downtown arts district that Sarasota has never seen before, with the new Bay and Quay projects right around the corner.

BLVD Sarasota exhibits stunning architecture with panoramic views. The residences range from 3,550 to 5,500 sq. feet and start at $1.9 million. Located in the diverse Rosemary District, just around the corner from the new bayside projects – it is no wonder why BLVD Sarasota is nearly 50% sold out.

Due to construction progress, our new sales studio is now open, featuring your in-person virtual reality experience at 1266 1st Street, Suite 5, Sarasota. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today. Prior to your visit, we recommend downloading the Digital Brochure from our website.

We’re on our way to joining the skyline in Sarasota, a place well-known for its architecture. See how it all got started…

“Buildings in white, with splashes of color woven elegantly in between-it’s the perfect way to describe Sarasota,” said Keith Redding of Keys Solutions Real Estate. The elements that draw in some of the world’s greatest architects, also pulls in some of the world’s finest individuals, in search of great beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and an involved history with architecture.

Sarasota’s history has worked to make this area a center for arts and culture. John and Mable Ringling, of Ringling Brothers Circus, made Sarasota their home and the summer spot for their circus. With them, they brought the vibrant culture of the circus and the colorful traditions. You’ll find the influence of the circus on buildings such as Ca’ d’Zan, the Ringling’s home, and The Circus Arts Conservatory. Sarasota has also been the home and proving grounds of many recognized architects, such as Tim Seibert, Mark Hampton, and Paul Rudolph. Their work on homes in Sarasota helped find the Sarasota School of Architecture, known for its combination of traditional modern with pops of color and natural materials.

The city’s clientele is very discerning when it comes to architecture, spending time searching out some of the area’s finest creations. The Sarasota Architectural Foundation works to educate and preserve some of the area’s finest examples of modern architecture, such as the Umbrella Home and the Walker Guest House. They often host events supporting and celebrating these homes, such as SarasotaMOD, a weekend festival celebrating this specialized school of architecture and its creators. They also offer tours of certain examples of the Sarasota School of Architecture.

The warm weather and tropical atmosphere draws in creative types of all kinds, searching for a breezy and easy lifestyle. It also changes certain architecture elements drastically. When you view examples of Sarasota School of Architecture, you’ll find pops of color in areas where there usually aren’t any, areas that seamlessly open out to natural areas, and materials taken from nature in place of man made ones. Sarasota’s residents have been receptive to architects’ desire to play within the modern style of design, making it the playground of many well-recognized architects.

Discerning fans of architecture can recognize a great piece when they see one, one that delivers both form and functionality in one beautiful package. One such as the modern and sleek design of BLVD Sarasota. BLVD Sarasota, a 49-unit luxury condominium project is currently under construction in the heart of the New Downtown Sarasota, located on the southeast corner of Boulevard of the Arts and Tamiami Trail. It has brought an exciting energy to the city’s vibrant downtown arts district that Sarasota has never seen before, with the new Bay and Quay projects right around the corner.

BLVD Sarasota exhibits stunning architecture with panoramic views that start at 3,550 sq. feet and have up to 5,500 sq. feet and start at $1.9 million. Residents are accommodated with a select set of amenities, ranging from a zero-horizon pool that overlooks the city and the bay to a large temperature-controlled wine vaults with private lockable showcases on the fifth floor. Located within walking distance of the diverse Rosemary District, and the new bayside projects – The Bay and The Quay. Right around the corner, residents can enjoy Sarasota’s world-class entertainment, museums, art galleries and restaurants it is no wonder why residences nearly halfway sold out.

Our new sales studio is now open, featuring your in-person virtual reality experience at 1266 1st Street, Suite 5, Sarasota FL 34236. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today. If you are unable to make it into the studio, download our Digital Brochure or visit our website, BLVDsarasota.com.

We can’t help but fall in love with fall in Sarasota, especially with events like these! Check out how Sarasota is getting into the fall spirit.

No one does fall like Sarasota! We may not have the leaves changing color or the cool autumn winds, but we have great fall themed food, contests, and a taste for Halloween like no one else! Get ready to get down with these fun activities!

Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Festival

One of the area’s most beloved autumn festivals is back for more fall fun! This local small town grocer is asking the community to stop by every weekend in October for pony rides, a petting zoo, pumpkin painting, and a costume contest at 1 P.M. every Saturday. Come in costume and get your camera ready for some pre Halloween celebrations!

Sarasota Chalk Festival

The art festival that gets noticed by the fine arts world is back! Come November 9th through the 12th, artists such as Jenny Martin and Carlos Robledo will gather to create works of art under the theme of ‘Garden of Wonders’ using nothing but chalk and the pavement. A few classes will be held in the days before the event, showing how to utilize this medium to create optical illusions and dramatic displays.

Night of Fish, Fun, and Frights

The scientists and underwater residents at MOTE Aquarium are determined to give you a spooky fun time this October with Halloween themed projects and programs! Younger kids will enjoy hunting for shark teeth in Coffin Creek and viewing the animal tanks decorated for Halloween, while older kids can participate in mad science experiments based on aquarium research. Keep an eye out for the pumpkin carving in the shark tanks!

Manasota Pumpkin Festival

Come dressed up in your best costumes and partake in a costume contests, pie eating, free hayrides, a pumpkin patch and maze. The festival will also host a variety of attractions such as, craft vendors, live entertainment, delicious food, and a beer garden!

Selby Gardens Spooktacular

Enjoy some Halloween fun before the big day at Selby Botanical Gardens, with daytime trick or treating, pumpkin decorating, and fall food vendors! The botanists and staff at the gardens have even crafted their own mad science experiments that show how seeds grow, how different environments affect them, and more! Come in costume for a wild good time!

BLVD Sarasota, a 49-unit luxury condominium project is currently under construction in the heart of the New Downtown Sarasota, located on the southeast corner of Boulevard of the Arts and Tamiami Trail. It has brought an exciting energy to the city’s vibrant downtown arts district that Sarasota has never seen before, with the new Bay and Quay projects right around the corner. A private door leads you directly to BLVD’s soon to be famous 19th floor pool deck with over 8,000 sq ft of luxurious cabanas, fire features and a zero-horizon heated pool and spa. The life you’ve earned awaits you.

Our new sales studio is now open, featuring your in-person virtual reality experience at 1266 1st Street, Suite 5, Sarasota FL 34236. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today. If you are unable to make it into the studio, download our Digital Brochure or visit our website, BLVDsarasota.com.

The best lifestyle is right around the corner from BLVD Sarasota. See what cultural offerings residents will be steps away from.

The recent buzz has been about the Sarasota City Commission’s approval of a plan to renovate 52 acres of the Bayfront area within the downtown district with all sorts of appealing amenities, titled The Bay. “We’re very excited to see the city take this step forward,” said Keith Redding, of BLVD Sarasota. “The downtown area will change in unprecedented ways.” The grassroots organization that’s working to help create The Bay, Sarasota Bayfront 20:20, has worked with local businesses and organizations to place this landmark outdoor venue near what many are considering the New Downtown Sarasota, which happens to be adjacent to BLVD Sarasota.

This plan involved working with the community to integrate a variety of features and programs to make the area appealing for everyone. Work on the plan itself has been in motion since 2014. Sarasota Bayfront 20:20 is developing plans in line with the wants and needs of local organizations, and The Bay helped to promote those plans and bring them to the City Commission. In line for development within The Bay are features such as an outdoor amphitheater, walking piers designed to give pedestrians an amazing view of the waterfront and the city skyline, a kayak launch alongside reclaimed mangroves, and even the development of a new cutting edge performing arts center.

The most exciting part of this new development is its proximity to some of the area’s hottest venues. Within The Bay you’ll have the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, and be walking distance from Centennial Park, Marina Jacks, and BLVD Sarasota. Serving as Sarasota’s choice for luxury residences, this is where residents can enjoy being close to some of the best parts of Sarasota while never being far away from the creature comforts.

BLVD Sarasota, a 49-unit luxury condominium project currently under construction on the southeast corner of Boulevard of the Arts and Tamiami Trail, has brought an exciting energy to the city’s vibrant downtown arts district that Sarasota has never seen before. A private door leads you directly to BLVD’s soon to be famous 19th floor pool deck with over 8,000 sq ft of luxurious cabanas, fire features and a zero-horizon heated pool and spa. The life you’ve earned awaits you.

Our new sales studio is now open, featuring your in-person virtual reality experience at 1266 1st Street, Suite 5, Sarasota FL 34236. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today. If you are unable to make it into the studio, download our Digital Brochure or visit our website, BLVDsarasota.com.

A list of the best places to get your drink on in Sarasota.

Sarasota invests itself in the area’s arts and culture scene, and that means beer too. Gastronomes across the city are excited to brew their way to the top, or at least feature great local beers. There’s no argument that Sarasota’s vibe helps inspire restaurants to serve the best cocktails and craft the best beers. And we get to benefit by sampling them all! Enjoy our top five places to enjoy a cold one with friends.

Café Epicure

Knock it out of the park on date night at this elegant bar. Slim cocktails match the atmosphere with the rustic style of the bar. The bites are delectable, but you’re here for the drinks, so we recommend the Irony Merlot and the La Chouffe beer.

The Gator Club

When you’re looking for live acts, look no further than here. Local bands such as Pitbull Toddler and Johnny Diamond tear up the stage while you sample some of their brews. If you can handle the heat, try the Big Top Hotter Blonde, with honey and jalapeno mixed in. If you’re really feeling the heat, try karaoke night!

Pangea Alchemy Bar

Pangea has been stirring up crafty cocktails with a witchy vibe ever since its inception in 2010. A funky atmosphere stuffed with cozy seats and couches, they serve everything from classic mixes,wine and spirits, to alcohol free stuff for your DD. Ask the bartender for the Fjara Flip – it’s funky, like you.

Shamrock Bar

Home to some great sports events and friendly rivalries, this is the spot to go for craft beer and friendly competition. As the name would imply, they host a great St. Patricks Day party, too! A note-this bar is cash only, so make sure that you have some singles on you before you stop by.

Evie’s Tavern On Main

A bowling alley for grownups – can it get any better than that? Rent a lane for a few hours and see if you can beat your friends in a few games. Land a strike with the Cigar City Jai Alai or the Leinenkugel’s Seasonal.

The community is very much committed to maintaining Sarasota as a hub for creativity and culture, which is reflected in the areas high fashion shopping (St. Armands Circle, Palm Avenue Shops) and modern architecture (Umbrella House, Rupp-Seibert House). One anticipated modern architecture project BLVD Sarasota, is now under construction in the renowned Rosemary Arts District. BLVD Sarasota is impeccably designed around luxury accommodations and amenities, and is pushing the boundaries of the medium embodying the areas cultural prowess.

Along with its incredible location, BLVD Sarasota offers so many excellent reasons to choose to live here. From the huge floorplans to the scenic dual views of the bay and city, amenities such as the rooftop, zero-horizon pool, on-site restaurant, Fitness Center, Pet Lawn, Wine Room with private lockable vaults and the appealing walkable lifestyle. Here, you’ll find everything you could ever want right at your fingertips.

BLVD Sarasota is now under construction! These residences start at $1.9 and offer a landmark lifestyle in the heart of Sarasota’s downtown arts & entertainment district. With just 49 residences ranging from 3,550sf to 5,500sf, these spacious designs are some of the largest floorplans in Downtown Sarasota. BLVD Residents are always just steps away from Sarasota’s world-class entertainment, museums, art galleries and restaurants.

Our new sales studio is now open, featuring your in-person virtual reality experience at 1266 1st Street, Suite 5, Sarasota FL 34236. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today. If you are unable to make it into the studio, download our Digital Brochure here.

An hour south of Tampa and an hour north of Fort Myers lies one of Florida’s most iconic coastal cities—Sarasota.

Sarasota is often referred to as the “the Culture Coast of South Florida” as it boasts a vast array of cultural destinations and experiences that highlight Sarasota Bayfront living.

The Ringling Museum stands as the hallmark of the community, where you can wander through 31 galleries filled with contemporary art pieces done by history’s Old Masters and exhibitions from various cultures around the world. Art walks and festivals are weekly occurrences and there are over a half-dozen different theater companies performing comedies, dramas, and live music across town on any given night. The Sarasota Orchestra, which is in its 52nd season, is the oldest running orchestra in the state. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall always hosts a plethora of traveling shows that never disappoint, ranging from classic musical acts to modern Broadway revivals.

The community is very much committed to maintaining Sarasota as a hub for creativity and culture, which is reflected in the areas high fashion shopping (St. Armands Circle, Palm Avenue Shops) and modern architecture (Umbrella House, Rupp-Seibert House). One anticipated modern architecture project BLVD Sarasota, is now under construction in the renowned Rosemary Arts District. BLVD Sarasota is impeccably designed around luxury accommodations and amenities, and is pushing the boundaries of the medium embodying the areas cultural prowess while inhabiting one of the city’s most beautiful waterfront settings.

Along with its incredible location, BLVD Sarasota offers so many excellent reasons to choose to live here. From the huge floorplans to the scenic dual views of the bay and city, amenities such as the rooftop, zero-horizon pool, on-site restaurant, Fitness Center, Pet Lawn, Wine Room with private lockable vaults and the appealing walkable lifestyle. Here, you’ll find everything you could ever want right at your fingertips.

BLVD Sarasota is now under construction! These residences start at $1.9 and offer a landmark lifestyle in the heart of Sarasota’s downtown arts & entertainment district. With just 49 residences ranging from 3,550sf to 5,500sf, these spacious designs are some of the largest floorplans in Downtown Sarasota. BLVD Residents are always just steps away from Sarasota’s world-class entertainment, museums, art galleries and restaurants.

Our new sales studio is now open, featuring your in-person virtual reality experience at 1266 1st Street, Suite 5, Sarasota FL 34236. Call our client liaisons at 941-316-1499 to schedule your tour today. If you are unable to make it into the studio, download our Digital Brochure here.

Did you know that Sarasota is a treasure trove of mid-century modern architecture? Here’s a look at some of the most interesting houses in Southern Florida.

Known for its breakaway from previously established schools, Modern architecture is hailed as a daring approach to shape, color, and flexibility within design. The area of Sarasota can trace its roots in architecture approximately 60 years back. The school of Architecture helped establish a fundamental modern design style that accommodated Florida’s weather. Darker colors were replaced with shades of white to create a natural contrast against the tropical greens of the lush landscape. Extra concrete shapes were cut for visual appeal and to make the buildings easier to cool. Design pieces such as unfinished wood and rare splashes of vibrant colors added a more natural feel to the aesthetics. Here are some examples of some local favorites, old and new.

The Umbrella House

This 50’s era home was designed by Paul Rudolph, who sought to build a house that aligned with Florida’s indoor/outdoor relaxed way of life. White and brown overlays establish an earthy organic color scheme. A canopy styled roof (where the building gets its name) provides shelter from sun and rain while enjoying the outdoor patio. This three -thousand-square-foot canopy of slatted wood almost floats above the house, patio, and pool.

Putterman House

Designed by Carl Abbot in the mid-80s, this house embraces both the simplicity of the Modern School and the drama of the Brutalism School. Expansive spaces and sharply cut shapes emphasize natural design details, such as a crystal blue pool, a wooden deck, and artfully placed flora in the front yard.

BLVD Sarasota

Following on the footsteps of Sarasota’s architectural predecessors this iconic tower, located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, hosts an edgy contemporary design scheme. The sharp cubed shapes that cut into the sky act as somewhat of a homage to the historical architectural heritage that surrounds it. The interior space utilizes a combination of sleek isometric styled furniture and natural design elements, such as wood paneling and metallic colors.

Sarasota’s newest iconic building, BLVD Sarasota, nearly halfway under contract, exhibits stunning modern architecture and panoramic views. Starting at $1.9 million with residences ranging from 3,630 sq. feet to 5,900 sq. feet, BLVD Sarasota is designed to accommodate residents with a select set of amenities, ranging from an infinity pool that overlooks the city, to an indoor golf simulator on the fifth level.

For more information, download our BLVD Sarasota Brochure here. If you’re in the area, stop by our Sales Studio, located at 1266 1st St. Suite 5, Sarasota, FL 34236.

BLVD Sarasota will have 49 residences.

Core Development has broken ground on its BLVD Sarasota condominium project in the city’s Rosemary District.

According to a press release, Core is finishing site work and is starting construction. The initial phase included demolition of a temporary sales gallery.
The 49 residences in the 18-story building will range from 3,550 to 3,900 square feet. They are priced from $1.9 million to $3.5 million.

The building will include two two-story penthouse residences that are over 5,200 square feet. Both of the penthouses have been sold and nearly half of the building is under contract, according to a release. Sales began in mid-2017.

“We couldn’t be more proud of the team that has worked to bring this building from concept to reality,” says Core Development President Kevin Daves in a statement. “The goal was to combine the comforts of single-family home style living with the conveniences of a condominium.”

Reprinted article from Sarasota Business Observer