One of the hallmarks of Sarasota architecture is that it is unapologetically eclectic – in a single downtown neighborhood, you can observe many different styles reflecting different eras or schools of design. If you are considering building a new construction home in Florida, there are many architectural styles available to choose from, and there is sure to be one or two that catch your eye. Everyone has their own vision for building their dream home – and in this article, we explore some of the most famous architectural styles in our area.

  1. Coastal Contemporary Architecture: With so many miles of coastline, Florida offers many homes in this style. The Sarasota area has also embraced this style of home building, which is characterized by modern trends and features such as soaring ceilings, wide open floor plans, and expansive windows that allow ample natural light to stream in. In fact, one of the most defining traits of a coastal contemporary home is large floor-to-ceiling windows that dominate the aesthetic and allow for sweeping coastal views. These homes may also showcase wrap-around porches, rooftop balconies, and other design features that allow the homeowner to truly enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them. These homes are often by the beach, and the natural landscaping details can define the home as much as the architecture.
  2. Ranch-Style Architecture: Homes built in the ranch style are found across America, including in many towns in Florida. These houses are typically designed to be on a single level and offer attached garages at one end of the structure. These homes are often found in the older, middle-class neighborhoods that often served as second-home or vacation communities. Ranch homes are especially attractive to the senior population, as everything is located on one level without the need for stairs. Another significant advantage of these homes is that if future expansion is necessary, it is relatively easy to build additions – porches or sunrooms, larger garages, or additional living areas.
  3. Mediterranean and Spanish Architecture: Many Florida homes are still designed with heavy European influence, most often identified by stucco walls and tiled, low-pitched roofs. The two styles are very similar and often represent the quintessential “Florida home,” especially to newcomers. These homes are prevalent in tract-home communities but can also be spotted throughout all Sarasota neighborhoods. Typical design elements of the Mediterranean style include parapet walls with tile capping, detailed door surrounds, large symmetrical facades, intricate wrought iron details, and decorative archways. The Spanish style of architecture may showcase flat roofs, as well as clay or terra cotta tiles and decorative additions. Spanish-styled homes may have small patios, balconies, or courtyards reminiscent of their European counterparts; details are often included in expansive estates built in the Spanish Baroque or Moorish Revival style.
  4. Victorian Style Architecture: Victorian-style homes may appear a bit out of place in some neighborhoods, often considered more “northern” in style. They are seen less frequently than Spanish or Coastal style homes, but they dot the Sarasota landscape. They historically feature a tall, narrow shape and incorporate trims, porch rails, and smaller windows than their contemporary counterparts. Victorian homes invoke a sense of history and legacy for many – and add to the eclectic nature of Sarasota’s personality.
  5. Sarasota School of Architecture: One of the most unique influences here in this area is that of the Sarasota School of Architecture. Also known as Sarasota Modern, this type of home represents a regional style of post-war modern architecture cultivated here on the Gulf Coast. It features open-plan structures with large panes of glass and breezy areas that enhance natural light and ventilation. Many of the pioneering architects of this regional style became world-renowned – and their buildings still stand in Sarasota today.

Whether you dream of a Key West beach home or have an ultra-modern design in mind, you can trust JTL Studios to bring your vision to life. Call today to learn more about the wide range of architectural options available to future Sarasota homeowners.