The project consisted of
a separate two-story master suite to be added to a 1957 single-family
home designed by the founders of the Sarasota School of Architecture.
This detached suite was designed to be attached to the existing building
by a covered breezeway, which was required for zoning and permitting
compliance. The first floor includes a dining area and kitchen, a powder
room and storage. The second floor includes a master bedroom and bath,
library, walk-in closet and an exercise room. The original residence was
timber-framed and used sliding glass window walls. Due to changes in
building codes and the need to provide a more solid envelope, while
matching the original design as closely as possible, it was necessary to
use impact-resistant window walls and glass doors. A marine grade
stainless steel structural system, stainless steel tube framing and
cast-in-place concrete floors were included to comply with the Florida
Building Code. The master suite was designed with an exterior stair
only. Per the architect’s design, the stair was to be constructed
entirely of marine-grade fiberglass, so a custom boat builder was
retained to fabricate and install this stand-alone piece. This project
is a study in the use of corrosion-resistant materials. Its location on
the Gulf of Mexico, with extreme weather conditions and continual
exposure to salt and sun, provides a perfect scenario to test and
perfect the best materials for extreme conditions.
2012 National Winner
