Property Description

An icon of modern design in the style of the world-renowned Sarasota School of Architecture, 1235 Center Place combines award-winning pedigree with exceptional luxury in a setting that is as coveted for its natural beauty and access to amenities as for its storied mid-century and modern estates. Known as the Light Box House for its distinctive angles and use of glass walls to showcase courtyard and exterior views, this home was custom built in 2012 by the current owners to foster both idyllic privacy and elevated hospitality. The home and architect Jonathan Parks have been widely celebrated for its design, winning the AIA Tampa Bay Merit Award for Architecture and the Grand Aurora Award for a custom home, with features in the Herald-Tribune’s Style Magazine, Sarasota Observer, and HomeDSGN magazine. Occupying the corner lot of Westway and Center and two doors away from the famed Umbrella House, the home is thoughtfully oriented around a central pool that serves as a focal point for both reflection and recreation. Stretching between north and south wings that gently delineate spaces for private retreat and open entertaining, 3,700 A/C square feet encompass three bedrooms with three and a half bathrooms, dual offices, an open concept gourmet kitchen and adjacent dining and living space, all purposefully positioned to capture optimal light and accentuate the interplay of built features with the tropical landscape. An elegant contrast to the brilliant sky and foliage outside, the interior is a refined gallery that meticulously balances walls of glass with solid surfaces for display and function, from art-hung walls to Caesarstone countertops. While complementing the mid-century style of surrounding homes, contemporary construction here offers the significant advantages of elevation for flood consideration, high-efficiency impact rated materials, and modern integrations including heated primary bathroom floor, motorized window coverings, Generac generator, LED landscape lighting, and more. Recent upgrades include two Carrier Infinity HVAC systems installed in 2025 and 2024. Lido Shores is coveted for its concentration of mid-century, modern, and post-modern homes, with masterpieces by Paul Rudolph, Carl Abbott, Don Chapell, and others renowned for their architectural influence. Serene and private but within minutes of St. Armands Circle and Downtown, this special island enclave offers immediate access to the tropical waters of Sarasota Bay and the Gulf and innumerable cultural amenities that include fine and performing arts, dining, and shopping.