Three Things: Everything old is new again

Most houses in Sarasota are relatively new. But scattered here and there are some wonderful older homes that display virtually every style of American architecture. The best of these have authentic character that’s hard to find these days. And the best of these have been lovingly maintained and updated — like this trio of beauties currently on the market….

Midcentury Masterpiece

566 Jessmyth Drive

The midcentury modern style suited Sarasota perfectly. In fact, many key elements of the genre originated here, and this architecturally significant home on Longboat Key, designed by Ralph Twitchell in 1955, displays them all. The elegant open living area has soaring ceilings, skylights and large expanses of glass looking out to a view of Sarasota Bay. The home was remodeled in 2008 and a large second floor master suite added. It features a wrap-around terrace, studio/workout area and private sundeck. The old and new elements of this home blend seamlessly, giving it a timeless star quality all its own.

Priced at $1,995,000. Call Tina Rudek, of Michael Saunders & Co., at 920-0303.

Spanish Splendor

463 Sapphire Drive

Sarasota is famous for its old Spanish homes in the Museum area, and this is one of the best. Built in 1926 by the Corrigan family — their crest is over the door — it is noteworthy for its flat but formal façade and its pinkish-red color scheme. The interior is appropriately traditional in scale and décor, with lots of original features: hardwood floors, two fireplaces, decorative grillwork, etc. The kitchen and baths have been thoroughly updated, and the large grounds (three-quarters of an acre) contain a pool, gazebo and giant banyan tree complete with a treehouse.

Priced at $1,175,000. Call Vittoria Rutigliano, of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, at 962-5867.

Craftsman Charmer

1524 Bay Point Drive

Craftsman homes are hard to find in Sarasota — so many of them have been torn down over the years. Here’s a glorious survivor, a rambling, supersize bungalow (almost 3,000 square feet) that’s more than 90 years old. It was given an elaborate remodel in 2012, when it was featured on the Jewels on the Bay Designer Showhouse tour. The kitchen and master bath are standouts, with many high-end touches, but it’s the original details that give the home its charm: leaded glass windows, wood-burning fireplace and 10-foot ceilings. And it’s in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in town, just a short walk to the bayfront.

Priced at $999,000. Call Elizabeth Rose, of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, at 928-7114.