This Mediterranean Revival house, designed by the renowned New York architect John H. Philips, is more than just a dwelling; it’s a living testament to an era of luxury and cultural significance. The Sarasota Herald once hailed its magnificence, placing it alongside Philips’ other iconic creations like the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Hidden amidst the New College of Florida campus at 5315 Bayshore Road, Old Caples Hall has stood as a sanctuary of learning, athleticism, and jubilant gatherings for over half a century. Its Italian Fifteenth-inspired architectural allure seamlessly mirrors the intellectual pursuits within its walls. The building has become a haven for art history and humanities faculty, fostering an environment where students explore architectural marvels as part of their unique educational journey.
Constructed in 1921, the Ralph and Ellen Caples estate has undergone subtle transformations while retaining its timeless charm. The stuccoed exterior, adorned with arched and square-headed stained glass windows, overlooks a U-shaped open courtyard that frames the untouched historic beauty of Sarasota Bay.
Ralph and Ellen Caples, instrumental figures in Sarasota’s growth since 1909, left an indelible mark on the city. In a visionary move, Ellen bequeathed their home and property to New College in 1962, ensuring the estate’s legacy aligned with the institution’s noble purpose.
Since then, Old Caples Hall has served diverse roles within New College, witnessing the ebb and flow of classes, the launching of crew team sails from its shore, and the cultivation of a cooperative organic garden. The sea wall in front of the estate vanished in a student project during the early ’90s aimed at restoring native habitat, adding another layer to its storied history.
As night falls, the echoes of ghost stories, shared by students burning the midnight oil in the slide room, weave an enchanting tapestry around the halls of Old Caples. Yet, amidst the mysteries and tales, this integral part of the New College campus is a proud testament to Sarasota’s past and a beacon for its bright future.
As you approach the estate through a simple iron gate, a gravel road leads to the main house, surrounded by lush plantings that maintain the estate’s distinction. With only three structures—the residence, a garage and guest home, and a storage shed—Caples Hall is a testament to Mediterranean Revival architecture, showcasing picturesque massing, red-tiled roofs, and stuccoed exteriors.
Stepping inside, the house reveals its inner splendor—an immersive experience in history and architecture. Two living rooms beckon with an air of sophistication, while a dining room captures the essence of shared moments. A tiled porch, captured in a picture, adds a touch of charm to the narrative. Venture further, and you’ll discover four bedrooms and four baths, now transformed into offices and classrooms, where academia intertwines with the echoes of the past.
To the immediate east, an arcaded three-car garage represents the era’s grandeur. Adjacent to it, a two-story apartment sharing the same stuccoed elegance hosts the New College Environmental Studies Department—a modern synergy within a historical tapestry.
As you explore the back of the building, a U-shaped open courtyard unfolds, a tranquil oasis that gazes upon the beauty of Sarasota Bay. This untouched historic area is a cherished retreat, a favorite among visitors and students—a living testament to the timeless allure of the past. The building stands not just as a structure but as a living narrative, where every arch, every room, and every courtyard breathes Sarasota’s rich history.
While time has gently touched the residence and outbuildings, preserving their character, the storage shed bears the weight of years in graceful decay. The architectural features, from trefoil arched windows to the open arcaded loggia, narrate a story of elegance and timeless charm.
In every detail and every corner, the Caples Hall stands as a living chapter of Sarasota’s past, a narrative etched in architectural brilliance and the spirited legacy of those who once called it home.
In January 2024, when this article was written, the estate’s interiors had been repaired and were open to the public, while the exterior awaited attention and restoration work.
Our mission revolves around preserving and recognizing Sarasota’s heritage. Through this article, we aim to safeguard the distinctive essence of this place. It’s not only about preserving architectural marvels; it’s a commitment to ensuring Sarasota’s enduring charm and individuality for generations to come. By honoring the history etched in every brick and beam, we weave a tapestry that binds the past and present, securing the timeless character that makes our city special.
The reference sources:
Jeff LaHurd. Special to the Herald-Tribune
Photo credit: iruphotos.com
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