Please note that it is my personal experience. I do not intend to advertise any businesses in any of my articles.
While our area is flooded because of Hurricane Debby, I wanted to cheer you up with a new article about sunny Sarasota. Today's focus is on the contemporary architecture of Sarasota's downtown and a few of my favorite spots to eat and shop. This is my personal experience; I call it "dating the city," and I always strive to find something unique and sophisticated. Ok, let's go.
I want to highlight two contemporary design buildings that stand out downtown.
Starting a downtown adventure is easy with convenient parking options. Our relatively small downtown area is very walkable. Although we have a few choices of convenient parking, my favorite is the Palm Avenue garage, known for its central location and ample space to hang out. Located at 1289 N Palm Ave, this garage was designed by Jonathan Parks Architect and awarded for its design. It features a striking facade inspired by the wind-filled sails of a ship, reflecting Sarasota's connection with the sea. The design allows natural light and ventilation, making it a pleasant and safe environment. Moreover, the garage is LEED-CS Gold certified, incorporating eco-friendly features such as solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations.
One of my favorite features is the open-top roof parking on the 6th floor, which offers a stunning view of downtown Sarasota and the bay. It's a popular spot for photoshoots, capturing the beauty of the cityscape. The garage is conveniently located close to the Opera House and some of the best restaurants in Sarasota, making it an ideal starting point for a day or evening out in the city. Two notable spots nearby are Buddy Brew Coffee https://www.buddybrew.com/, perfect for a quality coffee break, and Kojo, https://eatkojo.com/, an Asian-inspired dining experience known for its classy interior and excellent service.
Moving further, another contemporary building I love to visit is The Mark, located at 111 S Pineapple Ave. Completed in 2019, this mixed-use development designed by Hoyt Architects features 157 luxury condominiums, 35,000 square feet of retail space, and 15,000 square feet of office space.
The Mark stands out for its modernist architecture, characterized by clean lines, expansive glass windows, and open floor plans that create a sense of space and light. The exterior of The Mark is sleek and contemporary, with a bright white facade that contrasts beautifully with the blue skies of Sarasota. The design includes large terraces with glass railings, providing residents with stunning panoramic city views. The ground floor houses upscale dining and shopping options, making it a lively hanging spot. Its central location on South Pineapple Avenue puts it in the heart of the downtown action, close to cultural landmarks and making it an attractive place to visit and explore.
If you love to read paper books like me, welcome to Bookstore 1. It is a beautiful space with a fantastic choice of books and helpful staff, creating a pleasant experience. I enjoy spending time at bookstores and libraries, which are quality and chill spots. https://www.sarasotabooks.com/
Almost next door, opposite Bookstore 1, is the exquisite North Star Fine Jewelry & Gift Boutique. https://northstarfinejewelry.com/
With elegant interiors, unique design jewelry, original artwork sourced from local artists, and luxury gifts, this boutique is a treasure. The owner and founder of the boutique is one of my favorite women in our city; she is always inspiring with her kindness and grace.
Discover the contemporary charm of downtown Sarasota. Take some time to explore this vibrant district on your next visit.
Photos: iruphotos.com
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