Sep 204 min read

Early Twitchell: Uncovering Early Masterpieces in Sarasota’s Whitfield Estates

Happy Friday, my dear readers! I am thrilled to share this new article with you. Life keeps drawing me back to writing about Sarasota’s historical houses and the great architects who left us this noble heritage. In this piece, let's explore one of Sarasota’s key architects, Ralph Twitchell, who played a pivotal role in the city’s architectural identity. We’ll uncover three of his early architectural works—beautiful homes just north of downtown Sarasota.

I want to thank Tom Aposporos, a licensed real estate broker specializing in National Register-listed homes, who introduced me to these remarkable Twitchell-designed houses during a presentation at The Historical Society of Sarasota County (https://hsosc.com/2024/03/02/architect-ralph-twitchells-early-career-in-sarasota/). He also provided the material that inspired this article.

Ralph Twitchell (1890-1978) is widely recognized as the father of Sarasota's mid-century modern style. However, his influence began earlier with Mediterranean Revival architecture, a popular style in Florida in the early 20th century. Twitchell’s first significant commission in Sarasota was to complete Ca' d'Zan, the lavish Venetian-style mansion of John and Mable Ringling. Twitchell was hired by New York architect Dwight James Baum, who designed the mansion to ensure the development was finished according to plan. This mansion, completed in 1926, became one of Sarasota's most iconic landmarks, known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture with elements drawn from various European influences. This project put him on the map and paved the way for his later work, including his groundbreaking contributions to modernism and the Sarasota School of Architecture.

Ralph Twitchell's architectural vision was truly ahead of its time. Initially influenced by the Mediterranean Revival style, Twitchell later transitioned to modernist architecture inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. By the 1940s, he had fully embraced modernism, experimenting with new materials like reinforced concrete and incorporating expansive glass windows to create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. His signature designs often featured overhanging roofs and open floor plans, ideally suited for Sarasota’s subtropical climate.

These hallmarks of Twitchell's work—openness, natural light, and integration with nature—helped establish Sarasota as a hub for mid-century modern architecture.

This unique approach established Sarasota as a hub for mid-century modern enthusiasts, significantly shaping Florida's broader architectural identity. His pioneering use of materials and construction techniques, such as modular systems, allowed him to blend functionality with the natural beauty of Florida's landscape.

Today, I want to focus on three homes that mark the beginning of Twitchell’s influence on Sarasota’s architectural landscape. While researching materials for this article, I uncovered many more of his fascinating projects and plan to write a follow-up piece. But for now, let's return to these three homes, located at 7207, 7211, and 7219 Broughton Street in the Whitfield Estates area. These homes were part of Ralph Twitchell’s 1929 Ravellan Gardens project, designed when he purchased land in Whitfield Estates during the late 1920s. Twitchell’s goal was to create a small community of homes reflecting the distinct Mediterranean Revival style, a popular aesthetic at the time.

These houses are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places for their architectural significance and historical value. They represent the fusion of Twitchell’s early Mediterranean influences and the functional, airy interiors that would later characterize his modernist work.

The homes at 7207, 7211, and 7219 Broughton Street exemplify Mediterranean Revival architecture, a flourishing style in Florida during the early 20th century. Twitchell’s designs incorporated classic Mediterranean elements, such as stucco exteriors, tiled roofs, and arched windows. These features were aesthetically pleasing and practical for Florida’s climate, providing natural ventilation and cooling during the hot summer.

Inside, the homes reflect Twitchell’s meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. High ceilings, crown molding, and stone or wood-burning fireplaces give the homes a sense of grandeur, while the flooring—featuring a mix of brick, travertine, and hardwood—adds a rustic yet refined feel. These days, the houses boast built-in features such as wet bars, wine refrigerators, and solid wood cabinetry, contributing to their luxurious and functional design. Various owners have made these updates since the original construction nearly 100 years ago.

What makes these homes stand out is how Twitchell connected the interiors with the outdoors. Large windows and French doors lead to private gardens and pools, reinforcing Twitchell’s belief in blending indoor and outdoor spaces. This seamless integration of the two is a hallmark of his work and later became a defining characteristic of the Sarasota School of Architecture.

The beautiful three landmark residences in Whitfield Estates testify to Ralph Twitchell’s early vision and profound impact on Sarasota’s architectural landscape. While they represent the Mediterranean Revival style, they also foreshadow the modernist principles Twitchell would fully embrace later.

Combining aesthetic beauty with functional design, Twitchell created spaces that fit the climate and landscape and defined Sarasota’s architectural identity. His ability to blend the timeless appeal of Mediterranean Revival with his growing interest in modernism left a lasting mark that continues to inspire architects and homeowners alike.