Sleek, simple, contemporary and now historic, two exemplary mid-century modern style homes are on the market in St. Petersburg, already drawing interest from design aficionados.
That would be the middle of the last century, after the privations of World War II had passed, and many Americans were focused on growing careers and families.
The styles developed early in the 1900s and flourished in the 1950s and ‘60s, influencing architecture and urban development along with interior, product, and graphic design.
Houses of the era offer spacious open-floor plans, exposed beams, floor-to-ceiling windows, deep roof overhangs, sliding doors, patios and verandas, and minimal separation between indoor and outdoor spaces. Well-suited to Florida living, the designs are experiencing a resurgence.
Only one family has lived in the house at 4701 Paradise Way S, which was designed by Albert L. Reese, who was affiliated with the distinguished firm Harvard Jolly Architecture. Constructed in 1962, the Prairie Style structure features mitered glass windows, custom cabinetry, and many well maintained original finishes, Realtor Glen Richardson said.
“Screened porches connected by walls of glass doors allow for wonderful air flow, plenty of light, and the opportunity to entertain old Florida style,” reads the listing offered by Smith & Associates Real Estate. The house sits on a one-third acre corner lot, has a shaded entertaining area, swimming pool, mature trees and landscaping, and a dock.
Another mid-century modern iteration was the second home designed by prominent St. Petersburg architect Sanford M. Goldman, who studied with Frank Lloyd Wright in 1957 and 1958. The house at 3130 Walnut St. NE, on the east side of the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Golf Club, was built in 1961. It has three levels, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a cantilevered staircase.
“It’s a gem,” Smith & Associates Realtor Frank Malowany said. “It has an open floor plan that gives you the feeling of being outside when you’re inside. We’ve shown it to several people.”
The spacious master bedroom has windows with a view and a balcony that overlooks the saltwater pool deck and back nine of the golf course.
The two distinctive properties were designed by two definitive mid-century St. Petersburg architects.
“Smith and Associates is honored to offer these homes which are both beautiful and offer historic significance,” said Amy Seeks, Vice President of Real Estate Services. “Specialized marketing is such a big part of what we do. It’s fun to have unique properties as part of our focus.”
For additional information and details: smithandassociates.com
