Overlooking Sarasota Bay, Seathru House reflects the vision of a young couple returning to their hometown to create a modern, family-oriented retreat. The original mid-century modern structure on the site was replaced with a thoughtfully designed home that balances openness and privacy while celebrating its stunning bayfront location. The design features a separated program that creates three distinct outdoor environments: a sweeping backyard with views of the bay and Lido Key, a private courtyard nestled between the main house and guest house for the children to play, and a serene landscape framed by grasses and ferns surrounding the northern and eastern facades.
The architecture emphasizes lightness and connection, with clerestory windows separating roofs from walls, steel columns tapering to delicate knife plates, and cantilevered slabs hovering inches above the ground. The entry sequence invites exploration, as a large gate opens into the courtyard, which serves as an outdoor foyer leading to the main house. Inside, the floating staircase and monolithic plinth continue the home’s interplay of solidity and airiness. Every space, including the guesthouse at the far eastern edge, is carefully oriented to maximize views of the bay, blending modern elegance with thoughtful functionality. Seathru House is a testament to contemporary design rooted in its natural surroundings.