F. A. DeCanizares Residence, Sarasota
The F. A. DeCanizares Residence stands as one of Sarasota’s architectural gems, representing the city’s early 20th-century transformation from a quiet Gulf Coast settlement into a flourishing resort community. Built in 1926 during the height of the Florida Land Boom, the house was commissioned by Frank A. DeCanizares, a businessman and civic leader who contributed to Sarasota’s commercial development. Its construction reflected both the optimism of the era and the desire to create homes that embodied Mediterranean grace and coastal elegance.
Architecturally, the residence is a fine example of the Mediterranean Revival style that dominated Sarasota in the 1920s. Designed by architect Thomas Reed Martin—one of the most influential figures in the region’s early architectural history—the home features stucco walls, red tile roofing, arched windows, and ornamental detailing that echo the influence of Spanish and Italian villas. The property’s symmetrical façade and carefully proportioned design illustrate Martin’s skill in blending aesthetic refinement with Florida’s climate and landscape.
Over the decades, the DeCanizares Residence has retained much of its original charm and remains an enduring symbol of Sarasota’s Golden Age of architecture. The structure’s preservation contributes to the city’s historic fabric, standing alongside other landmarks that define the Palm Avenue Historic District. For visitors, viewing the residence offers a glimpse into Sarasota’s early vision of sophistication and style—a reminder of the artistry that helped shape its unique architectural identity.
Architecturally, the residence is a fine example of the Mediterranean Revival style that dominated Sarasota in the 1920s. Designed by architect Thomas Reed Martin—one of the most influential figures in the region’s early architectural history—the home features stucco walls, red tile roofing, arched windows, and ornamental detailing that echo the influence of Spanish and Italian villas. The property’s symmetrical façade and carefully proportioned design illustrate Martin’s skill in blending aesthetic refinement with Florida’s climate and landscape.
Over the decades, the DeCanizares Residence has retained much of its original charm and remains an enduring symbol of Sarasota’s Golden Age of architecture. The structure’s preservation contributes to the city’s historic fabric, standing alongside other landmarks that define the Palm Avenue Historic District. For visitors, viewing the residence offers a glimpse into Sarasota’s early vision of sophistication and style—a reminder of the artistry that helped shape its unique architectural identity.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Sarasota. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
F. A. DeCanizares Residence on Map
Sight Name: F. A. DeCanizares Residence
Sight Location: Sarasota, USA (See walking tours in Sarasota)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Sarasota, USA (See walking tours in Sarasota)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Sarasota, Florida
Create Your Own Walk in Sarasota
Creating your own self-guided walk in Sarasota is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Sarasota Historical Buildings Tour
Sarasota, Florida, has no shortage of historical buildings, many of which are found downtown. Some of these properties were designed by the well-known local architect Thomas Reed Martin, who created some 500 residential and public buildings in Sarasota and had a huge impact on the area's architectural style in the early 20th century. Today, these structures serve as both landmarks and living... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Ringling Estate Walking Tour
Among other things, the city of Sarasota, FL is renowned for its arts community, historical sites and museums. By far the most notable location that fits all the three categories here is the winter estate of the American circus mogul, entrepreneur, and art collector, John Ringling, and his wife, Mable. Indeed, their 66-acre property, turned museum complex, is one of the Gulf Coast’s premier... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
Sunset, Dinner & Drinks of Sarasota
There is nothing like watching the sun set over the beautiful Gulf of Mexico on Lido Beach in Sarasota Florida. Once the sun sets the fun begins at several great restaurants. Whether you want dinner, nightlife or both St. Armands Circle will not...



