Tucked between its larger barrier island neighbors of Longboat Key to the north and Siesta Key to the south,
Lido Key, a jewel along Florida's Gulf Coast, is a sanctuary of elevated luxury. Far from your standard island retreat of nondescript beachfront uniformity, Lido Key is an architectural showcase featuring a host of brilliantly designed masterpieces and a sprawling collection of waterfront estates.
Below, we tour several of Lido Key's historic homes and prestigious mansions, including innovative mid-centuries, contemporary works of art, and Mediterranean-inspired compounds, each embodying sophistication and elegance defining high-end coastal living.
Lido Shores: An Enclave of Architectural Grandeur
Lido Shores, Lido Key's original enclave of prestige on the island's northernmost shores, is a community steeped in architectural innovation. Known for its collection of Sarasota School of Architecture homes and bold contemporary estates, Lido Shores is home to some of the most renowned properties in the region. This neighborhood seamlessly blends modernist design and luxury, offering unparalleled views of Sarasota Bay and direct access to private, pristine beaches.
1300 Westway Drive
The Umbrella House (1953)
Designed by Paul Rudolph, this legendary mid-century modern home is one of the most iconic structures of the Sarasota School. Its innovative umbrella-like shading system is both functional and sculptural, offering a striking aesthetic while protecting the home from Florida's intense sun.
1310 Westway Drive
Hiss Studio (1953)
Created by Edward "Tim" Seibert, this home was originally built as the office of developer Philip Hiss, a key figure in bringing modernist architecture to Sarasota. A 1962 addition by Bert Brosmith enhanced its forward-thinking design, transforming the steel-framed, column supported structure into one of Lido Shores' most unique residences.
332 Westway Drive
The Arguedas House (Zigzag House) (1959)
A geometric marvel with a distinctive angular roofline showcasing the experimental spirit of mid-century design, this home was left in a state of despair for a number of years. Thankfully, a thoughtful update from Siebert Architects reestablished the home's Sarasota School influences and its presence as one of Sarasota's most majestic mid-century residences.
Lido Shores Modern-Day Mansions
Lido Shores is also home to an impressive selection of contemporary estates that further enhance the neighborhood's architectural bonafides.
150 Morningside Drive
Don Chapell designed this 6,800-square-foot postmodern residence that wraps around a tranquil courtyard and offers soaring ceilings, expansive windows, and a serene waterfront setting on Pansy Bayou.
220 Morningside Drive
Putterman House
An architectural masterpiece by Carl Abbott, this award-winning, 4,000-square-foot residence from 1986 is renowned for its dramatic ceiling heights, panoramic views of Pansy Bayou, and seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
1067 Westway Drive
A Gulf-front mansion designed for sophisticated coastal living, this immaculate home features a travertine staircase, a grand great room with floor-to-ceiling windows, a 500-bottle wine room, and a rooftop deck perfect for panoramic sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
1127 Westway Drive
This 19,658-square-foot estate sits on five acres along New Pass and has housed a succession of notable owners. The home blends modern luxury with privacy, making it one of the most significant properties in the area.
Prestigious Mansions Across Lido Key
Beyond Lido Shores, Lido Key is home to equally stunning estates, each offering unique architectural styles and premier waterfront locations.
535 South Boulevard of the Presidents
Van Wezel Estate (1937)
This Mediterranean Revival home, designed by Thomas Reed Martin, was the original residence of Sarasota philanthropists Lewis and Eugenia Van Wezel. Restored to maintain its historic charm, the nearly 4,200 square foot home, including a two-story boathouse, features double islands in the kitchen, pecky cypress ceilings, and a great room with preserved architectural details.
1 John Ringling Boulevard
Sand Dune House
A modern 10,000-square-foot masterpiece, this home echoes the sleek curves of a luxury yacht. Designed by Mark Sultana and taking over three years to build, the one-of-a-kind beachfront residence boasts an elevated third-floor pool, retractable awnings, and rooftop views extending to downtown Sarasota and Big Pass.
61 South Washington Drive
Bayfront Estate
An 8,691-square-foot waterfront home featuring seven bedrooms, eight full baths, and outdoor terraces with sweeping Sarasota Bay views. Originally built in 1956, it underwent a significant redesign in 2009, blending contemporary elegance with timeless coastal appeal.
132 North Washington Drive
Jeffrey Vinik Estate
Hedge fund mogul and Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeffrey Vinik owns this 24,040-square-foot ultra-modern compound. Built after razing two existing homes, it features eight bedrooms, eight full and five half bathrooms, and a spectacular Sarasota Bay view.
139 South Washington Drive
Casa del Carnevale
A historic 10,000-square-foot waterfront estate, meticulously restored to blend Old World craftsmanship with modern luxury. This property is a prime example of Sarasota's architectural grandeur, featuring 171 feet of private bay frontage, a Romanesque pool, custom ironwork, and antique details.
171 South Washington Drive
St. Armands Mansion
One of Lido Key's largest estates, this 11,000-square-foot home sits on 300 feet of wraparound waterfront. A 2,000-bottle wine vault, home theater, private docks, infinity pool, and lavish primary suite make this an elite example of palatial living.
Discover More of Lido Key with a Trusted Real Estate Partner
Lido Key's elite real estate landscape offers an unparalleled blend of historic grandeur, mid-century modernism, and cutting-edge contemporary design. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a luxury homebuyer, or drawn to the beauty of Sarasota's coastline, touring these palatial properties and ultimately acquiring one of your own is an experience that showcases the pinnacle of high-end living.
If you're interested in learning more and ready to settle into the prestigious island lifestyle offered on Lido Key—or looking to capitalize through the sale of one of the island's notable properties—
contact the Kepecz-Hays Team today to begin your Lido Key real estate journey.
*Header photo courtesy of Open Space
