Mira Mar Residences: A Landmark Revival for Downtown Sarasota

One hundred years after it helped launch Sarasota’s first real estate boom, the Mira Mar block on Palm Avenue is poised for a renewal that adapts its architectural legacy into a new chapter of downtown living. Following unanimous votes by the Sarasota City Commission this spring and summer, Seaward Development (developers of Epoch on Gulfstream Avenue) has secured approvals to restore the historic Mira Mar building on South Palm Avenue and add two 18-story residential towers behind it, creating a mixed-use destination across the city’s bayfront edge.

Seaward has enlisted architects Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects and Igor Reyes of Nichols Architects to reimagine the Mira Mar block. The plan preserves the original 1920s Mediterranean Revival style of the Mira Mar while the towers are positioned to preserve view corridors and allow natural light to filter through pedestrian passageways.

The city’s actions this year formalized the path forward. In May, commissioners unanimously approved a comprehensive plan amendment changing part of the 1.42-acre site’s future land use from Downtown Core to Downtown Bayfront. In July, they followed with a rezoning that enables the two 18-story towers, capped at approximately 262 feet, to rise behind the historic frontage along Palm Avenue. The Palm Avenue strip remains in the Downtown Core district.

A Preservation Victory

The Mira Mar, opened in 1922 and stretching nearly 400 feet along Palm Avenue, had fallen into deep disrepair. After an initial demolition request was denied, Seaward re-worked the concept and aligned with preservation advocates to draft a financially viable rehabilitation. The cost of the estimated $29-$30 million restoration will be funded through condominium sales, with Seaward noting that the 18-story towers and their panoramic views provide the economic foundation to make preservation possible. Local preservation leaders have praised it as a model for balancing heritage with growth.

“This project exemplifies the balance that we have been looking for. This is the precedent that we are looking to set,” said Erin DiFazio, program director for the Sarasota Alliance of Historic Preservation. “We finally have a developer who is listening to the community.”

A Walkable Public Streetscape

What will residents and neighbors experience? At street level, the plan emphasizes an engaging public streetscape with wide sidewalks, landscaped edges, and outdoor dining. Above and behind the Palm Avenue shops, the residential towers are designed to occupy no more than 60% of their allowable building envelope, a move that keeps the structures slender and lets sunlight filter through pedestrian passages between buildings.

Mira Mar Residences Construction Timeline

Stabilization and rehabilitation of the historic structure are expected to begin by year’s end, with vertical construction of the towers targeted for the second quarter of 2026, and overall completion projected for 2028 (pending site-plan review).

Inside the towers, expectations are set for estate-scale living and expansive water views, particularly on higher floors that clear the treetops and rooftops of downtown. Early development literature points to premium bay views beginning around the 14th floor.

While full specifications will be detailed as development progresses, the guiding idea is clear: contemporary luxury framed by the authenticity of a restored historic block.

Mira Mar Residences Project Specifications

For Sarasota residents, business owners, and future homeowners, the message is optimistic: a treasured building will not only be saved, it will be re-energized as the front porch to a walkable block of shops, dining, workplaces, and homes—steps from the bay, galleries, and theaters that define Florida’s Cultural Coast.

As approvals translate into construction, the Laughlin Tanner Group will continue to follow the details and milestones that shape this landmark revival.

Considering a Home at Mira Mar Residences?

If you’re exploring downtown living, second-home options, or pre-construction opportunities, we’re here to help you navigate timing, floor plans and value. Contact us for more information and to make a reservation.