Preserving History, Enhancing Experience
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The Siesta Key Beach project revitalized one of the world’s most iconic beaches by blending historical preservation with modern design. Originally constructed in 1958 by Sarasota School of Architecture pioneer Edward "Tim" Seibert, the mid-century modern pavilion had become obscured over time due to vegetation growth and building additions. Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors restored the historic pavilion while reclaiming the “sun trap” beach plaza, enhancing views of the Gulf of Mexico, and re-establishing the site as a destination for locals and visitors alike.
The 60-acre project introduced new amenities, including a public safety facility, wedding pavilion, picnic shelters, and concessions buildings. A mile-long esplanade enhances pedestrian safety, while a park within a park concept organizes new structures among existing Australian pines. The design honors the site’s history and natural beauty while incorporating resilient, environmentally sound materials to withstand the coastal climate. The seamless integration of old and new has transformed the beach into a world-class venue, earning multiple design awards and recognition as one of the top beaches globally.
Sarasota County
Project information
Siesta Key, FL
10 Acres
Completed in 2016
client/owner
location
size
Status
"It’s amazing to see this project come to fruition and be every bit a reality and hope of the community."
— Alan Maio, Chairman
Sarasota County Commission
FOUNDER
Jerry Sparkman, AIA, NCARB
Jerry Sparkman, a founding principal of Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors, has been crafting resilient, thoughtful designs since the firm's inception in 2002. His work reflects a deep understanding of the coastal environment, emphasizing the integration of local culture, history, and long-term community growth. Jerry’s design philosophy—“respect the land and the people, and the rest will follow”—is exemplified in projects like The Bay Park in Sarasota, where he has merged innovative design with environmental stewardship to create vibrant public spaces. His portfolio spans high-end residential projects, public parks, higher education facilities, and community spaces, all shaped by active listening and a meticulous approach to financial, physical, social, and environmental factors. With a belief that nature provides unlimited inspiration, Jerry continues to create spaces that harmonize with their surroundings while meeting the needs of diverse communities.
John Bryant, AIA, LEED AP
After receiving a degree in music at Grinnell College, John received his Master of Architecture from the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation in 2007. At the University of Maryland, he received the Dean's Thesis Award and the 2007 David M. Schwarz Traveling Fellowship, which allowed for thesis research in Japan.
No one benefited more than Sweet Sparkman Architecture and Interiors when John and his family decided to move to Sarasota. His highly effective design and project management skills were instrumental in projects such as the Ringling College of Art + Design's Basch Visual Arts Center, Fruitville Elementary, and the New College Master Plan. His work with the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion has earned two awards: 2015 Florida Association of AIA: Merit Award for an Object for the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion's picnic shelter and a Finalist for the SRQ Magazine: Building of the Year. His work on Fruitville Elementary has earned the firm the coveted national 2017 Brick in Architecture Award K-12 given by the Brick Industry Association. John's prolific body of work during this period compelled the Florida / Caribbean AIA jury to award Sweet Sparkman the 2018 Firm of the Year.
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