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Located just beyond the runway at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, The Wing transforms a once informal gravel pull-off into a designed public landmark. What began as a gathering spot for aviation enthusiasts evolved into a collaboration between the airport authority, local government, and Sweet Sparkman to create a civic observation area that celebrates flight while welcoming the broader community. The centerpiece is a sculptural, cantilevered canopy clad in aluminum composite panels inspired by the form and motion of an aircraft wing.
The project balances expressive form with durability and accessibility. Universally accessible pathways and seating are paired with robust materials suited to Florida’s coastal environment, including steel, precast concrete, and aluminum. Interpretive signage, a restored historic airport beacon, and an integrated aviation radio feed enrich the experience, while native grasses, shell pathways, shade trees, and a modest playground encourage multigenerational use. The result is a civic space that reframes airport infrastructure as a shared community destination, offering the experience of flight in a setting that is free and open to the public.
Sarasota Manatee
Airport Authority
Project information
Sarasota, FL
811 SF
Completed in 2025
client/owner
location
size
Status
The founder of Sweet Sparkman, Todd was born and raised in the Northeast, where he received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Roger Williams University. Todd spent his internship at Arquitectonica in Miami, Florida, where he worked on projects throughout Europe, South America, and the United States. In 2002, Todd started the firm TOTeMS Architecture (the original firm name). In 2004, he partnered with Jerry Sparkman to form Sweet Sparkman Architects. The firm has built a national reputation for design excellence and has been asked to participate in La Venice Biennale, a bi-annual architecture exhibit in Venice, Italy. In his 20 years of practice, Todd has enjoyed the study of simple building volumes and the exploitation of materials in an unconventional fashion. Municipal planning and architecture are Todd's award-winning specialty.
Todd Sweet, AIA, LEED AP
Elizabeth Lee, Associate AIA
Elizabeth received her Master of Architecture from Florida International University in Miami. After working for two years at a small firm, she was ready to leave the madness of Miami. She moved back to the Sarasota / Bradenton area, where she grew up. Elizabeth has comprehensive experience in design and construction documents and client consultations. She brings this experience to Sweet Sparkman’s large-scale commercial projects, incorporating her environment design experience into every project. With her strong problem-solving skills and team player ability, she is a seamless fit at Sweet Sparkman.
When she isn’t working, Elizabeth enjoys hiking and martial arts. She has achieved a 3rd Dan Black Belt Ming Wu and a 1st Dan Black Belt Hwa Rang Do.
Nicole Ruiz, Associate AIA
Nicole's path to architecture was guided by a childhood passion for art and numbers, rediscovered through a nostalgic note expressing her dream of becoming an architect. This revelation solidified her commitment to using architecture to positively impact communities through design. Nicole is dedicated to creating spaces that foster connection and community.
Inspired by the integration of form and function, her architectural style embodies modern aesthetics and sustainable principles inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and contemporary sustainable design practices. While still exploring her niche within the field, Nicole finds inspiration in biophilic design and organic forms, striving to merge visual appeal with environmental consciousness. As a member of the AIA and young professionals groups, Nicole values community engagement, fostering both professional relationships and friendships that influence her multifaceted approach to architecture.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys playing volleyball and paddle boarding, activities that provide a balance to her professional life and inspire a holistic approach to design.
Daniel Rivero-Gonzalez
Daniel holds a Bachelor of Design and a Master of Architecture from the University of Florida. Inspired by his family’s background in construction—especially his mother’s work as an architect in Colombia—he developed a passion for architecture’s ability to shape communities. While living in Sarasota, he was drawn to the city's rich architectural history and the design philosophy of Sweet Sparkman, leading him to join the firm.
Daniel’s work is influenced by mid-century modern architecture, Scandinavian design, and the Sarasota School of Architecture, with a strong focus on urbanism and sustainability. His studio’s work on the Envision Resilience 2022 Narragansett Bay Challenge won a Student Award from the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Planning Association. Outside of architecture, Daniel enjoys music, playing guitar, reading, and drawing—creative pursuits that inform his holistic approach to design.
Designed in Collaboration With Hello June Creative.
Ⓒ Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors 2025, All Rights Reserved. License: AR0015832