4237 Sarasota Avenue, Sarasota, FL

Under contract-accepting backup offers. TLC is needed on this fixer-upper. "Step back into Sarasota’s Golden Age with this rare Norman Revival treasure, purportedly commissioned by circus legend John Ringling circa 1940. Nestled "West of the Trail"(Tamiami Trail) in the prestigious Sapphire Shores neighborhood, this two-story masterpiece is a storied neighbor to the world-renowned Ringling Museum and the Venetian splendor of Ringling's Cà d’Zan. Inside, the home retains its timeless character across its twenty-six-foot living room, library, three spacious bedrooms, and two bathrooms, featuring an authentic clawfoot bathtub that evokes a sense of period elegance. With its distinctive steeply pitched rooflines and craftsmanship that would be nearly impossible to replicate today, this property offers more than just a home—it’s a living piece of Sarasota history. This two-story architectural gem is close to Sarasota Bay and the Ringling Museum grounds. It is in a prime location in a culturally rich neighborhood. A true Sarasota treasure. Norman Revival style is characterized by steeply pitched hipped roofs and flared eaves, standing out against the area's common Mediterranean and Mid-Century Modern styles. The connection to John Ringling adds significant "bragging rights" and historical value, as he was the primary visionary behind Sarasota’s early development. Live the Museum District Lifestyle: This area is known for its lush, banyan-lined streets and proximity to cultural landmarks like the FSU/Asolo Performing Arts Center. As the name implies, the style borrows its design cues directly from the Normandy region of France. The many splendors of Indian Beach and Sapphire Shores include proximity to the Bayshore parks, the Ringling Museum, entertainment, SRQ Airport, and shopping at the University Town Center or in the Downtown area. Please excuse the temporary pictures until the home is vacated by the "tenant" at the end of May; new photos will be added.