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Designed by Sweet Sparkman in collaboration with project lead Agency Landscape + Planning, The Nest at The Bay Park exemplifies what it means to be a community icon by transforming underutilized waterfront land into a vibrant public gathering place that honors architectural heritage while meeting essential community needs. This transformation of place and purpose converts 53 acres of city-owned waterfront from a parking lot into a dynamic public space, reflecting a shift in community values. The site previously included a 1970s library designed by Walter Netsch of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, which had been abandoned for years before being razed to make way for the park. Rather than erasing this history, the new design incorporates Netsch's Field Theory principles, connecting Sarasota's architectural past with its future while creating a new identity for the site. The project creates a more resilient shoreline while connecting the waterfront to the city, weaving together previously disjointed architectural landmarks like the Art Moderne Municipal Auditorium and the mid-century Garden Club building into a cohesive cultural district. The shade pavilion represents architectural innovation with historical reverence by reimagining this architectural history while creating a distinctive visual signature. Instead of ignoring the former library's legacy, the design team adapted its geometric principles while creating something entirely fresh. The overhead grid of translucent ETFE panels filters sunlight and casts shadows that evoke the former library's fractal patterns. Where Netsch's building was heavy, Sweet Sparkman's design achieves remarkable lightness through an asymmetrical, tunnel-like form that optimizes sun protection while creating visual interest through the contrast between curved and straight lines. Beyond its aesthetic achievement, The Bay Park demonstrates climate resilience through thoughtful design and exceptional adaptation to Florida's climate challenges. The project's first phase withstood three major hurricanes in 2024 without damage, allowing the park to reopen just one day after each hurricane. This resilience is intentional - converting parking lots into green space capable of managing stormwater and storm surges while the shade pavilions address Florida's intense sun through smart passive design, with their orientation providing maximum protection during the hottest afternoon hours. Most importantly, The Bay Park serves as a catalyst for inclusive community connection by bringing together Sarasota's diverse communities through thoughtfully designed spaces that host both planned events and spontaneous interactions. The commitment to being "One Park for All" has resulted in impressive community engagement, with 315,000 visitors in the first year participating in over 50 free monthly events including concerts, fitness classes, lectures, and markets. The Bay Park shows how thoughtful design can transform neglected urban space into a community icon that reflects Sarasota's character, responds to environmental challenges, and creates inclusive spaces for community life to flourish for generations to come. Photography by Ryan Gamma
More Info: https://www.thebaysarasota.org/
Return to: People's Choice Florida Building Survey
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