Lido Shores' Putterman Residence Wins Design Award

Congratulations to neighbors Florence and Saul Putterman for recieving an American Institute of Architects (AIA) design award for their modern Lido Shores home. Designed in 1986 by Sarasota architect Carl Abbott, FAIA, the home recently won the 2013 AIA Florida/Caribbean Honor and Design Merit Award for "Test of Time".

The award-winning Putterman Residence (1986), architect Carl Abbott, FAIA

The AIA Florida/Caribbean Honor & Design Awards Program is Florida's most prestigious award program for this region's architectural profession. The Test of Time Award recognizes distinguished works of architecture after a period of 25 years in which the function, aesthetic statement, and execution can be reassessed. It is the intent of the program to recognize works that, by the timelessness of their design, have influenced that building or building type. 

Saul, Gigi and Florence

According to Saul and noted artist Florence, one of the most enjoyable experiences of their home and studio is the opportunity to show it to others. Abbott, using the metaphor of a seashell, designed the heavy outer walls in sharp contrast to the inner side with its openness to Pansy Bayou. Natural materials and neutral colors, based on seashells are used throughout, acting as a backdrop for the vibrant colors of Florence’s artwork. 

The monolithic building façade, framed by towering royal palms, has double teak doors designed by Florence, reminiscent of Anasazi Native American rock paintings.

Describing the home's dramatic entrance, Florence says: "Because there are no windows in the front of the house it is somewhat of a mystery as to what awaits beyond the entrance. Visitors come into a courtyard which I made into a sculpture garden and then enter the house through a glass door and the whole view of the peaceful bayou greets you. It is an exciting entry. All the sliding glass doors in every room give you the view of the peacefulness and beauty of the scene beyond." 

Photo © Steve Brooke

The home's view of Pansy Bayou is further enhanced by a cascading deck down to the water’s edge.  

Florence’s son Joel Putterman collaborated with Carl Abbott on the overall plan and landscape features. Joel points out that the key modern architectural elements include dominant force lines, the central axis of the main entry and the axis of the long swimming pool. They're not parallel, he says, but seem to slip past each other, emphasizing a sense of movement. 

In the main house, the spaces fan out and open wide to the bayou. Across the entire water-frontage are walls of glass, angled in plan, allowing each room to have a different focus. The large ceiling planes step upwards, creating a sweeping flow of interior space.

The Putterman Home’s Test of Time Award is a testament not only to the considerable skills and imagination of Carl Abbott, but also to the long-term vision of our neighbors, Saul and Florence.
Top photo © Greg Wilson