Business Details
23 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Award-Winning Architecture & Historic Preservation in Sarasota
SOLSTICE Planning & Architecture is a distinguished architectural firm founded on principles of regionalism, cultural history, functionality, and environmental stewardship. With over two decades of experience, we specialize in creating timeless structures that harmonize natural light, form, and site orientation to maximize energy efficiency. Our work spans architectural design, historic preservation, and sustainable development, earning over 125 accolades from institutions like the National Trust for Historic Preservation, U.S. Green Building Council, and American Institute of Architects.We are recognized leaders in revitalizing mid-century modern landmarks, including iconic works by Paul Rudolph, while advancing contemporary design solutions tailored to Florida's climate. Our commitment to excellence extends to community engagement, education, and fostering dialogue between architectural heritage and innovation. As stewards of the Sarasota School of Architecture, we combine technical expertise with artistic vision to deliver spaces that enhance human experience and environmental resilience.
Services
Architectural Design
Historic Restoration
Sustainable Architecture
Urban Planning
Interior Design
Preservation Consulting
Disaster Recovery
Commercial Development
Residential Renovation
Design Education
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Specialized expertise in Sarasota School of Architecture restoration
- Over 125 awards for architectural excellence and sustainability
- Pioneers in climate-responsive design for Florida's tropical environment
- Client-centric process with 98% satisfaction rate in 10+ year projects
- LEED-certified professionals with 25% of Sarasota's green building projects
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- U.S. Green Building Council (LEED Certified Projects)
- National Trust for Historic Preservation
What people say
Superlative and attentive service
World-class architectural firm
Transformative design expertise
Exceptional historic preservation
Climate-responsive solutions
Services
Historic Restoration
Specialized restoration of mid-century modern landmarks, particularly Sarasota School of Architecture buildings designed by Paul Rudolph and contemporaries. Our approach combines historical accuracy with modern building science to preserve structural integrity while meeting contemporary standards. Projects include the Umbrella House facade restoration, Sarasota High School adaptive reuse, and Cocoon House rehabilitation following hurricane damage.
Sustainable Architecture
Design of energy-efficient structures prioritizing natural light, passive cooling, and climate-responsive materials. We achieve LEED certification standards through innovative envelope design and integration of renewable energy systems. Our Element House project demonstrates net-zero energy potential while 25% of Sarasota's LEED Platinum projects originate from our firm's sustainable methodologies.
Urban Planning
Comprehensive urban design solutions that balance density with environmental stewardship. Recognized by AIA National for Rosemary Square's transformative urban regeneration, we create walkable mixed-use environments that enhance community connectivity while preserving cultural heritage through context-sensitive planning frameworks.
Residential Renovation
Custom residential transformations that merge historic character with contemporary functionality. Our process maintains architectural integrity while updating layouts, systems, and materials for modern living standards. Recent projects include adaptive reuse of 1950s homes with hurricane-resistant features and smart technology integration without compromising mid-century aesthetics.
Disaster Recovery
Emergency architectural repair and long-term recovery planning for hurricane-damaged structures. We specialize in restoring historic buildings to original specifications while incorporating resilience measures against future climate events. Current projects include post-Hurricane Milton rehabilitation of Paul Rudolph's Cocoon House and Lamolithic residences with improved flood mitigation systems.
People
Jonathan Parks FAIA
Founder & Principal Architect
Recognized leader in Sarasota School of Architecture preservation with over 25 years of experience. Elevated to AIA College of Fellows for contributions to architectural heritage. Specializes in mid-century modern restoration and climate-adaptive design while maintaining historical accuracy in over 40 landmark projects.
Kathryn Parks
Project Manager
15-year veteran in sustainable design coordination with expertise in LEED certification processes. Oversees integration of modern systems into historic structures while maintaining design integrity through meticulous material selection and construction documentation.
Roy Witte
Senior Architect
Specializes in urban design and large-scale historic preservation projects. Key contributor to Rosemary Square's award-winning urban regeneration and Sarasota Municipal Auditorium restoration. Brings technical expertise in adapting 20th-century structures for contemporary civic use.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We specialize in Sarasota School of Architecture preservation and modernist design while offering comprehensive services across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors.
How do you handle historic building restoration?
Our approach combines archival research with modern building science to maintain historical accuracy while meeting current safety and efficiency standards through meticulous material matching and structural reinforcement.
Are you experienced with LEED certification?
Yes, we've contributed to 25% of Sarasota's LEED Platinum projects, integrating sustainable practices from initial concept through construction documentation and certification submission.
Can you work with existing architectural plans?
We frequently collaborate with legacy plans, particularly mid-century modern originals, using digital modeling to interpret and adapt historic designs for contemporary needs while preserving architectural intent.
How do you handle hurricane-damaged properties?
Our disaster recovery process includes immediate stabilization, historical documentation, and resilient reconstruction that maintains original design elements while incorporating modern storm-resistant construction techniques.
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