Modern Nostalgia in Sarasota’s Cherokee Park

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cherokee park is one of Sarasota’s most charming communities. Located west of Tamiami Trail and two miles south of downtown, the historic neighborhood is well-known for the heritage oak trees that line many of its streets and its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. A young couple knew all this when they began driving regularly through the area in search of a new residence. Their diligence paid off when they spotted an available lot (next to the water no less) during one of their treks. Before the sale was even put into motion, the husband and wife had already imagined the look of their newly built forever home. 

“The owners—one local and the other from Minnesota—chose this area for its many attributes,” says builder Ryan Perrone of Nautilus Homes, who initiated the project. “They envisioned a home that would feel like it had been in their family for generations.”

And that’s exactly what they got. Designed with architect Don Cooper, the new corner-lot dwelling spans 5,710 square feet and blends timeless architectural elements with contemporary elegance. “The architecture’s Florida vernacular style creates a seamless connection to the surrounding natural beauty,” adds Perrone. 

Ellen Hanson, founder and creative director of Ellen Hanson Designs, also collaborated with the homeowners to conceptualize the interior design, a balance of  Florida vernacular and metropolitan sophistication. “Our goal from the beginning was to help create a home that felt appropriate to the early twentieth-century styles found in historic areas of Sarasota while subtly incorporating modern features that would enhance the young family’s lifestyle,” notes Hanson. “The palette throughout the residence is inspired by craftsman-style houses, yet interpreted in fresh and vibrant ways.”

Inside the house, the great room opens to a spacious screened porch through an expansive sliding glass Euro-Wall, creating a fluid transition between inside and out. A flexible furniture layout maximizes these connected spaces by offering entertaining options for large and intimate gatherings. 

“Drawing Gulf breezes from all sides, the house maintains a sense of privacy while connecting to nature,” says Hanson. “There’s even a small tower with a yoga space that allows for views of the Bay of Sarasota and stunning sunsets. The mandate for the interiors was to create family-friendly spaces while maintaining an aura of sophistication and ease.”

Familiar and humble materials like oak, terracotta, ceramic, and plaster call to mind homes that have been well-loved for generations. In addition to Hanson’s architectural nods to the craftsman/bungalow style, such as painted ceiling beams, bay windows, and shiplap, her team repeated the nostalgic visuals through millwork details. Notable features include shaker-style cabinet faces, a built-in dining bench, a furniture-like kitchen island, a butler’s pantry, and a sunny mudroom with hidden and open storage. “Cabinet hardware, lighting, and surface materials all cohered to the craftsman aesthetic while speaking to the current moment through a sophisticated color scheme, modern touches, and exquisite lighting,” says Hanson. “Whenever possible, I directed my selections toward items made in the States by next-generation American craftspeople.” 

With a distinct section of the home reserved for sleeping quarters spread across separate floors, multi-layered window treatments from blackout to sheer ensure that all circadian scenarios are satisfied. Bespoke offices for the parents and a generous playroom for the kids allow everyone to study, play, and work in spaces created for their needs. A thoughtfully curated selection of art, distinctive lighting, and one-of-a-kind rugs elevate every space through color, texture, and volume.

“The home we built is an homage to the former home we removed from the property,” notes Perrone. “The owners are very family-oriented with two wonderful little girls, and they love

to enjoy Sarasota’s indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Their vision aligned with our commitment to craftsmanship and timeless design. Collaborating with them and the design team was a pure joy.”

Story Credits:

Interior Design by Ellen Hanson, Ellen Hanson Designs, Sarasota, FL

Architecture by Don Cooper, Cooper Johnson Smith Peterson Architects, Tampa, FL 

Builder Ryan Perrone, Nautilus Homes, Sarasota, FL

Structural Engineer Snell Engineering Consultants, Sarasota, FL

Landscape Architecture by Michael A. Gilkey, Sarasota, FL

Text Jeanne de Lathouder

Photography by Ryan Gamma, Sarasota, FL

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