Original Craftsman bungalows are hard to find in Sarasota, but they do exist, scattered around neighborhoods near downtown. But a large, original Craftsman home that’s roomy enough for a family—well, that’s a virtual impossibility. Except for this beauty, that is. And it’s located in one of the most prestigious areas in town.

Built in 1925, it has a long list of original features: leaded glass entry doors, heart of pine floors, 10 foot ceilings, a wood burning fireplace, and a claw foot tub in one of the baths. But unlike so many older homes, this one has been virtually rebuilt, with an up-to-date layout that places the elaborate master suite on the main floor. (There are two more bedrooms upstairs; the home has almost 3,000 square feet and is built on a double lot.)

If the new stuff, particularly the kitchen, laundry room and master bath, seem extra deluxe, it’s because the place got a major renovation when it served as the 2012 Jewels on the Bay Decorator Showhouse for the Boys & Girls Clubs. It was a highlight of the tour, with its rambling, old-fashioned feel blended with modern livability.

A word about the neighborhood. Back in our April issue we had a lead story about how Harbor Acres is the best neighborhood in town. The only possible exception to that theory would be Bay Point Park, where this home is located. It’s a smaller, more exclusive version of Harbor Acres, even closer to downtown, and it’s home to some of the most prominent people in town, including Katherine Harris and the Lindsay family, who used to own the Herald-Tribune. Real estate is incredibly pricey here. The home across the street just sold for $6.825 million. Of course, it has a spectacular waterfront view. But then it doesn’t have the irreplaceable old-fashioned charm of this one, a comparative bargain at $1,195,000.

1524 Bay Point Drive. For more information call Elizabeth Rose of Coldwell Banker at (941) 928-7114.

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