The Rosemary District, just north of downtown Sarasota, is one of the top neighborhoods where everything is changing. In fact, it just won’t stop moving and shaking—mostly upwards. 

Now, behold a new condo project. It doesn't have a name yet, but it does have a design. The 24-unit, seven-story will go up on Seventh Street, behind the  two-story development with those larger-than-life murals at 650 Central Ave. that's home to a handful of businesses. The murals, by local artist Richie Brasil, are a tribute to Native Americans from the area.

Regardless of zoning that allows for commercial building, this project will stay residential. Stretching between Cohen Way and Central Avenue, the development—owned by the same group behind 650 Central Ave., Mumford Sarasota LLC—is planned to include a mix of 24 residential units, ranging from spacious three-bedroom layouts to two-story townhouses. 

One feature is the inclusion of private elevators, which open directly into the units. Four of the units will offer two-story layouts, each with a private garden and pool, tucked away above the building’s ground floor. Focus on private outdoor space continues with large terraces that extend the living area outward, each at least large enough for a dining table, according to Michael Halflants of Halflants + Pichette, the local architectural firm behind the design and many others nearby.

While most of the space in the enviable zip code is being filled, the development will include a public pocket park that stretches along the length of the property, transforming a section of the lot into a green space. 

This commitment to green space is a response to the evolving needs of the Rosemary District. A few years ago, the district underwent a review of its zoning codes, and a focus on creating more parks and green spaces became a central part of the conversation. 

By providing on-site urban open space, the project can increase its residential density. When urban open space is provided on-site, the maximum building height may be increased up to seven stories—hence this project’s added height beyond the usual five you’ll see in the area. Plus, “diversity in stories adds interest, [as opposed to] having all the buildings in an area at the same height,” Halflants adds.

“A few years ago, the Rosemary District was redoing its building codes and I was on the committee," he continues. "While I didn't agree with all the points raised, we knew residents wanted more green space and pocket parks, which is good—but why would a developer include that in their project? This incentive is working toward that."

The ground floor will feature a large lobby, a gym and a lounge space, and a mezzanine that will make part of the building eight stories.

There’s also private storage, enclosed parking, a rooftop pool with views of downtown Sarasota, and partial views of the water in the distance. The two penthouses will be on par with that level.

The location places residents within walking distance of the area’s popular restaurants and shops, including the nearby Arts and Central district, which is continually growing with new eateries.

The project is still in its design phase, with a groundbreaking planned for early 2026. It should take roughly 20 months to complete. 

Although the price points for the units have not yet been finalized, none of the units in this particular development are earmarked as affordable housing. According to the latest numbers, the median listing home price per square foot in the Rosemary District is $937, with a range of about $550 to $1,000. While the local condo market is feeling the effects of a slump, new construction like this is going strong—and, as the number of construction cranes dotting the skyline prove, continue to go up citywide.