In Sarasota, where high-rise cranes can rival palm trees for a claim to the skyline, history can sometimes feel like an afterthought. But amid steady development, a quieter celebration took place this spring—one that honored not the newest or tallest construction, but the most enduring. 

On May 1, a sold-out crowd of 125 gathered at at the Sarasota Art Museum for the 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Awards, presented by the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation (SAHP) in partnership with the History and Preservation Coalition of Sarasota County.

From preservation advocates to city planners, the evening cast a spotlight on locals whose work reflects a commitment to protecting Sarasota’s architectural, archaeological and cultural legacy. 

“At a time when Sarasota County is losing its historic buildings at a staggering rate—15 a week on average—it’s more critical than ever that the community come together to celebrate the dedicated, creative individuals who are fighting against that tide,” said Dave Baber, SAHP's president.

The awards selection committee solicited nominations from the community in January. The following three projects were awarded the Gregory A. and Eleana Najmy Hall Historic Preservation and Adaptive Use Awards.

Adaptive Reuse of Historic Burns Court Bungalows

Susan and Jim Davis

Susan and Jim Davis have breathed new life into a pair of historic Burns Court bungalows—once altered for use as a restaurant—through a three-year adaptive reuse project that honors the bungalows' architectural heritage while adapting them for modern use. Guided by Tidmore-Henry & Associates and historic preservation experts, the Davises restored original structural elements and preserved the craftsmanship that defines the bungalows’ early 20th-century charm. Today, the bungalows serve as Airbnb rentals, offering history-loving tourists an immersive experience of Sarasota’s architectural legacy—proof that preservation and purposeful reuse can coexist.

Rehabilitation of the Herald Square Building in Burns Court

Denise Kowal

The Herald Square building, an enduring architectural fixture in Sarasota’s historic Burns Court district, was originally designed in the 1920s by architect Dwight James Baum, whose Mediterranean Revival style helped shape the city’s early identity.

Since acquiring the building in 1986 to prevent its demolition, Kowal has devoted nearly four decades to its preservation. Her most recent project—marking the building’s 100th anniversary—represents the culmination of that effort, restoring the structure to its original character while upgrading it for long-term resilience. Kowal removed layers of non-original stucco to reveal the lime-washed façade, replaced the roof with hand-raked terracotta tiles matching the 1920s originals and personally reglazed all 264 historic steel-frame windows. She also used sustainable, traditional materials like natural Venetian plaster and copper gutters, and outfitted the streetscape with brick crosswalks, park spaces and pedestrian-friendly design. 

Restoration of the 1930s Van Wezel Estate on Lido Key

Douglas and Susan Moore

The Van Wezel estate, a 1930s architectural landmark on Lido Key designed by Thomas Reed Martin, holds a vital place in Sarasota’s early residential history. Once one of the first year-round family homes in the area, the estate was purchased in 2019 by Doug and Susan Moore, who undertook a historical rehabilitation to preserve its legacy. Collaborating with architect Don Cooper and builder Greg Ross of Lee & Ross Built Homes, the Moores restored the estate’s original character while integrating modern comforts. Efforts included preserving wooden windows and pecky cypress ceilings, revitalizing the main house and historic boathouse, reintroducing period-accurate design elements such as wooden countertops and a vintage rotisserie, and conserving the estate’s natural waterfront landscape—all while honoring the property’s original footprint.

In addition to the building awards, Linda Holland, Dr. Clifford Smith and Sherry Robinson Svekis were given awards for outstanding public service and archaeological conservancy. 

Holland was honored for her decades-long leadership in revitalizing the Gillespie Park neighborhood and championing its historic preservation. For more than 40 years, Holland has led efforts to restore historic homes, improve public safety and foster community. As founder of the Gillespie Park Neighborhood Association, she has been instrumental in transforming the neighborhood into a model of grassroots preservation and civic engagement.

Smith, who passed away in December 2024, was recognized for his more than two decades of service as Sarasota’s historic preservation officer. He played a central role in identifying, protecting and advocating for the city’s historic resources. His efforts led to significant landmark designations and the development of innovative preservation policies. 

Svekis received the award for her outstanding work in researching, excavating and interpreting the region’s archaeological heritage. A longtime advocate for public archaeology, she has led projects that uncovered and elevated the history of the Angola Maroon Community, helping earn it national recognition. 

This year’s honorees remind us that preservation is not just about saving old buildings; it’s about honoring memory, craft and the character of place. In a region increasingly sculpted by speculation and speed, these people and projects offer a different blueprint.

To check out last year's winners, click here.