Southgate holds the title of Sarasota’s leading mid-century modern suburb, with block after block of eminently remodel-able three-bedroom, two-bath houses that date from the 1960s. They make perfect family homes for families that aren’t too big. But if you look around, you can come upon some mid-century showplaces—larger custom  homes that can be quite impressive indeed. Let’s take a look at two that currently on the market.

First is this 4,000-square-foot home on Pinecrest Street. It dates back to 1958, but has been given a dramatic remodel that makes it unique in the area. The centerpiece is an enormous great room that really is great. It’s got everything—a soaring two-story space with a ceiling paneled in what looks like pecky cypress, with a beautiful curving staircase ascending to the second floor. Check out also the fireplace set into a coral stone wall, with a brass hood, and the sputnik chandeliers. There’s an adjacent family room area that’s almost as grand, and an up-to-date kitchen with solid teak cabinetry. 

The home has four bedrooms, two on the ground floor and two upstairs. You’ll also find an oversized two car drive, hurricane shutters, and a newly landscaped, fenced yard.

2873 Pinecrest St. is priced at $695,000. For more information call Peter Laughlin of Premier Sotheby’s at (941) 356-8428. 

Our second house, I’m afraid to say, just slipped away from you, as it is currently listed as pending. Too bad because it’s one of the nicest in Southgate. Tucked away on a tiny street just off Phillippi Creek, it was designed by an architect for his own residence. It’s a little over 3,000 square feet, with three bedrooms and renovated kitchen and baths. Once again, the star here is the dramatic living room, a great mid-century space with two walls of windows.  There’s also an oversized pool, a separate guest house/office and great landscaping that gives the home a very private feel. But somebody snapped it up less than a month after it went on the market, which just goes to show you have to act fast when you find something this nice. 

3233 N. Seclusion Drive was listed at $675,000. The realtor was Susan Kirk of Keller Williams at (941) 685-7594.