For Sale For Rent
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bedrooms
bedrooms
5
bathrooms
bathrooms
5
square feet
square feet
4,782
acreage
Acreage
0.45
open houses
Open Houses
-
year built
year built
1918
full baths
Full Baths
4
half baths
Half Baths
1
Step into history and timeless elegance at the House of Ringling, a landmark estate in Sarasota's coveted Whitfield Estates, built in 1918 for Alfred Ringling of the legendary Ringling Brothers. Spanning 4,782+/- sq. ft., this 5BR, 4.5BA masterpiece seamlessly marries Gilded Age opulence with modern luxury. A red brick walkway and expansive front lawn welcome you to this architectural treasure, where an elevator-sized Grand Ballroom with a 21 ceiling, Venetian columns and a Renaissance-style coffered ceiling create an awe-inspiring focal point. Original pine floors, 12-inch baseboards and hand-poured antique glass in French windows and doors preserve the estate’s rich craftsmanship, as the reimagined chef’s kitchen is a showpiece, featuring Big Chill appliances, an 8-burner gas stove, Quartzite surfaces, a mother-of-pearl backsplash and backlit cabinets. The primary suite on the lower level offers floor-to-ceiling French doors opening to a private porch and the expansive pool deck. Upstairs, 2 ensuite bedrooms feature partial bay views. Hidden details, including a prohibition-era speakeasy/3rd bedroom at the top of the stairs and a secret room, add intrigue and charm. The home’s walls, crafted from Ringling railway car paneling, echo its storied past. Recent updates, including new plumbing, electrical, HVAC (5 units), and a new roof with extra tie-down straps, ensure modern comfort while preserving historic character. A detached 2-car garage and 2 driveways provide ample space, while the expansive Palm Beach-style courtyard invites relaxation. As one of the first Ringling Brothers homes in Sarasota, this estate offers a rare opportunity to own a living piece of history in a prime location near Sarasota Bay and downtown.
Location
Subdivision WHITFIELD ESTATES UNIT 1
County Manatee
Elementary School Florine J. Abel Elementary
Middle School Electa Arcotte Lee Magnet
High School Bayshore High
open houses Open houses
None scheduled.
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MLS number: A4643395
Listing agent: Ryan Ackerman, Pa #0695084
Listing broker: Coldwell Banker (813) 754-3586
Copyright © 2025 Stellar MLS. All rights reserved. All information provided by the listing agent/broker is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.   [source]
Last update: Friday, March 14 2025 at 12:43 a.m. EDT
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