The words live, work, and play are baked into the very heart of Sarasota. Close proximity to gorgeous beaches, wildlife, and a diverse restaurant/entertainment scene—without the typical “big city” pitfalls like unbearable traffic and congestion—are a big part of what makes it such a pleasure to call Sarasota home.

Now, smaller so-called “Live, Work, Play” communities are offering that same Sarasota soul, neatly tucked into a neighborhood pocket that makes everything walkable. Earlier this year, Sarasota County commissioners voted unanimously to approve such a mixed-use concept on the site of the former Bath and Racquet Club.

Designs (shared below) for the new Live, Work, Play community reveal:

  • Up to 207 new residences, 27 of which will be designated as affordable residential units
  • A new public park and dog park
  • Public running/walking trails
  • One new restaurant and additional retail spaces
  • Mill Terrace connection for pedestrian access to the South
  • New Tennis and Pickelball courts

A Brief History of the Sarasota Bath and Racquet Club

The Bath and Racquet Club has been a hidden gem for families over the decades. A junior Olympic swimming pool, nearly 30 tennis courts, and a 35,000+ square foot fitness space have always been a home-away-from-home for adults and children to enjoy tennis matches, swim lessons, competitions, and more.

Recently, it became increasingly clear to the previous owner, Scott Olsen, that upgrades and improvements were needed. However, his plans to redevelop the Bath and Racquet Club were rejected by Sarasota County commissioners in early 2020. Mr. Olsen then sold the property to Mark Lucas, a Canadian real estate development team with experience in commercial projects. The team reportedly purchased the property for $5.5 million.

New Design for Bath and Racquet Club Receives Unanimous Approval from Sarasota County Commissioners

With the help of Halfants + Pichette Architects, the group presented new plans for a live, work, play community, as pictured below.

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