Open Space | The Umbrella House, Paul Rudolph 1953

The Umbrella House is one of Florida's most iconic examples of modernist architecture, designed by American architect Paul Rudolph in 1953. It is located in Sarasota, Florida, and is a key work within the Sarasota School of Architecture, a regional style of post-war modernism known for its emphasis on climate-responsive design, integration with the natural environment, and the use of modern materials and technologies. Paul Rudolph, who later became a prominent figure in American architecture and served as the chair of the Department of Architecture at Yale University, was at the time a young architect working in Florida. 

The Umbrella House was part of the Lido Shores neighborhood development, an ambitious project by developer and original owner Philip Hiss, who aimed to create a community of modernist homes that would demonstrate the possibilities of contemporary architecture in the subtropical climate of Florida. 

Over the years, the Umbrella House underwent various changes and periods of neglect, and by the 1990s, the original umbrella structure had been removed due to deterioration. The house fell into disrepair and was at risk of being lost entirely. Today, the Umbrella House stands as a meticulously restored piece of architectural history that is maintained and managed by Architecture Sarasota with the goal of sharing the home through Lectures, tours and other activities.

Architecture Sarasota stewards the legacy of the Sarasota School of Architecture and provides a forum for the education, advocacy and celebration of good design in the global built environment.

Photography by Cody James www.codyjamesphoto.com @codyjaaames