Zigzag House

Derived from its distinguishable sawtooth roofline, the Zigzag House, a 1959 creation by Tollyn Twitchell for Ralph Twitchell Architects, stands proudly on Lido Shores as a landmark representing the Sarasota School of Architecture. This mid-century architecture movement, born from post-World War II innovative design concepts, materials, and construction techniques, is a testament to our rich architectural heritage. With its central core and open floor plan, the house embodies the seamless blend of indoor/outdoor living, a hallmark of the Florida lifestyle. The central living space, connecting two separate bedroom and bathroom wings around the outdoor courtyard and pool, is a testament to the visionary design of its time.

Over the years, the Zigzag House underwent several significant renovations that needed to be more sensitive to the spirit of the original design and architectural style. Many of the original materials, such as the Ocala masonry blocks, were damaged or concealed under layers of drywall, and the original terrazzo was buried under diverse layers of flooring materials.

With a deep understanding and respect for the historical significance of the mid-century architecture, the new Owners embarked on an additional renovation. This new work, aiming to maximize the original design intent and further amplify the importance of the simple yet alluring roofline, was meticulously planned to preserve the Zigzag House's unique character. Despite the challenge of many original materials being beyond repair, the scope of the work was carefully designed to respectfully implement a modern interior design with clean lines and purity of the material selection. This reassures us that the Zigzag House will retain its original charm, even as it evolves to meet modern needs.

After carefully dissecting the multiple layers of outdated finishes and removing existing fixtures and non-code-compliant electrical systems, the space was prepared to receive new finishes while protecting the original structure, sawtooth ceiling and open floor plan. Firstly installed, the new terrazzo floor was selected to be dark for several reasons. The flat, homogenous surface not only contrasts the three-dimensional aspect of the ceiling, but its dark color also brings a subdued quality that dissolves its presence to intensify the sculptural overhead roofline. Initially deprived of lighting fixtures due to its unusual honeycomb material (repurposed from a midcentury warehouse design), linear light fixtures that require minimal installation requirements were located strategically along either end of the zigzag ceiling planes so grazing light will illuminate and highlight its iconic form at night, especially when seen through the triangle-clearstory windows from the outside. To warm up the black and white palette, walnut wood cabinetry was selected for the kitchen. The simple but efficient and functional layout brings accessibility from the kitchen space to all the other areas of the open floor plan. Glossy glass fronts for the upper cabinets generate a layer of reflectivity that activates the space with lively energy. A central island oriented longitudinally into the space and facing the outdoor pool and courtyard enhances the social aspect of the open floor plan. Adding to the material palette, the organic texture of the quartz countertop brings a natural quality that balances the sensory characteristics of the space.

Location:
Lido Shores, Florida

Status:
Completion, 2024