3901 Riverview Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34209

Rarely available Sarasota School of Architecture design, the Bennett Residence reflects the principles of this mid-century modern style. Among the few in Manatee County designed by Paul Rudolph, this home was built by Ralph Twitchell and Rudolph. Attuned to its environment, the architecture achieves both privacy and a light and bright atmosphere. The Ocala block fireplace and accent walls, as well as the heart red cypress wood, speak to how the building is grounded in its natural surroundings. The play of light across the materials animates the space and its subtropical landscape of flowering and fruit-bearing trees. Low walls define exterior habitable spaces and mark the progression from public to private areas. From inside, the low wall grounds the house in its site framing the view, keeping the street surface itself out of sight, yet highlighting the garden. Glass walls open to the outdoors and a private garden courtyard. Includes an artist studio. Along the west and north property lines, a dense hedge of fragrant orange jasmine defines and extends space. Sited at ground level, the house plan works well for wheelchair access. Restored by architect and author Joseph King who wrote extensively about Rudolph and his Florida Houses.