SRQ Magazine Home of the Year Award 2025

The annual SRQ Magazine Home of the Year Competition invites local architects, builders, interior designers and landscape artists to present us with new notions of home environments by submitting their recent residential projects. Trop Architecture was the recipient of three Awards in the 2025 competition.

View the award issue here >

SRQ Magazine Home of the Year 2025
Platinum – Best Overall Home

Nestled in Hidden Harbor on Siesta Key, the Panorama Residence embodies the essence of modern coastal living­seamlessly blending timeless design with the surrounding coastal environment. The entrant reimagined the residence as an immersive sensory experience guided by biophilic design principles. The home forges a fluid connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Grand oak trees frame the geometric composition of the home. The unique shapes created opportunities for drama and play. The entry foyer now welcomes you with a sweeping curved stair and bridge that softens the transition into the large open living space and outdoor terrace. The 12-foot tall by 40-feet wide floor-to­ceiling curved windows in the living room immediately draw you to the panoramic views of Sarasota Bay and protective mangroves. Two comfortable seating areas, a dining area and a kitchen compose the main open living space. Light and organic textures flow through the residence, melding the built environment and its natural surroundings.

The original home was built well but when asked to reimagine the potential of the existing home, we peeled back the layers of materials, intrusive walls and columns that blocked views, flow and natural light. Natural stones, shellcrete and cypress soffits were selected inside and out. Functionality and emotional resonance were prioritized. Thoughtful, intuitive layouts reflect the rhythms of modern life-open spaces designed for relaxation, connection and entertaining. The outdoor living area was expanded to include a state-of-the-art kitchen. A breakfast nook was removed from the original floor plan to create room for a covered lounge and outdoor stairs fostering a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The result is a refined retreat where sustainability, resilience and beauty converge to celebrate Sarasota’s relaxed living.

SRQ Magazine Home of the Year 2025
Gold – Best Interior Design

The interior design of the Panorama Residence seamlessly blends form, function and nature. Thoughtful material selections and spatial planning emphasize light, texture and warmth-creating a cohesive flow throughout. The home’s curved lines feel inviting and embracing. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite natural light, establishing a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. A material palette of soft neutrals, natural wood and stone creates a calm, timeless atmosphere. The great room serves as the home’s heart, with expansive windows and a stone fireplace that enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Organic, soft-shaped sofas and chairs were selected in neutral tones. Club chairs in the dining room invite a long stay after the meal is finished. Dark, smoked oak cabinetry, Integrated Miele appliances and stone countertops in the kitchen offer a refined simplicity, balancing utility and style while encouraging seamless indoor-outdoor movement. Private spaces focus on tranquility and retreat. The bedroom suites feature natural materials and soft textures. creating serene sanctuaries. The bathrooms evoke a spa-like feel with natural stone finishes, minimalist fixtures, organic textured walls and soft light. Biophilic principles of muted tones, natural light sources and comfort guided the interior selections, ensuring a deep connection to the surrounding environment. Every detail celebrates Sarasota’s coastal beauty while prioritizing comfort and modern sophistication. The result is an elevated living experience that honors both the home’s architectural integrity and its natural setting amongst the oaks and mangroves.

SRQ Magazine Home of the Year 2025
Gold – Best Remodel | Rennovation

The beautiful grand oaks created a dramatic contrast to the unique architectural lines of the home. Relocating the driveway closer to the street provided an opportunity for a larger front garden space and a walk to the front entry. Carefully considered elements transform the exterior into an extension of the home’s refined interiors, prioritizing both functionality and effortless elegance. The batten system highlights the front entry space, providing protection from the elements but also a glowing lantern in the evening. Windows and doors were reimagined throughout the entire home to provide ample natural daylight and connection to outdoor spaces. Removing several walls and columns throughout the foyer and main living space created unobstructed views of the surrounding mangroves and reflective waters, ensuring the coastal setting remains uninterrupted. Tucking the kitchen back away from the main living area keeps the sound and busyness to a minimum. This home redefines coastal luxury, layering modern design with warm, natural materials. Natural stone surfaces provide durability and textural richness. The pool and spa are now a center focal piece, inviting relaxation while overlooking tranquil water views. A new state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen seamlessly merges into the deck’s layout, offering a sophisticated space for cooking and entertaining. The open-air dining area and expansive lounge zones, framed by lush tropical landscaping, create a fluid connection between architecture and nature. Every detail contributes to a space designed for relaxation, entertaining and appreciating the beauty of nature.