Gene Leedy House
Welcome to 1518 Drexel Ave, the life-long residence of iconic architect, Gene Leedy. A founding member of the Sarasota School of Architecture, Gene moved to Winter Haven, FL in 1954 and began to leave his mark on the small, citrus town, now known to locals as “Leedy Land”. One of his first projects, which would later be historically recognized as the “Craney Spec Homes”, consisted of eleven mid-century modern homes built on a crest between an existing Grapefruit grove and Lake Elbert. At the time, Gene’s modern design was deemed radical for its use of open floor plans, lack of ornamentation, exposed framing, sliding glass doors used as walls, and use of common, “honest” materials in uncommon ways. These elements which are now commonplace in modern design, helped establish Gene and the Sarasota School of Architecture’s lasting legacy on modern architecture and explains why he occupied the home for over sixty years.
“This might be Gene’s best work” -Paul Rudolph
After Gene’s passing in 2019, the residence was purchased by architect and long-time family friend, Max Strang. Max, who spent many of his younger years visiting the house, realized the opportunity to honor his former mentor and restore the residence back to its previous state. While the property has undergone many changes, Max’s vision for the property was to not only rehabilitate, but restore, many of the elements that were present in the original design. While some additions have been made, you’ll find even more original elements restored, including most of the original Herman Miller furniture that’s been in the home for over sixty years.
Hey there, little buddy.
Available for Nightly Stays