Rendering by Jonathan Parks Architect

Opera singers coming to Sarasota to perform at the Sarasota Opera House will soon be staying at designated space within the Rosemary District. The new Rosemary Square mixed-use development, which broke ground Aug.7, will include 30 condominium units for artist housing, all owned by the Sarasota Opera.  

“We will house probably 150 in a season here,” said Richard Russell, Sarasota Opera executive director. “This will make a huge difference for us both financially and logistically, and take a great burden off our staff.” The new housing will be a seven-minute walk to the Opera House. The company has maintained 16 units at Ringling Terrace Apartments for the same purpose in the past, but will be able to house nearly twice as many here, jumping for the ability to house 43 individuals to about 70. The company is selling its old units to contribute to this and fundraising the difference. The price for the 30 units has not been disclosed to date. The units include 16 three-bedroom, eight two-bedroom and six one-bedroom apartments.

Developer Dr. Mark Kauffman said it makes sense to establish artist housing in the Rosemary District, and notes the Rosemary Square development will also have space for The Players Theatre and to Fuzion Dance, and he is also talking to a gallery. “There is a need for apartments,” he said. 

Rendering by Jonathan Parks Architect