07/14/2026
Standing at the West Ruskin Pavilion by Michael McDonough and looking just to the left toward the Robert A.M. Stern designed oceanfront house “Narnia”, you can see two very different expressions of Seaside’s architectural vision in close proximity.
The pavilion embraces a distinctly Southern character, drawing inspiration from folk art, quilt patterns, and simple coastal building traditions (almost like it was sourced from a local lumber yard) to create an approachable beach gateway that feels both welcoming and familiar. It reminds us that even everyday places can be designed with beauty and craftsmanship.
Just beyond it, Stern’s house reflects a very different tradition rooted in classical architecture. Its design is centered on the piano nobile, or “noble floor,” placing the primary bedroom on the third floor with amazing views, main living space/kitchen on the second floor - don’t get me wrong, the views are still stunning, and the rest of the bedrooms on the ground floor surrounded by the scrub beach oaks.
Rather than following convention, the house elevates daily life to the most beautiful part of the home, a concept borrowed from Renaissance Italy and thoughtfully adapted for Florida’s coast.
Together, these neighboring buildings show that great architecture doesn’t require a single style. Seaside’s thoughtful/purposeful architectural formulas have allowed for these types of structures to coexist, and after all, isn’t that the point?!
SEASIDE®
SEASIDE Institute™
Philip Weigand
