On a recent visit to Sandhamn Place on Longboat Key, I was reminded just how special our slice of Florida paradise is. Set along one of the widest parts of Sarasota Bay amidst tropical canopies, a story-book lagoon, and intimate natural surroundings, a grouping of only nine luxury homes are poised to offer a dreamy island experience.
And it was a serendipitous moment that brought Peder Wallenberg, the Swedish developer of Sandhamn Place, back to the scene during my visit.
“I’ve waited twenty years to meet him,” explained Michael Saunders & Company Realtor and longtime resident of Sandhamn Place, Richard Perlman. The three of us sat by the bay, amidst the refreshingly salty sea air and the sweet smell of flowers, and discussed a little bit of local lore.
Michael Saunders & Company Realtor, Richard Perleman and developer of Sandhamn Place, Peder Wallenberg
“Sandhamn means sandy harbor in Swedish,” Wallenberg explained. “There’s a Sandhamn outside of Stockholm – it’s a coastal resort town and sailing center. My father built the clubhouse there.”
Wallenberg, who is now 80 years of age (but if you ask him he’ll say sixty plus) first discovered Florida’s Gulf Coast through his love of sailing. Aboard the well-known Sparkman & Stephens designed Rafanut, Wallenberg sailed across the Atlantic twice and finally to the shores of Charlotte Harbor and Sarasota Bay. He connected with a number of nautical enthusiasts including Michael Saunders’ parents, who ran a ferry service on the north end of Longboat Key, and Bill Mote, the founder of Mote Marine Aquarium. Wallenberg then went on to develop the Placida Harbor Club and areas of Longboat Key including the Centre Shops and, of course, Sandhamn Place.
Beyond developing real estate, Wallenberg’s pursuits are often aimed at making a difference, and he is engaged around the world in philanthropy.
Still, he has always remained tied to Florida’s Gulf Coast and in particular, Longboat Key.
“I bicycle six miles every day when I’m here.”
And as I got to know Sandhamn Place, it was not hard to imagine why one would want to keep returning to Longboat Key all these years.
While this barrier island (recently acclaimed a top island in the Unites States by Conde Nast) is known as a resort-destination with beautifully manicured vistas, golf courses, and white-sand beaches, Sandhamn Place offers a unique touch of natural serenity. It’s a part of the island that has maintained it’s old-Florida charm. Wallenberg had set the tone and Sandhamn Place now provides luxury, beauty, and a reverence for the environment.
I really appreciated the feeling of being surrounded by nature but not overwhelmed by it.
From driving along the entry road to strolling out towards the deeded boat docks/marina, tree canopies are ever-present.
During my short visit, a constant variety of birds kept us company.
Residents of Sandhamn Place also benefit from its own tennis court and beach access. Currently, there are two luxury homes for sale.
Four-bedroom, three-bath home, Villa del Paradiso, 5372 Sandhamn Place
5372 Sandhamn Place
Four-bedroom, five baths, 5362 Sandhamn Place
And Sandhamn Place is walking or biking distance to an array of island amenities. Nearby, favorite Longboat Key restaurants (Blue Dolphin Cafe, The Lazy Lobster, Euphemia Haye), boutiques, and the Adult Education Center offer convenient destinations. A stone’s throw away, Durante Park is 32 acres dedicated to maintaining a viable wetland and coastal hammock forest – a unique oasis for both wildlife and residents.
It was a treat for me getting to know this picture-perfect community set between Mid-Longboat Key and the north end of the island. And for Richard Perlman, who bought a piece of dirt and built a home over twenty years ago, the happenstance meeting of one of Longboat Key‘s trailblazers was a dream come true.
As Wallenberg said goodbye and informed us he’d be leaving for Sao Paulo shortly, Richard gratefully shook his hand and said,“I’ve always wanted to meet you to thank you for making this place fantastic.”
Hear from Michael Saunders as she explains what it was like to grow up on the north end of Longboat Key.
View Longboat Key homes for sale.