Zenith building redevelopment will carry Waldorf Astoria brand

One of the world’s most renowned luxury residential and hospitality brands is making its initial foray into downtown Sarasota. Jebcore Companies of Sarasota, in association with Winter Garden-based WMG Development and Hilton, has announced Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota as the redevelopment of the Zenith tower at one of downtown’s most iconic addresses.

Located at the Five Points roundabout at Main Street and Pineapple Avenue, the 18-story Waldorf Astoria Residences will replace the 12-story Zenith office tower, parking deck and adjacent two-story office building. 

WMG Development acquired the site in 2023.

“From the outset, our vision for Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota has been shaped by a deep appreciation for this extraordinary location, Sarasota’s rare blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and the legacy of one of the world’s most storied hospitality brands,” said Jebcore partner Sadek Omar in a news release. “This building is the perfect marriage of beautiful architecture and the world-class service for which Waldorf Astoria is renowned.”

Redevelopment of the Zenith building is currently working its way through the city's approval process and has received partial sign-off by the Development Review Committee. The 1.18-acre site lies in both the Downtown Bayfront and Downtown Core zone districts, and no requested rezoning. With no adjustments to the zoning code reqested, it requires only administrative approval.

Designed by ODP Architecture & Design of Hollywood, Florida, with interiors by Workshop/APD of New York City, Waldorf Astoria Residences will include 86 condominiums and luxury amenities complemented by the brand’s signature Sincerely Elegant Service. 

The design includes more than 50,000 square feet of interior and exterior amenities, 20,000 square feet of which are indoors, including Waldorf Astoria’s Peacock Alley Lounge, fitness and Pilates studio, spa, movie theater lounge, golf simulator and guest suites. Outdoors, residents will have access to three-fourths acre of landscaped park space featuring a pool, cold plunge and hot tub, recreational lawns and landscaped gardens.

"This Five Points site is one of Sarasota’s most important addresses, and we are thrilled to partner with Jebcore on a project of this significance,” said WMG Development President and CEO Curt Frost. “From the moment we purchased this property, our intent was to build upon the property’s legacy and ensure we could be part of its story. Bringing this to downtown Sarasota allows us to advance the city’s rich narrative with something enduring, meaningful, and true to place.”

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In addition to the residential units, the building will offer 42,000 square feet of commercial space with ample outdoor spaces and dedicated parking. Arrival will be through two private access points — one from Main Street and the other from Mira Mar Court — supported by valet services for both residents and retail customers. As a topper, residents will also have access to a Rolls-Royce Cullinan house car and private golf cart service in addition to a day yacht.

“Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota marks an exciting new chapter in our residential portfolio, said Hilton Global Head of Residential Programs Jonathan Wingo. “Each new residence strengthens our commitment to creating extraordinary homes that embody Waldorf Astoria’s signature elegance and attention to detail in the world’s most desirable coastal settings.”

Beyond the 86 luxury condos, the project will also include seven attainable housing units separate from the Waldorf Brand, utilizing Sarasota’s bonus density ordinance when affordable housing units are included in a residential or mixed-use project. The affordable units will be owned and rented by the developer.

Waldorf Astoria is a registered trademark of Hilton International Holding LLC, an affiliate of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. The residences are not owned, developed or sold by Hilton. The developer uses the Waldorf Astoria brand name and certain Waldorf trademarks under a limited, non-exclusive and non-transferable license from Hilton.

Michael Saunders & Company is the real estate marketing agency for the project.