House “B” . Siesta Key, Florida.

House “B” was the second of a series of houses based on a 6’ x 16’ structural module built in collaboration with builder Frank S. Thyne. Architect Tim Seibert and Thyne chose to use a post-and-beam system with a six-foot by sixteen-foot module for three key reasons.

First, the discipline imposed by the structural requirements of post-and-beam allowed for a wide variety of floor plans and façade arrangements without compromising the architectural logic of the house.

Second, technique allows for the natural flow of indoor and outdoor space enclosure required by the Florida climate without strain or awkward and expensive detailing.

Third, they believed that exposed beams would have broad appeal and would help soften the austerity associated with the International Style.

The roof is of exposed 2”x6” tongue and groove pine with a built-up roof. Exterior walls are of a tan-colored 8”x16” block laid in stack bond, exposed inside and out. Interior walls are paneled in 1”x4” tongue-and-groove clear cypress.

There is a great sense of spaciousness in the kitchen-living room, opening as it does to a 16’x30’ screened cage. Absolute privacy from the street is had with strip bamboo adjustable blinds from the street side of the cage. The home was built in 1958 and resides along one of the navigable canals of Siesta Key within two blocks from the beach. The current status of the house is unknown.

Photographer: Creative Photography by Robert H. Ford