In the 1930s, Sarasota was buzzing with circus stars, Gilded Age money, and Mediterranean Revival mansions springing up along its waterfront. One of the finest survivors of that era, Casa del Carnevale — a nationally registered historic estate with roots in John Ringling’s glittering circle — has just hit the market for $17.5 million.
Built in 1936 for industrialist Charles E. Leigh, co-founder of the Lavoris Chemical Company, the home has been lovingly maintained by only four owners in nearly 90 years. Its Venetian carnival details and hand-crafted finishes nod to the cultural legacy Ringling himself brought to Sarasota, where circus lore still lingers in the architecture.
Now listed by Judy Kepecz-Hays and her team — Steven Kepecz and Leah George of Coldwell Banker Realty — the property is the most expensive home currently for sale in the John Ringling Estates.
With 171 feet of waterfront, lush tropical grounds, and a six-year restoration that kept its Addison Mizner–inspired charm intact, Casa del Carnevale offers a rare chance to own a storied piece of Sarasota’s past without giving up today’s luxuries.
A 5-bedroom mansion with a long and colorful history
Casa del Carnevale was designed by Whittington Associates and built by Paul Bergman in 1936, reflecting the elegance of Sarasota’s Ringling-era estates.
In 1991, Leigh’s daughter, Marion McKennon, secured its listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Expanded from 4,000 to nearly 10,000 square feet under roof, the home now offers 7,817 square feet of air-conditioned living space — while maintaining the character that earned its historic designation.
Has its own private stage on the Sarasota waterfront
Set on three lots totaling more than 30,000 square feet, the estate enjoys 171 feet of Sarasota Waterway frontage.
A new dock, boat lift, and floating lift for jet skis and kayaks make the property as functional as it is beautiful. Terraces, balconies, and a central courtyard provide outdoor retreats, while tropical landscaping reminiscent of Selby Botanical Gardens wraps the home in privacy.
A six-year restoration and a 14-month build
In 2003, a Washington, D.C., couple with expertise in historic preservation began a six-year redesign and a 14-month construction project with architect Wm. Thorning Little and builder Pat Ball. Their goal: update the home for modern living without losing its soul.
The result is a seamless blend of original details — pecky cypress beams, Florentine terra cotta, MQ mahogany windows — with upgraded systems, added square footage, and refreshed finishes.
Kitchen with top-tier upgrades, La Cornue rance, Sub-Zero fridge
In 2021, the current owners transformed the kitchen and butler’s kitchen with top-tier upgrades: a 5-Star La Cornue range and hood from France, Sub-Zero refrigeration, Bosch and Miele appliances, a built-in Miele coffee system, and stand-alone beverage and ice makers. It’s a space designed for entertaining on a grand scale — or just brewing the perfect morning espresso.
Rooms with personality and purpose
Beyond its primary living spaces, the home includes a walk-in wine cellar, billiards room, office, nanny’s quarters, and a media room. Artistic touches by Zebo, Dimitar Kasabov, Don Price, Marina DuVal, and Jimmy Hoskins carry the Venetian carnival theme throughout.
With inviting bedrooms
Inside, Casa del Carnevale offers five bedrooms, six full baths, and one half bath across two levels connected by an elevator.
And a staircase with a statement ceiling
The wrought iron staircase has an intricate chandelier towering above it, as well as statement beam ceilings that give the entire space a palatial feel.
Outdoor spaces include several terraces competing for the best views, boating perks
Heading outside, a series of terraces and patios compete for the title of “best views” (with each deemed a winner), with water vistas framed by tall palm trees.
And a 65-foot pool with Old World glamour
The 65-foot saltwater pool and spa sits at the center of the estate like a shimmering jewel, finished with iridescent glass tiles and Venetian mosaic art. Arched fountains spray into the pool, giving the courtyard an atmosphere that’s part Mediterranean villa, part Sarasota garden party.
The turnkey estate is ready for its next ringleader
Offered furnished, the Sarasota mansion is a turnkey estate — motorized gates, a three-car garage, new water filtration system, and secure seawall already in place.
With its rich history and modern upgrades, the home is available for only the fifth time in its storied life, waiting for a new owner to step into Sarasota’s grand tradition.
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