Pierce Contracting, Inc., the company responsible for building Citrus Square, a new, mixed-use community on Orange Avenue in downtown Sarasota, announced today that it has leased all but one of its available retail spaces. The property’s retail line-up includes Divinia Jeanne’s Chocolate Heaven, Michael’s Urban Hair Studio, Carlson Dry Cleaners, The Butterfly Effect and Savory Street International Cafe and Bakery.


“We’ve carefully hand-selected the businesses we want to be at Citrus Square,” says Mark Pierce, president of Pierce Contracting. “We looked for boutique-style businesses that can offer our residents the kind of resort-style amenities that will enhance their lifestyle. Residents can have breakfast, lunch, dinner and their dry cleaning delivered right to their door. Or they can enjoy the outdoor café lifestyle just downstairs. They can also visit the on-premise salon -- just like any great resort!” 

Pierce is still searching for just the right evening restaurant as the final tenant to complete his Citrus Square resort-style vision. 



Pierce says that the response from area business owners has been extremely positive. “Citrus Square has great curb appeal and, with its walking proximity to downtown Sarasota, a distinct advantage for retail business. Business owners also recognize the advantage of a built-in client base, including the people who live in the upstairs residential spaces, as well as the people who live in the surrounding neighborhood.” 



Pierce adds that historically, most urban structures were developed as mixed-use buildings, with the street level devoted to business and trade and the upper floors allocated for residential use. 

“This form of urban architecture flourished in American cities until the 1920’s, when land use planners decided to divide residential neighborhoods and the workplace. It still flourishes in most European towns and cities. With our new retail partners, Citrus Square residents will find many amenities right where they live.” 


Blake Ellis, co-owner of The Savory Street International Cafe and Bakery, explains that he and his partner, Claudia Johnson, are delighted to be an integral part of Citrus Square. He explains that The Savory Street is a quick-service cafe, offering an array of breads and pastries found around the world. “We’ll also serve internationally-themed, savory breakfast and lunch items,” he says. 



For more information about residential and retail units and pricing, please call Michael Saunders & Company’s Citrus Square Sales Gallery, at 941-365-4047 or visit www.citrussquare.com.



About Citrus Square

Citrus Square is the first new community to be built in Sarasota’s urban core in three years. The project enhances the neighborhood streetscape with ground-level retail shops and restaurants, green spaces, and an open plaza. Two levels of 20 boutique-style condominiums—priced from the mid-$200,000’s to the $500,000’s—are located above the retail spaces.

(Source: Su Byron Enterprises)