Building Cà d'Zan

In 1925 Owen Burns built Cà d'Zan, John and Mable Ringling's home, and was responsible for the remarkable and swift construction of less than a year. The mansion was built from terra cotta "T" blocks, concrete, and brick, covered with stucco and embellished with glazed tile. The original roof was made of 16th century Spanish tiles imported by Mr. Burns. The spectacular terrace on Sarasota bay is made of domestic and imported marble. The Venetian Gothic residence is five stories, 36,000 square feet, with 41 rooms, 15 bathrooms, a full basement and an 81-foot Belvedere tower. 

In April 2002, a six year, $15 million comprehensive restoration and conservation was completed.

Burns and Baum - 1920's Design Build Team

In 1925 Burns built the El Vernona Hotel, naming it after his wife, Vernona Hill Freeman Burns. He and architect Dwight James Baum designed and built some of Sarasota's most important buildings in the 1920's including Cà d'Zan, the home of John and Mable Ringling.

Owen Burns, left, and architect Dwight James Baum in the courtyard of the Burns Office Building.