Architect William Bloxham’s captivating designs, a harmonious blend of dramatic curves and bold angles, have graced St. Petersburg’s cityscape for decades. His legacy can be seen in iconic landmarks like the Williams Park bandshell, Pasadena Community Church, the beloved “inverted pyramid” St. Pete Pier (1973-2015), Derby Lane, the Federal Building, the iconic Tides Hotel in Redington Beach, and even the St. Petersburg Public Library’s Main Branch, currently undergoing renovations.
Recently, another of Bloxham’s architectural gems met its end, succumbing to the forces of time and nature.
Located on a sprawling 1.2-acre waterfront lot on Snell Isle, the residence at 411 Cordova Blvd. was demolished during Thanksgiving week. The property,situated in Evacuation Zone A,reportedly sustained meaningful damage from the twin hurricanes that battered the area in 2024.Bloxham, renowned for his distinctive midcentury modern style, often referred to as ”Tropical Modernism,” designed the expansive 8,000-square-foot home in 1956 for hotel operator John Franklin Knowlton, his wife Betty, and their five children.
A close friend of the family, bloxham incorporated the Knowltons’ specific wishes into their home’s design. The single-level dwelling featured dedicated bedrooms for each child, a fireplace flanked by bookshelves, an interior courtyard dedicated to Betty’s prized orchids, and extensive outdoor green space. Betty, in particular, desired living and dining rooms separate from the rest of the house, a testament to her aversion to “pass-through” spaces.
The Knowlton family presented Bloxham with a detailed 14-page list outlining their desires, entrusting him with the creative freedom to shape the structure itself. The result was one of Snell Isle’s most distinctive midcentury homes, characterized by its angular design, soaring ceilings, deep eaves, inviting entry courtyard, expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, a stunning 60-foot lagoon-shaped pool, and enchanting garden walkways. It is believed to have been among the first homes in the city built with steel framing.Bloxham passed away in 1995, followed by Knowlton in 2010. The Knowlton family sold the property in 2013 for $2.3 million. The current owners, who still hold title to the land, were unavailable for immediate comment.
However, the house itself is sadly gone, reduced to rubble.
William ”Billy” Harvard IV, Bloxham’s grandson and a Realtor, spent a significant portion of his childhood in the Knowlton home. He expressed a feeling of loss,drawing parallels to the demolition of the St. Pete Pier, another iconic Bloxham creation.
“While I understand that there might potentially be valid reasons for tearing down a structure, notably in the wake of a natural disaster, it’s still a sense of loss,” he shared. “I wish I had seen it once more before it disappeared.”
What architectural features defined William Bloxham’s “Tropical Modernism” style?
Time.news Interview: The Legacy of architect William Bloxham and the Demise of a Midcentury Modern Gem
Interviewer: Time.news Editor
Guest: William “Billy” Harvard IV, Architect William Bloxham’s Grandson and Realtor
Q: Thank you for joining us today, Billy. The demolition of the residence at 411 Cordova Blvd.has left quite an impact on the community. Can you share what this home meant within your family and to St. Petersburg?
A: Thank you for having me. The Knowlton home was not just a house; it was a beloved family space where significant memories were crafted. It embodied my grandfather’s unique “Tropical Modernism” style and represented a time when architecture was designed around family needs and local climate. Its loss feels similar to that of the St. Pete Pier,another iconic structure he designed. Each holds a cherished place in our city’s heart.
Q: Your grandfather’s architectural journey shaped much of St. Petersburg’s cityscape. What do you think made his approach to architecture stand out?
A: Bloxham’s work was grounded in his ability to harmonize dramatic curves with bold angles,an approach that gave each building a distinct personality. He listened to his clients, like the Knowltons, ensuring their needs were not just acknowledged but celebrated in the design. This resulted in homes and buildings that weren’t just functional but also had character and warmth, making them truly special.
Q: The recent demolition was said to be due to damages from hurricanes. What does this imply for othre midcentury homes in vulnerable areas like St. Petersburg?
A: Unluckily, St. Petersburg’s position in Evacuation Zone A makes our historic midcentury homes, many of which were innovative for their time, increasingly at risk. The loss of significant houses like the Knowlton residence raises questions about preservation versus practicality. While we must consider safety, the challenge lies in balancing modern needs with the preservation of our architectural heritage.
Q: In looking forward,what practical advice can you share with homeowners who may own older properties?
A: Homeowners should start with a thorough assessment of their property’s structural integrity. If it is historically or architecturally significant, consider reaching out to preservation organizations for guidance. Sometimes,renovations that fit modern safety codes can be executed to preserve the integrity of the structure. documentation of these homes through photographs and historical records can also keep their stories alive, even if they can no longer stand.
Q: Beyond private homes, your grandfather also left a mark on public spaces in St. Petersburg. How critically important is it for local governments to prioritize the preservation of architectural landmarks?
A: It’s crucial. Architectural landmarks like the St. Pete Pier and the Federal Building serve as cultural touchstones for the community. They embody local history and identity, and their preservation can promote tourism and community pride. Local governments must assess spaces not just on their current utility but on their historical value and the community sentiment tied to them.
Q: Lastly, what legacy do you hope your grandfather’s work continues to inspire in future architects?
A: I hope future architects will draw inspiration from his emphasis on creativity, client collaboration, and respect for the environment. Architecture should transcend functionality to create spaces that foster connection and harmony. that, I believe, is the truest legacy of William Bloxham.
Q: Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Billy.Your reflections on the past are crucial as we navigate the future of our architectural landscape.
A: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep the conversation alive about our history as we move forward.