The Don Cesar

Iconic Building of the Month

Built in the jazz age of the roaring 20’s, Florida’s Legendary Pink Palace, The Don CeSar, on notorious St. Pete beach has seen high society glamour, military convalescent, government administration, Hollywood drama and tourists galore.

Inspired by Mediterranean and Moorish styles, architect Henry H. Dupont’s designs incorporated arch openings, red clay tile low-pitched roofs, balconies, stucco façade, and towers aplenty.   A notable architectural detail from contractor Carlton Beard is the innovative floating concrete pad and pyramid footing foundation to stabilize the building on persistently shifting sand.  To this day, the building remains with no evidence of structural concern.  It is nearing its 100^th birthday.

Pink, for hope, calming, and nurturing, is found in sunsets.  This Gulf coast icon provided these aspirations to its visitors for nearly a century.  It is loved for its location on pristine sugar soft white sand beaches, temperate climate, and luxurious opulence.   The Pink Palace has been protected by local citizens and visitors throughout the years.  In 1974 it was admitted into the National Register of Historic Places. The Don CeSar was named after a main character in the opera, Maritana.

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