St. Petersburg’s Historic ‘Cake House’ Enters the Market for $2.15M

ST. PETERSBURG, FLA. (October 27, 2025) — One of St. Petersburg's most iconic architectural treasures, locally known as "The Cake House," has officially entered the market for $2,150,000. Located at 1311 Beach Drive Northeast, the Mediterranean Revival estate is represented exclusively by Nick Janovsky of Premier Sotheby's International Realty's St. Petersburg office. View the listing here. Built in 1923 by prominent local builder P.M. Murphy and designed by acclaimed architect Herman Everett Wendell, the creative force behind Dunedin's historic Fenway Hotel, this one-of-a-kind residence stands as a century-old showcase of artistry, craftsmanship, and character. Set on a highly sought-after corner lot in St. Petersburg's Historic Old Northeast, the five-bedroom, three-bath home spans 3,477 square feet and has been thoughtfully preserved to celebrate its Havana-inspired design roots. Its layered roofline, textured soft-green stucco façade, and intricate millwork inspired its enduring nickname, "The Cake House," now regarded as one of the most admired and photographed homes on the area's famed Beach Drive. Inside, original hardwood floors and finely detailed millwork have been restored to their former brilliance, while light-filled living spaces create a warm and inviting flow. A tranquil sunroom opens into flexible living and dining areas pre-wired for modern audio and visual entertainment. The chef's kitchen strikes a balance between history and function, featuring a movable island, a full butler pantry with bar functionality, and updated appliances. Additionally, the transformed primary suite offers an updated California closet system and a spa-inspired bath with dual vanities, elegant brass fixtures, and a walk-in shower clad in Calacatta marble. Beyond its walls, the home's outdoor spaces embody the same attention to detail and craftsmanship. A Mediterranean-style courtyard is framed by restored original columns, with herringbone brick pavers leading to a custom wood-fired pizza oven and a complete outdoor kitchen built from reclaimed brick. Lush landscaping and tall bamboo create a private, tropical canopy ideal for entertaining under string lights. Set on a 7,920 square-foot lot, the historic home is complete with a detached two-car garage and a fully equipped one-bedroom, one-bath guest apartment. Quote: "The story, architecture, and character of this home are simply extraordinary. The Cake House is more than a residence, it's a living piece of St. Petersburg's evolving identity where past and present meet." – Nick Janovsky, Premier Sotheby's International Realty, St. Petersburg office About Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Headquartered in Naples, Florida, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty has over 1,200 sales professionals in 40 locations throughout Florida and North Carolina. Premier Sotheby’s International Realty also benefits from an association with the storied Sotheby's auction house, established in 1744. The brokerage was founded by The Lutgert Companies, a prominent member of Southwest Florida’s business community since 1964, and is proudly associated with Peerage Realty Partners. For more information, visit premiersothebysrealty.com.