For a price of $11.5 million, the iconic 'Cocoon' home located at 1446 Park St. N in St. Petersburg is now up for sale, offering a unique piece of cinematic history. This nearly 10,000-square-foot, six-bedroom Mediterranean Revival manor was built in 1924 and holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places. The home's architect, Henry H. Dupont, also designed the renowned (and equally pink) Don CeSar Hotel on nearby St. Pete Beach. Affectionately known as the 'Casa de Muchas Flores,' which translates to the 'house of many flowers,' this property boasts elegance and charm.
Movie enthusiasts will recognize the detached pool house that gained fame in the 1985 Academy Award-winning film 'Cocoon,' directed by Ron Howard. The heartwarming story follows a group of senior citizens from the fictional town of Sunset Beach, who discover that aliens left cocoons at the bottom of the ocean. These cocoons possess rejuvenating powers and the neighboring retirement community's seniors find themselves drawn to the magical pool where the aliens seek to regenerate the cocoons. The film starred renowned actors like Wilford Brimley, Don Ameche, Brian Dennehy, Steve Guttenberg, and Jessica Tandy.
The current owners of this historic gem are Chester and Doris Babat, who acquired the property in 1982 for $500,000. Interestingly, the pool house, although now a prominent feature, was not originally present during the film's production. It was later constructed by the Babats, meticulously designed to replicate the movie's layout.
Producer Richard Zanuck, left, and actor Wilford Brimley chat on the set of the movie "Cocoon" in St. Petersburg in 1984.[ Times (1984) ]
Throughout 'Cocoon,' St. Petersburg served as the backdrop for various scenes. Other locations within the city, such as the former Woolworth's at the old Northeast Shopping Center, Pinellas Lanes bowling center, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club, and sidewalks outside the Snell Arcade, also made appearances in the movie.
With its rich history, cinematic fame, and undeniable charm, this 'Cocoon' home presents a rare and enticing opportunity for those seeking an extraordinary piece of real estate in St. Petersburg. Embrace a piece of movie magic and own a property that has captured hearts on the silver screen.
By Paul Guzzo Times staff
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