Parkshore Plaza, 300 Beach Drive NE, is a structure that is equal parts brick, mortar and glamour. The plaza sits above the picturesque Beach Drive strip and overlooks St. Pete’s inspired waterfront. If you climb high enough on a clear day you can see straight into downtown Tampa. The plaza is complete with a heated pool and spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center with steam room and private massage area. Construction on the luxury living structure completed in 2006. The plaza houses 117 units including 21 city homes and 96 homes in the tower. Not to mention The Parkshore Grill located on the ground level that serves up some of the most decadent scallops you can grab in the city.

Mark and Wendy Durand’s home institutes a geometrically arranged system of mirrors to reflect and maximize the space that allows for a 360 degree view from central to beach drive, to the trop and the old northeast. Mark Durand, Ph. D., is a Professor of Psychology at USF St. Petersburg and is a well-regarded expert in autism. Durand was recently the recipient of the 2014 Princeton Lecture Series Fellowship. Wendy is an artist and sculptor. As Wendy describes, "in 2007 a good friend gave me the perfect birthday gift: a 25-ib. bag of clay and the willingness to take lessons with me…From my first touch, I knew that this would become my life’s work." 

Their coupled intellect, innovative eye and desire to create a home that embodies their desires without suffocating their ambition shines through in the soft yellow and olive tones that mark their respective offices. The balcony that leads from the guest bedroom is comfortably shaded and perfectly positioned to catch the Burg sea breeze. 

The DNA tour of homes will take place on May 24, from 1-5pm. $20, $30 for non-members. Non-Members will receive a complimentary membership to the DNA with their purchase and all wristband holders are entitled to a 10% discount at Z Grille, Parkshore Grill, 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House, The Hangar Restaurant & Flight Lounge on the day of the tour. 

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