Spanish explorers arrived along the Treasure Coast during the 16th and 17th centuries, mapping inlets, rivers, and barrier islands. While permanent Spanish settlements were not established near present-day Sebastian, the region was visited for reconnaissance, trade, and navigation. These early European incursions introduced new technologies, goo

Introduction: A Coastal Community Along the Indian River Lagoon Sebastian, Florida, located on the Treasure Coast in Indian River County, is today recognized as a scenic riverfront city with rich natural resources and a long history of human habitation. Nestled along the Indian River Lagoon and near the Atlantic Ocean, Sebastian’s history spans

Residential development in Seaside emphasized diversity in housing types, affordability, and visual cohesion. Small cottages, larger homes, and mixed-use buildings were designed to complement the town’s overall aesthetic and foster community interaction. Neighborhood planning incorporated public spaces, shared amenities, and proximity to recre

Seaside’s barrier island location exposed it to hurricanes, tropical storms, and coastal erosion. The community adopted resilient building codes, dune restoration programs, and storm preparedness plans. Periodic hurricane events required rebuilding and reinforced the importance of integrating environmental risk management into urban design. Th