Period
1939-1941
Florida Southern College: Annie Pfeifer Chapel
Location
Lakeland, Florida
HISTORICAL LEGACY
The Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, completed in 1941, is a key example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic architecture and the centerpiece of Florida Southern College’s campus. With its innovative use of cement and sand textile blocks and cantilevered roof, the Chapel blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, reflecting Wright’s design philosophy
Frank Lloyd Wright
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Between 1938 and 1959, Wright created an entire college campus for Florida Southern College, with the chapel standing as one of his most important commissions. In alignment with the Campus Heritage Plan created by MCWB, preservation and restoration work was prioritized for the Chapel. Following the completion of a Getty Foundation-funded master plan, MCWB began the restoration efforts, initially funded by a state historic preservation grant.
RESEARCH & ANALYSIS
During the preparation of the Campus Heritage Plan, MCWB conducted a thorough analysis of the Chapel’s historical significance and its structural condition. Wright’s design for the Chapel is considered a keystone of his work on the campus, and any preservation efforts had to respect both its architectural integrity and its legacy within the broader context of the Florida Southern College campus. The plan identified specific areas that required immediate attention, and the restoration efforts were carefully phased to address the Chapel’s most pressing needs while honoring Wright’s vision.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
The design for the preservation work on the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel focused on maintaining Wright’s original design elements while updating key areas for continued functionality and longevity. Phase I addressed the terraces and doors, restoring the original finishes and colors. New exterior lighting was installed, and exterior stucco plaster and substrates were restored. Phase II focused on the Chapel’s roof, ensuring its durability while also preserving the tower’s integrity.
RESTORATION
The restoration of the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel was carried out in four phases. Phase I included the restoration of terraces, doors, exterior stucco plaster, and the reapplication of original paint finishes.
Phase II focused on the roof and the restoration of the tower, ensuring that the Chapel’s exterior retained its original character. Phase III was partially executed and involved the replacement of Wright’s signature textile blocks on the west facade.
Phase IV, funded by the Save America’s Treasures program, concentrated on restoring the interior, including reconstructing the entry doors, restoring plaster ceilings, abating asbestos, recreating Wright’s signature “Cherokee Red” floor, and recreating seating based on historical drawings and photographs. The restoration of the pulpit is planned to be executed in a future phase to further return the Chapel to its original splendor while preserving its architectural significance for future generations.
