Period
1938 – 1959
Florida Southern College: Weinstein Computer Sciences Center
Location
Lakeland, Florida
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The Weinstein Computer Services Center at Florida Southern College is a dynamic addition to the campus, designed to embody the innovative spirit of computer sciences while harmonizing with the architectural language of its surroundings. Located near the Admissions Center and the Robert A.M. Stern-designed Becker Business Building, the 19,000-square-foot facility integrates seamlessly with the campus’s iconic architectural legacy. Completed in Fall 2021, the center features offices, classroom spaces, laboratories, a café, and an auditorium, all designed to support the exciting and ever-evolving field of computer science.
RESEARCH & DOCUMENTATION
Florida Southern College entrusted MCWB to develop a design that captured the “feel” of the campus while reflecting the energy and innovation of computer sciences. The team conducted a thorough analysis of the site, focusing on its proximity to Lake Hollingsworth and adjacent structures like the Admissions Center and Becker Business Building. Understanding the materials and forms used in these nearby landmarks informed the design approach, ensuring the new center would both complement its neighbors and honor the broader architectural narrative shaped by Frank Lloyd Wright and Robert A.M. Stern.
DESIGN
The Weinstein Computer Services Center was conceived as a “jewel” of the campus—a smaller-scaled building that balances functionality with aesthetic appeal. The design integrates materials similar to those used in nearby structures, creating visual continuity while introducing modern elements to reflect the building’s purpose. The layout prioritizes flexibility and adaptability, with spaces like classrooms, laboratories, and the auditorium designed to accommodate a variety of academic and collaborative needs. Strategic orientation and expansive glazing emphasize natural light and highlight the building’s picturesque lakefront setting.
CONSTRUCTION
The construction of the Weinstein Computer Services Center focused on realizing a design that married tradition with innovation. Attention to detail ensured the materials, scale, and craftsmanship aligned with the architectural context of the campus. The building’s interior spaces were equipped with state-of-the-art technology, supporting the rigorous demands of computer science education while maintaining an inviting atmosphere. Completed on schedule in Fall 2021, the center now serves as a hub for learning and collaboration, reinforcing the college’s commitment to academic excellence and architectural distinction.
