Period
1939-1941
Florida Southern College: Annie Pfeiffer Chapel
Location
Lakeland, Florida
HISTORIC 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 campus for Florida Southern College, with its chapel standing as one of his most important commissions. In alignment with the Campus Heritage Plan created by MCWB, preservation and restoration work were 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 & DOCUMENTATION
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 the 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 Florida Southern College. 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.
DESIGN
Preservation work on the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel focused on maintaining Wright’s original design elements while updating critical areas for continued functionality and longevity.
RESTORATION
The restoration of the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel was carried out in four phases. Phase I included the restoration of terraces, doors, and exterior stucco plaster, along with the reapplication of original paint finishes and the installation of new exterior lighting.
Phase II focused on the durability of the roof and the restoration of the tower, ensuring that the Chapel’s exterior retained its original character. Phase III 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, removing asbestos, recreating Wright’s signature “Cherokee Red” floor, and recreating seating based on historical drawings and photographs. Upcoming phases of work, including the restoration of the pulpit, will help to preserve the Chapel’s splendor for generations to come.
