The Charm of St. Petersburg, Florida’s Historic Architecture

If you’re a fan of historic architecture, St. Petersburg, Florida, is a city that should be on your radar. This city is home to some of the most beautiful and unique architectural styles in the country, ranging from Mediterranean Revival to Art Deco. The historic architecture of St. Petersburg is a testament to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

One of the most notable architectural styles in St. Petersburg is Mediterranean Revival. This style was popular in the 1920s and 1930s and is characterized by its stucco walls, red tile roofs, and ornate details. Many of the city’s historic homes and buildings feature this style, including the Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club, which was built in 1925 and is now a National Historic Landmark.

Another popular architectural style in St. Petersburg is Art Deco. This style is known for its bold geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and streamlined designs. Some of the city’s most iconic Art Deco buildings include the Snell Arcade, which was built in 1928, and the Kress Building, which was built in 1929. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, St. Petersburg’s historic buildings are sure to impress.

The City’s Historic Foundation

St. Petersburg, Florida is a city with a rich history and a unique architectural heritage. The city’s historic foundation is evident in the many buildings and structures that have been preserved over the years. From the Mediterranean Revival style of the Vinoy Hotel to the Art Deco stylings of the Snell Arcade, St. Petersburg’s historic architecture tells the story of the city’s growth and development.

One of the earliest examples of St. Petersburg’s historic architecture is the Detroit Hotel, which was built in 1888. The hotel was one of the first buildings in the city and is an excellent example of the Victorian architecture that was popular at the time. The Detroit Hotel has been restored and is now home to a number of businesses.

Another significant building in St. Petersburg’s historic architecture is the Open Air Post Office. Built in 1916, the Open Air Post Office was designed to take advantage of the city’s warm climate. The building features a large, open-air courtyard and is an excellent example of the Mediterranean Revival style that was popular in the early 20th century.

St. Petersburg’s historic architecture also includes a number of residential neighborhoods, such as the Old Northeast and the Historic Kenwood neighborhoods. These neighborhoods feature a variety of architectural styles, including Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and Mediterranean Revival.

Architectural Styles

St. Petersburg, Florida boasts a rich architectural history with many styles represented throughout the city. From Neoclassical to Art Deco, there is something for everyone to appreciate. Here are some of the most prominent styles you’ll encounter in St. Petersburg:

Mediterranean Revival

Mediterranean Revival architecture was popular in the early 20th century, and you’ll see many examples of it in St. Petersburg’s historic neighborhoods. This style is characterized by stucco walls, red tile roofs, and arched windows and doorways. Some notable examples of Mediterranean Revival buildings in St. Petersburg include the Vinoy Hotel and the Snell Arcade.

Art Deco

The Art Deco style emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, and you’ll find several examples of it in St. Petersburg. Art Deco buildings are known for their sleek, streamlined designs and geometric shapes. One of the most iconic Art Deco buildings in St. Petersburg is the Snell Isle Water Tower.

Craftsman

Craftsman architecture is known for its simple, functional design and use of natural materials. This style was popular in the early 20th century, and you’ll find many examples of it in St. Petersburg’s historic neighborhoods. Craftsman homes typically have low-pitched roofs, exposed rafters, and front porches with tapered columns.

Neoclassical

Neoclassical architecture was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and you’ll see many examples of it in St. Petersburg. This style is characterized by grand, symmetrical facades, columns, and pediments. One of the most notable examples of Neoclassical architecture in St. Petersburg is the Princess Martha Hotel.

St. Petersburg’s historic architecture is a testament to the city’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate beautiful design, you’re sure to find something to admire in St. Petersburg’s architectural landscape.

Spanish Colonial Revival

St. Petersburg, Florida has a rich history of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. This style was popularized in the early 20th century as a result of the Panama-California Exposition held in San Diego in 1915. The exposition showcased Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and sparked a nationwide interest in the style.

In St. Petersburg, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture can be seen in both residential and commercial buildings. The style is characterized by stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and ornamental ironwork. Buildings often feature arched doorways and windows, as well as decorative tile work.

One notable example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture in St. Petersburg is the Vinoy Renaissance Resort. This historic hotel was built in 1925 and features a grand entrance with a large arched doorway and a red tile roof. The hotel has been meticulously restored to preserve its original architectural features.

Another notable example is the Snell Arcade, built in 1925. This commercial building features a striking façade with arched windows and a red tile roof. The Snell Arcade is now home to a variety of shops and restaurants.

Art Deco

St. Petersburg, Florida is home to several examples of Art Deco architecture. This style emerged in the 1920s and 1930s and is characterized by its use of geometric shapes, bold colors, and sleek, streamlined designs.

One notable example of Art Deco architecture in St. Petersburg is the Snell Arcade, located on 4th Street North. Built in 1928, this building features a stunning façade with intricate details, including a central tower with a stepped design and a zigzag pattern on the upper floors. Inside, the arcade features a beautiful marble floor and a glass ceiling that floods the space with natural light.

Another example of Art Deco architecture in St. Petersburg is the Princess Martha Hotel, located on 1st Avenue North. Built in 1924, this building features a striking façade with a stepped design and intricate details, including a decorative frieze and a central tower with a rounded top. Inside, the hotel features a grand lobby with a marble floor and a stunning chandelier.

Other notable examples of Art Deco architecture in St. Petersburg include the Snell Isle Bridge, the Vinoy Park Hotel, and the Florida Federal Building. Each of these buildings showcases the unique style and design elements of Art Deco architecture, making them must-see destinations for architecture enthusiasts visiting St. Petersburg.

Mid-Century Modern

St. Petersburg, Florida is home to some of the most stunning examples of mid-century modern architecture in the United States. This style of architecture emerged after World War II, when the economy was booming, and people were looking for new ways to express themselves.

One of the most notable examples of mid-century modern architecture in St. Petersburg is the Maurice and Thelma Rothman House. Designed by the St. Petersburg architect Martin P. Fishback, Jr., this house is a national historic site. It features clean lines, simple shapes, and an emphasis on function over form. The house was added to the National Register of Historic Places on February 27, 2013.

Another example of mid-century modern architecture in St. Petersburg is the Princess Martha. This redbrick building is the city’s prime example of 1920s Neoclassical architecture. The former hotel first opened its doors during the Florida land boom era to accommodate the influx of tourists. Today, it has been converted into a senior living facility.

St. Petersburg’s mid-century modern architecture is now reaching an age when many of these resources should be assessed and their significance evaluated for meeting the criteria for listing on the National Register of Historic Places and/or designation as local landmarks. Florida’s Mid-century Modern Architecture (1945-1975) is an attempt to compile a comprehensive list of these resources.

Prominent Architects

St. Petersburg, Florida, is home to many notable architects who have left their mark on the city’s architecture. Here are a few of the most prominent architects:

Sanford M. Goldman

Sanford M. Goldman was a prominent architect in St. Petersburg who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright in the late 1950s. He designed many notable buildings in the city, including the second home on Walnut St. NE, a mid-century modern marvel that still stands today. Goldman’s designs were known for their clean lines and modernist aesthetic.

William B. Harvard Sr.

William B. Harvard Sr. was a Tampa Bay architect who designed many notable buildings in St. Petersburg, including the Hospitality House at Busch Gardens and the now-demolished Inverted Pyramid Pier. Harvard’s designs were known for their innovative use of materials and attention to detail.

Richard B. Parkinson

Richard B. Parkinson was a prominent architect in St. Petersburg who designed many notable buildings, including the Snell Arcade and the Vinoy Park Hotel. Parkinson’s designs were known for their grandeur and attention to detail, and many of his buildings are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

These are just a few of the many prominent architects who have left their mark on the historic architecture of St. Petersburg, Florida. Their designs continue to inspire and influence the city’s architecture today.

Henry H. Dupont

St. Petersburg, Florida is home to some of the most amazing architectural hideaways in the country. One of the most notable architects that contributed to the city’s unique architecture is Henry H. Dupont.

Dupont was a prolific architect who designed several buildings in St. Petersburg, including the Don CeSar Hotel and Casa De Muchas Flores. The Don CeSar Hotel, also known as the “Pink Palace,” is a historic hotel that has been a landmark in St. Petersburg since 1928. It was designed in Mediterranean Revival style and is known for its pink façade and ornate details. The hotel was a popular destination for the elite, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Clarence Darrow.

Casa De Muchas Flores is another notable building designed by Dupont. It is located in the Jungle neighborhood of St. Petersburg and is listed on the St. Petersburg Register of Historic Places. The building was originally a private residence and is now used as a wedding venue. The building features a unique blend of Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival styles.

Dupont’s architectural style was eclectic and varied, with influences from different architectural styles. He also designed the Bona Thompson Memorial Library in Indiana, the Masonic Temple in Indiana, and the Hall School in Indiana. In Pinellas County, Florida, he designed the eclectic Masonic Temple and Von Duprin.

George Feltham

If you’re interested in the historic architecture of St. Petersburg, you’ve likely come across the name George Feltham. Feltham was a prominent architect in the area between 1913 and 1926, and he designed several notable buildings that still stand today.

One of Feltham’s most famous designs is the Palais Royale building, which was built in 1926 during the Florida real estate boom. The building is a beautiful example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, which was a popular style in the area at the time. Feltham’s other notable designs include the First Baptist Church, the Ponce De Leon Hotel, and the Historic Sunset Hotel.

Feltham’s designs were known for their attention to detail and their use of high-quality materials. He often incorporated decorative elements like tile work and wrought iron into his designs, which added to their beauty and charm. Feltham’s buildings were also designed to withstand Florida’s harsh weather conditions, and many of them have stood the test of time.

Significant Buildings

St. Petersburg, Florida is home to a number of significant buildings that showcase the city’s rich history and unique architectural styles. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate beautiful buildings, there’s no shortage of impressive structures to explore.

One of the most iconic buildings in St. Petersburg is the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club. This Mediterranean Revival-style hotel was built in the 1920s and has since become a beloved landmark in the city. The hotel features stunning architecture, including a grand ballroom, lush gardens, and a beautiful waterfront location.

Another notable building in St. Petersburg is the Snell Arcade, a stunning Beaux-Arts style building that was built in 1925. The arcade features a beautiful courtyard and a number of high-end shops and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

If you’re interested in historic architecture, be sure to visit the Princess Martha, a redbrick building that is a prime example of 1920s Neoclassical architecture. The former hotel first opened its doors during the Florida land boom era and has since been converted into luxury apartments.

Finally, the Jungle Prada Site is a must-visit for anyone interested in Native American history. The site is home to ancient Indian mounds and is believed to be the traditional site of an incident that may have inspired the later story of Pocahontas.

The Vinoy Park Hotel

If you’re a fan of historic architecture, you won’t want to miss the Vinoy Park Hotel in St. Petersburg, Florida. This stunning Mediterranean Revival-style hotel was built in 1925 and has been a beloved landmark ever since.

Designed by architect Henry L. Taylor and contractor George A. Miller, the Vinoy Park Hotel was built on land acquired by wealthy Pennsylvania businessman Aymer Vinoy Laughner for $170,000. The hotel was originally known as the Vinoy Park Hotel and boasted 375 guest rooms, a golf course, tennis courts, and a yacht basin.

Over the years, the Vinoy Park Hotel has undergone several renovations and changes of ownership. In the 1970s, it was converted into a retirement home before being abandoned and falling into disrepair. Fortunately, the hotel was later restored to its former glory and reopened in 1992 as the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club.

Today, the Vinoy Park Hotel is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. In addition to its luxurious accommodations and amenities, the hotel also boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. Be sure to take a stroll through the hotel’s beautiful grounds and admire its impressive Mediterranean Revival-style features, including its red barrel tile roof, stucco walls, and ornamental ironwork.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Vinoy Park Hotel, be sure to take one of the hotel’s guided tours. These tours will take you through the hotel’s most historic areas and give you a fascinating glimpse into the hotel’s storied past.

The St. Petersburg High School

If you’re a fan of historic architecture, you won’t want to miss St. Petersburg High School. This secondary school was founded in 1898 and has a rich history that is reflected in its stunning architecture.

The building itself is a historic landmark that was built in 1926. It was designed by Missouri architect William B. Ittner and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The school was billed as the nation’s first million dollar high school, and it’s easy to see why when you look at the intricate details of the building’s façade.

One of the most striking features of the St. Petersburg High School building is the large clock tower that rises above the rest of the structure. The tower is topped with a beautiful copper dome that gleams in the Florida sun. The building’s façade is adorned with intricate details, including arched windows, ornate carvings, and decorative columns.

Inside, the building is just as impressive. The school has undergone several renovations over the years, but many of the original features have been preserved. The hallways are lined with beautiful terrazzo floors, and the classrooms are spacious and airy.

Preservation Efforts

St. Petersburg, Florida is home to a rich collection of historic architecture, which includes Mediterranean Revival, Art Deco, and Craftsman styles. The city has taken significant steps to preserve these buildings and structures, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and appreciate the unique character of St. Petersburg.

One of the organizations leading the charge for historic preservation in St. Petersburg is Preserve the ‘Burg. They work tirelessly to maintain the city’s incredible sense of place through community outreach and advocacy. On any given day, PTB representatives may meet with city officials, developers, or owners of historic properties to educate about St. Pete’s history and culture and advocate for better preservation laws, place-conscious development, and thoughtful maintenance.

Another important organization is the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. They work to encourage the preservation of historic resources in the United States. The council recognizes the importance of St. Petersburg’s historic architecture and has designated several buildings and neighborhoods as historic sites.

St. Pete 2050 is a community-driven effort to create a vision for the future of St. Petersburg. Historic preservation, including the protection of architectural, cultural, and natural resources, is a key element of St. Petersburg’s community character. A failure to recognize the importance of historic preservation to maintaining St. Pete’s sense of place within StPete2050 will hamper future efforts to keep St. Petersburg special.

The St. Petersburg Preservation

If you’re a fan of historic architecture, you’ll be pleased to know that St. Petersburg, Florida, has a rich history of preserving its unique buildings and structures. The city’s commitment to historic preservation is evident in the many organizations and programs dedicated to the cause.

One such organization is Preserve the ‘Burg, which works to maintain St. Petersburg’s incredible sense of place through community outreach and advocacy. On any given day, PTB representatives may meet with city officials, developers, or owners of historic properties to educate about St. Pete’s history and culture and advocate for better preservation laws, place-conscious development, and thoughtful maintenance.

Another organization that plays a key role in St. Petersburg’s preservation efforts is the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. The council provides guidance and support to local governments, property owners, and developers to ensure that historic properties are preserved and protected.

St. Petersburg’s commitment to preservation is also evident in the many historic districts throughout the city, such as the Old Northeast and Roser Park neighborhoods. These districts are home to a variety of architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival.

Historic Neighborhoods

St. Petersburg, Florida is home to several historic neighborhoods that boast unique and stunning architecture. These neighborhoods are a testament to the city’s rich history and are a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and history.

One of the most popular historic neighborhoods is the Historic Old Northeast. This neighborhood was founded in 1911 by C. Perry Snell and J.C. Hamlett and is the first established residential subdivision in St. Petersburg. The architecture in this neighborhood is a mix of styles, including Colonial Revival, Mediterranean Revival, and Craftsman.

Another notable historic neighborhood is Historic Roser Park. This neighborhood is located along Booker Creek in Midtown and was named the first historic district in St. Petersburg in 1987. The architecture in this neighborhood is primarily Mediterranean Revival and Mission Revival styles.

In addition to these neighborhoods, St. Petersburg also has the Historic Lang’s Bungalow Court off of 4th Avenue North. This neighborhood was named a historic district in 2014 and features charming bungalow-style homes.

If you’re interested in exploring St. Petersburg’s historic neighborhoods, you can take a self-guided walking tour or join a guided tour. Some of the tours include stops at historic landmarks and provide insights into the history and architecture of the neighborhoods.

Rosser Park

If you’re interested in historic architecture, you won’t want to miss Rosser Park in St. Petersburg, Florida. This charming residential neighborhood is known for its beautiful Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes, many of which date back to the early 20th century.

One of the most unique aspects of Rosser Park is its location on top of a hill, which provides stunning views of Booker Creek. The historic home located at 682 Rosser Park Dr S was even named “House Beautiful” by Charles Rosser himself, the founder of the neighborhood.

In addition to its beautiful homes, Rosser Park is also home to the historic Greenwood Cemetery. This cemetery dates back to the late 19th century and is the final resting place of many of St. Petersburg’s early pioneers and prominent citizens.

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, be sure to visit the park from which this neighborhood takes its name. Here you’ll find beautiful royal palms, oaks, and lush flower gardens.

It worth mentioning that this park is pet-free. Fortunately, there are many dog friendly parks in St. Petersburg.

Historic Old Northeast

If you’re interested in historic architecture, you won’t want to miss the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood in St. Petersburg. This charming area is home to nearly 3,000 historic buildings, many of which date back to the early 20th century.

One of the defining features of the Historic Old Northeast is its mix of Mediterranean and bungalow-style homes. These homes are known for their distinctive architectural details, such as arched doorways, stucco exteriors, and tile roofs. You’ll also find plenty of lush greenery in the neighborhood, with jacarandas, pines, palms, and magnolias lining the streets.

In addition to its beautiful homes, the Historic Old Northeast is also home to a number of city landmarks. One of the most notable is the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club, a luxury hotel that dates back to the 1920s. The hotel is known for its elegant Mediterranean Revival architecture and has hosted a number of famous guests over the years, including Babe Ruth and Herbert Hoover.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Historic Old Northeast, be sure to check out the Historic Old Northeast Neighborhood Association website. The association was founded in 1974 and works to promote and preserve the neighborhood’s historic character.