Revitalizing a Historic Icon: Frank Lloyd Wright Planetarium
At Florida Southern College, the only planetarium designed by famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, known as the iconic observatory, has been meticulously restored. This effort is part of a larger, ongoing renovation of the campus, initially planned by Wright himself.
The planetarium, an integral part of the Polk County Science Building, had remained largely inaccessible since 2004 due to a failed projection system. Spearheading the restoration is Jeff Baker, the resident campus architect and principal at MCWB Architects, who has dedicated twenty years to revitalizing Wright’s creations at the college. Restoring this unique structure was a long-held aspiration.
“The college always aimed to revive the planetarium, recognizing its potential to inspire and captivate a wide audience with Wright’s genius,” Baker explained.
Transformations of the Historic Structure
Exterior renovations began in 2021, involving the replacement of roofing, flashings, and stucco. Over 280 hand-cast “textile” tiles were also replaced. Interior upgrades started in 2023, targeting alterations that accumulated over the decades since Wright’s passing. The restoration is again a beacon of architectural and educational innovation.
Technological enhancements included updating the audio-visual systems and repainting walls to replace a previously deep blue hue. Local artisans restored the original Wright-designed seating, made from plywood and vinyl, reinstating its authentic circular arrangement.
Baker noted, “The elimination of the old computer closet allowed us to restore all seating to its original design—a rarity in planetariums today.” The project also reinstated Wright’s original paint and plasterwork, along with restoring the floor to a “Cherokee Red” finish. This planetarium renovation showcases the dedication to preserving historical accuracy while integrating modern amenities.
Preserving Wright’s Vision
This project is part of a broader restoration of the thirteen Wright buildings on campus, constructed between 1938 and 1958. Past efforts included enhancements to the Waterdome, the Esplanades, and the Annie Pfieffer Chapel. Baker reflected on the complexity of integrating modern systems into Wright’s elemental architecture, which lacks concealed spaces for infrastructure.
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“We found sensitive methods to incorporate these systems while staying true to Wright’s vision,” he said.
Funding for these endeavors came from organizations like the J Paul Getty Foundation, which contributed to the original Campus Heritage Plan in 2007, guiding these preservation efforts. The “Florida Southern College architecture” stands today as a testament to historic preservation blended with innovation.
The college, designated a National Historic Landmark in 2012, hosts the largest collection of Wright’s architecture concentrated in one place. Following the restoration, the planetarium now welcomes visitors for tours and screenings, continuing Wright’s legacy of education and inspiration.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What led to the planetarium at Florida Southern College being inaccessible since 2004?
The planetarium had remained largely inaccessible since 2004 due to a failed projection system.
Who is the architect responsible for the planetarium’s restoration?
Jeff Baker, the resident campus architect and principal at MCWB Architects, is spearheading the restoration.
What improvements were made to the planetarium’s interior?
Interior upgrades included technological enhancements like updating audio-visual systems and repainting walls. Local artisans restored the original Wright-designed seating, reinstating its circular arrangement.
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