FSU Indigenous Studies Renovation

The renovation of the historic Greene-Lewis House at Florida State University transforms the National Register-listed residence into a new home for the University’s Native American and Indigenous Studies program while preserving the character, architectural significance, and character of the historic property.

A primary goal of the project was to preserve the defining elements of the home’s Craftsman architecture while thoughtfully adapting the building to support a contemporary academic program. Historic materials, architectural details, proportions, and the character of the original residence were carefully considered throughout the renovation. New interventions were designed to complement the existing architecture rather than compete with it, allowing the historic character of the Greene-Lewis House to remain prominent.

A central focus of the renovation was the reimagining of the front porch and entry sequence. Accessibility was incorporated as an essential component of the new entry design. A gently integrated ADA-accessible ramp and pedestrian approach provide an accessible path to the building while becoming an integral part of the overall arrival experience. Significant structural repairs were required at the existing porch and entry, including addressing settlement and stabilizing the craftsman style columns. These repairs were carefully integrated into the design to protect the historic fabric while providing a durable foundation for the building’s continued use.