City of Groveland Elese Tomlin Empowerment Center

With our Design Partner Walker Architects we have developed the Empowerment Center building design concept that pulls from a hybrid of traditional Florida vernacular styles. This all new building features many elements from 19th century “Florida Cracker” and “Craftsman” architecture such as board-and-batten vertical siding, exposed rafter tails and outlookers, metal roof valley break with large porch below. Close attention to proportions, distribution of claddings and subtle detailing connects the new facility to existing Groveland structures.

The scope of the project included full site development with new vehicle entry off Brown Street and a new parking area. The structure is comprised of continuous concrete footings with slab on grade supporting reinforced CMU block walls and wood trusses. The standing seam metal roof features multiple valley breaks along with 3 lite clerestory dormer windows. Materials for the envelope include both vertical and horizontal siding as well as single hung venting windows. The Empowerment Center interior features multiple zones which provide varying degrees of access to administrative staff and citizens.

The Main Entry serves not only as the building’s focal point, but also as a prominent and visual landmark to the surrounding city blocks. Exposed structural elements are feature components in our design. Close attention to proportions, distribution of claddings and subtle detailing help the new Empowerment Center to reference other Groveland structures, while remaining prominent within its surrounding. More private administrative offices and meeting rooms are accessed from secured corridors that span the length of the building.