The renovation is a canvas for Tallahassee’s gubernatorial history – conveying a journey through Florida’s political legacy at The Governor’s Inn, where every corner tells a tale of the state’s vibrant history.
The design intent for this unique space was to provide as much open floor space as possible on the ground floor by cantilevering the second-floor balcony.
Honoring the building’s past as a carriage and wagon shoppe, the design team incorporated scenic hand-painted graphics on the brick facade, reminiscent of 1890s public advertising.
The guest units and wayfinding signage are thoughtfully designed for easy navigation, featuring raised lettering and engraved portraits of governors for a touch of authenticity.
Serving as a unifying element for the Inn, a two-story central corridor with column less balconies meanders through the building. Bridges from the elevated walkway connect the common space to the individual guest rooms.
Each guestroom is a homage to a Florida Governor, adorned with unique portraits and furnished with original antique pieces refurbished in playful historic hues.
Responding to the urban context was paramount for the success of the renovation, especially considering the close proximity to the Florida State Capitol Building and other governmental office buildings. A new large balcony, with tongue and groove wood roof decking, operable curtains, and an IPE wood drink rail around the perimeter, give guests a bird’s eye viewshed of the movement of people below. A new porte cochere, framed with contemporary metalwork, is cantilevered from the balcony facia to provide a welcoming covered entry point for guest arrival.
The lobby, reminiscent of an old barn reborn, invites exploration of Florida’s gubernatorial history through memorabilia, applied environmental graphics, and historic portraits. Plush seating allows guests to socialize while sipping on signature drinks from the second-floor bar, soaking in the ambiance or people-watching silhouettes move across the translucent glass floor above.
The Appaloosa Bar, a sanctuary for aficionados of premium beverages and cigars, features a second-level ‘perch’ retreat with an adjoining exterior balcony. A distinctive aspect of the design includes private whiskey and cigar lockers, along with the chance to mingle in Tallahassee’s foremost locale. The exterior façade incorporates newly installed steel window and door openings boasting a historically appropriate slim profile.
