Tampa, FL

Oxford Exchange is an adaptive use renovation of a turn-of-the-century building that originally housed a stable for the Tampa Bay Hotel.  Now a popular public environment that encourages interaction and collaboration among its patrons, this “place” is defined through a high level of finish as well as emphasis on the honest portrayal of materials and history.

Patrons may socialize, eat, and/or utilize community workspaces and small offices. There is also a reading room and bookstore. Beyond its materials palette, Oxford Exchange is notable for architecture that gracefully bridges transitions from historic to contemporary designs on the same property.

Historic façade and storefront restoration, plus reinstalled canopies highlight the building’s original character. An added atrium brings natural light into the building core, while new sawtooth roof monitors introduce natural light into the offices. The architectural design uses the narrative between historic and new spaces as a defining element.  Historic lumber and bricks were reused; original masonry walls were left exposed to establish a counterpoint to the more refined interior finishes. Oxford Exchange revives the City of Tampa’s past via an inviting, daylit destination.

Awarded

• 2012 AIA Tampa Bay - Award of Excellence in Historic Preservation/Renovation
• 2012 Florida Trust for Historic Preservation - Outstanding Recognition in the Infill Category
• 2012 Tampa Downtown Partnership - Urban Excellence

Photo Credits: Jason Henthorne and Scott Chester