City Begins Restoration of Historic Guida House, Preserving a Beloved West Tampa Landmark
After years of planning, preservation efforts and community advocacy, the City of Tampa is embarking on the restoration of one of West Tampa's most treasured landmarks, the historic George Guida Sr. House.
Located at 1516 N. Renfrew Street, the Guida House has stood as a symbol of West Tampa's rich history since it was completed in 1952. The $3.9 million project will not only preserve the architectural features that earned the home placement on the National Register of Historic Places, but also convert the space into a center for meetings, events and community programming.
Designed by businessman and civic leader George Guida Sr., respectfully referred to as "Mr. West Tampa," and built by his own construction company, the distinctive Art Moderne home became known throughout the community not only for its unique architecture, but for the countless gatherings, celebrations and civic events hosted within its walls.
The comprehensive restoration will preserve cherished features of the home and Guida family, including the family room's original fireplace, tilework, historical cabinetry, the home's indoor mural, and the outdoor chimney's tall ship at sea mural. The crown jewel of the home and a tribute to his wife Palmira was the property's heart-shaped driveway, which will be restored to its original charm.
"The George Guida Sr. House tells the story of a family whose vision and generosity helped shape West Tampa into the vibrant community it is today," said Mayor Jane Castor. "The restoration of his home honors the Guida family's lasting contributions to West Tampa, and we're proud to breathe new life into this treasured home so it can once again serve as a place that brings the community together."
The community will notice the home's rebirth inside and out: the first floor will serve as a community gathering place with multi-functional rooms and preserved historic features for display and storytelling. Outside, Mr. Guida's large patio with an expansive kitchen will be restored and the cracked tile gathering area updated.
The project is currently in the selective demolition and exploratory restoration phase, where crews are carefully assessing the home's existing conditions to inform the final scope of work. City staff have worked closely with preservation experts and consulted George Guida Sr.'s original hand-drawn architectural renderings to ensure the restoration remains true to the family's original vision.