Hotel Eleo at the University of Florida

Designed to serve as a home-away-from-home for persons with loved ones under care in the neighboring hospital, the Shands Guest house brings residential amenities to the Shands Medical complex.

This six-story, 127,000 square foot building features 173 luxury guest rooms, each equipped with state-of-the-art communication services and stylish furnishings. The ground floor offers 19,075 square feet for hotel staff, building services, and interactive public spaces complete with a 5-star restaurant, a fitness room, and a 1,600+ square foot Meeting/Conference room capable of being subdivided into three spaces of equal size.  

The luxurious interior translates to the exterior where a weighty ground level mass of patterned concrete is balanced with an intricate network of metal panels and glass.

Design and construction documents were provided by Alfonso Architects. Walker Architects was then contracted to provide construction administration services to deliver the building on schedule.

The renovation and expansion of the Reitz Student Union, built in 1967, expanded facilities, services, and programs supporting the University of Florida’s diverse campus community, increased energy efficiency, reduced operational costs, and greatly enhanced comfort and functionality.

Phase 1, the 100,000 sf addition, included entry and food court renovations, meeting rooms, lounges, dance rehearsal studios, a ballroom, and offices and support space for the Center for Leadership and Service, the Department of Student Activities and Involvement, the Office of Multicultural and Diversity Affairs, GatorWell Health Promotion Services, and student clubs and organizations.

Phase 2, the 50,000 sf renovation, included new energy-efficient windows and doors, restoration of exterior surfaces and structural components, replacement and upgrades of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, and upgrades to interior finishes and lighting. 

Careful phasing ensured that the Reitz continued to serve UF’s 50,000 students throughout construction.