The Water Dome is a historical landmark located in Lakeland, Florida. It was designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright and construction began in the 1940s. Early plans by Frank Lloyd Wright for the Florida Southern College master plan included a huge circular fountain that was meant to be the campus’s focal point. Wright intended for the fountain to be a massive dome of water with a circumference of 160 feet, according to his sketches and notes from the conceptual planning stage. Wright was never able to finish this essential component of his plan, according to archival documentation of the Water Dome discovered during the Campus Heritage Plan’s research phase. Instead, until it was ultimately filled in and divided into three smaller pools in the 1960s, the fountain remained a reflecting pool. Wright’s initial design for this feature was ultimately realized in 2007 when Florida Southern College hired MCWB Architects.
The Water Dome was built utilizing modern tools, pipes, and controls that Wright was unable to use when he was alive. This was accomplished after analyzing all of Wright’s original designs and writings pertaining to the fountain and realizing that the original basin was still there behind later era layers of concrete. The Wright-designed pump building that had just undergone restoration had this equipment fitted. The Water Dome was finally put into use in October 2007, bringing Wright’s vision from 69 years earlier to completion. It is abundantly clear how crucial this component is to Wright’s plan now that the Water Dome is in continuous operation. Thousands of students and tourists admire it, and it serves as a spectacular focal point for the school.
Attractions Nearby the Water Dome
Dixieland Selfie Wall
A favorite spot for tourists to get a memorable selfie, the Dixieland Selfie Wall is a mural of vintage Lakeland that captures the city’s small-town feel.
The Polk Museum of Art
The Polk Museum of Art is one of the top art museums in Central Florida. It features American art from the 19th century to contemporary pieces, as well as works by European masters.
The Lakeland Public Library
The Lakeland Public Library is a beautiful building with an impressive collection of books, magazines, and DVDs. It also offers free Wi-Fi and computers with internet access.
Escapology Escape Rooms Lakeland
Escapology is an escape room company with locations all over the country. Their Lakeland location features six different rooms with different themes and difficulty levels.
Munn Park Historic District
Speedy Car Shipping Lakeland
