Flori-de-Leon Apartments
Introduction
Text-to-speech Audio
Completed in 1926, this seven-story building became the first building cooperative on Florida's west coast. Owing to the hot summers and the lack of air-conditioning when the building was constructed, the architect utilized an "H-shape" that facilitated ventilation throughout each of the apartments. This building was home to Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig during the Yankee's spring training. The building remains a co-op, and like each of the current occupants, these players owned apartments in the building.
Images
This 1926 Mediterranean Revival became the first cooperative in the region and was home to Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth during spring training.
Backstory and Context
Text-to-speech Audio
When it opened, the Flori-de-Leon became the first co-op building on the west coast of Florida. It was also considered one of the "crown jewels" in St. Petersburg thanks to its elegant design and H-shaped layout, which promotes air circulation in the apartments. When Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig lived here during spring training, they each rented a penthouse in the building. Unlike other businesses in the city, the Flori-de-Leon has managed to stay open. The nearby Vinoy Hotel, which the U.S. military took over during World War II, closed eventually for a variety of reasons. Flori-de-Leon has also survived floods and hurricanes. It is a contributing property of the Downtown St. Petersburg Historic District, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. While no longer one of the city's tallest buildings, it remains the tallest in the historic district.
Sources
"Our History." Flori De Leon Apartments. Accessed November 6, 2023. https://florideleon.org/our-history.