Westcott Building

The Westcott Building stands as the iconic centerpiece of the Florida State University campus in Tallahassee, Florida. Completed in 1910 and designed by architect William Augustus Edwards, this historic structure exemplifies the Collegiate Gothic architectural style with its distinctive twin brick towers and arch-style entryway. Originally constructed to serve as the administration building for the Florida State College, it was renamed in 1936 to honor James Diament Westcott, Jr., a former Florida Supreme Court justice whose generous 1887 estate donation significantly supported the institution's predecessor, the West Florida Seminary. Today, the building remains the primary focal point of the university when viewed down College Avenue.

Despite suffering extensive interior damage from a fire in April 1969, the building was successfully renovated and reopened in 1973. These restoration efforts preserved the cherished historic exterior while modernizing the inside to house the chief administrative offices of the university and the Ruby Diamond Auditorium. The renovation also created the John S. Knight and James L. Knight Foundation Lobby, which now serves as a welcoming space for visitors and a venue for performance entertainment. Inside, a hallway gallery displays portraits of past university presidents, commemorating the leadership that shaped the school's evolution over the decades.

The area surrounding the Westcott Building has undergone significant changes to enhance its status as a historic symbol. In 1994, the traffic circle in front of the building was closed to vehicles, transforming the space into a pedestrian-friendly plaza. Further restoration work completed in 2005 included removing mildew from the facade and paving the fountain circle with bricks, ensuring the site remains an iconic component of the university experience. For students, alumni, and visitors, the Westcott Building represents the enduring legacy and visual identity of Florida State University.