Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority at the University of Florida

The Zeta Tau Alpha’s 1953 house at the University of Florida had inhibited the sorority’s chances at being competitive on a campus with several newer, more modern houses. Treanor proposed a two-story addition at the front of the house, which could conceal the view of the original structure, as the sides of the old house were hidden from the street by the houses to either side. This concept allowed the creation of new façade that rivaled any of the new houses on campus.

Expanded living spaces

The main floor of the addition was set several feet below the floor of the existing house to provide gracious ceiling heights in a large entry foyer. To complete the look, the roof above second floor was raised, creating a vertical proportion to the front façade that is found in more modern structures. A new terrace set before the wide, six-column front porch, made full use of the front yard, allowing for fully realized curbside appeal.

The 5,750-square-foot addition accommodates an entry foyer with a grand stair, house director suite, study rooms and interview/testing rooms to either side. Seven new sleeping rooms on the second floor of the addition increased the bed count from 51 to 61 across 29 rooms. An elevator connects the two levels of the Main Floor with the Second Floor making the house fully accessible. The renovation included a new servery and commercial kitchen. The dining room was expanded to seat 180 for meals and up to 260 on chapter night.