Architect Taylor Hardwick

Architect Taylor Hardwick

Taylor Hardwick was a world renowned architect who made significant contributions to the architecture of Jacksonville, Florida. He was born in 1925 and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1949 . He moved to Jacksonville the same year and established his architectural practice, which later became the firm of Hardwick and Lee, AIA . Hardwick designed many of the prominent buildings and sites in Jacksonville, including the Haydon Burns Public Library and Friendship Park.Hardwick was one of several influential architects, including William Morgan and Robert Broward, whose works pushed design boundaries in Jacksonville in the second half of the 20th century . His most iconic work was the Haydon Burns Library, which featured brightly colored tiles and 88 concrete fins that decorate the exterior .The Haydon Burns Library was built in 1965 at a cost of $3.7 Million.  The Burns Library replaced the Carnegie Library, which was designed by Henry John Klutho.  The building was saved from threatened demolition and is now the Jessie Ball duPont Center for nonprofits.

The Jessie Ball duPont Center

Hardwick’s architectural vision was to bring joy to the library: “I wanted to make the building a delightful place to inhabit” . He also designed several schools, including Wolfson and Westside high schools . Hardwick died in 2014 at the age of 89.In 2022, an Atlanta development company proposed to build a 322-unit apartment building on the riverfront in Jacksonville and name it after Hardwick . The Downtown Investment Authority approved the proposal, and the building is expected to be called The Hardwick . The Hardwick will be a luxurious apartment complex with modern amenities and a stunning view of the St. Johns River . Hardwick’s contributions to Jacksonville’s architecture are significant and continue to be celebrated today. His work has left an indelible mark on the city’s architectural landscape and inspired many new architectural firms .

Hardwicks Bar

Hardwick’s legacy continues with the opening of a new downtown bar called Hardwicks. The bar is located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville and is named after the famous architect . Hardwicks is a trendy and upscale bar that offers a wide selection of drinks and food. The bar has a modern and sleek design that pays homage to Hardwick’s architectural style . The bar is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Jacksonville’s architecture and history. Hardwicks helps bring diversity to Downtown Jacksonville as the first LGBTQ+ bar to open in Downtown Jacksonville in 20 years!Along with The Jessie, Friendship Fountain, and Hardwicks, Hardwick also designed The Fletcher Building in Riverside, which is now Corner Lot Center and home to Shutt’s, Fun To Watch Media, and the popular River and Post Rooftop Restaurant.

Corner Lot Center home of River and Post Rooftop Restaurant

Taylor Hardwick was a visionary architect who made significant contributions to the architecture of Jacksonville, Florida. His work has left an indelible mark on the city’s architectural landscape and continues to inspire new generations of architects. The opening of the new downtown bar called Hardwicks is a testament to Hardwick’s legacy and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Jacksonville’s architecture and history.