“Design & architecture is just creative problem solving. ”
Alan Dobbs
Bachelors in Design (Architecture) - University of Florida
Masters in Architecture - University of South Florida
Owner and team leader. My journey into design began over 35 years ago. After working in several premier firms such as Eric Watson Architects PA, Chancey Design Partnership & Fleishman Garcia I began my own design company in 2005, Florida Design Studio. One focus of my company, Florida Design Studio, is historic preservation. We completed the preservation of the Arturo Fuente Cigar Factory, Perfecto Garcia Bros. Cigar Factory and numerous homes in Historic Hyde Park and Seminole Heights. I regularly make presentations before the ARC (Architectural Review Commission) & BLC. (Barrio Latino Commission) in order to obtain approval for renovations and additions on homes in historic districts.
The company also enjoys designing more contemporary commercial and residential projects but always with a timeless aesthetic.
When out of my studio you can find me helping the community, enjoying a Tampa Bay Lightning game, exploring life with family and friends and of course… riding the surf.
Francine Messano
Bachelor of Arts (Economics) - Seton Hall University
Masters in Architecture - University of South Florida
My journey has been long and winding. I found a passion for design & architecture later in life and graduated with a masters in 2005. I’ve worked for firms such as PBS&J and Collman & Karsky Architects as well as Rustic Steel Creations where I managed the metal work for the W Hotel in Ft. Lauderdale and the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Orlando in addition to many art installations and custom home projects. In 2011 I opened Yoga Downtown Tampa and brought yoga to the downtown Tampa community through the studio and Yoga in Curtis Hixon Park. I am thrilled to return to design and architecture full time at Florida Design Studio.
In my spare time I enjoy watersports, yoga & working out and of course spending time with family and friends.