Orlando Mayor Says Historic Lubbe House Will Not Be Demolished

The last remaining lakefront home on Lake Eola will be preserved despite plans for park expansion.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The City of Orlando has decided not to demolish the historic Lubbe House, the last remaining lakefront home on Lake Eola. Mayor Buddy Dyer stated that while the city does not support granting the roughly 100-year-old home historic landmark status due to potential restoration costs, the two-story structure will remain standing as part of a broader park expansion project.

Why it matters

The Lubbe House is the last surviving example of Orlando's historic lakefront homes along Lake Eola, which have largely been demolished over the years. Its preservation is seen as an important step in maintaining the city's architectural heritage and character, despite development pressures.

The details

The city had previously considered demolishing the Lubbe House, located at 215 E. Central Blvd., as part of plans to expand Lake Eola Park and create a new gateway entrance. However, after hearing from residents who pushed for the home to be granted historic landmark status, Mayor Dyer announced that the Lubbe House will remain standing, even though he does not support the historic designation due to the potential restoration costs.

  • The Lubbe House was built approximately 100 years ago.
  • The city purchased the Lubbe House property last year as part of the park expansion project.
  • The city's Historic Preservation Board is expected to discuss possible landmark designation for the Lubbe House in March 2026.

The players

Buddy Dyer

The mayor of Orlando who announced that the Lubbe House will not be demolished, despite not supporting historic landmark status for the property.

Orange Preservation Trust

A non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, revitalization, and protection of historic sites in Orlando, which has indicated it would like the Lubbe House designated as a landmark.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't support a historic designation. It will cost us a lot more to restore it, so that would be the reason I would not want to see that done.”

— Buddy Dyer, Mayor of Orlando

What’s next

The city's Historic Preservation Board is expected to discuss possible landmark designation for the Lubbe House property at its meeting in March 2026.

The takeaway

The decision to preserve the historic Lubbe House, the last remaining lakefront home on Lake Eola, demonstrates Orlando's commitment to maintaining its architectural heritage and character, even in the face of development pressures. This move will help ensure that a piece of the city's history is preserved for future generations.