Brendan Farrington takes readers inside Florida House on Capitol Hill in Influence Magazine’s Fall 2025 edition, a place many people walk right past without realizing it’s one of the most unique buildings in Washington, D.C. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the pace of Capitol Hill, but as Farrington describes, walking through the doors of Florida House is a completely different experience. The rooms are bright, warm, and full of little reminders of home; artwork, maps, and meaningful pieces that show just how much history Florida brings to Washington.
The article explains how Florida House came to be. The building itself dates back to the late 1800s, but its life as Florida House began in 1973 when a group of determined Floridians bought it for $125,000. They wanted a place in D.C. where visitors from the Sunshine State could gather, learn, and feel welcomed. More than 50 years later, that mission hasn’t changed. The house has grown, evolved, and been restored over time, but it still keeps that familiar Florida feel- something many appreciate when they’re far from home.
One part of the feature that stands out is the way Farrington describes the role Florida House plays in bringing people together. Students, families, lawmakers, staffers, business leaders, and tourists all pass through its doors. Some come in for scheduled events or receptions, while others simply stop by between meetings to grab a drink, sit down, or regroup before heading back out. The house isn’t just an event space; it’s a gathering space.
The feature also highlights how Florida House manages to stay truly non-partisan. It’s rare on Capitol Hill, but it’s intentional. The atmosphere encourages connection rather than division, something the Florida House’s Executive Director, Robert Weissert, talks about in the article. He explains that the purpose of Florida House is to celebrate what makes Florida special, and that includes welcoming everyone who represents the state- regardless of party.
Farrington includes small details that bring the story to life, like the upstairs window that perfectly frames the Capitol dome. It’s the kind of view that stops people in their tracks, and it’s a reminder of why Florida House exists: to give Floridians a place to pause and feel grounded in a city where everything moves quickly.
Overall, the Influence Magazine piece shows that Florida House is much more than a beautiful old building. It’s a symbol of home, connection, and community. Whether someone is visiting D.C. for a day or building a full career here, Florida House gives Floridians a place that feels familiar, friendly, and welcoming.
To read the full article in Influence Magazine, visit: https://issuu.com/influenceflorida/docs/influence_magazine_-_fall2025
About Influence Magazine:
Influence Magazine is a Florida-focused publication that covers the people, policies, and stories shaping the state’s public affairs world. It highlights leaders, legislative updates, and community impact across Florida, offering readers an inside look at the issues and individuals influencing the state’s future.
Written by Rima Albusaidi, Fall 2025 Intern