FAQs

Is the Lifsey House available to rent for events?
Yes, however, there is a certain criteria an event must meet to be able to use the House. The Lifsey House is a resource that supports the mission of the University by allowing the USF administration, faculty, and staff to present events for USF colleagues and key external groups in a venue that meets consistently high standards of protocol and logistics. The Lifsey House is used for events that serve the purpose of conducting University business. Each event will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Lifsey House is not available for weddings and/or social gatherings. Similarly, external organizations can only use the Lifsey House in conjunction with another USF event, project, or collaboration. Specific questions should be directed to the Director of Special Events and Ceremonies.

What is the cost to rent the Lifsey House?
Events that utilize the Lifsey House are entitled to use of the first floor. This includes the foyer, dining room, main room, library, kitchen, and back patio/courtyard area. The cost to rent the facility depends on the number of guests attending the event.

  • Dining Room Table = $250
  • 25 people or less = $300
  • 25 – 100 people = $400
  • Over 100 people = $500

What type of set up is available in the various rooms of the House?

  • Dining Room Table = seats up to 14
  • Main Room = Can accommodate no more than 7 – 60” rounds (50 – 60 people) Theater style seating can accommodate 80 – 100 people Classroom, U shape, and conference style are determined based on individual event needs
  • Library = Furnished with a sofa and 4 loveseats, coffee table, end tables, and a piano Furniture cannot be removed from room; however, a small number of rental tables can be added and the wet bar can be utilized for beverage service
  • Back Patio = Can accommodate a myriad of set up styles depending on the event needs Garden/grass area also available if needed Area is not covered and is effected by inclement weather

Events with over 150 people can only be accommodated by use of the back patio area.

What is included in the cost of the rental fee?
The Lifsey House has its own event coordinator who will help you coordinate the needs for your event and assure that all steps toward proper protocol are being taken. The House does not supply any rentals (tables, chairs, linen), but there is a preferred rental vendor for the Lifsey House. The House coordinator will assist in coordinating your rental needs and placing your order. Rentals are at the expense of the client. The House is equipped with USF china, flatware, and glassware for use by professional catering personnel for any given event.

The House rarely books more than one event on the same day. Events are limited to up to 2 hours, however, that does not include time for set up and clean up.

What are the catering guidelines for the Lifsey House? Please see the Lifsey House contract for catering guidelines. Catering services must be provided at the expense of the client for each event. The Lifsey House coordinator can assist with preferred caterers.

Where do guests park when attending an event at the Lifsey House?
The Lifsey House coordinator will work with parking services on parking needs for your event. The house itself has parking for less than 20 guests. There is one handicap space as well as a ramp to the front door.

Where is the Lifsey House located? How can I provide directions to my guests?
The Lifsey House is located off of the Fowler Avenue entrance to the university on Alumni Dr. Please visit the USF home page for more specific instructions to campus as well as a parking map.

Please refer to the Lifsey House contract for House policies and procedures as well as any additional information.