A First Look: Unveiling the Orlando Center for Architecture + Design

At the corner of Orange Avenue and Jefferson Street in downtown Orlando stands the Fulcrum Building—originally built in 1960 as the city’s first JCPenney department store. Soon, this mid-century landmark will take on a new purpose as home to the Orlando Center for Architecture + Design (OCAD). Located on the ground floor and led by AIA Orlando and the Orlando Foundation for Architecture (OFA), OCAD will be a welcoming space for architects, designers, and the public—bringing new energy and engagement to the heart of downtown.

"Developing a Center for Architecture and Design in our region achieves a monumental goal envisioned over a decade ago by a team of architects, other design professionals, and key community leaders. Having a space where design is not only appreciated but becomes a catalyst for dialogue, connection, and impact has been a long time coming."

— Debra Lemons, AIA, OFA Chair

We're thrilled to share the first glimpse of OCAD—the only dedicated regional hub in Central Florida where the public and professionals alike can explore, learn, and engage with the power of design and how it positively shapes our lives, our communities, and our future.

Design Objectives 

The design of OCAD encompasses a comprehensive transformation of a 2,500-square-foot space into a dynamic, multifunctional environment infused with sustainability, warmth, and collaborative innovation.

1. Flexibility: Design a highly adaptable space to support diverse functions, such as lectures, presentations, exhibitions, collaborative work, meetings, and critiques, to meet varied user needs.

2. Visibility and Engagement: Leverage storefront presence on Orange Avenue and building common areas for visibility of exhibits, collections, and retail displays as well as the spaces activated during regular events and special gatherings.

3. Employ Sustainability and WELL Building Principles:  Incorporate planning concepts, systems, products, and features that support environmental initiatives and wellness benefits for those who experience the Center.

4. Modern but Approachable:  Incorporate modern lines, planning strategies, and technologies complemented by natural materials, colorful branding, and inviting accents.

5. Branded Identity: Incorporate branded graphics throughout the space to reinforce OCAD’s identity and enhance visual cohesion.

6. Collaborative Approach: Reflect expert collaboration with local design, engineering, and construction professionals while synthesizing member and community input to ensure an inclusive approach to the project's realization.

Design Style

"Modern Materials and Methods" - incorporate modernist design principles of form, function, and integrity of materials; exposed ceilings and systems, refinished concrete floors, and natural wood finishes celebrate the simplicity and authenticity of timeless construction materials with attention to refined details within a humble, affordable palette.

An Open, Flowing Plan

The floor plan is thoughtfully crafted to encourage discovery and seamless movement, guiding visitors through a series of distinct yet interconnected zones. Upon entering through the Main Entrance, an in-person greeter welcomes guests in the Lobby. An interactive display features information about the Center, OFA/AIA, upcoming programming and happenings around Central Flordia. Guests are invited into the expansive Flex Space at the heart of the layout.

The Flex Space features multi-purpose, movable partitions that can accommodate large gatherings or be reconfigured into smaller, functional zones for galleries, critique walls, or collaborative workspaces. Adjacent to the Flex Space is a Conference Room with a video wall and glass wall partitions that can be closed off for private meetings, maintaining connectivity while offering seclusion. A small Huddle Room, tucked to the side, can be used for intimate brainstorming sessions or one-on-one consultations, offering a quiet retreat. The Work Area, designated for AIA Orlando and OFA management staff, provides a dedicated space for administrative tasks, positioned discreetly to maintain the open feel. The journey continues as the Gallery area extends behind the Conference Room, opposite the Hospitality Commons, leading visitors in a natural loop back toward the Lobby Entrance. Along this route, the Library/Display/Merchandising area showcases curated items and resources, enhancing the sense of discovery and connection throughout the space.

View of the Flex Space adapted for a presentation with the conference room glass partitions open and seating facing the video wall.

Mobile partitions serve as versatile gallery walls, arranged to guide visitors through exhibits with a natural, free-flowing movement.

When the conference room is activated, glass partitions close off the space, creating a private meeting area while maintaining an open, spacious feel.

The Inspiration Behind the OCAD Brand

The OCAD brand draws its inspiration from the fundamental shapes that form the building blocks of design. Playful yet professional, the bold arrangement of shapes, crafted with clean lines and a modern aesthetic, echoes the center’s innovative spirit with a color palette that captures the natural vibrance of Central Florida.

This is just the beginning of the OCAD brand story—in the months ahead, we'll reveal how these elements expand across touchpoints, experiences, and partnerships.

What’s Next?

The strategic initiative for OCAD, set forth more than a decade ago, is now taking physical form. What you're seeing today—the brand identity, the thoughtfully designed space, the mission to connect and inspire—is just the beginning.

As we move toward our Spring 2026 opening, we'll be sharing programming details, partnership announcements, exhibition previews, and the stories of the people shaping OCAD's future.

This is an invitation to be part of something transformative—a new chapter in Central Florida's creative story, where architecture and design take center stage.

We Need Your Help

We’re seeking partners to help bring this vision to life. The Orlando Foundation for Architecture is now accepting donations of products, materials, and financial contributions to support the build-out of the Orlando Center for Architecture + Design. To learn more about donor opportunities or to make a contribution, please contact Dean Hill at dean@aiaorlando.com.

Follow OCAD's journey for updates, programs, and partnership opportunities, and stay connected with the future of architecture and design in Central Florida. There’s so much more to come—and we want you there for every milestone…because Design Matters.

---

Acknowledgements

OCAD's vision has been brought to life through the dedication and expertise of an exceptional team of design professionals, community partners, and supporters who share our commitment to elevating architecture and design in Central Florida.

OCAD Initiative Team

Alexander Straughn, AIA  | AIA President

Lindsey Perez, AIA | AIA President-Elect

Debra Lemons, AIA | OFA Chair

Kyle O’Connell, AIA | AIA Vice-Chair

Debra Lupton, FAIA | OFA Secretary

Jacki Hale, FAIA | OFA Trustee

Keith Lashley, FAIA | AIA DEI Committee Chair

Melanie Crownover | Branding Leader

OCAD Creative Team

Debra Lemons, AIA

Tim Lemons, AIA

Connor Privett

Krystle Hess

Sean Nimmons

Melanie Crownover

Alexander Straughn, AIA

Karli Kronmiller

Kyle O’Connell, AIA

Lucas Njale

Seth Bout

OCAD Project Team

Michael Sheerin

Wayne Alred

Chris Floegel

Karim Elsergany

Alberto Roman

Kit Wray

Jonathan Hammond

Christine Larson

Bora Erbilen

Annette Gonzalez

Tony Hanson

Original Legacy 2020 Team

​​Dan Kirby, AIA, AICP, LEED A | Chair

Tim Lemons, AIA

Jeffrey Lurie, AIA, LEED AP

Alberto Sanchez de Fuentes, AIA, LEED AP

Larry J. Trobough, Allied AIA, RCDD

Karen D. Jones