The second annual Archtober Festival presented by Center for Architecture Sarasota comes to a close this week. The month long celebration of architecture and design presented the community with events meant to broaden the public’s awareness and appreciation of a range of relevant subjects. Over 400 people attended the kick-off, lectures, panel discussion, atelier talks and house tour. The interesting fact is that over 60 percent of the attendees were non-professionals demonstrating that our community is interested in the built environment. There are a growing number of similar organizations in cities across the country including New York, Miami, Dallas, Columbus and Charlotte. And, this is with good reason. As Winston Churchill famously stated, “We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.”

Interior renovation of the historic Scott Building, the future home of Center for Architecture Sarasota, began this week. This exciting milestone marks the beginning of the next chapter in the growth of an organization with a mission committed to connecting new audiences to the universal impact of architecture and design in our environment. The renovation will transform a commercial iconic building of the Sarasota School of Architecture into The Center, a destination for anyone with an interest in and appreciation for the built environment. A wide-range of offerings will present opportunities for the public to hear from leaders of various design disciplines, view exhibits on the built environment and engage in discussions germane to current affairs in our community.  Additionally, The Center will become a vehicle for young people to discover the design profession and network in a more casual atmosphere than the usual professional or academic setting. It will be a dynamic place, a classroom, a community forum, a destination where the appreciation of architecture, urban planning and design will undoubtedly be nurtured. 

This month we share ideas, insights and stories from the Center for Architecture Sarasota, an SRQ Story Project partner.

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