Art in Architecture

Art in Architecture is an affordable housing development program in Central Florida conceived by Steve Chitwood and sponsored by the Orlando Regional Realtors Association with the assistance of the Orlando Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The program provides a platform to unify the talents of AIA architects, realtors, builder, and designers to help dispel the "not in my back yard" stigma commonly associated with affordable housing design. By providing a thoughtful, aesthetic solution at an economically viable price, the "plain gray box" myth has been shattered through the combined efforts of the participants and embraced by the communities where they are built. The initiative has proven to be an excellent way for AIA Orlando architects to make a significant contribution to communities in Central Florida.

Since the first homes were sold in Orlando in 2004, the program has extended its reach to surrounding cities seeking to provide cost effective and aesthetically attractive housing options to infill existing established residential areas. This film, produced by AIA Orlando, was made possible through a grant from AIA 150 "Blueprint for America", a celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of AIA. It illustrates the need for attractive affordable housing options and delineates the process that the program founders put in place to make the dream of home ownership attainable.

Art in Architecture - changing the face of affordable housing; one dream at a time, a dream that can be replicated with the help of AIA components in communities all across America.

For more information on the Art in Architecture Program and to order a copy of this DVD please contact the AIA Orlando Office at 407-898-7006.

Please view the Art in Architecture presentation that was given at the 2009 AIA National Grassroots Conference in February.

Art in Architecture Presentation-PDF

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