FIU College of Architecture + The Arts to open new home on Lincoln Road


Move expands university’s artistic footprint

South Beach soon will be home to studio and gallery space for music, art and architecture students, as FIU’s College of Architecture + The Arts expands its artistic footprint this fall.

“This expansion to Lincoln Road puts our students at the center of one of the most vibrant artistic hubs anywhere,” said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “Our goal is to enhance the educational experience in a way that also benefits our community and the arts.”

This fall the College of Architecture + The Arts (CARTA) will take up residence in 16,000 square feet of space at 420 Lincoln Road, a 1940 Art Deco icon, just blocks from the New World Symphony, Wolfsonian-FIU and the Bass Art Museum. FIU’s newest site is owned by one of FIU’s strongest supporters, former U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Paul L. Cejas, whose name graces the College’s School of Architecture building at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus in West Miami-Dade.

“Art and architecture are two passions of mine,” said Cejas. “I’m also passionate about FIU and nothing brings me greater satisfaction than playing a part in having arts and the university come closer to our community in a way that enhances both.”

CARTA Dean Brian Schriner explained that the 15-year lease agreement with 420 Lincoln Road points to a commitment to expand collaboration with other cultural institutions and partake in the creative energy that makes South Beach unique.

“In this international and creative environment, our faculty will collaborate with prominent artists, scholars, and designers to offer our students an exceptional educational experience that is truly Worlds Ahead,” Schriner said.

The Lincoln Road facility will house:

  • A design studio for 70 graduate students in architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture.
  • A gallery with exhibition and performance space as well as studio space for graduate visual arts students.
  • Music practice rooms and an ensemble room that will enhance the College’s collaboration with the nearby New World Symphony.

In addition, this site will be the home of the College of Architecture + The Arts’ new Office of  Engaged Scholarship and Creative Activities, whose mission will be to use design, visual, performing, and communication arts to engage with the community in collaborative problem-solving. The office will work closely with the University’s Office of Engagement and the Office of Sponsored Research Administration to generate new opportunities in the form of contracts, grants and other community-based projects.

“FIU’s expansion on Miami Beach is a win-win for both the university and the city,” said Miami Beach Mayor Matti Herrera Bower. “As home to so many cultural landmarks and incredible architecture, Miami Beach is already a living classroom for art, music and design. We welcome FIU to Lincoln Road, as it adds to our city’s unique offerings.”

“We look forward to serving as the canvas for FIU’s creative programs,” added Miami Beach City Manager Jorge M. Gonzalez. “This is truly a fantastic partnership.”

Earlier this year, FIU announced plans to expand its presence in downtown Miami by leasing two floors at 1101 Brickell Avenue. FIU Downtown on Brickell will open its doors later this summer with graduate degree offerings in business, public administration and global governance.

Media Contact: Maydel Santana-Bravo at 305-348-1555.