City of Columbia holds successful Center for Architecture grand opening

The City of Columbia, American Institute of Architects South Carolina Chapter (AIASC), South Carolina Architectural Foundation (SCAF) and the Main Street District, held a grand opening for the Center of Architecture on Friday, August 1, 2025. Located at 1530 Main Street, Suite C, the newly renovated space serves as South Carolina’s premier collaboration dedicated to advancing architectural excellence, design education, and multi-disciplinary engagement focused on the built environment.

“It’s fantastic to see the Center for Architecture open its doors right here on Main Street demonstrating what we can achieve when the City of Columbia works hand-in-hand with great partners, like AIASC and SCAF,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann.  “This isn’t just about cool buildings. It’s about fostering creativity, bringing in new ideas, and boosting our local economy by celebrating how great design shapes communities for the better.”

Speakers included Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, Councilman Peter Brown, Director of Economic Development Ryan Coleman, and Main Street District President and CEO Matt Kennell. A celebration and guest speaker presentation by John Wofford, Partner with Astral Development, followed the grand opening ceremony.

“The Center for Architecture represents a significant milestone for South Carolina’s architectural community and the City of Columbia,” said Jamison Hupp, AIA, CDT, LEED AP for Homes, Principal / Architect with Fathom Firm, and AIA-South Carolina 2025 President. “We’ve created a dynamic space and exhibit venue where professionals, students, and the public can connect, learn, and collaborate on shaping our architectural future.”

“Our mission is to advance public awareness of the power of architecture, planning, and design, increase the broader appreciation of the influence of architecture that is shaping our cities and rural communities, and to provide education and public engagement that shares the rich legacy of architecture in South Carolina, said Craig Park, FSMPS, Associate AIA, Chair of the South Carolina Architectural Foundation. “The Center for Architecture provides the perfect venue for those goals.”

About the Center for Architecture

The Center for Architecture serves as the headquarters for the American Institute of Architects, South Carolina Chapter (AIASC), the South Carolina Architectural Foundation (SCAF), and is their physical home for architectural discourse, education, professional and community engagement in South Carolina. Through exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and cultural programming, the Center for Architecture aims to elevate the importance of design in creating vibrant, sustainable communities.

More information on both organizations can be found at www.AIASC.org.