C. Camden Whitlock, AIA, LEED AP, founding principal of Architects Lewis + Whitlock, has announced his retirement effective at the end of the year.
Cam co-founded Architects Lewis + Whitlock (ALW) in 2000, with Florida A&M University classmate Rodney Lewis, and together they led the firm’s growth from a small, two-person firm focused solely on architecture into an integrated design studio setting new standards for performance and design excellence. Cam and Rodney have steadily grown and developed ALW into one of the largest and most successful firms in the North Florida region.
The firm’s portfolio contains some of the most distinguished structures in Tallahassee, including Waller Park at The State Capitol, 201 Park Avenue, Smokey Hollow, and the North Florida Innovation Labs.
Some might argue that their most significant projects can be found on the campuses of Florida State University, including the FSU Student Union, the Dunlap Success Center, The Globe, the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship, and Kotler-Coville Glass Pavilion at the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, just to name a few.
Larry Rubin, R.A., the former Director of Design and Construction at FSU, summed up their contributions this way: “Cam Whitlock and ALW have left a remarkable imprint on the physical appearance of Florida State. Their work is notable for blending contemporary design with elements that reflect FSU’s most historic architecture. They should be immensely proud of their achievements.”
Even with his impressive portfolio of institutional, civic, and commercial projects, Cam Whitlock’s true passion lies in residential architecture. He explains, “These projects often provide a greater sense of personal satisfaction, providing an opportunity to take a more hands-on role in design and revisit aspects of architecture that first sparked my interest in design.” Whitlock’s design philosophy emphasizes the creation of spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, blending modern innovation with timeless elements.
Whitlock’s residential projects, primarily located in Tallahassee’s mid-town area, showcase a contemporary take on Mid-Century Modern design. Fellow architect Mark Bertolami describes it as a renaissance; “Cam reintroduced a style of residential architecture that was prominent throughout much of Tallahassee in the 1950’s, 60’, and 70’s. His commitment to design excellence has earned ALW numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in residential design.”
Similar acclaim can be said for their commercial, civic, and recreational work, as evidenced by the numerous state, regional, and local architectural awards that ALW has earned. “We don’t begin projects with the goal of capturing a design award, says Rodney Lewis, “but it is gratifying to have a good number of our projects recognized by our peers.”
Cam’s departure comes at a time when new staff arrivals and internal promotions will fortify and empower the talents of the firm’s leadership team. Most recently, Architects Lewis + Whitlock announced the creation of three new vice president positions that will help guide the firm going forward. With Ryan Sheplak as Vice President of Architecture + Design, Matt Persinger as Vice President of Operations, and Emily Ely as Vice President of Interior Architecture, the firm is reinforcing its commitment to excellence in design. Rodney Lewis, at the helm, ensures continuity and a clear vision for the future.
Any look to the future must include a glance at the past, and in this case, Cam Whitlock’s remarkable career at ALW. Rodney Lewis put it this way: “Anyone who has ever worked with Cam knows not only what a good architect he is, but also what a great person he is. As he begins this new chapter, we are grateful for his friendship and generous spirit. Fair winds and following seas friend!”
About Architects Lewis + Whitlock
Architects Lewis + Whitlock (ALW) is an award-winning architecture, planning, and interior design studio based in Tallahassee, Florida. The firm’s business approach is based on the tenants of attention to detail, innovative project design, and client satisfaction. Founded in 2000, ALW showcases a diverse architectural portfolio of projects in higher education, hospitality, commercial offices, healthcare, recreation, retail, multi-family and residential housing, banking, and civic and cultural work. Through research and discovery, we create environments that benefit people and their communities and advance the profession.
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