Is this the architect for the new DVC?

[Werner Weiss]

I've posted previously that the theme of the new Downtown Disney DVC resort is likely to be pre-determined by the inclusion of the old Disney Institute (DI) buildings as the core of the the DVC resort. I've speculated that DVD will look to Thomas Beeby, the architect of the Disney Institute, to design the DVC "residential districts" that will tie in to Beeby's existing DI complex -- just as DVD turned to Robert AM Stern, the architect of the Yacht & Beach Clubs, to design the Beach Club Villas. (Disney hasn't announced an architect for the Downtown Disney DVC yet.)

I found the Web site of Thomas Beeby's architectural firm, Hammond Beeby Rupert Ainge Inc., at http://www.hbra-arch.com/

I like what I saw there!

There are some good pictures of the Disney Insitute at http://www.hbra-arch.com/resort_files/disney.html . If you open a picture in a new window, you'll see a larger, more detailed picture. (Don't just click on it; use the right mouse button in Windows or hold down the mouse button in MacOS, and select "Open Image in New Window.")

Even more interesting, many of the firm's other projects show wonderful design skill with traditional American architecture, including the simple, rural and small town styles that would blend well with the Disney Institute buildings. I was glad to see this because I'm not a fan of Mr. Beeby's Harold Wahington Library in Chicago.

What do you think?

 

[PamOKW]

Pete has an article from the Orlando Business Journal posted in his News section. Part of the article relates to DI

Next in line for development is the revamping of the Disney Institute into an Upstate New York, Chautauqua-style design. The original town house units are being torn down -- in fact, the entire Institute is empty except for the spa and fit-ness center. The first 118-unit phase is set to open in spring 2004.


It sounds very reasonable that they will continue with the original architect and stick with this style. Thanks for the great link Werner.