Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Innovative Architecture & Sustainable Design Solutions
Founded in 1958, Schenkel & Shultz has established itself as a leader in architectural design, urban planning, and sustainable development. Our firm combines six decades of experience with a forward-thinking approach to create spaces that inspire communities and advance institutional missions. We specialize in aviation, education, public safety, and cultural projects, emphasizing relationship-driven design rooted in critical thinking and fiscal responsibility. Our team of certified professionals has pioneered innovative solutions, including Florida's first LEED-certified building and the world's first LEED v4 Intermodal Terminal.Committed to sustainability, we actively participate in the AIA 2030 Commitment and Materials Pledge, integrating environmental stewardship into every project. With offices in Winter Park, Sarasota, and Southwest Florida, we serve clients locally and internationally, maintaining a legacy of design excellence recognized through numerous industry awards.
Services
Architecture
Urban Design
Sustainable Design
Interior Design
Environmental Graphics
Details
- Year established: 1958
Highlights and features
- 65 years of architectural experience with award-winning sustainable designs
- Pioneered Florida's first LEED-certified building and LEED v4 Intermodal Terminal
- Specialized expertise in aviation, education, and public safety infrastructure
- Recipient of AIA Orlando's 2025 Firm of the Year award
- Maintains three Florida offices with international project experience
Associations and certifications
- LEED Certified
- AIA 2030 Commitment
- AIA Materials Pledge
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services focus on creating functional, sustainable spaces that enhance community engagement. We specialize in educational facilities, aviation infrastructure, and public safety buildings. Our designs integrate innovative solutions with environmental responsibility, as demonstrated by our work on Florida's first LEED-certified building and the world's first LEED v4 Intermodal Terminal.
Sustainable Design
We incorporate sustainability into every project through the AIA Framework for Design Excellence. Our approach includes energy-efficient systems, low-carbon materials, and adaptive reuse strategies. As signatories of the AIA 2030 Commitment, we help clients achieve environmental goals while maintaining fiscal responsibility in projects ranging from schools to transportation hubs.
Urban Design
Our urban design services create cohesive environments that balance development with community needs. We develop master plans for educational campuses, transportation centers, and mixed-use developments. Our work emphasizes walkability, public spaces, and infrastructure that supports long-term growth while preserving local character and cultural heritage.
Interior Design
We design interior environments that enhance functionality and user experience. Our services include space optimization, material selection, and lighting design for commercial, educational, and public sector clients. Each project incorporates sustainable practices while maintaining alignment with the building's overall architectural vision and the client's operational requirements.
Environmental Graphics
Our environmental graphics solutions integrate visual communication with architectural spaces. We create wayfinding systems, branded environments, and interpretive displays that enhance user experience. These elements are carefully coordinated with building design to improve navigation, reinforce institutional identity, and create engaging public spaces in airports, schools, and cultural institutions.
People
J. Thomas Chandler
President & CEO 1998 - 2020
Led firm expansion from Indiana to Florida, establishing Orlando office in 1983. Directed growth into international education design projects, including Ramstein High School in Germany. Oversaw transition to employee-owned structure in 2020.
Dave Torbert
Partner
AIA-certified design lead with expertise in educational facilities. Directed projects including Porter Family Center for Innovation & Academics at Lake Highland Preparatory School. Active participant in AIA Orlando Allied Advantage program.
Ekta Desai
Design Lead/Partner
AIA-registered architect specializing in innovative educational design. Contributed to award-winning K-12 and higher education projects across Florida. Focuses on creating learning environments that support modern pedagogical approaches and sustainability principles.
Kasey Teimouri
Principal
AIA-recognized leader in architectural design with emphasis on civic and cultural projects. Directed design teams for significant public safety and community facilities. Active in mentoring young professionals through firm's educational initiatives.
Csar Pelli
Influential Architect
Renowned architect (1926-2019) whose work inspired firm's design philosophy. Though not directly affiliated, his legacy of combining functionality with artistic expression continues to influence Schenkel & Shultz's approach to architectural excellence.
Questions
What architectural services does Schenkel Shultz offer?
We provide full-service architecture, urban design, sustainable design, interior design, and environmental graphics. Our expertise spans aviation, education, public safety, and cultural projects.
How does the firm approach sustainable design?
We follow the AIA Framework for Design Excellence and are signatories of the AIA 2030 Commitment. Our approach includes energy-efficient systems, low-carbon materials, and adaptive reuse strategies.
What notable projects has the firm completed?
Key projects include Orlando International Airport's LEED v4 Intermodal Terminal, Winter Springs High School, and international DoDEA schools. We also designed Florida's first LEED-certified building.
What is the firm's design philosophy?
Our approach combines relationship-driven design with critical thinking, fiscal responsibility, and sustainability. We focus on creating spaces that connect people to place while addressing functional requirements.
How long has the firm been in business?
Schenkel Shultz has been designing impactful spaces since 1958, with 65 years of experience in architectural and urban design solutions.
