Last updated on December 17, 2024
On Saturday, December 14, the Orlando Downtown Arts District celebrated the grand opening of the FORDify the Arts Courtyard at the historic Rogers Kiene Building in downtown Orlando. This new outdoor venue is set to transform the city’s entertainment and arts scene while paying homage to Church Street Station’s historic charm and legacy.
The grand opening event honored Bob Snow, the visionary founder of Church Street Station, whose contributions to Orlando’s cultural and entertainment history remain unparalleled.
The courtyard itself is a testament to thoughtful design and sustainability. Repurposed materials from the former Church Street Ballroom—including metallic gates, trusses, and bricks—have been creatively integrated into the 20-foot-wide, 90-foot-deep space. Now adorned with murals, seating, and historic architectural elements, the courtyard offers a unique blend of history and modern functionality.
Previously an alleyway used for overflow attendance at events, the space has been transformed into a vibrant outdoor venue available for public use during CityArts hours and rentable for private events.
The project is a culmination of a vision that began in 2018 with a fundraising campaign led by Downtown Arts District Board Member Paul Skomsky. The initiative was named “FORDify the Arts” in honor of the late philanthropist Ford Kiene, who originally purchased and restored the Rogers Kiene Building. Kiene’s dedication to the arts ensured the building would be preserved for at least 20 years as a hub for creativity, leaving a lasting legacy for downtown Orlando.
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