Press
Acknowledgements and accolades: celebrating our design excellence
The Apalachicola Museum of African American Culture and History is moving forward with plans, targeting completion by fall 2025, with architects Hammond and Rhodes+Brito working on a design due in January. The project, integrating with the Holy Family Senior Center, explores options like varied elevations or a connected design with architectural features, located on Dr. Frederick S. Humphries Street.
From working overtime with no guaranteed income to winning major contracts, learn how Rhodes+Brito Architects grew into one of Central Florida’s most notable design firms.
Ruffin Rhodes, co-founder of Rhodes+Brito Architects, shares insights on creating a successful career in architecture, emphasizing the importance of continual learning, integrity, humility, and a strong work ethic. Drawing from his personal journey from a curious, creative child to leading a thriving architectural firm, Rhodes highlights notable projects like transforming an abandoned grocery store into a multicultural senior center, underscoring the firm’s commitment to community-enhancing projects.
In celebration of Black History Month, leaders from Black-owned architecture firms, including Rhodes+Brito, shared key advice for aspiring Black architects aiming to start and lead successful firms. Emphasizing the significance of trust, a focused mission, community engagement, excellence in every endeavor, and the importance of gaining diverse experience, these leaders highlight the powerful impact their work can have on communities and the built environment.
In Orlando, five entrepreneurs, Laine Powell, Markys Mackey, Ruffin Rhodes, Max Brito, and Harold Mills, have notably impacted the local business community with their ventures, driven by a strong sense of passion, persistence, and a commitment to community uplift. Their diverse ventures, ranging from construction and architecture to STEM education and venture capital, have significantly influenced the way business operates in Central Florida, showcasing the power of innovative leadership in shaping a city’s economic and social landscape.
Maximiano Brito, a partner at Rhodes+Brito Architects, has significantly contributed to the architectural field over the past 27 years, notably receiving recognition from the Orlando Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, such as the Firm of the Year award in 2016 and the Nils Schweizer Community Service Award in 2019. He is deeply inspired by the potential to positively impact people’s lives through his work and the mentorship of employees and students.
Maximiano “Max” Brito, co-founder and partner of Rhodes+Brito Architects, was honored with the 2019 Nils M. Schweizer Award by the Orlando Chapter of the American Institute of Architects for his significant contributions to community service through architecture. Brito emphasizes that his firm’s dedication to designing public spaces and educational institutions is a core part of their commitment to giving back to the community.
Ruffin Rhodes from Rhodes+Brito is one of the guest speakers who shares his knowledge, experiences, and insight with emerging young and future architects.
Rhodes + Brito Architects is the largest African American-owned architectural practice in Florida and boasts the highest number of registered black architects. Here’s how company President Ruffin Rhodes helped grow the company.