Jacksonville-based Kasper architects + associates Inc. is seeking Downtown Development Review Board conceptual and final approval for the facade renovation of its planned urban studio in the Cathedral District.
The vacant building is at 500 N. Ocean St., at northwest Ocean and Church streets.
Built in 1982, two-story structure is about 5,000 square feet.
Kasper’s renovation would include adding brick veneer to the Church and Ocean Street elevations, increasing the size of six windows and installing aluminum storefronts for all windows, according to the DDRB staff report.
The review board staff recommends approval of the application.
Kasper architects + associates will maintain its core studio at 10175 Fortune Parkway near The Avenues mall, said Erik Kasper, president and principal architect.
The company is responding to the surrounding growth in Downtown and the new projects planned and under construction. Its current design work with the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Museum of Science & History, the Jacksonville Armada and the Shipyards project contributed to its commitment to Downtown, Kasper said.
“We are passionate about Downtown. The expansion is an investment in Downtown,” he said.
Kasper Land LLC bought the Ocean Street building for $585,000 in August 2023.
The seller was Five Hundred North Ocean LLC.
In addition to the facade renovation, Kasper architects plans a full interior remodeling of the building and is pursuing a permit for that project.
Kasper said he hopes both projects will be completed in May.
The company plans to hold its 20th anniversary celebration in the building when the new office is finished.
Kasper also has a branch office in Raleigh, North Carolina.
The DDRB is scheduled to meet at 2 p.m. Jan. 11 in a conference room at the Main Library at 303 N. Laura St.
