VMDO Architects

Rollins College is a nationally recognized liberal arts institution located on the outskirts of Orlando, Florida, in the city of Winter Park. Its tree-lined campus paths, well-maintained quads, and beautiful gardens are backdrop to an outstanding collection of Spanish mission-style buildings that establish a consistent impression of regionally inspired design, appropriate to this unique part of the country. Situated on the north shore of Lake Virginia, the compact campus benefits from its proximity to the shops and restaurants in Winter Park, it’s easy access to downtown Orlando, and the recreational assets within an easy stroll from Mills Lawn.

The Rollins master planning effort, launched in the fall of 2023, studied, documented, and reported on the existing conditions of the Rollins community and to posed judicious proposals to help improve the design, layout, and programming of the campus in accordance with the goals set forth by the college’s strategic plan. To make meaningful and lasting recommendations, the master planning effort required the participation of a range of nationally recognized consultants with expertise in their associated field of work, and demanded a deep and focused study of the ways the college operates. Spanning eighteen months, and touching every corner of Rollins’ academic, athletic, student life, and administrative functions, the master plan required three separate planning teams to accomplish what has been synthesized and presented as a singular study under VMDO’s supervision.

Using the Rollins Mission and 2021 Strategic Plan as guides and working in collaboration with a core group of college representatives, the master plan team drafted the following goals that would eventually serve as the “north star” for all decisions made regarding the proposed path forward for the College as mapped out in the pages that follow:

• Elevate the academic standing of the college by investing in new, flexible, technology-rich classroom spaces.

• Forge stronger connections with Winter Park and the broader Central Florida region.

• Create on-campus living options that provide world-class settings for intellectual growth, healthy lifestyles and social belonging for every student.

• Invest in over-enrolled programs and promote their success through enhanced spaces for teaching and learning.

• Deliver on the promise of athletics at Rollins by developing resources to better align with that of peer institutions.

• Continue to provide best-in-class dining options and expand the opportunities for Rollins to meet the growing demand for food service across campus.

• Plan for unanticipated future needs by acquiring adjacent parcels when they become financially viable.