GENERATIONAL ARCHITECTURE
Element by Westin
Greenville, North Carolina
Owner: Westin Hotels
Developer: Windsor/Aughtry | Civil: Thomas and Hutton | Landscape: CriderLand Design
MEP: Jordan & Skala | Structural: Britt, Peters & Associates | GC: DPR
Contractor: Harper Corporation
Dear Friends …
The term “generational architecture” typically refers to designing with future generations in mind. It involves sustainable and resilient practices that create enduring places of significance. But I’d like to share a different perspective: how architecture itself evolves across multiple generations. Much like families, our buildings have their “offspring,” reflecting lessons learned, aspirations, and changing needs.
Baby Boomers: Post-WWII optimism fueled suburban expansion and new building types. Architecture emphasized functionality and modernism, leading to iconic mid-century designs.
Generation X: Straddling tradition and innovation, Gen X embraced adaptive reuse and more context-sensitive design. They valued authenticity and often revived older styles with modern updates.
Millennials: Sustainability, technology, and social values define Millennial architecture. This generation champions green buildings, mixed-use communities, and innovative spaces that support collaboration and inclusivity.
Generation Z: The current rising generation brings a digital and eco-centric outlook. These users are drawn to interactive, tech-integrated spaces and demand resilience in the face of climate change. Architecture now must not only serve but inspire and connect, fostering well-being and adaptability for yet the future.
I think it’s a perspective that helps ODA’s commitment to timeless architecture. We design responsively and contextually, anticipating the “offspring” that will emerge from today’s projects. Each building we create may inspire the next generation of places, just as our predecessors’ works inspire us today.
— Stephen Overcash, Founding Principal, ODA Architecture
Article by Stephen Overcash
Featured Projects
Mall House / Hall of Fame Car Wash
Greenville, North Carolina
A full-service wash, lube, and oil change in a large facility that can serve 90 cars per hour with 60 employees.
This innovative destination merges convenience with an entertainment-style environment.
Owner: Hall of Fame House | Civil: Blue Water Civil Design | Structural: Britt, Peters & Associates | Contractor: Harper General Contractors
Bed and Bark Expansion
Waxhaw, North Carolina
Expansion of the Bed and Bark Pet Resort in Waxhaw, NC features luxurious boarding suites and outdoor play yards.
Designed for interaction and comfort, this expansion enhances an already vibrant community asset.
Owner: Bed and Bark | Civil: Blue Water Civil Design | Structural: Structural PM+E | GC: Southside Construction
Town Hall Office
Fort Mill, South Carolina
New office space in downtown Fort Mill, combining a historic feel with modern amenities.
Owner: Stephen Trial | Civil: Site Design | Structural: Taylor and Viola | MEP: Weaver Engineering
Ferguson Crossing
Spartanburg, South Carolina
Ferguson Crossing is a new medical/retail development coming soon. The complex will include a surgery center, retail, and restaurant spaces.
Thoughtfully designed to reflect the community’s needs, it will become a hub of healthcare and retail activity.
Owner: R. Anderson | Civil: Seamon Whiteside | Structural: Trial & PM+E | GC: Harper General Contractors
Home 2 TSM Athens
Athens, Georgia
A new Home 2 hotel in Athens, Georgia, offering modern extended-stay facilities with sustainable design.
The property features suites with kitchens, fitness center, and outdoor social spaces. Its location provides access to major roadways and institutions.
Owner: BPR Properties | Civil: Center Design Group | Structural: PM+E | Weaver Engineering | Interior Design: Gensler | Contractor: BPR
EXTRA! EXTRA!
Please join us in welcoming Michelle Wright to ODA!
Michelle, who comes from a Mexican, Boston, and NY background, has degrees in civil engineering and brings a wealth of experience to our team.
Her infectious outlook blends college joy, learning, and growth mindset. She is already brightening our firm!
ODA looks forward to all we are destined to achieve together!
Element Grand Opening
Wilmington, North Carolina
The grand opening of Element by Westin was celebrated on Sept. 3rd. The ribbon-cut ceremony featured live music. Multiple neighbors toured one of the premiere outdoor shopping areas of Wilmington.
This project was designed to focus on wellness, sustainability, and flexibility, which are the hallmarks of the Element brand. The Wilmington location includes a full-service restaurant, indoor/outdoor bar, meeting space, and fitness center.
