Palm Beach State architecture students explore visionary urban design on exclusive Related Ross site visit

Palm Beach State College architecture students recently gained a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of South Florida’s most dynamic urban development projects during an exclusive professional site visit to Related Ross in downtown West Palm Beach. The visit offered firsthand exposure to how large-scale design, real-estate innovation, and community building intersect to shape the city’s future skyline.

Guided by Greg Kuhlman, vice president of Office Leasing at Related Companies, students participated in an in-depth presentation and walking tour featuring landmark projects such as One Flagler. Kuhlman shared insight into the firm’s approach to placemaking, economic resilience, and the integration of forward-thinking architecture within the city’s evolving urban fabric.

The experience allowed students to see classroom concepts—such as urban scale, mixed-use design, material expression, and user experience—come to life at a professional level. Through this interaction, they gained practical understanding of how visionary planning and architecture work together to create vibrant city environments.

“This experience provided our students with an invaluable opportunity to connect what they’re learning in the studio to real-world projects that are transforming our community,” said Ayhan Lambaz, associate professor of architecture at Palm Beach State. “By engaging directly with industry leaders and seeing these developments up close, our students can better envision their own roles in shaping South Florida’s built environment.”

The visit underscores Palm Beach State’s commitment to experiential learning, connecting academic study with hands-on industry engagement. By fostering relationships with prominent firms and professionals in the field, the College continues to prepare its architecture students to lead as creative, informed contributors to the region’s future growth.