Valencia’s Historic Downtown Property for Sale, Lincoln to Market It

After purchasing a Metrowest property that will assist Valencia College in centralizing and economizing its key administrative functions, Valencia Foundation is offering its historic Chicone Building for sale or competitive lease.

Located on the corner of what realtors refer to as “Main and Main,” Valencia’s downtown center at Church Street and Orange Avenue is the sole original structure on that corner. The towers of SunTrust, Seaside and the Plaza occupy the rest of the intersection.

Constructed in 1930, the building is a notable part of Orlando’s downtown history. It is an Orlando Historic Landmark included in the Downtown Historical Preservation District and is a regular stop on walking tours. In fact, it is the site of the city’s very first bank robbery in 1947 when it was the site of First National Bank and Trust Company.

In a time not unlike Orlando’s current economy, First National erected the building to symbolize the country’s escape from the Great Depression. The architect, Howard M. Reynolds, is noted for designing Jones High School, Winter Park High School, Marks Street School, Cherokee Junior High School, Princeton Elementary School, First Congregational Church of Winter Park, the Orange County Chamber of Commerce and his homes near Thornton Park and in Orwin Manor and Winter Park. He was one of only 10 architects listed in the 1926 Orlando telephone directory.

Valencia’s building evokes the influences of ancient Egypt and has an Art Deco flair. The original brass and terrazzo staircase leads from the first floor to the second. Hidden staircases offer emergency exits out of the building, and a basement offers additional storage space.

West Orange’s iconic philanthropist Jerry Chicone and his family offered the building to the foundation at a very significant discount, in the form of a generous donation. In 1980, it became Valencia’s Chicone Building and downtown center.

Lincoln Property Company is marketing the property, which offers a prestigious address at 190 South Orange Avenue, outstanding access to the downtown nightlife, and a bit of timeless charm.

The 28,716-square-foot space can potentially be used for residences or offices and also is well-suited for ground-floor retail, as it once housed a pharmacy.

“We are excited to have landed this assignment and to be marketing a property that is close to the hearts of so many Orlando residents,” said Joe Rossi, senior vice president of Investment Sales at Lincoln. “It is a special building in a hard-to-beat location, and we look forward to talking with potential buyers about it.”

For more information or to set up an appointment to view, please contact Joe Rossi at (407) 872-3533 or visit the property’s listing on Lincoln’s website.