ADAC: Behind the Windows

Spring 2018

This installation of ADAC: Behind the Windows is a special tribute to the evolution of ADAC and the legacy of its visionary founder, Mr. John C. Portman Jr.

ADAC Opens as a Design Center for the Trade | 1961

John C. Portman, Jr. recognized the need for a decorative arts center for design professionals and opened the first phase of ADAC in 1961. ADAC was one of Mr. Portman’s first ventures and is still owned by the Portman family today. The original complex consisted of two long, parallel, one-story buildings connected at either end by brick screens.

Two-Story Expansion | 1970

As the demand for luxury interior design resources grew, Mr. Portman designed a two-story addition that connected the two parallel buildings at the rear of the property. The three elements faced an open interior court with parking, plantings and fountains.

2nd and 3rd Floors Added & Garage Created | 1978

Understanding the design community’s need to see colors and products in natural light, Mr. Portman designed one of his hallmark atriums at the center of ADAC’s initial two-story expansion.

4th & 5th Middle Floors Added | 1982

As demand for the products and resources at ADAC continued to grow, Mr. Portman added two new floors to the building’s central core. At this time, skylights were added above the atrium and circular stairways. However, the building was not fully enclosed and conditioned until 2006.

ADAC West Developed | 1986

Mr. Portman expanded ADAC by purchasing the warehouse building next to the main building that is known today as
ADAC West.

Building Enclosed and Presentation Room Created | 2006

By 2006, the design community viewed ADAC not only as a place for sourcing luxury products, but also a place for learning and networking. In response, Mr. Portman created the Designer Lounge and Presentation Room, which is now a choice event venue for many of the world’s top design talents.

Sculptures Added to ADAC Campus | 2007

With a lifelong dedication to celebrating the relationship between art and architecture, Mr. Portman commissioned a perforated Corten steel tower formation, “South Music,” by sculptor Angel Orensanz. Originally on top of the Marriott Marquis, the sculptures were moved to ADAC in 2007 and have since become a landmark in the community.

ADAC Mourns its Founder and Continues His Legacy | 2018

With heavy hearts, ADAC mourned the loss of Mr. Portman, who died in December 2017 at the age of 93. He taught us well and through our continued efforts, the legacy of John Portman will continue to be a positive force in the world.

ADAC Opens to the Public | 2012

As technology created an ever-increasing demand for and access to information about design, Mr. Portman recognized the need to allow the public to experience the products at the Center. With a month-long celebration, he invited the world to DISCOVER ADAC…and to understand the value of working with interior design professionals who can deftly navigate the half-million square foot complex.