John F. Rañon, AIA
Architect and Founder

As Rañon & Partners’ founder, John’s continued firm involvement is an inspiration to all who subscribe to the ideal of excellence. John was raised in Tampa in a construction family, and his lifetime experience includes an extensive background and wealth of knowledge pertaining to the design and construction of buildings that appropriately respond to Florida’s topography and climate. His 57 years of experience are guided by practical solutions to architectural questions. Upon his graduation from the University of Florida in 1951 with a degree in Architecture, John had a simple goal of creating a “Good Firm.” In 1956, he along with Frank McLane, Jr. founded McLane + Rañon, Architects, Inc. Today the firm is comprised of nine partners and is known as Rañon & Partners, Inc., Architects.

John’s goal of being defined as a “Good Firm” exceeds the normal accountability of a healthy architectural firm, complete with a good balance sheet and steady flow of commissions, which Rañon & Partners has achieved and maintained for 52 years under his direction. John’s definition of a “Good Firm” is multifaceted and meaningful. It extends to the well being of his partners and employees, his clients, and his community. To John, achieving this goal means that his firm has provided opportunities for designers to challenge their creativeness; fostered the professional development of young architectural talent; contributed to the advancement of the profession; and being involved with and working towards the betterment of the community. Although John will always measure his success in terms of people who enter as clients and stay as friends, there are specific achievements that demonstrate the qualities of John Rañon’s practice. Rañon & Partners has earned 45 local, state and national design awards, four interns won the prestigious AIA Tampa Bay Chapter Eduardo Garcia Award while designers in his office and almost annually, the office is mentoring one or more employees who are preparing for their professional examinations.