Project Completion: ADFS Huntsville

We’re excited to unveil the new one-story Forensic Laboratory/Medical Facility on the University of Alabama at Huntsville’s campus!

Spanning 25,000 SF on a 5.5-acre lot, this state-of-the-art facility will be a critical hub for the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, one of the nation’s oldest crime laboratory systems.

Designed with the latest mechanical and electrical systems, the facility houses specialized forensic services, including Death Investigation, Drug Chemistry, and Forensic Biology. Key features include a welcoming, daylit lobby, secure evidence-handling areas, and collaborative workspaces with maximized daylight and views. Staff well-being was a priority, with dedicated respite spaces and an outdoor amphitheater-style classroom for training.

This facility is more than a building; it’s a commitment to justice, safety, and the community. We’re honored to contribute to the continued excellence of forensic services in Alabama. 🕵️‍♂️🧬

Welcome Candela Bajo!

AUBURN ARCHITECTURE GRAD CANDELA BAJO JOINS OUR TEAM!

Candela Bajo is a recent Auburn Architecture graduate & the newest addition to our team! We’re thrilled to have her; she has already rolled up her sleeves and jumped into projects! Get to know Candela a little bit below!

What sort of music do you listen to?

“My Spotify Daylist told me "vintage laurel canyon afternoon"...”

What is your favorite vacation spot?

“Visiting my family in Argentina or Spain! I also really enjoy camping in national parks or near any other natural landmarks.”

What’s one of your favorite things about Birmingham?

“The scale of the city and the fun restaurants/cocktail bars downtown.”

What made you want to study Architecture?

“I knew I needed a balance of creativity and analytical processes. I also love getting to contribute to the built environment.”

What was your first job? What did you learn from it?

“Babysitting – I learned how to make something sound compelling to a five-year-old.”

Education: Auburn University, Bachelor of Architecture, 2024

Hometown: Birmingham, AL

Project Completion: UAB School of Dentistry

We are excited to share the completed two-level, 21,000-square-foot renovation at UAB's School of Dentistry!

The transformation enhances patient flow and boosts faculty-student interactions. The updated reception and waiting areas, with recessed and natural lighting, a modern front desk, and sleek glass paneling, create a welcoming and contemporary atmosphere. The new clinic design fosters educational opportunities and patient privacy, ensuring brighter smiles all around. 😁

We’re celebrating the outstanding career of Chuck Penuel, AIA, NCARB!

A few of Chuck’s career highlights include:

📐 cultivating relationships with esteemed healthcare partners St. Vincent’s Health System (@stvhealth) + Noland Health Services

📐 several volunteer positions with American Institute of Architects (@aiabirmingham @aiaalabama) and the Alabama Registration Board of Architects

📐 and, most notably, co-founding Birchfield Penuel Architects with Clay Birchfield in 1987.

His 37 years of leadership, alongside Clay, established BPA as a prominent healthcare architecture firm based in central Alabama. We bittersweetly announce his “retirement” as a managing principal and proudly bestow the titles “Founder & Principal Emeritus” to convey his evolving role within BPA. As a consultant, he will continue to impart wisdom, contribute to creative solutions, and bring his cheerful demeanor.

Cheers, Chuck! And congratulations on a remarkable career!

Welcome Michael Sanford!

we are excited to introduce michael sanford as our new billing specialist!

We are excited to introduce our new billing specialist, Michael, to BPA. With a keen eye for detail, Michael brings a wealth of experience in financial management and client relations. We are confident that her dedication and professionalism will enhance our clients' experience and contribute to our firm's continued success. Please join us in welcoming Michael to the team!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

“I enjoy walking/running and working out at Squad Fitness”

What sort of music do you listen to?

“My music matches my mood, which could vary from Dr. Dre/Snoop Dog to Olivia Rodrigo/Hozier to Green Day to Lauren Daigle, with a little new country mixed in from time to time.”

Favorite TV show?

“Rookie or Grey’s Anatomy”

Where would we find you on a typical Saturday?

“Depending on the time of year, you may find me at a track meet watching my son compete as a Pole Vaulter; he currently attends Mississippi State and is on their track team. Or you may find me enjoying Pepper Place Market and all the wonderful local goodies.”

Fun Fact: “On the side, as my creative outlet, I am a Cottage Baker specializing in custom sugar cookies.”

Hometown: Comer, AL

Our Office Renovation Wins Big at the AIA Birmingham Design Awards!

We are thrilled to announce that our recent Office Renovation project has been honored with the prestigious Honor Award and the People’s Choice Award at the AIA Birmingham Design Awards Ceremony! These accolades recognize our commitment to exceptional design, innovation, and community engagement.

A huge thank you to everyone who voted for us for the People's Choice Award! We couldn't have achieved this without an amazing community that believes in our vision.

Nestled within the historic walls of a 1960s vintage office building, our firm has maintained a steadfast presence within the urban landscape of downtown Homewood, AL, since its founding in 1987. We considered relocation but opted for continuity, drawn to the convenience and vibrancy of downtown Homewood. The original building layout posed a unique challenge with its lack of internal vertical connection between floors, but there was an opportunity to convert it into a single-tenant space.

“This project is transformative in an admirable and intuitive way. The impactful moves clearly reflect the firm’s values and priorities, and the interior is clean and nicely detailed.”

Through a comprehensive renovation, we endeavored to increase connectivity, infuse daylight, foster collaboration, and establish presence & brand recognition. 

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The winning project team included Muya Engineering, LBYD, and RJ Mechanical.

Featured materials by Steel City Metal, Nydree Flooring, Interface, Sesco Lighting, Business Interiors, JSI Furniture, J+J Flooring Group, and Carpet Specialities.

Project photos by Rob Culpepper and event photos by Olivia B. Photography.

Celebrating with drinks + dessert at Juniper!

Outside of Back Forty Beer Company, this year’s Design Award’s venue!

Welcome back to BPA, Rachel Hatcher!

BPA is excited to welcome Rachel Hatcher back to our firm as Business Manager! With her deep understanding of our company culture and exceptional leadership skills, we are confident that Rachel will be pivotal in driving BPA forward. Her expertise and innovative approach will undoubtedly contribute to our ongoing growth and success, and we are thrilled to have her back on board!

GET TO KNOW, Rachel! 

What do you like to do in your spare time/what hobbies do you have?: I enjoy working in my yard, gardening, and growing a small garden.

What sort of music do you listen to?:  I am an 80’s rock girl!

What is your favorite vacation spot?: I enjoy getting away to the beach or to the lake.

What are you most proud of in your career? I am most proud of completing the full circle of architecture and construction: I have now worked on the contractor, owner, and architect side.

Designing Growth: Celebrating Three Promotions at BPA!

We’re excited to share some great news with you all—Please join us in congratulating three outstanding individuals from our office who have been promoted! These promotions recognize their hard work and achievements and reflect our commitment to supporting growth and development within our team. We look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success as they take on new challenges in their roles.

Melissa porter, rid, iida, ncidq, leed ap

senior associate | registered interior designer

Melissa’s distinctive combination of hard work, outstanding design skills, excellent client relations, and easy-going nature profoundly enriches our firm. We appreciate Melissa’s dedication and remarkable talent, which enhance our projects and foster a positive and collaborative work environment. It is with great pleasure that we recognize her invaluable contributions and proudly announce her promotion to Senior Associate.

Learn more about some of the projects Melissa’s been involved in while at BPA:

How are you excited for BPA’s future?

“Over the past decade, my journey at BPA has been nothing short of remarkable, primarily because of the incredible individuals I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. These ten years have been more than just professional milestones; they’ve been a journey of personal growth filled with shared challenges and triumphs.

Looking ahead, I am filled with optimism and excitement for the future of BPA. The seeds of leadership shown over the years have grown into a promising next generation of talent. Through training, mentorship, and a commitment to fostering creativity, I am confident that the emerging leaders at BPA are well-equipped to carry forward the legacy of our predecessors.”

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Micah martin, aia, ncarb

senior associate | registered architect

Micah’s contributions at BPA are truly remarkable. His intelligence, design prowess, outstanding communication skills, unwavering work ethic, and talent for fostering strong client relationships render him an indispensable asset to our team. We sincerely appreciate Micah’s multifaceted impact on BPA, and it is with great enthusiasm that we announce his well-deserved promotion to Senior Associate.

Learn more about some of the projects Micah’s been involved in while at BPA:

What do you look forward to in your new role?

“I look forward to collaborating, sharing knowledge with the younger hires, and participating in their development. I’ve learned so much from the people who worked here before me. Now that I’ve been given more responsibility and we’re rapidly adding new talent, it will be cool being on the other side of it.”

Any current exciting projects?

“I’m the Project Architect for the Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s new ground-up campus. It’s been an ongoing vision for the client and our firm for several years, so it’s exciting to break ground finally!”

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cassandra hopkins, rid, iida, ncidq

associate | registered interior designer

Cassandra is an indispensable team member, embodying qualities vital to our firm’s operations. Her dedication, meticulous attention to detail, prompt client responsiveness, and positive attitude set her apart as an exceptional designer and project manager. We want to congratulate Cassandra on her recent Interior Design Licensure and announce her promotion to Associate at BPA.

Learn more about some of the projects Cassandra’s been involved in while at BPA:

How has BPA helped you become a better professional in your respective field?

“BPA’s support of continuing education and the diverse nature of our work environment are testaments to the organization’s dedication to excellence and innovation. It encourages me to learn about new product innovations, code improvements, and strategies for improving interior environments for our clients. Also, the diversity of projects we undertake at BPA presents countless learning opportunities, and I am grateful to expand my knowledge and skills in pursuit of creating exceptional spaces for our clients.”

Welcome Austin Black!

AUSTIN, AN auburn architecture Grad, Joins our team!

Austin is an Auburn University Architecture graduate & a recent addition to our team! Austin is originally from Birmingham, AL; we’re thrilled to have him back in the magic city! Fun fact: “I am very allergic to my dog, but I still let her sleep on my bed because she’s perfect and deserves to be comfy.”

(Keep scrolling to see photos of the aforementioned dog.)

What sort of music do you listen to?

“I mostly listen to indie and alternative music, although I’ll pretty much listen to anything besides new country. My top artists this past year were Laufey, who makes jazzy bossa nova style pop music, and Kate Bollinger, who is an indie singer-songwriter.”

Favorite TV show?

“When I was a kid and my brother came home from college, we watched The Office together, which has always been one of my favorites. More recently, though, I watched Andor, and I’m a huge Star Wars fan, so I really enjoyed seeing an action/drama set in that universe that is outside of the Skywalker saga.”

Where would we find you on a typical Saturday?

“I’d probably either be at home working on whatever latest project I’ve given myself or out walking around listening to a podcast.”

What is your favorite vacation spot?

“My favorite place to visit in the U.S. has been Chicago. They have many great comedy and jazz clubs, which are the perfect place to go with friends. But my all-time favorite city that I’ve ever visited is Madrid. It has beautiful public spaces, great food, and is the perfect place to walk around and be a pedestrian, which is one of my favorite things to do.”

What made you want to study architecture?

“I always loved creating, designing, and building things. I originally thought that I would be an engineer because that was what most of my friends in high school were going into, but I knew I needed something more creative, so I decided to go into Architecture because I saw it as a marriage between the analytical and creative parts of me.”

Education: Auburn University, Bachelor of Architecture, 2023

Hometown: Birmingham, AL

Welcome Stacy Williams!

stacy williams, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB — Joins our team!

Stacy, who recently moved to Birmingham with her pup Bailey, joins BPA with tons of healthcare experience, a love of historic buildings, and a great sense of humor! Fun fact—she has a list of fifty regattas and is trying to go to each one once! Learn a little more about Stacy below:

What do you like to do in your spare time/what hobbies do you have?

“Rowing, discovering life in Birmingham (and looking for the best margarita.)”

Have you ever had another career in mind?

“Animation.”

Who is your role model, and why?

“Jeanne Gang. I think she has a very thoughtful design process. Her work includes research that informs her design and allows her to understand buildings and spaces in a way that doesn’t rely on mimicking what has been done before.”

What scares you?

“Spoiled milk.”

Who is your favorite architect throughout history?

“Greene & Greene”

What are you most proud of in your career?

“I passed my exams in 6 months and didn’t fail any of them. Working on programming for an 850+ bed replacement hospital was something that I’m not necessarily proud of, but it was a game changer for me.”

Education: Miami University (Ohio), Bachelor of Arts in Architectural History, University of Illinois, Master of Architecture; University of Michigan, Master of Science in Architecture.

Hometown: Dublin, Ohio

New name. New look. Same BPA.

We are thrilled to unveil our refreshed branding, ushering in a new chapter for our firm. For over 35 years, we have steadfastly committed to deep-seated integrity and intentional design. Today, we take that commitment to a whole new level.

Our brand identity now mirrors the essence of our design philosophy—bold, innovative, and impactful. We understand that design has the power to shape the world around us. Our new brand is a testament to our dedication to creating inspiring and enduring spaces.

Welcome Ann Sheldon!

auburn architecture Grad, ann, Joins our team!

Ann is a recent Auburn University Architecture graduate & the newest addition to our team! Ann is originally from Mobile, AL; we’re thrilled to have her in the magic city! Fun fact: She recently adopted a small orange tabby named Nugget! Learn a little more about Ann below:

What do you like to do in your spare time/what hobbies do you have?

“Painting, playing with my cat, Nugget, spending time with friends and family, reading, and traveling.”

What is your favorite vacation spot?

“Growing up on the coast gave me a love for the water, so my favorite spots are anywhere I can swim and snorkel. My favorite spots I’ve been to are the Florida Keys and Dubrovnik, Croatia.”

Favorite TV show?

“New Girl”

Have you ever had another career in mind?

“As a little kid, I dreamed of owning a pet hotel. That changed into wanting to become an artist, which then turned into wanting to be an architect.”

Where would we find you on a typical Saturday?

“Lately, I have been spending my Saturdays playing with Nugget or by the pool with friends!”

What made you want to study architecture?

“There was no key reason for choosing architecture. I knew I wanted to enter a creative field, and the more I learned about the profession, the more it seemed to fit.”

Education: Auburn University, Bachelor of Architecture, 2023

Hometown: Mobile, AL

BPA's Summer Travels 2023

As the days grew longer and the temperatures soared, our team of Architects and Designers took a break from their drafting tables and construction sites to embark on summer adventures! From idyllic beach getaways to thrilling adventures, join us as we take you on a vicarious summer trip filled with unforgettable experiences and inspiring sights through the lens of BPA team members. ✌

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Alan embarked on an 8-day canoe trip to the boundary waters between the us and canada.

Alan and his two boys, Harrison and Griffin, and their Boy Scout troop drove to north Minnesota for an 8-day canoe trip. The group was split into three crews, and each crew was responsible for planning their overall route, daily itinerary, and meals and packing necessities for the three weeks in a canoe. They had no guide, no cell service, and relied on a map to find their way… what an adventure!

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allison visited family in new york city with her husband, nate, and daughter, lilly.

Lilly’s favorite things included riding the subway, seeing the Guggenheim, and napping on a sailboat!

amy spent time in beaufort, atlanta, chattanooga, and the dominican republic.

Amy visited Beaufort to trace family history, went to a Duran Duran concert in Atlanta (and visited the Coca-Cola museum), toured the Tennessee Valley Railroad in Chattanooga, and went on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic with her family and church. She has had an eventful few months to say the least!

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ann backpacked through europe for two months.

Between graduating from Auburn and starting work with BPA, Ann, our newest Graduate Architect, spent two months traveling through Europe, living out of a backpack! She made her way through France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

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cassandra enjoyed the gulf shores with her family.

Cassandra and her family prefer the quiet West Beach side of the Gulf shores where they spend their time on the beach and indulging in exceptionally yummy food! Her recommendations include the fried shrimp at Doc’s, pizza from Papa Rocco’s, tuna dip from Lartigue’s, snowcones from the New Orleans Original Snoball Shack, and the chocolate cake from The Beach House Kitchen.

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charlie spent a few days in north carolina’s piedmont triad region with friends.

Two highlights for Charlie included visiting the Incendiary Brewing Company, part of the adaptive reuse development at the historic Bailey Power Plant in downtown Winston-Salem, and a hike at Camp Raven Knob in nearby Surry County.

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dia filled her summer with travel, music, friends, and family. (What a perfect summer combo!)

Dia traveled to Atlanta to attend a Taylor Swift concert (!!!!) with some friends, visited Charleston with Schluter and BI, visited a job site in Texas, attended a Beyoncé concert in Washington D.C. (!!!!), and ended her summer with a trip to Dallas.

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donna visited nashville with her husband, adopted a kitten, and spent lots of time with her fur babies.

Photos feature Donna’s newly adopted kitten, Smokey, an Elvis impersonator, her ducks, Talullah and Topper, her chickens, Rocky Rooster and Baby Doll, and Donna and her husband, Dennis, on the General Jackson Show Boat Cruise in Nashville!

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holly spent mother’s day on the chesapeake Bay.

She says she ate the best crab she’s ever had here!

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maria and her partner, richard, went on an epic road trip.

Trip highlights included seeing a giant wooly mammoth in Lincoln, NE, learning that the Bob Kerry pedestrian bridge (between Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska) has its very own troll, visiting the Alligator Farm in Hot Springs, AR, seeing the poorly behaved penguins and polar bears at the Kansas City Zoo (😉), and visiting the Durhan Museum in Omaha, NE at the former Union Station that has been restored to its Art Deco splendor!

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melissa spent some time in orange beach and on dauphin island with her family.

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rusty went highpointing in late july with one of his good friends.

In late July, Rusty, and his friend Rob, summited Brasstown Bald in Georgia (with an elevation climb from the parking lot of 470 feet and a .6 mile hike) and Sassafras Mountain, which is on the South Carolina/North Carolina state line.

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taylor and her fiancé, kevin, spent a few days at disney world for her birthday in august.

Recommendations include finding the spring roll cart in Magic Kingdom, riding Cosmic Rewind (the new-ish Guardians of the Galaxy ride) and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in Epcot, and going on the Kilimanjaro Safari (Animal Kingdom) first thing in the morning when all the animals are out!

So long summer, see you next year!

Summer Update: People Edition

Summer is here and we are thrilled to share some exciting updates from within our firm! With the arrival of a talented summer intern, the appointment of an IIDA Alabama board member, a 15-year work anniversary and two 20-year work anniversaries (!!!!), and Chuck Penuel named Who’s Who in Building 2023, our team has been buzzing with energy and inspiration. We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store for the BPA team!

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get to know alyssa Cox, our 2023 summer Architecture design intern

We're equally as excited to have Alyssa, our Summer Architecture Design Intern, with us from Mississippi State University. She is a first-year Architecture Student & will be working in our Architecture Studio this summer. Welcome to the team, Alyssa!

What made you want to study Architecture?

When I was younger, I got to experience the process of my childhood home being built. I was drawn to both the creative process and the construction during this, and it led me to choose architecture as my career path.  

What’s one thing you have learned in school so far?

I have learned how to make scale models of a variety of architectural designs.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy doing almost anything creative, and I love spending time outdoors. My favorite hobbies are making t-shirts and jewelry.

Any cool hobbies?

My most unique hobby is that I have learned how to paint fishing lures.

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Alicia pughsley celebrates 15 years at bpa!

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we are proud to announce dia baldwin, BPA graduate interior DESIGNER, as the director of student affairs for the iida alabama chapter board of directors!

Dia Baldwin, Assoc. IIDA, has been announced as one of the newest IIDA Alabama Board of Director members serving as the Director of Student Affairs. In this role, she will assist with the development and continuation of student campus centers. We are excited for Dia as she takes the initiative and steps into this leadership role. These experiences are not only personally transformative but help advance the Interior Design profession.

What are you most excited about?

I am excited to be a resource for students during their college careers as they enter the industry.

What does your role entail?

I assist the VP of Student Affairs with mentoring the student campus centers in the state - Auburn University, University of Alabama, and Samford University.

Why did you want to serve on the IIDA Alabama Chapter Board of Directors?

I want to connect with other designers in the state and take the knowledge I have learned and am continuing to learn to help students.

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Maria glaser celebrates 20 years at bpa!

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chuck penuel named “who’s who in building 2023” by the birmingham business journal!

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russ realmuto celebrates 20 years at bpa!

Chuck Penuel Featured in BBJ'S "Who's Who in Building FOR 2023"

We are delighted to announce that Chuck Penuel has, once again, been named Who’s Who in Building!

With innovators leading the industry in projects on scales of all sizes, the metro Birmingham area is becoming known as a hub for building’s best. BBJ’s Who’s Who in Building recognizes individuals from leading architecture firms, engineering firms, and general contractors.

We are thrilled that Chuck is recognized again this year for his exceptional leadership, expertise, and unwavering dedication to the field. His innovative approach and ability to navigate complex challenges have set him apart as a true industry leader.

Congratulations, Chuck!

Introducing our New Marketing Director!

drumroll please…

We are thrilled to introduce Taylor Dixon as our new Marketing Director!

We couldn't be more excited to have such a talented individual spearheading our marketing department. Taylor understands the importance of design, how it relates to marketing, and is committed to showcasing our company's unique approach to architecture and design.

As we continue to expand our work in new sectors, we know that our new Marketing Director will be instrumental in helping us achieve our goals. Because Taylor is dedicated, hardworking, and has a proven track record of success, we are confident that she will be a great asset to our team. With her help, BPA will continue to make a positive impact in the industry, while creating innovative, inspiring designs that push the boundaries of architecture.

Taylor's only been with us for 3 weeks, but she’s already proven that she understands the assignment.

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We asked her some questions to help get to know her a little better:

Where did you go to school? I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Advertising from the University of Georgia in 2016

Where’s your hometown? Loganville, GA

What are some fun facts about you? While at the University of Georgia, I participated in a study abroad program that took me to Southern France for a month, where I attended the Cannes Lion Festival of Creativity. It was such an inspiring and once-in-a-lifetime event!

 What do you like to do in your spare time/what hobbies do you have? Some of my favorite things include hiking, reading, taking care of my plants + garden, live music, trying new restaurants, and cuddling up on the couch with my three cats: Birdie, Biscuit, & Gravy. 

 What sort of music do you listen to? I listen to a wide variety of music. Currently, I have been listening to a lot of Tame Impala, Orville Peck, Tyler Childers, SZA, and Kacey Musgraves, but classic rock has always been a go-to for me. 

 What is your favorite vacation spot? I honestly don't have a favorite. My partner, Kevin, and I love to travel to new places! Next on our list is Northern California/the Pacific Northwest.

 Favorite TV show? RuPaul's Drag Race. Hands down. 

 What’s one of your favorite things about Birmingham? My favorite thing about Birmingham is what made me want to move here - the small(ish) town atmosphere BUT with plenty of things to do—lots of good food, good music, and good people. So, I am excited to keep exploring the city! 

 What made you want to study Advertising? Growing up, I knew I wanted to do something that allowed me to be creative. I learned what that was when I took an introductory Advertising class. After that class, I changed my major from undecided to advertising!

 Who is your favorite Architect throughout history? It might be cliché, but I love Frank Lloyd Wright's style. I've always gravitated toward built environments that mirror the natural world and designs that blend seamlessly with nature. 

Taylor adventuring in Edinburgh, Scotland

Taylor, her partner Kevin, and their three cats Birdie, Biscuit, & Gravy. 

Meet the Team - Maria Glaser!

We’re picking back up with our Meet the Team highlight with another one of our talented designers and BPA senior associates,

MARIA!

She is a talented interior designer and her work ethic and determination always inspire the rest of us. She earned her BS from Birmingham-Southern in Biology and BAA from Southern Institute in Interior Design. She has served as the Central District Representative on the Alabama Board for Registered Interior Designers since 2019, and as Chairperson since 2022. Here are a few fun facts to get to know this Birmingham native better:

Her better half, Richard, is a metal sculptor and artist. (Check out his work https://royalmiree.com/)

She’s a certified yoga instructor.

There is a very large tortoise living in her backyard.

Graffiti is her favorite photography subject, especially on train cars rolling through Railroad Park.

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What do you like to do in your spare time/what hobbies do you have? Hikes at all the fabulous parks and trails near town are a regular activity with friends. I have the yard of a lazy gardener and have been lucky to inherit lots of great plants, so some of my spare time is spent outdoors, either taming it all or encouraging it to grow like crazy. My quiet hobbies are knitting and reading, both of which may involve one or more cats.

What’s one of your favorite things about Birmingham? Hard to pick one, so I’ll go with both food and parks!

Have you ever had any other career in mind? Yes, I ran through a few before Interior Design. I had finished a pre-med Biology degree before accepting that I really did not want to be a psychiatrist like my dad. I considered Vet School and worked as a vet tech, then worked in basic science research at UAB. I can mostly thank my boss at UAB for my career. He was in the midst of a home reno at the time and encouraged me to go back to school for Interior Design. Any of these careers would have been fulfilling. It’s all about timing and perspective.

Where would we find you on a typical Saturday? I spend most Saturdays hanging out with my dad. And there is always good food involved.

What traits do you most value in your friends? Empathy and a good sense of humor; creativity and self-reliance; honesty and moderation.

What scares you? Large, flying insects but my cats are really good at taking care of those.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? So much closer to retirement!

What is your favorite vacation spot? I love the beach in the late Fall or Early Spring when there’s no one else around. Otherwise, I’m a fan of road trips that include plenty of zoos.

What’s the simplest thing you ever learned to do? I remember learning to tie my shoes with a cute rhyme about a bunny rabbit.

What are you most proud of in your career? Designing safe and inclusive spaces for children of all abilities.

Welcome BPA Intern, Bob Williams

Warm Welcome to bob williams!

Bob is our new Architectural Intern. His passion for design has been long and genuine, persisting through a career in mechanical engineering at NASA, raising his family, and retirement. Following his time with NASA, Bob embarked on architectural studies at Auburn University and is currently a thesis student with the Urban Studio. Bob is an inspiration and reminder to never quit on your passions. We're excited and happy to have him on board!

Here’s more about Bob:

What do you like to do in your spare time?

“My hobbies include boating, backpacking, and traveling with friends and family. My wife, Yvonne, and I used to competitively sail our catamaran in Florida before moving to Alabama. I have backpacked over 700 miles on the Appalachian Trail with my two boys, Ryan and Eric, and two great friends, Randy and Jim. When the boys were growing up we traveled to 38 States in our conversion van and most recently, Yvonne and I traveled with friends to Maui and Oahu in December and to Tampa in January.”

What made you want to study architecture?

“I always have had a passion for architecture. After graduating high school, I went to work as a framer building houses in Florida. Two years later, I wanted to build my own house but lacked the income. Being inspired when I was younger by the Apollo 11 Moon landing I studied Mechanical Engineering and after graduation was hired by NASA as an Aerospace Engineer. Now with enough income, I was able to design and build my own home. After retiring, I decided to enter the 5-year Auburn Architecture Program. I will graduate in May and look forward to following my passion.”

It's a Wrap! 2022 BPA Year in Review

At the conclusion of each year, it is always bitter-sweet to see another year in the proverbial “rear view mirror”. So it is again with 2022. As the year reaches a speedy conclusion, we recall memories of family and close friends sharing special occasions and celebrations that we fear may be lost for good. Then we realize that with the beginning of another new year, every day presents new opportunities to broaden our friendships, experience new places, face new challenges and watch those we love accomplish great things in their young lives.

One of the wonderful and satisfying things about what we do as design professionals, is the creative collaboration with our clients and the other design and construction team members we work with daily. We never tire of seeing architecture incubate from a simple idea to an outcome that each contributor can be proud to place their “handprints” upon. Thanks to our many clients who have trusted us with this responsibility for the past 36 years. Also, thanks to each of you that dreamed the project, solved the details, studied the proportions, selected the colors, poured the concrete, erected the steel, and worked together as a team. Working with such inspiring and talented people makes me more optimistic than ever about a New Year ahead.

Wishing everyone the best 2023.

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2022 HIGHLIGHTS

JANUARY/February

BPA attends Mississippi State & Auburn University Career Fairs

MARCH

Office demolition begins!

APRIL

BPA juries DREAMArchitecture for Birmingham 3rd graders.

JUNE

Dia Baldwin joins the BPA team as Interior Designer!

BPA gains a new Licensed professional. Micah Martin passes his last ARE division and becomes a Licensed Architect!

JULY

BPA wins at AIA Birmingham Design Awards!

SEPTEMBER

BPA volunteers for Hardhats with Heart

Office Renovation moving along!

OCTOBER

Rusty Stark joins the BPA team as Draftsman!

NOVEMBER

BPA wins at AIA Alabama Design Awards!

Three of BPA’s recently completed projects were awarded at the AIA Alabama and AIA Birmingham Design Awards in 2022. The University of Alabama Peter Bryce Historic Stabilization, the Central Steel Offices, and the School of Optometry Renovations were all awarded.

UA PETER BRYCE HISTORIC STABILIZATION - 2022 AIA AL HONOR AWARD WINNER

CENTRAL STEEL OFFICES - 2022 AIA AL MERIT AWARD WINNER

UAB SCHOOL OF OPTOMETRY - 2022 AIA BIRMINGHAM PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD WINNER

DECEMBER

BPA celebrates promotions and the holidays!

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Wrap up 2022 with our BPA Wrapped playlist, a compilation of our most listened to songs during last year!

Welcome Rusty Stark!

Rusty Stark

BPA is proud to have Rusty join the team as a Draftsman!

Rusty is a joy to work with and the epitome of a can-do attitude. He has already provided support on multiple project teams, and we look forward to watching all that he will accomplish at BPA!

Education: Memphis State University, BS Engineering-Technology, 1987

Hometown: Memphis, Tennessee

Q & A with Rusty:

What are some of your hobbies?

Cooking, history, genealogy, music, meteorology, carpentry, and high pointing

What kind of music do you listen to?

Soul, gospel, blues, bluegrass, old country, classic rock, jazz, swing, and pipe & drum corps with bagpipes

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Gulf Coast, Smokey Mountains, and Rocky Mountains

What does your typical Saturday look like?

Relaxing at my house, playing on the tractor, spending time with family, cooking, and napping

Who are your role models?

• Family: My Parents Robert & Lois Stark, My Grandmother Genia May Gandy Stark, My Uncles Randolph Stark & Binx Terry

• Biblical Characters: Joseph, Manasseh, Caleb, Mephibosheth, and Daniel

• Military: Gen. John Stark, Gen, Stonewall Jackson, Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker, Gen. Billy Mitchell,  Gen. Jimmie Doolittle, Gen. Claire Lee Chenault, Gen. Curtis LeMay, Col. R. B Thieme Jr., Capt. Lance Sijan, Capt. John Baldridge

• Pastors & Missionaries: Johnny Almond, Martha Myers, and Dennis Renick

• Professionally:  O.R. Martin, Jack Cavender, David Cavender,  Gustav Stickley, Santiago Calatrava, and Antoni Gaudi

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In the mirror – I hope.  LOL

Who’s your favorite designer?

God (Psalm 19:1 – the skies display His craftsmanship)