Alicia Pughsley: Named to BBJ’s Who’s Who in Construction & Building 2025

We’re proud to share that Alicia Pughsley, Principal at Birchfield Penuel Architects (BPA), has been recognized on the Birmingham Business Journal’s Who’s Who in Construction & Building 2025 list. This annual list highlights leaders who are shaping the built environment in Birmingham and beyond, and Alicia’s inclusion is a reflection of her vision, leadership, and commitment to community impact.

As BPA’s first female principal, Alicia leads healthcare and community master planning projects across Alabama, bringing thoughtful design solutions to spaces that serve people every day. She is a dedicated voice within the profession, actively involved with AIA Birmingham and a co-founder of its Healthcare Symposium, which fosters meaningful dialogue among architects, clients, and thought leaders.

Her advocacy extends beyond architecture. Alicia champions women in the profession, supports K–5 design education, and lends her time and talents to the autism community through Studio by the Tracks. Her ability to merge leadership with service is what makes her work both impactful and enduring.

We’re honored to see Alicia’s contributions recognized on this prestigious list, and even more grateful for the leadership she brings to our team and to the communities we serve.

Congratulations, Alicia!

Project Completion: Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, Dothan

We’re excited to unveil the new 10,000 SF Forensic regional Laboratory in dothan!

The new ADFS lab in Dothan is one of eight facilities in the state’s renowned crime lab system. This 10,000-square-foot, single-story building is purpose-built for Drug Chemistry and designed to meet the highest scientific, safety, and security standards.

A daylit lobby with expansive views through the exterior storefront welcomes visitors, while areas beyond the public zone are designed with increasing levels of access restriction to ensure maximum security. The intake area and conference center, located within a semi-restricted zone, support evidence processing and law enforcement training.

Drug Chemistry laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation and benefit from optimized daylight and exterior views. Highly specialized forensic services are housed in secured areas accessed via restricted corridors.

The well-being of staff is a central design principle, reflected in the inclusion of collaborative workspaces, dedicated respite areas, and a private patio.

“The new state-of-the-art forensic laboratory was designed to improve efficiency, expand laboratory capacity, and utilize the latest forensic technologies. The primary functions of the Dothan Laboratory are to reduce turnaround time for evidence analysis, increase capacity to process cases, support more efficient prosecutions and a stronger justice system, and enhance community safety by effectively tackling drug-related crime.”

— Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey

—

Site landscaping has been carefully placed to minimize disruption to the existing natural environment while providing shading and expansive views from the interior labs. A staff patio, looking toward the adjacent forest line, interfaces with the surrounding pastoral setting to provide an intimate respite ensconced in nature.

The main restricted corridor, serving as a gallery space with expansive glazing, enables the facility to showcase the transparency of its processes and technology, while educating visitors and preserving the security of its mission. Legislators, students, and law enforcement officers, among others, will experience the dependability and precision of forensic science in this manner. Transparency and ample daylighting are prioritized throughout the facility, both in office and laboratory spaces, creating a healthy and uplifting environment for staff.

Photographer - Rob Culpepper

contractor - saliba construction company

electrical - muya engineering

civil - caprine engineering

structural - mba engineers

mechanical - enfra (formerly bernhard)

landscape architect - kelly landscape architects

“The pursuit of justice is our only objective, and we are limited in this pursuit only by the laws of science and medicine.”

— Angelo Della Manna, ADFS Director

Congrats to Stacy Williams on being named Senior Associate at BPA!

We’re excited to announce that Stacy Williams has been promoted to Senior Associate at BPA!

Although Stacy has only been with us for a short time, the impact she’s made has been remarkable. With almost 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and insight to our team. Since joining BPA, Stacy has consistently delivered—leading new projects, building strong client relationships, and maintaining a high level of excellence in everything she does.

What truly sets Stacy apart is her passion for developing our junior team members, her dedication to learning and teaching, and the collaborative spirit she brings to every interaction. She leads by example, and her contributions have already helped shape a stronger, more connected team.

We’re proud to welcome her to our leadership team and look forward to all she will continue to accomplish in this new role.

Ribbon Cutting: Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Dothan

Earlier this week, state and local leaders gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences Regional Laboratory in Dothan! This 10,000-square-foot facility will support and be a critical hub for forensic investigations across seven Alabama counties.

According to Governor Ivey, “The new state-of-the-art forensic laboratory was designed to improve efficiency, expand laboratory capacity, and utilize the [latest] forensic technologies. The main functions of the Dothan Laboratory are reducing turnaround time for evidence analysis, increasing capacity to process cases, supporting more efficient prosecutions and a stronger justice system, and enhancing community safety by tackling drug-related crime effectively.”

“It is a great example of state and local partnership helping make our community safer. This facility is helping not just the Wiregrass be safer, but all of Alabama be a safer place each day by taking some of the most dangerous drugs off the streets and conducting state-of-the-art forensic testing in a timely manner,“ Angelo Della Manna, the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences director, said.

To learn more about the project click here!

Now Hiring!

Birchfield Penuel Architects is looking for passionate, collaborative problem-solvers to join our team. If you thrive on creative challenges, enjoy turning ideas into spaces that inspire, and want to be part of a firm that values both innovation and relationships — we’d love to hear from you.

🔗 To apply, visit our career page at bparchitects.com/careers!

Chilton County Courthouse Topping Out Ceremony

Teamwork makes the beam work! 🚧 Earlier this month, the Chilton County Courthouse project team joined Brasfield & Gorrie to celebrate the topping out of this exciting new facility. We’re proud to see the design taking shape and grateful to everyone working hard to bring it to life.

Birchfield Penuel Architects plans growth, hires, projects for specific industries

Check out this BBJ feature regarding our recent leadership transition:

Birchfield Penuel Architects’ newest principals are planning to take on a broader range of projects and make new hires.

Alicia Pughsley and Alan Crotwell were named principals with Birchfield Penuel Architects (BPA) this February. They became majority shareholders one year ago. Russ Realmuto is also an associate principal at the firm, which was recognized in 2024 as part of the BBJ's real estate awards. The firm’s new majority shareholders took over from Joe Abou-Jaoude, Wallace Williams, Chuck Penuel and Clay Birchfield.

The health care space is the firm’s bread and butter, but it is a full-service commercial architecture firm, handling most kinds of projects except single-family and multifamily projects.

To read the full story, click here!

Welcome Carter Hadley!

carter hadley, associate AIA — Joins our team!

Carter, who recently moved back to Alabama, has joined the BPA team with strong experience in renovation and education projects.

Fun fact: Carter was a big band enthusiast in high school and even served as the drum major for a couple of years.

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

“I do a lot of reading and book collecting, plus I run a weekly Dungeons & Dragons campaign for some friends.”

Who is your favorite architect throughout history?

“Richard Neutra. His detail and interior work are phenomenal.”

Have you ever considered any other career path?

“I considered majoring in theater when I was figuring out college.”

What made you want to study architecture?

“I originally wanted to do something art adjacent, but quickly became fascinated with the way that spaces shape and improve our lived experiences.”

Education: Auburn University, Bachelor of Architecture

Hometown: Talladega, AL

Big congrats to Charlie and Dia! 🎉

Charlie is now a licensed architect, and Dia is officially a registered interior designer! We’re so proud of these two and the dedication, creativity, and hard work they bring to BPA every day. Here’s to the bright future ahead—cheers!

Project Update: Powell Avenue Steam Plant

For over 10 years, we’ve had the honor of helping reimagine one of Birmingham’s most iconic structures — the Powell Avenue Steam Plant. Built in 1895, this landmark powered the Magic City’s early growth. Since 2012, we’ve partnered with AL Power to breathe new life into the building through extensive stabilization, historic restoration, and preparation.

While the space is still a work in progress, we’re proud of the transformation and excited to share these new photos that capture its evolving story (+ some behind-the-scenes shots). Read below to see how far the Steam Plant has come — and imagine what’s still possible.

To learn more about the project, click here!

Meet our 2025 summer interns!

We’re excited to welcome two talented students to Birchfield Penuel Architects for the summer! Joining us are Jordan Houser, a rising fifth-year architecture student from Tuskegee University, and Savannah Ryle, a rising senior interior architecture and design student from the University of North Alabama. Both bring unique perspectives, fresh ideas, and a shared enthusiasm for design. We’re thrilled to have them on board and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make during their time with us. Get to know them a little better below!

We’re excited to welcome Jordan Houser, a rising fifth-year architecture student at Tuskegee University, to the BPA team for the summer! He’s from Birmingham, AL, and has already hit the ground running, diving in with enthusiasm and fresh perspective.

Fun fact: during his time at Tuskegee, Jordan has reigned on the Royal Court under Mister Tuskegee University—a role that highlights his leadership and campus involvement beyond the studio.

What made you want to study Architecture?

“What drove me to study architecture is the immense pride I have in my work. I want to be able to point at a beautiful building and say, "I helped design that."

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

“My first internship was at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). While there, I researched how to create external facade systems using earthen materials. That internship taught me how to think critically to come up with solutions even if I have never done it before.”

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

“In my free time, I like to work out at least 4 times a week.”

What do you think is Birmingham’s best-kept secret?

“I think Birmingham's best-kept secret is that we have the best food in the nation!”

We’re excited to welcome Savannah Ryle, a rising senior interior architecture and design student at the University of North Alabama, to the BPA team for the summer! She’s from Trussville, AL, and is already bringing great energy to the studio!

Fun fact: she has a lab mix named Wren!

What is your favorite vacation spot?

“This past Christmas, my family went to New York City. I loved exploring the architecture and seeing all the famous landmarks. I enjoy any vacation where I can discover new places!"

Whats one of your favorite things about Birmingham?

“One of my favorite local spots is the Farmers Market at Pepper Place. Sometimes I go with my sister, and we bring our dogs along. Jenni’s is always a must-stop — my favorite ice cream flavor is Texas Sheet Cake!.”

What made you want to study Interior Architecture?

“I’ve always had a passion for design. Growing up, I was constantly downloading design apps and decorating virtual rooms. When it came time to choose a college major, I knew interior design was the right fit — and UNA’s Interior Architecture and Design program stood out to me.”

What are you most proud of in your career/schooling?

“It’s been rewarding to look back on how much I’ve grown since freshman year. One of my favorite projects so far was designing a two-story corporate office that included a 50-person theater and a 20-person conference room. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished and excited to see what the future holds.”

New foster home community creating a fresh start for Alabama’s foster children

Check out this Bham Now feature on one of our newest clients, Freedom Farm:

New foster home community creating a fresh start for Alabama’s foster children

In the small town of Coker in west Alabama, a devoted group of people are dedicating their time, energy and money to help solve one of the state’s most pressing issues: how to properly care for the 6,000 children in Alabama’s foster care system.

To do so, the group is developing Freedom Farm, a nurturing community that offers abused, abandoned and at-risk youth the love and stability that every child deserves. 

Creating a new beginning for Alabama’s foster children

To learn the full story about Freedom Farm, you need to talk to founder Dr. John Waits.

As the Medical Director of DCH Wound Care and a Tuscaloosa surgeon with decades of experience, Dr. Waits has always had a soft spot for children in the foster care system.

“Through my work, I began noticing children who drew the short stick when it comes to life. Since I grew up in a secure home with two loving parents, my heart went out to those kids. And I was never able to shake that thought of those kids from my heart.”

— Dr. John Waits, Founder & CEO, Freedom Farm

Through church, life and work, Dr. Waits connected with Weldon Cole, Cathy Wood, Joseph Deason and other individuals who shared his passion for supporting foster children. Together, they crafted the vision for Freedom Farm.

“At its core, Freedom Farm is a community of foster homes that will provide housing, resources and support for neglected and abused children in Alabama’s foster care system. At Freedom Farm, we aim to give our children the ‘freedom to soar.”

— Weldon Cole, Board Chair, Freedom Farm

According to Executive Director Cathy Wood, each foster child at Freedom Farm will be given three promises, each represented by a symbol:

• An anchor, representing the safety, security, stability and love they will receive.

• A compass, representing the roadmap to life provided by Freedom Farm

• A cross, representing hope

“Many of the children in Alabama’s foster system have trust issues, and understandably. We had one child who, by the age of nine, had lived in 22 foster homes. That kind of upbringing has a noticeable effect on their psyche.

Through love, support and programs like equine therapy, we want to help these children break out of the shell they’ve been forced to create and get to live the life a child should.”

— Cathy Wood, Executive Director, Freedom Farm

Bringing the vision for Freedom Farm to life

To help bring their vision to reality, the Freedom Farm team hired Birchfield Penuel Architects (BPA), a Birmingham-based full-service architecture and design firm headquartered in downtown Homewood.

“BPA and Freedom Farm share a deep commitment to community, care, and lasting impact. With our extensive masterplanning experience and passion for designing spaces that foster connection and well-being, we bring a thoughtful and intentional approach to every project.

Freedom Farm’s mission to create a nurturing environment for foster families aligns perfectly with our dedication to designing spaces that uplift and support people. This shared vision makes our partnership a natural and meaningful fit.”

— Alicia Pughsley, Principal, Birchfield Penuel Architects

After meeting with Dr. Waits and other members of the Freedom Farm team, BPA’s team of architects developed and presented a master plan for the foster care community. Located on an 80-acre property donated by Dr. Waits in Coker, AL, the Freedom Farm campus will include:

• A foster home neighborhood to house 100 children

• Playgrounds

• Freedom Center with gymnasium and gathering spaces

• An event pavilion

• A general store

• Oak tree meditation garden

• An equestrian barn + walking/riding trails

• A garden center + teaching garden

• Beautiful views of pastureland

• And more

“Working with [Birchfield Penuel Architects] has been a pleasure, but what really made a difference to me is the fact that they really care.

When I tell someone about Freedom Farm, most will just nod their heads; the Birchfield Penuel Architects team came all the way out to the land and truly seemed to buy into our vision.”

— Dr. John Waits, Founder & CEO, Freedom Farm

To read the full story, click here!

Project Completion: Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences 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 AL.

“With the new facility, Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences personnel will not only continue to set the gold standard for evidence investigation in our state but also provide a valuable resource when called upon by our neighboring states and federal partners.”

— Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey

—

Inside, the lobby was designed to reflect the critical role the facility plays in advancing justice across Alabama. Natural light pours in through expansive storefront windows, while layered lighting elements create a bright, open atmosphere. Together, these features symbolize transparency and truth—core values that guide the work taking place within the building.

A main restricted corridor doubles as a gallery space, featuring expansive glazing that offers a view into the work happening inside. This design choice highlights the transparency of the facility’s processes and technology, allowing visitors to learn about forensic science while ensuring the security of ongoing operations. Legislators, students, law enforcement officers, and others can experience firsthand the precision and reliability that define the agency’s mission.

Project Update: Chilton County Courthouse

Progress is taking shape in Clanton! These aerial views show construction underway at the Chilton County Courthouse—bringing a bold civic vision to life.

📸: Drone photos courtesy of @brasfieldgorrie

Judging This Year’s ACFA dreamARCHITECTURE Competition

We recently had the joy of partnering with our friends at Schoel to help judge the 2025 dreamARCHITECTURE competition, hosted annually by the Alabama Center for Architecture. This year’s prompt? Design your dream zoo. 🐘🦥

From floating habitats to animal roller coasters, the creativity on display was nothing short of inspiring. Each entry reflected not only a unique vision for animal care and conservation but also the incredible imagination and empathy of young designers. Whether it was a zoo that prioritized animal enrichment, sustainability, or guest experience, the thoughtfulness and enthusiasm behind these concepts reminded us why this is one of the highlights of our year.

dreamARCHITECTURE is an incredible program that encourages elementary students across Alabama to explore the world of architecture and design through hands-on creativity. We’re always honored to support initiatives that invest in the next generation of visionaries.

To all the students who participated—thank you for dreaming big. We’re already looking forward to next year.

Project Completion: JCDH Public Health Pavilion & Annex Building

This project transforms a previously utilitarian site into a multi-functional campus that supports both day-to-day operations and public health responsiveness. The design features the adaptive reuse of a pre-engineered warehouse, now housing three departments, a specialty print shop, and a maintenance workshop. Key additions include a lobby and reception area, a 24-seat conference room, and an open office suite with breakout spaces and private offices.

Adjacent to the office facility, the Public Health Pavilion was created as a flexible, open-air structure to support screenings, vaccine distribution, and future pandemic response efforts. Clad in copper-hued perforated metal panels, the pavilion conveys visual permeability while emphasizing safety, access, and community care. A new courtyard offers respite space for clinical staff and a shared outdoor area for employees across the campus.

—

The pavilion was carefully designed to fit within the scale of its surroundings while still making a strong architectural statement. Because the building stretches across the long side of an entire city block, its height and placement were intentionally considered in relation to the existing JCDH facilities to the north and south.

To balance the urban context, the Pavilion steps back from 14th Street, creating breathing room from two neighboring high-rise developments. This approach softens the street edge, allowing the Pavilion to feel welcoming rather than imposing.

Finally, consistent signage across the Pavilion and the adjacent JCDH block helps reinforce a unified campus identity, making the facilities feel connected and easy to navigate.

—

Together, the Pavilion, Annex façade updates, and new signage create a refreshed and inviting public face for the health department. Corrugated, copper-toned panels bring warmth and texture to the exterior, striking a balance between security and accessibility while also facilitating easy navigation for visitors.

What was once a nondescript corner has been transformed into a strong street presence that feels both grounded and approachable. The design nods to Birmingham’s industrial heritage while avoiding the overly sleek, modern aesthetic that can sometimes feel intimidating to patients and visitors.

The Pavilion’s courtyard introduces a softer, more inviting layer to the campus. Locally sourced stone, a variety of plantings, and warm wood furnishings create a rich mix of textures that contrast with the building’s more industrial, streamlined material palette.

These design choices bring warmth and a sense of comfort to the site, while still fitting seamlessly into the surrounding urban context. Taller screen walls and lower concrete and stone walls help define distinct zones within the courtyard, offering both structure and openness without making the space feel closed in.

Photographer - Rob Culpepper

2025 IDIES AL Awards

Had a great time celebrating Alabama’s best in interior design at the IDIES Awards hosted by @iidaalabama - Always proud to support and be inspired by the incredible design community in our state!

Project Update: Jefferson County Animal Care & Control

Steel is up, and progress is being made at the new Jefferson County Animal Care & Control building—we are excited to see this facility taking shape!

Announcing Alan Crotwell and Alicia Pughsley as Principals at BPA!

After decades of remarkable dedication and visionary leadership, Chuck Penuel is transitioning into retirement and we proudly bestow the titles “Founder & Principal Emeritus” to convey his evolving role within BPA. His profound contributions have left an indelible mark on our firm and the architecture community. Chuck’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we embark on this next chapter.  

As we honor the past, we also look to the future with great enthusiasm as we are delighted to announce that Alicia Pughsley and Alan Crotwell will step into new roles as Principals. With their deep commitment and long-standing contributions to BPA’s success, we are confident their leadership will propel the firm forward while preserving the values that define who we are.

“As we step into our roles as Principals, we are honored to carry forward the legacy built over the years. BPA’s reputation for integrity, attention to detail, and strong client relationships remain central to our mission.”

— Alan Crotwell, AIA, Principal & Alicia Pugshley, AIA, Principal

---

Alan’s journey with Birchfield Penuel Architects began in 1999, just weeks after earning his Bachelor of Architecture from Mississippi State University. From the start, BPA’s supportive culture and focus on work-life balance made it the perfect fit. His first project, a St. Vincent’s clinic, launched a career in healthcare design that included landmark projects like St. Vincent’s 119 Wellness Campus and the North Tower at St. Vincent’s Main Birmingham.

He later worked on VA facilities, focusing on mental health and dementia care, and led historic preservation projects at the University of Alabama, including Bryce Hospital, which at the time was the largest project in BPA’s history. His leadership on the Bryce Hospital Stabilization, completed in 2018, earned an AIA Alabama Honor Award in 2022.

After 25 years at BPA, Alan’s dedication to the firm reflects his deep connection to its culture, legacy, and future.

---

Alicia’s journey with Birchfield Penuel Architects began in 2008 after graduating from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Architecture. As a member of one of the first classes to complete Auburn’s Urban Studio, she brought a distinctive perspective on urban design when she joined BPA as an intern. In 2012, she became the youngest licensed female architect at BPA.

Early in her career, Alicia collaborated on notable projects like Oaks on Parkwood NHS and Jackson Hospital, and on major UAB projects, including the School of Medicine, ORs at Highlands, and Sterne Library. Her portfolio expanded to include award-winning work like the Lay Dam Houses, which earned an AIA Alabama Honor Award in 2021, as well as impactful projects such as UAB’s Heart and Vascular Center, Auburn University’s Early Learning Center, and the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

Alicia’s career exemplifies her commitment to thoughtful, innovative design and advancing BPA’s legacy.

---

“I have complete confidence in our new leadership team’s ability to continue to deliver the exceptional service and expertise our clients and partners have come to expect.”

— Chuck Penuel, AIA, Principal Emeritus

2025 Career Fair Schedule

Our 2025 career fair schedule kicks off today at Auburn University — If you're ready to shape the future of design, join us in drafting your next chapter at one of our upcoming stops! We can't wait to meet the next generation of architects and designers. ✨