News
Jim Hartsell, a Vice-President with the firm, is the author of three books and has written for numerous golf publications around the world. The following is an excerpt from his newest book, A Round of Scottish Courses. This recently appeared in the Scottish journal, The Links Diary.
Construction on the Saban Center, a STEM and arts campus in Tuscaloosa, has set its final steel beam, marking a milestone in the development. The marble-clad complex was designed by Steinberg Hart with Birmingham-based Davis Architects and in close collaboration with Nick and Terry Saban. The general contractor is Stone Building Co. The campus is set to open in 2027.
“We speak with Amelia Hicks with Davis Architects and her twin sister Margaret Hicks with Hatcher Schuster Interiors. It was a joy to sit down with both sisters and hear their journey from Tampa to Samford to both working at A/D firms in Birmingham.”
At Auburn University and beyond, a generation of Black women have carved out space in the architecture industry where less than half a percent of licensed U.S. architects share their identity. Despite the challenges of architecture school and the added pressure of representation, the women persevered in the pursuit of their chosen careers.
Davis Architects’ connection to Samford University spans multiple generations… Neil Davis shared, “My father was involved in the original campus planning, and over the years we’ve had the opportunity to contribute to many of the buildings that shape the campus today. I’m grateful to see his initial vision come to life, and it’s equally gratifying to have had a hand in its continued development.”
Facilities can help foster camaraderie and unity within this small but tall and mighty group. At the college level, player facilities support many functions—individual player training, team building, social interaction, food and nutrition, gear and equipment, personal reflection, physical and mental health, and fostering a love of the game itself.
One of the priorities of Samford University with any renovation is to embrace the past while providing for the future. That means keeping that classic look that has made the campus iconic for generations.
“We’re proud to celebrate Andrew Taylor, who has been named to the 2026 40 Under 40 class by the Birmingham Business Journal. The annual award recognizes emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact in business and in the community across our region. It’s a well-deserved honor.”
As Valentine’s Day approaches, I am in my 23rd year at Davis Architects, and I started thinking about our team and the work we do. As a tribute to the things we love, I would like to introduce the Interiors team and share our favorite Davis projects & details with you!
Technology plays a vital role in the day-to-day practice of architecture, supporting design decisions, communication, and overall efficiency. Digital tools help teams better understand projects at every phase, improving how ideas are developed, coordinated, and shared with clients and consultants. By using a combination of digital and physical technologies, architects can explore design more thoroughly and communicate it more clearly.
Construction on the STEM- and arts-focused Saban Center, home to interactive science, technology, engineering and math exhibits and learning opportunities, as well as Tuscaloosa Children's Theatre and Ignite is about 30% complete, according to Brandt LaPish, the center's director of development.
“Birmingham-based Robins & Morton served as general contractor for the project, with Davis Architects Inc. serving as architect for the Greek housing residence halls. Perkins&Will was the architect for the freshman residence halls.”
Emily Raley sits down with All-In Design, IIDA Alabama's podcast, to discuss athletic design, her love of the grandma's house aesthetic, and more.
At Davis Architects, few projects capture our commitment to education and community quite like McAdory High School — a story that connects two generations of design and more than 60 years of architectural evolution. When the McCalla community voiced their desire to keep and modernize their historic school, Davis was invited to reimagine the space for a new generation. “It was gratifying to have a community love a project enough that they wanted to save it; that was really special,” said Neil Davis.
In 1936, Helen Sellers Davis became Alabama’s first licensed female architect — a milestone that quietly reshaped the landscape of a male-dominated profession. Helen’s dedication to her craft and confidence paved the way for women in architecture long before conversations about representation were common. In 2003 Alabama Governor, Bob Riley, declared November 6 “Helen Sellers Davis Day” — a day we proudly celebrate each year to honor the woman who helped shape our firm and the industry at large.
Kevin Bryant was honored with the 2025 Soul of the South Award in Commercial Architecture at the annual ceremony…
Morgan Nelson sits down with All-In Design, IIDA Alabama's podcast, to discuss A/V closets, dislike for certain colors and trends, designing for various sports facilities, and more.
Every October, Architecture Appreciation Month reminds us that great design doesn’t just shape buildings — it shapes communities, memories, and generations. At Davis Architects, this month is more than a celebration of the profession we love. It’s a moment to honor the legacy we’ve built over more than 110 years, a legacy defined by innovation, leadership, and deep commitment to the communities we serve. Here are just a few of the milestones that have shaped who we are:
Davis Architects is proud to announce that Seibert Hall Renovations and Expansion at Samford University has received the 2025 Collegiate Citation Award in the Educational Interiors Showcase by American School & University magazine.
Courtney Pittman was recognized as one of the BBJ’s 2025 Women to Watch, an honor highlighting her exceptional leadership, vision, and commitment to shaping the future of design and architecture in Birmingham and beyond.
“Davis Architects has thrived for over a century by designing with purpose and fostering a team built on respect and shared passion.”
Bryant-Denny Stadium will undergo the addition of brand-new premium seating areas, following Thursday's annual meeting of the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees.
Davis is pleased to announce we are the recipient of the “Best of Assembly & Institutional” award for Seibert Hall at Samford University at the 2025 IDIE Awards presented by The International Interior Design Association – Alabama Chapter (IIDA-AL).
In the South, football is more than a sport, it’s a tradition that unites families, communities, and generations of fans. Saturdays in the fall are marked by rituals and rivalries, with stadiums serving as the backdrop to unforgettable moments. For Davis Architects, designing these venues is more than adding seats or modernizing facilities…
Birmingham has long been known for its thriving arts community, and at the center of that creative energy is the Sidewalk Film Festival. It is one of Birmingham’s most celebrated cultural events, attracting filmmakers, industry leaders, and film enthusiasts from around the globe.
Stephanie Pope sits down with All-In Design, IIDA Alabama's podcast, to discuss design, trends, and more.
Florence Mayor, Andrew Betterton, and local leaders believe the stadium will be a game-changer for both the university and the surrounding Shoals area
“The new halls represent the latest achievement in the $300 million investment comprising the first phase of Samford Horizons. The visionary response to 16 consecutive years of record-breaking enrollment moves Samford closer to the administration’s goal for 75% of students to reside on campus.”
Gabrielle “Gabe” Fuller, a Hoover resident for at least 20 years, has been promoted to senior vice president for architecture at Davis Architects in Birmingham.