“September 19th was a special day for the University of North Alabama and the entire Shoals community. From the moment the gates opened to Bobby Wallace Field at Bank Independent Stadium, you could feel the excitement and pride throughout. The incredible support from the community, fans, alumni, students, athletes, and local businesses showed just how meaningful this new facility is to the area. Seeing everyone come together to celebrate the opening made the day about much more than a game…”
Some projects are measured in square feet, seats, and schedules. Others are measured in moments. This weekend, Bank Independent Stadium came to life at the University of North Alabama.
Davis Architects has a track record of designing successful theater projects, both large and small venues, “Which I like and is one reason we’re bringing them to the table”
Samford University’s national award-winning Campus Recreation, Wellness & Athletics Complex—an $85 million expansion of Seibert Hall completed in September 2024— earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in May.
Jacksonville State University officially opened the Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts (ROC) on Tuesday, marking a historic milestone for the university and unveiling a performance season that will bring nationally recognized artists, educational programming, and cultural events to Northeast Alabama.
I remember one of the aspects that initially drew me to Davis Architects was their expertise in performing arts design, including both UAB’s Alys Stephens Center and WorkPlay. I was thrilled when I began my first week at Davis as an architectural intern assigned to the design team for Samford University’s Brock Recital Hall.
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.”
