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 Alabama. 🕵️‍♂️🧬

📸: Rob Culpepper

Project Update: Chilton County Courhouse

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.

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 Co. 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

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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.

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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.

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“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. ✨

It's a BPA Holiday Party!

The holidays may be behind us, but we're still thinking about our holiday party at @eastwestbham — great food, even better company, and the perfect way to close out the year as a team. 😎

Here's to whatever comes next. 2025, we're ready!

Ribbon Cutting: Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Huntsville!

Last week, state and local leaders gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences Regional Laboratory and Medical Facility in Huntsville! This 25,000-square-foot facility on the University of Alabama in Huntsville campus will support and be a critical hub for forensic investigations across 22 North Alabama counties.

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.

We’re honored to have helped create a space that advances justice and public safety through innovation and collaboration!

Groundbreaking: Jefferson County Animal Care & Control Facility

A new chapter for animal care in Birmingham begins! 🐾 This facility will expand Jefferson County’s ability to provide essential animal welfare services by increasing capacity, improving staff efficiency, and fostering collaboration with The Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

The new, 36,174-square-foot facility will include:

• A calm and welcoming environment to invite the community in for adoption, volunteering, and pet education

• Dedicated kitten and puppy areas

• Kennels for up to 448 dogs and over 100 cats

• 6-dedicated play yards 

• Quarantine area for disease control

• Procedure rooms

• Treatment rooms

• Grooming area

• Warehouse

• Offices for staff and vets

“We’re proud to partner with Jefferson County to expand their ability to meet the growing animal welfare service needs of the community for years to come. A great deal of effort and planning went into designing a facility that emphasizes functionality, longevity, and disease mitigation. The new campus will drastically increase animal capacity, efficiency of the staff, and synergy by being next door to the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. We’re excited to be part of such a meaningful project.”

— Micah Martin, Senior Associate, BPA

Construction Underway on the Chilton County Courthouse!

We are proud to have broken ground on the Chilton County Courthouse in Clanton, Alabama, alongside Governor Kay Ivey and other state and local leaders last week!

The ~72,000 sq ft courthouse will feature courtrooms, support areas, and administrative offices, ensuring essential services for the community. Occupying 7 acres of a 13-acre lot along Alabama Highway 145, the design allows room for future expansion—ensuring the space can grow along with the county’s needs.

We are honored to partner with Chilton County and Brasfield & Gorrie to create a modern, functional, and welcoming space that will serve as a cornerstone for the community for years to come!

“Our goal is to create a modern, functional, and welcoming courthouse—a space that not only meets today’s needs but also anticipates the community’s growth and future potential. This project represents a meaningful investment in the people of Chilton County, and we are honored to help shape a building that will serve as a cornerstone for years to come.”

— Russ Realmuto, Associate Principal, BPA

Why one Homewood architecture firm has an award-winning new look

Check out this Bham Now feature on Birchfield Penuel Architects, originally published by Bham Now:

Tucked away on a quiet street in Homewood, one simple rectangular building has undergone an award-winning transformation.

Curious to find out more, we stopped by Birchfield Penuel Architects (BPA) to learn what was going on. This is their story.

who is bpa?

37 years ago, in 1987, architects Clay Birchfield and Chuck Penuel launched Birchfield Penuel Architects (BPA).

Back then, they did it all—designing, managing, and driving the firm’s growth.

They both had degrees from Auburn and experience designing complex clinical projects.

Together, they built a business on a bold idea: specializing in healthcare architecture.

Now, the founders have retired, and a new generation is building on their legacy from a newly renovated, award-winning office in downtown Homewood.

Today, BPA has expanded its expertise beyond healthcare, specializing in education, commercial, and civic projects while staying true to the high standards that have always defined the firm.

To read the rest of the story, click here!

BPA's Summer Travels 2024

As summer 2024 comes to a close, the team at BPA has been soaking up every moment outside the office. From adventurous travels to exciting personal milestones, our staff has had a season full of unforgettable experiences. Whether exploring new destinations, attending summer concerts, or simply enjoying time with family and friends, this summer was all about making the most of the warm weather and recharging. Join us as we share some highlights from the BPA team's summer adventures! 🌞

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Allison traveled to England!

“I traveled (toddler-free!) with my sister through England for a week, seeing London, the Cotswolds, Bath & Oxford, and maybe or may not have caught an international pop star's concert while there. Loved the crisp weather, adorable cottages, and, of course, 18th-century Architecture.”

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CANDELA EMBARKED ON A TWO-MONTH-LONG ROAD TRIP AFTER GRADUATING FROM AUBURN UNIVERSITY.

“After graduation, my sister and I embarked on a two-month road trip we had planned for years! We traveled to the west, camping in the national parks along the way and experiencing a wide range of landscapes and climates. Some of the highlights include a hot air balloon ride in Albuquerque, our tent set up in MOAB, watching the horses at the Teton Mountain Range, hiking up Hurricane Hill in Olympic National Park, and admiring the views at the Grand Canyon!”

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Dia traveled with her mom to Washington, DC, and to Chicago for neocon!

“In DC, I explored the vibrant neighborhoods and amazing food of DC with my mom and fell in love with the Metro! Later, I traveled to Chicago with IIDA Alabama for the summer CLC at IIDA HQ and Neocon with our amazing local reps. Our chapter even won an award!”

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Maria and her dad traveled to St. Gallen, Austria, to visit relatives for the first time since 2019.

“As usual, we ate well – look up kasnockerl!  One of our site-seeing trips took us to St. John’s Chapel in the medieval town of Purgg to view its treasured ancient frescoes.  We were fortunate to peruse my cousin’s archive of family photos. This one is my dad and uncle in St. Gallen’s town square, circa 1951. And in our downtime, the views in and around St. Gallen in the Steiermark were always a treat!”

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melissa and her family traveled from san diego to los angeles!

“My family and I spent a week in Southern California traveling from San Diego to Los Angeles. We visited some museums, walked on several beaches, and did some of the typical touristy stuff. La Jolla and Oceanside were a couple of our favorite spots.”

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Michael’s summer has included 5K runs, street vault meets, concerts, and exploring New York & Canada by boat

“My summer has been filled with 5k fun with friends, watching my son Braxton pole vault in the street vault meets while he is home from college, neighborhood pool parties, attending a few concerts, a trip to New York where I visited Niagara Falls, St. Lawrence River and Thousand Islands NY & Canada by boat. While on the St Lawrence River, I caught my first fish.”

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taylor got married out west!

“Kevin, my husband, and I road-tripped from Los Angeles, CA, to Portland, OR, with a stop in Santa Cruz, CA, to get married! The entire trip took a little over two weeks and some of our stops included Monterey Bay, Woodside, San Fransisco, Eureka, and Port Orford.”

So long summer, see you next year!

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!