DESIGNhabitat HOUSE
Opelika, Alabama
Completed 2002

Located in Opelika, the first DESIGNhabitat prototype house was designed to blend into the surrounding historic neighborhood. The design was influenced by traditional southern housing types. Varying plans were designed to accommodate any site condition to maximize solar orientation. This home received the first EnergyStar rating for a Habitat for Humanity house in the state of Alabama. All research, design work & the majority of construction was completed by 16 Auburn University students. A project Final Report can be downloaded here.

Regarding Architecture
NORTH BIRMINGHAM TRUST & SAVINGS
North Birmingham, Alabama
Under Construction

Originally completed in 1926, this neo-classical structure, once renovated, will become the first home office for Regarding Architecture. Its subtle ornate details, such as carved limestone block on the exterior and plaster cast column capitals on the interior, have been wonderfully preserved over time. With respect to its architecture; this building is a perfect example of an art and a profession that has stood the test of time.

Regarding Architecture
PASS CHRISTIAN MIXED USE
Pass Christian, Mississippi
Conceptual Renderings

This proposed mixed use development was the first of its kind to be introduced to this hurricane ravaged area of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Using the newly ratified Smart Code and the Gulf Coast Neighborhoods pattern book, the design was intended to include a small café, a produce market and extended guest accommodations. Having lost over 90% of its businesses, the rebuilding and the renewal of these vital civic functions will be a much needed boost for a community looking to re-establish itself as a compact, pedestrian-oriented place.

Patrick Nelson with Davis Architects
AUBURN ARENA
Auburn, Alabama
Completed 2010

The new Auburn Arena provided a much needed, updated facility for men’s and women’s basketball, women’s gymnastics and the Lovelace Athletic Museum. Incorporated into the arena are two full size practice courts adjoined by a new weight room. Administrative areas overlook the practice courts. Tailgating suites may be used for both basketball and football games. The suites open up facing Jordan Hare Stadium and provide a small outdoor patio and grill space. While the new arena is smaller than its predecessor, all patrons are provided an incredible view of the court, regardless of their seat location.

Patrick Nelson with Davis Architects
BEARD EAVES MEMORIAL COLISEUM
Auburn, Alabama
Completed 2006

The scope of the project was to replace a removable athletic floor with a high end permanent sports floor. The new floor rests on cushioned metal sleepers. Ramps were installed at entrances to the floor to provide ADA access & to resolve the difference in height with the thicker floor. Grade 1 Maple was used for the basketball court playing area while Grade 3 Maple was used for the surrounding field. The border between the two is masked in the painted court surround.

Nelson Family
NELSON PORCH ADDITION
Huntsville, Alabama
Completed 2002

The addition of the screened porch replaced an unused concrete patio, while providing a bug free place to enjoy the backyard. At 16′ x 16′ (the footprint of the porch), few cuts were required generating very little waste during construction. The deck was attached with concealed fasteners. Bug screen was also installed below the deck to provide a complete enclosure. A small koi pond was added in the courtyard.

Auburn University Rural Studio Thesis
NEWBERN LITTLE LEAGUE FIELD
Newbern, Alabama
Completed 2003

A new home for the Newbern Little League Baseball team was carved out of an unused pasture. This field was designed and constructed by four Auburn University Rural Studio students, two, who would later continue working together to form the office Regarding Architecture. Sourcing local materials and practices, such as the excavation of catfish ponds, harvesting nets, steel fabrication and cardboard bales, the project team was able to give a very lovable group of young individuals a place to ignite their dreams.     www.ruralstudio.com

A brief composite of video stills documenting the construction of the Newbern Little League field in 2002-2003.

Auburn University Rural Studio Exhibit
COL-LEGI d’ARQUITECTES de CATALUNYA
Barcelona, Spain
June 2003

The Col∙legi d’ Arquitectes de Catalunya (COAC) is a specialized entity of architects and similar professionals. Its Barcelona location is housed in a building wrapped in famous Joan Miró murals and faces La Catedral de Barcelona. This exhibit occupied its lower gallery space along a main square and was draped from the inside with local shipping pallets; typical of the Rural Studio’s willingness to reuse materials in creative ways. www.coac.es