Better Equipment for Urban Design in Birmingham

The College of Architecture, Design and Construction’s Urban Studio is at the forefront of many innovative Birmingham projects. Did you know that Railroad Park started as a project for Urban Studio students? Or the new Powell Steam Plant site? Student work includes projects and improvements to areas such as Avondale, Woodlawn, Norwood and the newly named Innovation District in downtown Birmingham.

"Working the past few years to get the Birmingham Land Bank Authority established, I've turned to the Urban Studio to help articulate the impact that returning thousands of tax-delinquent properties to productive use could have on the built and natural environment," said Phil Amthor of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority. "Our work has just started, and I look forward to deeper engagements with Urban Studio in imagining the future of Birmingham's post-industrial revitalization."

Urban Studio students work to make inventive and original ideas for Birmingham’s growing redevelopment. This work is done through study, model making, and drawings that are presented to community stakeholders.

The Urban Studio is in need of a new plotter that can print better quality drawings and renderings in order to continue their innovative work in the City of Birmingham in the best possible way.

Using a plotter or drafting printer, the students create large drawings to demonstrate their work and explain how their ideas can transform into city growth and development. These drawings show the many different aspects of their research, master plans, individual project ideas for specific buildings, and properties.

Those who make a donation of $100 or more will receive a limited edition print of Birmingham’s historic Thomas Jefferson Hotel (seen below) sketched by current Urban Studio student and Tiger Giving Day student project owner, Asa Porter.

By donating to the Urban Studio today, you are supporting the groundbreaking work of our students, thus the growth and revitalization of our Birmingham – the magic city.