A cautionary tale: Birmingham’s historic losses
In case you haven’t heard, May is National Historic Preservation Month, as so celebrated for years by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the National Park Service. Here in Birmingham, a city rich in history and culture, this month-long celebration is not only a reminder to take stock of the historic treasures and charm we currently possess, but a time to mourn those we no longer have.
10 powerful examples of historic preservation in action
It’s easy to take for granted the historic gems we have here in Birmingham. Many beautiful, story-filled buildings dot the map of our city, their silhouettes adorning our skylines and their façades serving as the vibrant background to our everyday lives downtown. Although this is far from a comprehensive list, we invite you to keep reading and learn more about ten powerful examples of historic preservation already in action in the Magic City.
Why we say yay to two-way streets downtown
The conversion of 4th Avenue North into a two-way street is a catalytic moment for Birmingham – but you may find yourself wondering why that is. The case for two-ways is layered with economic and social benefits alike. Let’s dive in!
The key tool for urban revitalization: Downtown Birmingham’s BID
By the time REV took on BID management in 2018, downtown had a new set of needs from its BID. Downtown Birmingham in the ‘90s had a population mainly of 9 to 5 employees. But the downtown of 2018 had a whole new population of residents and visitors throughout the day and night. We had new opportunities to create positive experiences, inviting them into more downtown businesses and public spaces, and to keep them coming back for more.
Introducing the six businesses that call Nextec home
On the corner of 3rd Avenue and 16th Street North, you’ll find Nextec, a redevelopment of the 90-year-old, 65,000-square-foot Edwards Motor Company building (also formerly known as the Sticks ‘N’ Stuff building). With experience in historic renovation, developer Michael Mouron, chairman of Capstone Real Estate Investments, began this civic project in 2021 as a space for business startups to continue their work in the Magic City.
Urban Vintage Clothing pedaling forward
For as long as he can remember, Ty King, owner of Urban Vintage Clothing, has had an inclination for fashion. To him, style is more than the clothes on your back. It’s a feeling – and a really good one, if you’re intentional about expressing yourself through your attire.
That passion, combined with an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, is what drove him to open his storefront for Urban Vintage Clothing in December of 2022.
Cala Coffee: The Newest Coffee Shop Brewing in Birmingham
Amid the pandemic, when many found themselves at home searching for new hobbies, Josh Cosio and his wife, Melanie, embarked on a unique journey – roasting coffee at home. What began as a simple passion project soon evolved into something much more remarkable. Just two years after their inaugural batch of home-roasted beans, Cala Coffee has swiftly taken root, with not one but two locations opening in Birmingham.
An insider look into Birmingham’s only handmade tap handle manufacturer
Beer…it’s what makes Birmingham unique, game days better, and the world go round. Beermingham is home to over 10 breweries and hundreds of unique craft flavors. Amidst this cornucopia of choices, one often overlooked yet crucial element in the craft beer world is the tap handle. It’s the final touch that guides that ice-cold brew into your frosted glass. But have you ever wondered about the work that goes into these intricate handles?
9 Questions with Deon Gordon about BHM’s thriving tech scene and Sloss Tech
Meet Deon Gordon, one of the great minds behind Sloss Tech and a leading figure in Birmingham’s thriving tech industry. Sloss Tech is a vital conference driving the growth of Birmingham’s tech sector, fostering connections between tech enthusiasts, founders, investors, and professionals. This year’s conference is unique due to its post-pandemic return, introducing new programs for inclusivity and engaging students and early-career professionals. Deon envisions tech as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation in Birmingham and emphasizes the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the tech community.
Birmingham, the secret ingredient behind Hoffman Media
Have you ever wondered how those delicious baking magazines look so good on paper but don’t turn out like the pictures? The geniuses behind the apron aren’t the only ones making those creations come to life. Photographers, producers, and editors are also behind the scenes making the food look as good as it tastes. Downtown Birmingham is lucky to have its own creative publication firm, Hoffman Media, right on 2nd Avenue. With several state-of-the-art broadcasting kitchens and photography equipment, the firm can easily transform a recipe into a dreamy reality.