Alan was a gentle giant who contributed greatly to his community, profession, and the built environment. Many will remember the well designed but small mobile office that he and partner Carroll Henley worked out of on Signal Mountain when they began designing unique contemporary homes and offices mostly on the mountain.. Because of their strong work ethic and commitment to quality design it wasn’t long before they moved into a larger professional office building they designed downtown. Eventually they added Bill Wilkerson to the shingle as their reputation for superior design took off.
Alan clearly represented a dying breed of architects who actually designed buildings with their hands and minds rather than the click of a mouse on the computer; using artistic talent versus typing skills. His building designs were strong and powerful, like a rock as if sculpted or chiseled out of stone.
Alan’s firm is arguably one of the best design firms to exist since the period of famed architect R H Hunt. As an outstanding architect he leaves behind museums, libraries, hospitals, office buildings, schools, and parks for all to enjoy and appreciate.
Alan was quick to compliment and support others for their work or actions which is why he will always be remembered as one of Chattanooga’s finest architects.
Vance Travis, Architect