Mobile Bay Magazine Inspiration Home 2026 - Lecture Series Bundle
About this Event
Mobile Bay Magazine Inspiration Home Lecture Series
Want to learn more about Mobile history and the restoration of the Chighizola house? Don't miss this special lecture series featuring local historians and experts!
Tickets: $25 per person, includes tour of the home and admission to all four lectures
Lecture #1: Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 12:30 PM
Lunchtime Learn with Mike Rogers
• Learn more about the Inspiration Home project from start to finish from the leader of the construction and restoration team
Lecture #2: Thursday, August 13, 2026 | 12:30 PM
Lunchtime Learn with Cart Blackwell
• Explore old Mobile architecture and how people lived in their homes
Lecture #3: Sunday, August 16, 2026 | 12:30 PM
Lunchtime Learn with Tom McGehee
• Explore the history of parlors in the Victorian era and the slow emergence of separate dining rooms and customs
Lecture #4: Thursday, August 20, 2026 | 5 PM
Happy Hour with John Sledge
• In honor of Mobile Tiki Week, guests will learn about rum running and piracy in old Mobile. All attendees will receive a complimentary rum cocktail.
Location
Address: 6 S Franklin Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602
Meet the Team Behind the Home
CONSTRUCTION: Michael C. Rogers, Jr. | Rogers & Willard, Inc.
Mike Rogers is the president of Rogers & Willard, Inc. (RWI), a leading commercial construction firm based in Mobile, Alabama. In addition to commercial projects, RWI is renowned for its significant contributions to historic renovation and urban development. With a degree in Building Science from Auburn University, Mike co-founded Rogers & Willard in 1991, and has since played a pivotal role in revitalizing many of Mobile’s historic structures.
RWI’s extensive portfolio includes the restoration of landmark buildings such as the Staples Pake Building, The Steeple and the Buick Building. The Buick Building, in particular, is a testament to his vision and dedication. Originally constructed in the 1920s and vacant for over a decade, the building was transformed under Mike’s leadership into a vibrant office space, anchoring the revitalization of St. Louis Street and sparking further development in the area.
Mike’s expertise extends beyond construction to include strategic use of incentives and tax credits to make large- scale renovations feasible. His work on the Buick Building, for instance, involved leveraging historic tax credits and collaboration with city officials to secure funding and support, ensuring the project’s success and setting a precedent for future urban renewal efforts.
Mike is actively involved in the local community, contributing to various development initiatives and co-founding Porchlight, which is focused on urban infill and innovative housing solutions. His commitment to preserving Mobile’s architectural heritage while fostering economic growth makes him a key figure in the city’s ongoing transformation.
CONSTRUCTION: Cay Rogers | Cay Construction, Inc.
Cay Rogers is the owner of Cay Construction, Inc. Cay is based in Mobile, Alabama, with a construction career spanning over three decades. She is known across the region as a one of the most highly regarded residential builders, particularly noted for her expertise in building beach homes and custom renovations. She has successfully completed numerous projects, including many custom homes on Dauphin Island and renovations in Mobile.
Her work is recognized for its attention to detail, quality, construction, function, superior craftsmanship and harmonious integration with the local environment. One of her recent projects was featured in Luxe magazine, highlighting her ability to complete complex custom renovations.Cay began her career with Praytor Realty in 1989 before founding Cay Construction, Inc. in 1993. In addition to being one of the most in demand builders in the area, she remains a licensed realtor today with LLBB, Inc. Real Estate.
ARCHITECTURE: Douglas B. Kearley, Sr. | Kearley Architects
Douglas B. Kearley, Sr. is a native Mobilian and renowned architect based in Mobile, Alabama. After receiving his Bachelor of Architecture from Auburn University, Kearley has had a distinguished career focused on historical architecture. Since founding Douglas B. Kearley Architect, LLC in 2001, he has played a pivotal role in preserving and revitalizing many of Mobile’s historic buildings. His expertise extends over 25 years, marked by a commitment to architectural integrity and innovative design solutions that respect the historical context of his projects. Kearley’s portfolio includes a variety of significant projects that highlight his dedication to historic preservation and adaptive reuse. Notable among these are his contributions to the restoration of the St. John-Rutherford House, The Dr. Levert Office, The Tardy Cottage and the Richards-DAR House, all iconic structures in Mobile that showcase his skill in maintaining the historical essence while incorporating modern amenities. The Chighizola House project is particularly significant to Kearley as it involves meticulous restoration to preserve the architectural heritage of the property while updating its functionality for contemporary use. The renovation aims to enhance the building’s historical features, making it a standout example of Kearley’s adeptness in handling complex historical restoration projects.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 28.52
