Brad Morton’s former Rotary Trail studio to become a 3-story office building

A team of local developers has big plans for their property along Rotary Trail. Once the site of local artist Brad Morton’s urban studio, the project is set to break ground in 2-3 months and bring more than 21,000 square feet of office space to the area.

Once the Home to Birmingham Artist Brad Morton

For nearly three decades, the property at 2119 1st Avenue South served as the home and art studio to prominent Birmingham artist Brad Morton. His gorgeous urban living & workspace was decorated with displays of his artistic talent, from metal sculptures in the courtyard to works-in-progress in the studio.

Since 1984, Brad Morton has been creating captivating sculptors from his studio in the Southside of Birmingham. His sculptures span across the nation: from Arlington National Cemetery in Washington to the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame right here at home. 

In August of 2020, Brad Morton made the decision to move his workspace to the collective artist workspace at the Thomas Project. A group comprised of two local developers, Dick Schmalz and Scott Bryant, purchased the property. Now, they have big plans for the area.

A New 3 Story Office Space for Rotary Trail

As reported by the Birmingham Business Journal, Dick Schmalz and Scott Bryant plan to develop a new, three-story office structure containing 16,000 square feet of office space, as well as a common area on the rooftop. In addition, the pair plans to renovate the adjoining 5,000 square foot warehouse property as part of the development.

Inside, Dick Schmalz and Scott Bryant plan to divvy up the development into several office spaces, ranging between 4,750 to 6,000 square feet each. In addition, the second and third floors will feature outdoor terraces—with a perfect view of the Birmingham skyline!

Schmalz and Bryant are currently involved in two additional projects within Birmingham: the renovation of 425 20th Street South and the reinvigorated development at 20 Midtown.

What do you think about the new office space on Rotary Trail? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!