McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture has acquired Fuqua & Partners Architects, a respected Huntsville firm founded in 1983. The deal marks MPS’s official entry into Alabama and southern Tennessee as part of its Southeast expansion strategy.
New Office Strengthens Presence in Rocket City
The acquisition creates MPS’s 10th studio in the region and strengthens its position in Huntsville, a city nationally recognized for innovation in space exploration and advanced research. Company leaders cited Huntsville’s dynamic growth and welcoming business climate as major draws for investment.
“With its welcoming and people-centered culture, Huntsville offers the kind of vibrant civic and commercial landscape where we can thrive,” said Chad Cousins, CEO of McMillan Pazdan Smith.
Clients to See Expanded Capabilities
Joe Fuqua, founding principal of Fuqua & Partners, noted that the transition will benefit both current and future clients. By joining MPS, Fuqua’s team gains access to broader design capabilities and deeper project support.
“Our clients will see an immediate advantage through enhanced resources and expertise,” Fuqua said.
The Huntsville-based team brings with it a strong design portfolio that includes the Huntsville Transit Transfer Station and the recently completed Discovery Life Sciences Global Headquarters at HudsonAlpha.
Team Will Stay Local, Maintain Operations
All 30 employees from Fuqua & Partners will continue working from their Church Street office in downtown Huntsville. They will be integrated into MPS’s collaborative project teams, maintaining local continuity while contributing to the firm’s broader regional mission.
Founded in 1955, McMillan Pazdan Smith employs more than 400 professionals and offers architecture, interior design, planning, and advisory services. The firm has received national recognition, including Southeast Design Firm of the Year by ENR in 2020 and the 2022 Premier Award for Client Satisfaction from PSMJ.
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