BarberMcMurry Architects has promoted to Senior Associate three employees: Kristin B. Colwell, A.J. Heidel, and Drew Newman. 

Drew Newman, AIA, LEED AP, worked for BarberMcMurry from 2015-2017 and rejoined the firm in 2022. He is the firm’s Digital Practice Manager, leading innovations in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and design process, and is project manager. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art and his Master of Architecture from the University of Cincinnati. He is a LEED Accredited Professional. 

Newman is a member of the Board of Directors for AIA East Tennessee and Centro Hispano de East Tennessee. He serves on the State BIM Committee and is a member of Young Professionals of Knoxville and the Society for College & University Planning. He volunteers as a tnAchieves mentor and is a head coach for Farragut Baseball Inc. 

A.J. Heidel, AIA, WELL AP, joined BarberMcMurry in 2017 and is a project manager. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Tennessee and is a WELL Accredited Professional. He has led many of the firm’s cultural efforts, particularly those related to mentoring emerging professionals in the field. 

Kristin B. Colwell, RID, NCIDQ, WELL AP, has been with BarberMcMurry for nine years and is the firm’s Studio Manager, as well as a senior interior designer and project manager. She earned her Bachelor of Interior Design from the University of Tennessee and is a WELL Accredited Professional. She has been integrally involved in studio initiatives related to Building Information Modeling (BIM) and sustainable design. She serves on the Board of Directors of the East Tennessee Community Design Center and is a tnAchieves mentor.

Five BarberMcMurry projects have been nominated for the 2024 Keep Knoxville Beautiful Orchids Awards. The Orchids recognize buildings, public art, and outdoor spaces within Knox County that beautify and elevate the local landscape.

In the category of New Architecture, University Orthopaedic Institute.

In the category of Pillar of the Community, the Lindsay Young Downtown YMCA.

In the category of Regreening, the Muse We Bee-Long Pollinator Exhibit.

In the category of Redesign/Reuse, the East Tennessee Children's Hospital Emergency Department and South High Senior Living.