MOBILE BAY MAGAZINE
INSPIRATION HOME 2026

Historic Chighizola House
6 South Franklin Street, Mobile, AL 36602

Mobile Bay Magazine has partnered with Rogers & Willard, Cay Construction and Kearley Architects to showcase the restoration of the historic Chighizola House in Downtown Mobile as the 2026 Inspiration Home. Tickets to tour the home are $10, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Goodwill Gulf Coast.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FOR TOURS

August 6 - 30, 2026

Thursdays - Saturdays: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sundays: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.

About the Chighizola House

“Behind the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception stands one of the most evocative buildings in Mobile — the Chighizola House. This elegant Greek Revival townhouse located at 6 South Franklin Street represents in brick and mortar a popular vision of 19th-century Mobile — urban, gracious and atmospheric. In name, architecture and preservation, the Chighizola House constitutes a unique survival in the present-day Henry Aaron Loop. A glance at the history of the building, an examination of its form and an exploration of its unaltered interiors provide a glimpse into worlds gone by and serve as a vehicle for continuing the revitalization of downtown Mobile.” - Cartledge Blackwell, Architectural Historian

Meet the Restoration Team

CAY & MIKE ROGERS

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.

Douglas Kearley’s work is characterized by a deep respect for historical accuracy, attention to detail, and a creative approach to integrating new design elements with traditional architecture. His contributions have not only preserved Mobile’s architectural heritage but also enhanced its cultural landscape, making him a respected figure in the field of historical architecture in the region.

Inspiration Home Charity Partner

Goodwill Gulf Coast

Celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, Goodwill Gulf Coast is a local non-profit that has provided steadfast support for individuals and families in need, empowering people of all ages through lifelong learning and employment in its 10-county service area in southwest Alabama and northwest Florida. The programs of Goodwill Gulf Coast make communities stronger through workforce development, children and family services, adult education, and support programs. Our goal is to help people in whatever shape they’re in – needing a job or their GED, wanting help with parenting a special needs child, or finding a place for their family member with disabilities who can’t stay home alone.

In 2025, Goodwill Gulf Coast experienced the most impactful year in its history. Thanks to record levels of donations, shoppers, and retail revenue, Goodwill Gulf Coast served 13,857 individuals with 29,452 services – an increase of 422 people and 10,295 services over the prior year.

Project Partners

Tier 2

Hattie Sparks Interiors
LLB&B Inc. Real Estate
Spire Energy
Rayfor and Associates
Morrissette & Co.
Revelry Bloom
Air Design HVAC
AIS
BLP Mobile Paints
Burr & Forman
Cay Construction
Concrete Solutions LLC
Crow Shields Bailey PC
Douglas Kearley Architect
Emack Slate Company
Ivy Cottage
Lacy Phillips Designs
March + May Design
Metropolitan Glass Co
Rachel Cannon Limited
Sophiella Gallery
Southern Home Outdoor
Spruced Up Staging + Design
Suzanne Winston & Associates

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REMEMBERING

JUDGE ROY BEAN

Pull up a seat to the pine bar and reminisce over days of goats, Jimmy Buffett rumors and good times for the 50th anniversary of

Judge Roy Bean.

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