APLA Alum Emphasizes the Importance of Being There

Meyer ‘93, founder of Meyer Davis, said Auburn was the place where the principles that continue to define his work first took shape: rigor, community and a deep sense of presence.

“Auburn gave me not only a design education, but a foundation in problem solving and critical thinking that continues to guide me today,” he said.

After Auburn, he moved to New York, where early roles with Eisenman Architects and later Gwathmey Siegel & Associates sharpened his understanding of proportion, clarity and spatial discipline. Those lessons became central to the philosophy he would later build with business partner Gray Davis ‘89, who also graduated from Auburn’s Architecture program, at Meyer Davis.

Over 25 years in business, the firm is now internationally celebrated for shaping immersive hospitality environments for brands including Four Seasons, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and Ritz-Carlton—with accolades like the Interior Design Hall of Fame, the Hospitality Design Platinum Circle, Wallpaper* 400 and the 2025 Design Firm of the Year by Hospitality Design Magazine.

Yet Meyer credits Auburn for teaching him something just as important as design excellence: how to engage fully with people and place.

“One of the most lasting lessons I took from Auburn is the idea of being present,” Meyers said. “The university’s resounding message was simple, but it stays with me. Be where you are.”

That philosophy continues to shape not only his approach to architecture, but also his long-running relationship with Auburn. Meyer has remained deeply involved with the program through service on the advisory board, guest lectures, student talks and design juries. His continued presence gives students direct access to the kind of professional insight that bridges studio learning with global practice.

The studio has also made a lasting contribution through the Meyer Davis Portfolio Prize, established to recognize Auburn students who demonstrate excellence in portfolio creation, reflection and storytelling. The 2026 recipients of the prize were Zach Clemons, Reyna Foslien and Ethan Edwards.

The award reflects Meyer’s belief that communication is central to design education.

“The school helped shape the trajectory of my life,” he said, and that perspective continues to fuel his commitment to student success.

For Meyer, giving back is rooted in gratitude for the School and hope for future generations of designers.

“I hope young designers recognize the responsibility that comes with shaping space. Design influences how people feel, gather and live,” he said. “If they approach that responsibility with empathy, rigor and openness, the profession will remain vibrant and relevant for generations to come.”

For Meyer, giving back is rooted in gratitude for the School and hope for future generations of designers.

“I hope young designers recognize the responsibility that comes with shaping space. Design influences how people feel, gather and live,” he said. “If they approach that responsibility with empathy, rigor and openness, the profession will remain vibrant and relevant for generations to come.”