
The “Women in Preservation” virtual speaker series features women from a variety of backgrounds who are working to save historic places in Arkansas and across the country. All programs are free, thanks to generous support from DEMX Architecture, and usually take place on the second Tuesday of the month at 3:30 PM. The series runs from February through November.
Join us on Tuesday, April 14 at 3:30 PM for a talk by Heather Davis and Kate East, principals at AMR Architects in Little Rock.
Heather Davis, a graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from Arkansas Tech University and a Master of Architecture from Texas A&M, brings a distinctive perspective and a sincere dedication to placemaking in both rural and urban environments. Hailing from the small town of Hatfield in western Arkansas, Heather has led projects of varying scales and types, with a specific focus on civic and higher education initiatives.
Noteworthy recent projects helmed by Heather include the Judicial Learning Center Addition at the Supreme Court Justice Building in Little Rock, the revitalization of the LA Davis Student Union at UAPB, and the innovative Parklets on Main Street in Argenta.
Heather currently serves on the board of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Arkansas Chapter, and is an active board member and past-president of studioMAIN, a local non-profit design-collective. Heather’s passion is community development and crafting spaces that enhance the quality of life for the communities they serve.
Since 2005, Kate East has been an integral part of the AMR team, seamlessly blending her passion for interior design with an understanding of the practical considerations crucial to successful projects. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Lake Forest College in 2005 and a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from the University of Central Arkansas in 2006, Kate has honed her skills at the intersection of creativity and functionality.
In 2012, Kate assumed the role of Principal within the firm. Grounded in her fine arts background, she approaches each project with a commitment to elevating spaces aesthetically while ensuring they meet the practical needs of clients. Kate’s role extends from project inception to completion, showcasing expertise in space planning, finish selections, furniture specifications, and the thoughtful integration of artwork and signage. Her collaborative approach ensures smooth coordination with team members, contractors, and consultants to achieve outstanding project results.
Kate’s ability to balance design innovation with practical considerations has resulted in lasting relationships. As a Principal, she continues to contribute her unique perspective to projects, ensuring they exceed expectations.

Upcoming speakers:
May 12 – Ellie Isaacs, Landmark Preservation Consulting
June 9 – Susan Young, Local Historian, Fayetteville
July 14 – Melissa Dysart, Level 5 Architecture
August 11 – Sara Jondahl, Director of Sustainability and Resilience, City of Russellville
September 8 – Sarah Devan, WER Architects
October 13 – Nita Gould, Independent Researcher and Writer
November 10 – Mae Bowley, Big Tree Projects, LLC
This project is generously supported by DEMX Architecture.
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