The Motley | Nashville, Tennessee | 2024

Architects: Hastings Architecture
Lead Architect: David Bailey
Client: IPB Properties
Renderings: Courtesy of the Architects

HASTINGS has partnered with Vancouver-based IBP Properties to develop 1401 Church Street, a transformative, three-tower project that redefines Nashville's Midtown district. This project seeks to enhance the landscape of placemaking through a carefully curated blend of interaction of pedestrian experience and destination programming. The design focuses the three towers around a central, landscaped plaza focused on the skyline of the downtown core, encircled by integrated retail spaces and outdoor amenities. Situated on the site of a former urban, dairy plant, the design pays homage to the site's industrial heritage while envisioning a contemporary 'urban village.'

Design elements and the overall conceptual approach draw inspiration from the former masonry industrial structures and the plant's stainless steel dairy tanks, or silos. A layering of movement and discovery is achieved through various pathways and portals that lead to the central plaza. The tower façades are crafted from precast panels that feature the impression of the silos. The result is an architectural expression that showcases façade and massing carves and setbacks reflecting the industrial legacy of the property.

The base features dancing arches as significant movements and pedestrian entries. The former industrial site required a rezoning to achieve this animated, urban solution. Key factors of approval were the desire to foster a strong sense of community and interconnection, integrated planning and mobility, and walkability to and from the surrounding neighborhoods. To achieve this goal, parking was placed in a four-story, below-grade structure that allows for continuous above-grade activation. A heavily landscaped grand stramp completes a major pedestrian connection from the plaza to the northeast corner - a major pathway to office destinations - forming a sophisticated gateway while navigating a twelve-foot grade change.

Vehicular access points were strategically located out of the way of pedestrians, and the service entry is even concealed by a sloped dog-park placed above the access ramp. The design recognizes the importance of creating walkable spaces enhancing connectivity between the towers and the central plaza. The inclusion of pedestrian-friendly features aims to promote a lively and interactive environment. 1401 is positioned within a half-mile radius of major office employers, and a mile radius of Nashville's vibrant hotspots and Vanderbilt University.

Outdoor porches, pool decks, a public dog park, and communal spaces contribute to the creation of a micro-neighborhood, promoting a sense of belonging, capturing the essence of Southern hospitality. The incorporation of Vancouver planning ideals highlighting the significance of walkability, the outdoors, and nature in community, and culture enriches the project with a global perspective. This project becomes a linkage and destination, drawing pedestrians to experience the site, mixed-use focal points, and unique architectural composition.