Architects: An Overview
Architects are licensed professionals who design buildings and oversee their construction. They blend artistic vision with technical expertise to create spaces that are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. In Nashville’s rapidly evolving architectural landscape, architects play a crucial role in shaping everything from iconic commercial buildings to thoughtfully designed family homes.
Types of Architectural Services
Architects in Nashville offer a range of services tailored to different project needs:
Residential Architecture: Focuses on custom homes, renovations, additions, and multi-family housing. These architects understand how families live and create spaces that enhance daily life.
Best for: Homeowners building custom homes, renovating historic properties, or planning significant additions.
Commercial Architecture: Specializes in office buildings, retail spaces, restaurants, hotels, and mixed-use developments. These firms understand zoning, accessibility codes, and business functionality.
Best for: Business owners, developers, and organizations planning new facilities or tenant improvements.
Full-Service Firms: Provide comprehensive services from initial concept through construction administration, often including interior design, sustainability consulting, and master planning.
Best for: Complex projects requiring coordinated expertise and single-point accountability.
Top 3 Architecture Firms in Nashville, TN
1. HASTINGS Architecture
Best For: Large-scale commercial projects, institutional buildings, sustainable design, and clients seeking a nationally recognized firm with deep Nashville roots.
Philosophy: Community-Focused Design Excellence. Since 1985, HASTINGS has been deeply committed to design and community, producing award-winning sustainable design that positively impacts clients and the communities they serve.
Services:
Architecture: Commercial, educational, healthcare, hospitality, multi-family residential, and civic buildings.
Interior Design: Comprehensive interior planning and finish selection.
Urban Planning: Master planning and community development strategies.
Sustainability Consulting: LEED certification support and green building practices.
Location: 225 Polk Avenue, Suite 100, Nashville, TN 37203.
Contact: (615) 329-1399 | hastingsarchitecture.com
Notable Projects: GEODIS Park (Nashville SC Soccer Stadium), Virgin Hotel Nashville, Vanderbilt University West End Residential Colleges, Donelson Library, Ryman Auditorium renovation.
Recognition: Ranked #3 in the United States by ARCHITECT Magazine’s Top 50 list. Highest-ranking firm in the Southeast. 90+ professionals on staff.
2. Manuel Zeitlin Architects
Best For: Innovative mixed-use developments, adaptive reuse projects, custom modern residences, and clients who value creative problem-solving and sustainable design.
Philosophy: Autonomous, Problem-Solving Design. MZA approaches each project autonomously and treats each problem as unique, finding architectural resolutions to complex challenges in both predictable and unexpected ways. They are a spirited team that produces serious work.
Services:
Commercial Architecture: Office buildings, restaurants (including James Beard nominated projects), retail, and mixed-use developments.
Residential Architecture: Custom modern homes and renovations.
Historic Preservation: Adaptive reuse of historical structures with preservation awards.
Sustainable Design: LEED Accredited Professionals on staff for environmentally conscious projects.
Location: 516 Hagan Street, Nashville, TN 37203.
Contact: (615) 256-1880 | mzarch.com
Notable Projects: Mixed-use developments in Wedgewood-Houston, Queens Apartments, Samaritan Recovery Community, and numerous award-winning restaurants and residences.
Recognition: Employee-owned firm. Over 40 years of experience. Multiple preservation awards from the Metro Historical Commission.
3. John TeSelle Architecture
Best For: Personalized residential and commercial projects, hands-on architect involvement, energy-efficient design, and clients who want their architect directly managing every detail.
Philosophy: Personal Attention to Every Project. The founder personally attends every meeting, coordinates all drawings, writes specifications, and draws every detail on construction documents. The architect’s role is to give clients the information and options they need to make good decisions and communicate those decisions to contractors.
Services:
Residential Design: Custom homes, additions, renovations, and historic restorations.
Commercial Projects: Hotels, schools, restaurants, apartments, and office buildings.
Green Building: LEED Accredited Professional with expertise in energy-efficient design including deep overhangs, spray foam insulation, and cool roofs.
Full-Service Architecture: Pre-design through construction administration.
Location: 405 Fairfax Avenue, Nashville, TN 37212.
Contact: (615) 297-1919 | [email protected] | jt-architecture.com
Project Range: Residential remodels to complete custom houses, hotels, schools, restaurants, and office buildings across Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, and New York.
- Recognition: Founded in 2000. Member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). LEED Accredited Professional through the U.S. Green Building Council.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much do architects charge in Nashville?
Architects typically charge using one of three methods: hourly rates (ranging from $100 to $250+ per hour for consultations and smaller projects), percentage of construction cost (typically 8% to 15% for full-service residential projects), or a flat fee based on project scope. For a typical Nashville home costing $500,000 to build, architectural fees might range from $40,000 to $75,000 for comprehensive services.
2. Do I need an architect for my home renovation or addition?
For major structural changes, additions, or projects requiring permits, an architect ensures code compliance and optimal design. Many smaller renovations can be handled by a design-build contractor. If your project involves moving load-bearing walls, adding significant square footage, or navigating historic district requirements, an architect is highly recommended.
3. What is the difference between an architect and a designer?
Architects are licensed professionals who have completed accredited education, extensive internships, and passed rigorous licensing exams. They can legally stamp drawings for permit submission and are trained in structural systems, building codes, and life safety. Designers may have design training but cannot legally stamp drawings in Tennessee. For new construction or major renovations, a licensed architect is typically required.
4. How long does the architectural design process take?
The design process typically takes 3 to 6 months for residential projects and 6 to 12 months for larger commercial projects. This includes schematic design, design development, and construction document phases. Rush timelines are possible but may increase costs. After design, the permitting process in Nashville can add 4 to 8 weeks or more.
5. What should I bring to my first meeting with an architect?
Come prepared with photos or images of designs you like, a rough budget range, your timeline expectations, a list of must-have features, and any site information such as surveys, lot dimensions, or existing home plans. If you have selected a lot, bring the address. The more information you provide upfront, the more productive your initial consultation will be.