Keeping History Alive in Nashville through Adaptive Reuse
Across Middle Tennessee, buildings with long histories are finding second lives. An old warehouse might become an office space, or a century-old church could be reborn as a community arts venue. This approach—known as adaptive reuse—emphasizes repurposing buildings, turning outdated structures into modern assets while also conserving resources and honoring the past.
Adaptive reuse continues to grow as a practice. These projects are often more cost-effective and can be brought to life in a shorter timeframe. They also breathe new energy into areas that may have been overlooked, sparking economic activity, drawing visitors, creating jobs and building stronger community connections.
Perhaps the most powerful argument for adaptive reuse, though, is its environmental impact. Reworking an existing building can cut carbon emissions by 50–70% compared to new construction, while also preserving up to 90% of the original materials that would otherwise end up as waste.
At Dowdle Construction Group, we think adaptive reuse helps preserve Nashville’s charm. We’re happy to bring these places back to life by being creative and respectful of their past. Here are some examples of our adaptive reuse projects:
Sunnyside Mansion – A Civil War Landmark, Renewed
Located in Sevier Park, Sunnyside Mansion goes back to the 1850s. Our goal was to keep the mansion’s old charm while making it work for modern use as the new home of the Metro Historical Commission. In May, the project received a 2025 Metropolitan Historical Commission Preservation Award.
- Connected the original mansion to its rear ell with a glass passageway, maintaining sightlines and the building’s historic appearance.
- Installed ADA-compliant features, like a new accessible entrance and parking. We also improved movement through the site.
- Restored original materials and features, like hand-hewn log framing, bullet-scarred wood and old chimneys.
- Added interactive historical exhibits and augmented reality features for the public to learn about the site’s history.
Riverside Revival – From Church to Community Hub
A former neighborhood church is now Riverside Revival, a lively space for events that works as a performance spot and a gathering place. We kept the sanctuary’s high ceilings, stained-glass windows and good sound, and added modern things to make it work for public events and nonprofit work.
- Restored architectural details.
- Converted the basement and nearby spaces into a four-story nonprofit area.
- Added public art, like a mural by Nashville artist Danielle Duer.
L&L Market – Warehouse to Marketplace
We turned a 100-year-old former warehouse into L&L Market, which has become one of Nashville’s most popular food and retail spots. The building now holds local sellers, restaurants, boutiques and creative studios while keeping its industrial feel. The project features more than 55,000 square feet of renovated space.
- Preserved the original brickwork, beams and big steel windows.
- Installed modern HVAC, lighting and structural systems.
- Created a welcoming, walkable place for business and community.
The Wilder – Motel to Affordable Housing
We converted a former Super 8 motel into The Wilder, a fresh take on affordable housing in Nashville. What was once a dated roadside motel is now a clean, modern space that provides much-needed housing while keeping the existing structure in use. This project received the ULI Nashville Excellence in Development Award this year.
- Retained the original building footprint and bones.
- Upgraded all systems—plumbing, electrical, HVAC—for modern efficiency and comfort.
At Dowdle Construction Group, we think Nashville can grow without losing its history. Places like Sunnyside Mansion, Riverside Revival, L&L Market and The Wilder show that if we’re thoughtful, we can make spaces that work for us now while respecting the past.