Project Description
Gresham Smith provided architecture, interior design, branded environments, environmental graphics/wayfinding, and workplace strategy services for LifeWay Christian Resources’ new corporate headquarters in Nashville, Tenn. The 277,000-square-foot space is located on a 2.5-acre site within the Capitol View urban development in the downtown district, representing a renewed commitment to LifeWay’s mission and the city of Nashville. The project inspires collaboration and innovation among the company’s 1,100 local employees, featuring an open floorplan geared toward activity-based working. It includes a two-story lobby; LifeWay retail bookstore, credit union and vendor meeting area on the first floor; audio, video and photography studios; café and terrace on higher floors; and a conference space large enough to accommodate 700 people with theater-style seating and pre-function/breakout spaces. Lifeway's Christian values are present throughout the space in features such as a Scripture passage serving as a backdrop to the monumental staircase taking visitors to the conference level, and the eight relocated stained glass parable story panels, which are suspended in custom steel frames in the two-story lobby. Both historical elements and modern video technology clearly communicate the LifeWay story – past, present and future. Warm, welcoming materials and abundant natural light create a positive, energetic environment. Prior to designing the new headquarters, Gresham Smith facilitated a Development Feasibility Study and Workplace Strategy Report for LifeWay’s existing campus, with the team ultimately determining that moving to a new location was more financially responsible than renovating. Gresham Smith also managed sub-consultants providing structural, civil and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) engineering, as well as land planning services, throughout the project.