East Nashville Beer Works

Project Statement

East Nashville Beer Works' new Lebanon location stands as a compelling example of architecture's profound impact on community building. Recognizing the burgeoning need for communal hubs in Nashville's expanding suburbs, this project was conceived not merely as a brewery, but as a vibrant epicenter designed to combat the isolation of residential growth. The architectural vision prioritizes creating versatile spaces for all, seamlessly blending public and private gathering areas, complete with an integrated dog park and a spacious playground.

The design thoughtfully connects indoor and outdoor environments through extensive windows and operable garage doors, allowing for dynamic interaction and simultaneous activities, from watching games to children playing safely. Materiality and scale were pivotal drivers; the large gable roof, an economic solution for future brewing expansion, is juxtaposed with warm brick, gray standing seam, and modern mullion patterns, creating a timeless aesthetic that honors their humble beginnings while signaling permanence. Subtle homages to their hexagonal logo and accents of local cedar infuse the space with personal touches and regional authenticity.

This project transcends typical commercial development, demonstrating how strategic design can catalyze a chain reaction of positive growth. It provides high-density, affordable living communities with a much-needed destination, fostering human connection and transforming a highway pass-through into a future thriving, walkable community hub. East Nashville Beer Works, Wilson County truly embodies "Beer is Community" through an architectural narrative that prioritizes inclusion, engagement, and the enduring power of shared spaces.

Framework for Design Excellence Narrative

Design for Integration:

East Nashville Beer Works strategically designs its spaces and operations to foster human connection. Their core philosophy, "Beer is Community," is evident in the welcoming and inclusive environments they create, featuring family-friendly amenities, diverse seating arrangements for various group sizes, and a regular schedule of community-oriented events. By prioritizing local products and vendors, they further strengthen community ties and create opportunities for shared experiences.

Beyond their physical spaces, ENBW intentionally locates their breweries to serve as vital community hubs, particularly in growing suburban areas where such gathering places are often lacking. Their presence acts as a catalyst for further development, enhancing walkability and creating more opportunities for social interaction among residents. Through these deliberate efforts, East Nashville Beer Works goes beyond simply serving beer; they actively cultivate environments that encourage people to connect, build relationships, and strengthen their local communities.


Design for Equitable Communities:

A gathering place like this is creating a new focal point for an area that risked becoming solely residential. As metropolitan areas continue to grow, it's crucial to remember the value of mixed-use developments and central community hubs.

East Nashville Beer Works has only been open since the Fall, yet it's already sparking a wave of development in the surrounding area. The new multi-family complexes are bringing higher-density, more affordable living options to this suburb, and these growing communities will now have an increasing number of places to connect and socialize, whether they have families or not.