Prima

Project Statement

The central design challenge and question for the project is – how can we address the residential demand for a growing city, while incorporating and connecting two adjacent historic buildings? The accelerated development of Nashville has left a demand for the preservation of character-rich buildings and open public space. The strategic placement and design of Prima provides an extraordinary pedestrian experience with layers of old and new through internal activation. The design team sacrificed valuable square footage and service circulation in order to create a public internal corridor lined with art and retail. The existing buildings are enriched through their incorporation into the larger vision of the project thus creating a district unique to Nashville - Paseo South Gulch.

Thoughtfully curated retail activation and outdoor dining at the base of each project along with a covered “paseo” walkway allows for complete connectivity throughout the site. Prima at Paseo South Gulch consists of approximately 8,000 square feet of retail at ground level, 18,000 square feet of liner loft office on levels 2 and 3, and 278 residential units ranging from studios to 2 bedrooms. The 234 parking spaces serve the residents, loft office users and the public. Design inspiration was drawn from the unique geometry of the site via the adjacent CSX railroad, and the two adaptive re-use buildings. The form of Prima is manipulated to step back at the podium to provide a complimentary scale to the historic buildings, while further manipulation is used to create maximum light and air for the amenity spaces due to the limited space of the project site.

Framework for Design Excellence Narrative

**Integration** – Rather than maximizing the site as seen with typical urban infill development, Prima sacrifices valuable square footage and service operations by integrating a public retail spine (paseo) that directly connects the two adjacent historic structures. Rather than close off the space for private use, the project sought to increase publicly accessible pedestrian space within the Gulch neighborhood, reclaiming space for the community and business alike to enjoy.  


**Well-being** – The Paseo at Prima adds a high quality walkable public space to the Gulch neighborhood. Various groupings of public seating allow individuals, families, and groups to gather, relax, and enjoy this vibrant space together simultaneously giving a strong sense of community. The encouragement of a healthy lifestyle was a critical priority for the development. The retail selections speak to this priority. Next Health is accessible off the paseo and offers personalized wellness plans. SunLife Organics also occupies retail space off the paseo and provides healthy food options that seek to love, heal and inspire. Residents of Prima are connected to these spaces along with vast exterior open spaces on the 4th and 16th floor. The open-air spaces are provided by careful manipulation of the massing on a tight site to yield the maximum amount of sunlight. Well-being is also encouraged through the amenity offerings. Residents have access to various spaces that promote social interaction and wellness along with a generously sized fitness area.

 

**Discovery** – Discovery begins with the hawk signal. A pedestrian hawk signal was placed to slow vehicular traffic and pull people into the site from the heart of the Gulch neighborhood. The pathways of the paseo integrate engaging public art, acting as “breadcrumbs” that heighten the senses as one experiences the project. Multiple turns and changes of ground plane elevation reinforce the sense of discovery. Community is fostered through regular block parties - bringing in local makers and artists, allowing the public to discover and be delighted.

 

**Design for Equitable Communities** – The Paseo at Prima was designed to be enjoyed by everyone from the surrounding communities. Proper lighting, paving, art, and covered space make this an accessible, safe, and cool public space for all to enjoy year-round. A purchase is not necessary to enjoy the unique space. The tactile materiality and mix of new and historic buildings creates a tranquil, shaded, and informal atmosphere.