Envisioning the transformation of a shuttered mall into a mixed-use neighborhood
Global Mall, a former shopping mall situated in one of Nashville’s most diverse and rapidly expanding neighborhoods, shuttered its doors after years of decline. From rebranding to converting its anchor stores into civic, educational, and office spaces, the hub’s iterations presented a complex challenge. How could this aging property be revitalized for the future? The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County (Metro) took on the ambitious task of transforming the 650,000-square-foot (60,387-square-metre) mall and surrounding auto-oriented area.
In partnership with Metro and elected officials, our Urban Places team delivered a flexible, phased redevelopment plan that reconfigures the 80-acre (32-hectare) site into a vibrant mixed-use district, focused on arts and connectivity. Grounded in a robust, community-based planning and design process—and paired with rigorous market analysis—the plan introduces a thoughtfully designed multicultural arts village featuring a performing arts center, civic service centers, parks, and artist housing.
Consisting of urban design guidelines, strategies for a public/private partnership, and a series of mobility, connectivity, and public realm improvements, this plan will reignite the mall as a cornerstone of the community’s economic and social vitality.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Metropolitan Government of
- Nashville and Davidson County
Jason Beske, Principal, Senior Urban Designer
My goal is to help communities create places of lasting value that are centered on people.
David Dixon, Vice President, Urban Places Fellow
We help communities manage change to become more livable, equitable, and resilient.
Wei Jin, Urban Designer
My design focus: people and the sense of place and environment. Integrate physical design solutions with social aspects and natural systems.
Joe Polacek, Urban Planner
No job is too big when you are focused on the right details.
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