Every year since 1973, the Metropolitan Historical Commission celebrates preservation projects that honor Nashville’s historic architecture.
At the 48th Annual Preservation Awards last week, 22 properties were recognized across six categories — commercial, residential, educational/institutional, industrial/engineering, infill, and religious architecture.
Let’s take a stroll down preservation lane as we get to know five of the projects.
606 and 700 8th Ave. S.
Preservation Award, Commercial | The 8th Avenue Antiques Mall and the Bill Vorhees adaptive reuse buildings are a part of Paseo South Gulch. Soon, Maiz de la Vida, The Catbird Seat, and The Patterson House will join the neighborhood.
1021 Russell St.
Preservation Award, Commercial | The property, originally built as a church in the early 1900s, was damaged in the March 2020 tornado. Now, the restored building and new addition is home to Bad Idea, I Dream of Weenie, and other tenants.
606 Monroe St.
Honorable Mention, Commercial | Located in Historic Germantown, the single-family home was recently converted into a flower, tea, and coffee shop called Neighborlily.
Neuhoff Boiler Building and Engine Room, 1312 Adams St.
Preservation Award, Industrial-Engineering | This riverfront property revival pays homage to the area’s industrial history and the property’s past as a 1920s meat packing plant. Look around Monday Night Preservation Co.’s brewery and taproom and you’ll see wood windows, electrical equipment, and other historical elements still in place.
Tennessee Central Railway Museum, 220 Willow St.
Preservation Award, Industrial-Engineering | In 2021, straight line winds severely damaged the eastern portion of the structure’s roof. As a working museum, the organization was “committed to replicating the original construction process.”
Watch the full presentation for a closer look at the properties and preservation work.