Nashville Farmers' Market Grand Entrance

The Challenge

The Nashville Farmers' Market building was initially completed in the mid-1990s and featured an iconic farm shed-style design. The character of the urban market site radically changed in 2018 when the new Tennessee State Museum and mixed-use developments along Rosa Parks and Jefferson Streets were completed. Barge Design Solutions was tasked to enhance the Farmer’s Market Grand Entrance to capture the attention of museum patrons, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) holders, local guests, and tourists. The design team would need to lead a thoughtful process through creativity, careful management, and oversight to create a beautiful place to visit for generations to come.

The Solution

The Market’s north end, which was once a loading dock, was designed as the Grand Entrance, offering visitors a welcoming façade. Barge designers incorporated public art, new signage, and an active learning wall inspired by the Market’s concept of “Growing Together.” The wall features Tennessee-grown vegetables, the state “Tristar” emblem, native flowers, and word searches in both English and Spanish. The wall was also designed to be illuminated at night, serving as a focal point in an inviting plaza. The project awarded more than 70 percent of contracts to minority businesses. Tasha Kennard, Market Executive Director, said, “It’s important for us that as we grow, we’re building up our community and we’re utilizing local minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses to handle the renovation project here at the Market. We’re founded on a mission to support small businesses. That’s important to us as an organization.”

The Result

Barge's successful renovation of the Nashville Farmers' Market Grand Entrance has transformed the northern and southern Market House entrances into a vibrant and welcoming destination for visitors. The team's focus on community engagement, sustainability, and design excellence has contributed to the market's success and its role as a cultural and economic asset for the city. Barge's design also accounted for the Farmers’ Market Board’s goal of having the Market reach zero waste by December 2020. AIA Middle Tennessee awarded the Nashville Farmers’ Market a 2020 Citation Award.