This year marks a significant milestone—60 years since the founding of the College of Architecture and Design at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). As an alumnus, it’s inspiring to see how the college continues to shape future leaders in design, fostering creativity, innovation and a strong connection to community. Reflecting on that legacy, I’m grateful to have played a role in extending those values through a memorable experience with the next generation of architects and planners.
Over the summer of 2024, I partnered with the UTK’s College of Architecture and Design and the Nashville Civic Design Center to lead an urban design studio that left a lasting impression on both the students and me. This annual program, running from late May through early August, offered an immersive experience in urban planning, real estate development, and landscape architecture. It was a full-circle moment—combining my professional passion with my roots as a UTK alum to support an experience where students could apply their classroom knowledge in real-world contexts.
Immersive Learning and Real-World Integration
Serving as an adjunct fellow for this studio was incredibly rewarding. In my role as Market Design Leader for Gresham Smith’s Life and Work Places market, I had the opportunity to host a group of talented fourth- and fifth-year architecture students. Their energy and curiosity were infectious as they took on real design challenges, collaborated as teams and explored the powerful role architecture plays in shaping thriving communities.
One of the highlights of the studio was our trip to Washington, D.C., where students had the opportunity to experience urban planning and community vitality in action. Exploring best-in-class civic, commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects firsthand gave them a practical framework that enriched and expanded upon their academic learning.
A Hands-On Approach to Urban Design
This urban design studio challenged students to focus on Transit Oriented Development along the CSX rail corridor—an opportunity full of complexity and real-world relevance. Working across three distinct sites in Metropolitan Davidson County—The Gulch in Downtown Nashville, Geodis Park in Wedgewood-Houston, and Hickory Hollow in Antioch—twelve students collaborated in teams of four, simulating the interdisciplinary process at the heart of architectural practice. Their work explored the transitions between urban and suburban settings, with a focus on creating vibrant, functional and connected spaces.
It was incredibly rewarding to watch the students grow throughout the summer. They not only tackled multifaceted design challenges but also wholeheartedly embraced the collaboration and communication required in successful urban planning. Their experience was further enriched through visits to a variety of architecture and design studios around Nashville, giving them broader exposure to industry perspectives and practices.
The studio culminated in a final review hosted at Gresham Smith’s Nashville office, where the students had the opportunity to present their work in a professional setting—capping off a summer of meaningful learning and engagement.
Looking Forward
As the students returned to campus, it was exciting to consider how they might apply the skills and insights they gained over the summer. The studio experience was more than just an academic exercise—it served as a meaningful exploration of the principles, challenges, and opportunities involved in designing vibrant, functional urban environments.
I’m also proud to continue supporting my alma mater in a new capacity, having joined the Dean’s Advisory Board. It’s an honor to give back to the program that helped shape my own professional journey and to stay connected with the next generation of designers.
“[Last] summer I had the pleasure of studying urban design in the heart of Nashville, TN. … I gained insight into what makes cities thrive with consideration to pedestrian safety, activation of public spaces, informed placemaking, peacekeeping, and so much more. From visiting architecture firms and attending local professional events to a class trip to Washington, D.C., this summer has been full of opportunities for growth—not only as an architecture student but as a member of Nashville’s creative community.”
—Emma Tillis, Architecture Student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Embracing the ‘More the Merrier’ Spirit
Last summer’s studio was a powerful example of the impact collaboration can have between academic institutions and industry professionals. The energy and creativity that the students brought to the table—supported by the University of Tennessee and the Nashville Civic Design Center—made the experience both meaningful and memorable. I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished together and excited to see how these talented individuals will contribute to the future of urban design.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who helped make this studio possible:
- University of Tennessee College of Architecture + Design
- Jason Young, Dean
- Carl Lostritto, Director
- Nashville Civic Design Center
- Gary Gaston, Chief Executive Officer
- Eric Hoke, Design Director
- Studio Professors and Teaching Assistants
- Clayton Adkisson, Managing Partner, Openworks, Adjunct Professor
- Will Rosenthal, Managing Partner, Openworks
- Harriett Jameson Brooks, Landscape Architect and Urban Designer, Nashville Metro Planning Department, Adjunct Fellow
- Owen Dongoski, Student Teaching Assistant, University of Tennessee
Their support and collaboration were essential in creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. A special thank you to the students—their dedication, creativity, and hard work were the driving force behind the studio’s success.
