Asia Allen Makes Nashville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 List

January 12, 2021

Gresham Smith is proud to announce that Healthcare Architect, Asia Allen, AIA, NOMA, has been named to the Nashville Business Journal’s 2021 “40 Under 40” list. The 40 Under 40 Award recognizes young professionals in Nashville for outstanding success and contributions to their community. With more than 300 nominees, this year’s list represents the diverse voices making a difference in the Nashville community.

“Asia is a well-rounded practitioner and an invaluable asset to our Healthcare practice,” said Brent Hughes, AIA, LEED, AP, EDAC, principal, Gresham Smith. “Not only does she excel in all areas of design and project delivery, but her positive attitude and great sense of humor make working with her a true joy. She continues to break down barriers in educating and developing the next generation of architects. I admire her passion for her community and look forward to watching her grow throughout her career.”

A Nashville native and one of only four registered and practicing black female architects in Tennessee, Allen oversees Healthcare project design and delivery throughout each phase of design and construction. She works closely with clients to understand their needs and set project goals and expectations. Allen has designed more than $250 million in Healthcare facilities while at Gresham Smith. She was instrumental in the design of the 112,000-square-foot WellStar Health System Cherokee Health Park Medical Office Building project.

In addition to her work at Gresham Smith, Allen is actively involved in industry and community groups. She is a founding member of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Nashville chapter and serves as Vice President on the board of directors. Allen also serves on the board of directors of the Civic Design Center, with a focus on the “Design Your Neighborhood” initiative. She is a former Architecture Construction Engineer (ACE) mentor, volunteering with the organization for five years. Allen is also a member of American Institute of Architects (AIA).

When Allen is not working or volunteering in her community, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children, and doing freelance graphic design for friends and family.