On December 25, 2020, Nashville experienced a tragic event when a bomb inside an RV was detonated on Second Avenue near the AT&T building between Commerce Street and Church Street. The blast had a devastating impact on 65 buildings, many of which are historic structures built in the late 1800s. The city shook, but the resilient spirit of the Nashville community came forward, determined to rebuild and restore the heart of this iconic avenue.
A Vision for the Future
In response to this tragedy, Mayor John Cooper launched a task force to envision the revitalization of Second Avenue. The goal was to create a vibrant district that serves Nashville families and tourists while preserving the historic character of the area. Leading the charge were three senior architects—Ron Lustig of ESa, Cyril Stewart of Cyril Stewart, LLC, and Kem Hinton of Kem Hinton Design—who collaborated to develop concepts that would harmonize contemporary design with the historical essence of Second Avenue.
The AT&T 2nd Avenue Rebuild Project
One of the key projects in this revitalization effort was the restoration of the AT&T 2nd Avenue building at 185 2nd Ave N. This mid-20th-century structure suffered severe damage during the 2020 bombing, requiring a complete reconstruction. The project spanned from 2021 to 2022, resulting in a visually stunning, modern façade that pays homage to the building’s historic roots.
To enhance the building’s exterior, we fabricated and installed 1,341 perforated aluminum composite material (ACM) panels, totaling 88,072 square feet (TNSF). The panels featured 923,880 perforated holes, creating an intricate and impactful design. The concept was inspired by a watercolor artwork by local artist Phil Ponder, whose Victorian-themed facades across the street reflect the historical significance of the area. This artwork was digitized and transformed into a full-size half-tone image that spans three stories high and over 250 feet long. This “ghost image” serves as a poignant tribute to the buildings lost in the past while embracing a modern aesthetic.
In addition to the perforated panels, the project included the fabrication and installation of metal plates and louvers, further enhancing the building’s exterior. This blend of contemporary design and historical reverence created a space that resonates with Nashville’s rich heritage while paving the way for future growth.
Current and Future Developments
Construction on the south block is now complete, and Second Avenue from Commerce Street to Broadway reopened to vehicle traffic on December 20, 2024. There is a temporary one-way westbound traffic pattern on Commerce Street between Third Avenue and Second Avenue, which will remain in place through construction on the middle block between Commerce and Church Streets. This phase is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
The AT&T 2nd Avenue Rebuild Project exemplifies Nashville’s unwavering dedication to preserving its past while embracing a forward-thinking approach to revitalization. Through thoughtful design and a commitment to community, Second Avenue is on its way to becoming a thriving district that celebrates both history and innovation.