The Citizen

1835 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104 United States

Building Area (sf): 315,000 SF

Completion: October 2019

The project restores and draws upon the clean lines of an existing mid-century modern structure to create a crisp and expressive composition and iconic identity for a new mixed-use development.

Though it is a complex exercise in adaptive reuse and urban design, the project presents itself in a clear and ordered manner, reflective of the existing building’s impressive structure. Originally constructed as a part of an internationally recognizable hotel chain with local roots, the structure is as efficient as it is iconic. Due to damage from sitting vacant for nearly a decade and low floor-to-floor heights, initial plans called for the existing building to be razed. Seeing merit in the historic structure, the design team developed plans for efficient and organized units, successfully advocating for its reuse.

To meet the challenge of the existing building’s low floor to floor heights, the concrete structure was left open, exposed MEP systems were used to maintain vertical ceiling height, and new floor to ceiling windows were utilized to offset the low clearance and create a sense of expansive views from the residences.
An existing two-level below grade basement parking structure has a footprint that extends over the entire site area, limiting site and grading design options. Garage car and pedestrian access was improved to provide for new pedestrian access from the public street to the building entry. The garage structure was stabilized, and new elevators and stair circulation provide direct secure access from the garage floors into each floor of the tower. Also sitting over the basement garage, the existing hotel pool, with its classic mid-century vibe was restored at the ground- floor plaza.

Throughout the interior and exterior of the existing building, the elegant concrete structure is allowed to speak with clarity. A new simplified color palette grounds the structure and allows its subtle detailing to take center stage as sunlight creates a dynamic play of light and shadow throughout the day.

A wonderful example of a classic mid-century modern jewel saved from the wrecking ball, polished, and upgraded for its second life.

Nick McGinn - 01, 03-07