The Fabric of The Community...

During February and March of 2005, a series of community meeting were held. Hundreds of Nashvillians participated to to voice ideas and suggestions in reference to bringing the museum project to reality. The mission of this Museum is to present artifacts of local, state, national and international historical significance, and to be a center for the understanding of African-American music, art and culture. In order to make the mission become reality, we want and encourage feedback from the community.

site and architectural overview

The state has granted the foundation land in the vicinity of Nashville’s historic Jefferson Street near the downtown area, specifically the prominent northwest corner of the Bicentennial Mall.

Based on initial studies, Tuck Hinton Architects (Kem Hinton, Principal) and Harold Thompson Architects has provided a conceptual footprint for the new museum, with approximately 55,000 square feet of usable interior space. While the more complete conceptual and schematic design work has yet to be initiated, it is believed the façade of the new building should utilize a combination of limestone and glass materials and be respectful of the architecture in the existing neighborhood.

The comprehensive plan for presentation of exhibits, archives, classrooms and other features will likewise be developed in the coming months. The early concept envisions entrances from the street corner to the northwest and also through a 14,000 square foot courtyard area on the southeast. The building would provide approximately 16,000 square feet of exhibition space, including educational facilities, administrative office areas, mechanical, archival, research and storage. There will be space for lectures and other presentations in a “community forum” setting. The building also will be suitable for hosting receptions and other events, both in the courtyard facility and also in partnership with the large outdoor amphitheater in the adjacent Bicentennial Mall. The project site has proximity to the state government office complex, including Tennessee’s historic State Capitol. There will be parking for approximately 70 cars and pull-off areas for five to six school and tour buses. Estimated Project Cost: Based on the preliminary studies, we anticipate the project cost will be $33,000,000. This does not include operating expenses.