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Johnson Architecture earned the Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects’ East Tennessee chapter for the rehabilitation of a 1920s-era structure that is now the firm’s headquarters in the South Waterfront district.
Johnson Architecture, named as both the architect and the client, received the award in the renovation/ restoration category at the AIA Design Awards Gala held Oct. 3.
“We are pleased to be recognized for our vision and work,” said Daryl Johnson, founder and president of Johnson Architecture. “It’s particularly gratifying to transform a dilapidated structure into a showcase of our commitment to restoration and the community.”
The full-service architecture, planning and interior design firm moved into its new headquarters in December 2023 at 2018 Davenport Road in South Knoxville amid a community of parks, restaurants and other local businesses.
Previously the longtime home of Advance Metal, the 1920s-era building was in significant disrepair when Johnson Architecture tackled the project. The renovation added modern features while staying true to the original concrete block structure. Examples include introducing a simple glass, wood and steel box onto the front of the building to serve as the company’s main conference room and creating an inviting covered entry for employees and guests without removing the form of the original block building and gabled trusses. The firm also created a private enclosed courtyard with trees and tables for employees and guests to enjoy.
The contractor on the project, JOSEPH Construction, also was named on the award, which recognized the “professional excellence manifested in the design and construction” of the South Waterfront adaptive reuse project. The honor also highlights the intentional cooperation demonstrated by Johnson Architecture in demanding and recognizing the highest architectural standards.
This year’s awards were judged by a panel of industry professionals based in the Boston, Massachusetts, area.
Judges described the project as “an excellent example of an adaptive reuse project that is neither overly respectful of the existing building nor too aggressively transformative.”
They also said the “indoor/ outdoor connections between the patio, both visual and programmatic, are beautifully conceived and executed.”
To learn more about the project, please visit jainc.com.
About Johnson Architecture Inc.
Founded in 1994, Johnson Architecture is a full-service design firm offering planning, architectural and interior design services for a variety of facility types. The JAI team has members who specialize in commercial, education, healthcare, residential, tourism, restaurant and spiritual developments of all sizes. Notable clients include Covenant Health, DENSO, Dollywood, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Knox County Schools, Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation and The University of Tennessee. For more information, visit jainc.com.