Music City Center


Overview

Nashville needed a new convention center to complement a growing city, one large enough to accommodate 75% of the nation’s convention and visitor market. The new guitar-shaped 2.1 million square foot Music City Center is far from the average event space. The architectural masterpiece is in the heart of downtown, located so Nashville can host large, city-wide conventions in the booming downtown core. The design draws visitors, but the sustainable elements set this landmark apart and prove both environmentally and economically beneficial, attracting major national events from organizations that prioritize venues with strong environmental practices. This approach has generated significant returns for Nashville residents while positioning the city as a leader in sustainable event hosting.

Wilmot’s Role

When Nashville required LEED Silver certification for its new convention center, we knew we could deliver something better. Working closely with contractors and owners throughout the three-year project, Wilmot identified key green building opportunities that transformed the project's outcomes. Through smarter design choices and fixture selection, the project surpassed its Silver target to achieve LEED Gold status while generating significant cost savings. The results were impressive: within the first year, the solar array reduced energy costs by $24,000, LED lighting cut energy consumption by 70%, and the combination of low-flow fixtures with gray water capture decreased water usage by 49%. Wilmot's expertise not only elevated the building's environmental credentials but also created substantial financial benefits that extended well beyond meeting basic certification requirements.

Results

  • Certified LEED Gold

  • Solar array generates $24K in savings

  • 70% reduction in energy usage

  • 49% reduction in water usage

  • 175,000 square foot green roof

Client

Metro Nashville Development & Housing Agency

Location

Nashville, TN

Markets

Arts & Entertainment

Services

LEED Facilitation