Ernest Tubb Record Shop
Size of Project
14,000 SF
Location
Nashville, TN
Owner
417 Broadway Tenant LLC
Industry
Hospitality
Type
Historic Building Remodel & Restoration
Status
Completed in 2025
Architect
Overview
A Nashville Landmark Reimagined
Since 1947, the Ernest Tubb Record Shop has been a cornerstone of Nashville’s music culture, serving as a gathering place for musicians, fans, and legends alike. As Lower Broadway evolved, the building faced the risk of becoming a relic rather than a destination. RNGD was selected to restore the four-story, 14,000-square-foot historic structure, preserving its cultural significance while modernizing it to support live music, hospitality, and public assembly for decades to come.
Engineering Within a Historic Framework
Early field verification revealed significant structural complexity, including a non-plumb building envelope and irregular historic masonry. More than 70 tons of structural steel were installed across all four floors to reinforce the structure, support new bars and a commercial kitchen, and carry a rooftop addition. Each steel member was custom-fabricated from exact field measurements and carefully integrated into the existing masonry through controlled demolition and precision placement.
Execution on Lower Broadway
Construction took place in one of the most regulated and high-visibility corridors in the country. Lane closures were limited to early morning windows, crane access was unavailable within the footprint, and all steel components were rigged through existing window openings and installed internally. Sequencing adjusted in real time as conditions evolved, allowing work to progress floor by floor while maintaining momentum and compliance.
A Living Venue Restored
The completed renovation returned the Ernest Tubb Record Shop to active use as a modern music and hospitality destination. The building now features performance spaces, retail, bars, and a rooftop venue overlooking Broadway, all structurally reinforced to support live crowds and continuous use. Delivered with zero lane-closure violations and ahead of aggressive timelines, the project demonstrates how thoughtful engineering and disciplined execution can preserve cultural landmarks while preparing them for the future.
Recognition
Award of Excellence
Associated General Contractors Build Tennessee Awards – 2026
