The Nashville Center for Architecture and Design (NCA+D) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to educating Nashville on why design matters.
The NCA+D promotes awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the ways architecture and urban design influence the built environment and enhance our quality of life.
OUR founders
linda marzialo
AIA, Emerita ACHA
Marc rowland
AIA, FACHA
steve powell
Adjunct Professor, Architect, Contractor
carol pedigo
Hon. AIA, Executive Director AIA Middle Tennessee
A LETTER FROM OUR FOUNDERS
Design, in all its forms, profoundly influences how we experience our city, from the charming architecture of historic neighborhoods, to towering downtown skyscrapers; from the eclectic atmosphere of a neighborhood restaurant, to thoughtfully curated experiences in chic hotels; from the ingenuity of local artists and craftspeople, to the innovation of Nashville’s most successful businesses; from early education, to thriving university campuses and modern, affordable housing solutions.
Creativity powers this city, and it’s the designers who shape the future.
As Nashville continues to expand, so does the opportunity to deepen the public’s understanding of how design impacts our quality of life and our shared destiny as a city. It’s also a chance to inspire the next generation of designers — whether in the built environment, visual design, fashion, or the digital and applied arts — who will help define the city’s creative landscape.
We are proud to introduce the Nashville Center for Architecture and Design (NCA+D) — a nonprofit dedicated to advancing education, fostering collaboration, and engaging the public in conversations about design. NCA+D fills a crucial gap by connecting the public with Nashville’s dynamic design community through ongoing exhibitions, workshops, and dialogue.
At NCA+D, students will discover pathways to careers in design. Professionals will connect, share ideas, and amplify their impact. The public will have a space to explore how design can build more livable, sustainable, and inspiring communities. Through exhibitions, events, educational initiatives, and civic discussions, we aim to illuminate the vital role design plays in shaping our world and celebrating Nashville as a creative city.
To realize this vision, we are launching an ambitious campaign to develop a board, raise money, and search for a home.
With your support, we can meet this moment.
Thank you for believing in the power of design and for your commitment to building a more intentional, beautifully designed Nashville.
YEARS IN THE MAKING
In 2005 the board of AIA Middle Tennessee, under the leadership of Batey Gresham, allocated the initial resources to establish an architecture and design-focused non profit dedicated to serving the citizens of Nashville.
In 2015 the seeds were planted to bring the organization to fruition by the leaders of the AIA Middle Tennessee board.
Today, the AIA Middle Tennessee, continues to champion this vision and plays a pivotal role in the Nashville Center for Architecture and Design.
JOIN US
Joining the board is your opportunity to guide the NCA+D as we launch our efforts to secure early funding, plan our educational programming, and secure a dedicated space. As a founder, you’ll play a critical role in driving our mission forward.
Let’s ensure Nashville grows with purpose, not just momentum. A city of our stature deserves a center dedicated to architecture and design — one that sparks creativity, fuels innovation, and elevates the public conversation.
NCA+D will serve as that spark for innovation, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and a hub for cultivating the designers, architects, and community leaders of tomorrow.
But it won’t happen without you. Your support will lay the foundation for a beautiful, connected, and more sustainable Nashville — one where design is not an afterthought, but a driving force.
Be part of this movement.
Be part of Nashville’s future.
Be part of NCA+D.