Werthan Mill, Warehouse to Office Conversion

Nashville, TN

Cooper Carry designed the interior fit-out of the old Werthan Mill Warehouse into speculative office suites as part of a redevelopment project in Nashville's historic Germantown neighborhood. The warehouse has a rich 100-year history. It was originally used to produce paper and burlap bags and later for manufacturing cat and dog food bags. The large open space of the building posed leasing challenges, making it difficult for potential tenants to visualize the space as functional offices.

Cooper Carry transformed the warehouse into nine suites that complemented the building's character and were ready for immediate occupancy. The renovated building now includes a training room, common lounge, and micro-market for shared use by tenants, repurposing underutilized areas into inviting amenities.

In a nod to the building's history, our designers incorporated organic textures and materials, steering clear of synthetic or modern elements. Burlap-like wall coverings, wood, and leather were used to maintain the warehouse's original character. Historic features like the numbered columns and fire standpipe were preserved, serving as a subtle tribute to the building's past. The strategic lighting further accentuated the original brick and exposed ceilings, bringing out the Mill's unique character.

The redesign was not just about aesthetics but also about sustainability. The focus was on daylight harvesting, with the aim of maximizing natural light streaming through the full-height windows, thereby reducing the need for overhead lighting. The addition of lush planters was a deliberate move to bring life into the industrial aesthetic, further enhancing the building's appeal.