Smith Gee Studio was selected by the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA) to design the Ryman Lofts, a 60-unit affordable housing project developed exclusively for artists. Located in the historic Rolling Mill Hill neighborhood, and utilizing low-income tax credits (LIHTC), it is Nashville’s first and only affordable residential community designed with a specific preference for artists.

SGS facilitated Artist Focus Groups to guide the design, which resulted in units with abundant natural lighting, industrial grade fixtures and easily maintained finishes. The project earned LEED for Homes Silver Certification and includes sustainable features like the special selection of materials and strategies that reduced the possibility of indoor moisture damage, high-efficiency fixtures, and energy-efficient HVAC units and windows, all within a well-insulated and airtight envelope to make the most of the systems.