Rooftop lounge at sunset featuring string lights, a fire pit, modern seating, and a distant skyline view under a glowing sky. Courtyard of a contemporary apartment building with light gray siding, private balconies, a pergola-covered seating area, and residents relaxing outside. Social courtyard surrounded by light gray apartment balconies, with lime green outdoor lounge seating, trees, and residents enjoying a sunny afternoon. Twilight view of a modern mid-rise apartment complex on a street corner, with glass balconies, warm building lights, and traffic trails from passing cars. Central courtyard with two ping pong tables beneath a slatted pergola, surrounded by balconies and landscaped greenery. Trendy apartment leasing office with modern industrial design, including concrete finishes, pendant lighting, lounge seating, and a branded “CLEO” sign on the wall.

The Cleo

The Cleo redevelopment transformed an underutilized commercial site into a vibrant mixed-use urban community, delivering much-needed housing and neighborhood amenities while honoring the area’s historic retail character.

The plan strategically concentrates density along the Gallatin and W. Eastland corridors, creating a walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment. Streetscape improvements—including wide sidewalks, landscaping, and thoughtful architectural design—enhance the public realm and integrate the development into the surrounding neighborhood.

The project features a mix of uses, including small-scale corner retail, residential units, and a parking garage topped with a rooftop dog walk. Residents also enjoy amenities such as a club room, fitness center, and pool courtyard. A newly extended portion of Bailey Street runs through the site, adding access, community parking, and a dedicated townhome outparcel—further strengthening neighborhood connectivity and livability.

Year:

2017

Location:

Nashville, TN

Architect:

Smith Gee Studio

Client:

LIV Development, LLC

Services:

Architecture & Master Planning