Rendering of a vibrant community space with colorful panels and mural silhouettes surrounding a modern parking structure. People of all ages and abilities walk, sit, and socialize in a landscaped plaza. Exterior rendering of a modern institutional campus with multiple interconnected buildings, landscaped green space, and three waving flags—U.S., Tennessee, and organization-specific—under a clear blue sky Rendering of a clean, modern dining space with round and rectangular tables, soft-toned geometric ceiling panels, and natural light streaming in from large windows. Spacious atrium rendering with light wood wall paneling, white stairs, and seating steps. People are shown gathering, walking, and resting throughout the bright multi-level interior. Outdoor campus rendering with people walking and playing ball in a central courtyard, surrounded by single-story residential cottages and lush landscaping.

NYCE Juvenile Justice Center

The Nashville Youth Campus for Empowerment (NYCE) represents a new vision for youth corrections in Tennessee. Utilizing trauma-informed design principles the design team worked to create a space that fosters youth development and places individuals on a path for success. In addition to the new courthouse and residential facilities, this campus includes community development and outreach resources, family services, an assessment and respite center, and a 400-space parking garage.

In partnership with DLR Group, Smith Gee Studio worked with the Juvenile Courts system through a series of community engagement events to create a new campus that is rehabilitative and future-focused, enriching the guidance of the detained youth and establishing the tools for a brighter future.

Year:

Ongoing

Location:

Nashville, TN

Client:

Metropolitan Nashville Department of General Services & Juvenile Court

Services:

Architecture, Interior Design, Master Planning