Project Name: Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Nashville, TN
MIA Member Company: Intrepid Stone Contractors, Harvey, LA, stone contractor

Project Description:
When the Nashville Symphony determined that a new auditorium was needed for its renowned orchestra, it looked to discover a connection to the architecture of the past. A common thread in many public Nashville buildings is that they are fully clad or ornately trimmed with natural stone - especially limestone. In fact, decades earlier, the Symphony had regular performances in the old limestone-clad War Memorial Hall, a beloved Nashville architectural landmark. The architects selected nearly 35,000 cubic feet of Independent Buff Indiana limestone, which was fabricated with a variety of finishes, including smooth, 4 x 6 cut roll, crandal and many carved finishes. The most visually significant of all the classical elements are the many powerful cubic limestone columns of the main entrance pediment frieze and the continuous portico. The scope of the project is magnified with the use of four different granites - 7,860 pieces in total. Natural stone was certainly a critical component of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center; reconnecting with the past and providing a landmark that will stand the test of time.

Other Project Team Members:
Owner: The Nashville Symphony
Project Architect: Earl Swensson Associates
General Contractor: American Constructors
Exterior Wall Consutant: Curtain Wall Design and Consulting
Limestone Fabricator: Bybee Stone Co.
Granite Fabricator: Cold Spring Granite Co.
Marble Fabricator: Henraux

Judges Comments:
"Complete project from design to implementation. Exhibits a contrast of old-world space with a new-world concept - emphasis of old-world stone detailing. Classic detail in a modern world. A wonderful collection of stone elements in one project. This project could be used as a school for stone trades."