Three members of McCarty Holsaple McCarty Architects (MHM) recently shared their expertise at the Tennessee Chapter of the American Planning Association (TAPA) Conference in Chattanooga, highlighting how thoughtful redevelopment can transform underutilized properties into healthier, more sustainable spaces.

Kathryn Greer, AIA, Associate Principal; Haley Zimmerman, AIA, Design Manager; and Melissa Hatchett, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, LFA, Sustainability Manager, presented “Redevelopment Impact: Designing for Health, Wellness, and Sustainability.” Their presentation explored the intersection of historic preservation, brownfield remediation, sustainable design, and workplace wellness through the transformation of the historic Sanitary Laundry Building into MHM's new headquarters in Knoxville.

A Case Study in Thoughtful Redevelopment

Located at 625 North Broadway, the former industrial laundry facility presented an opportunity to preserve an important piece of Knoxville's architectural history while giving the building new purpose.

The presentation examined the challenges and opportunities of redeveloping a historic brownfield site, from environmental considerations and preservation efforts to integrating sustainable building strategies and wellness-focused design principles. The team also discussed how collaboration and long-term planning can help balance project goals with broader community benefits.

With MHM's headquarters pursuing LEED Gold, WELL Gold, and Net Zero goals, the project serves as an example of how adaptive reuse can support environmental responsibility, occupant well-being, and neighborhood revitalization.

By sharing lessons learned through this redevelopment effort, Kathryn, Haley, and Melissa contributed to a broader conversation about the role of architecture and planning in shaping healthier, more resilient communities.