Photo courtesy of VIP Knoxville
Nathan Honeycutt is a visionary architect, civic advocate and dedicated public servant whose work has left a lasting impact on the Knoxville community. As a Principal at McCarty Holsaple McCarty (MHM), Honeycutt has helped shape some of the region’s most recognizable spaces through thoughtful, community-driven design. His leadership has been central to major projects like The Tennessean Hotel, a hallmark of downtown revitalization, and the Maker’s Exchange, a transformative mixed-use development that has reenergized the World’s Fair Park district.
Honeycutt’s influence extends to public infrastructure and environmental stewardship as well. His work on the Ijams Nature Center Master Plan has supported the long-term vision of one of Knoxville’s most beloved natural assets, enhancing access to outdoor education and conservation experiences for tens of thousands of annual visitors. He also played a key role in the renovations and modernization of McGhee Tyson Airport, improving regional connectivity and visitor experience while positioning Knoxville for future economic growth.
Beyond his professional achievements, Honeycutt has demonstrated a deep and sustained commitment to community service. As a past President of the East Tennessee Community Design Center (ETCDC), he led efforts to provide pro bono design and planning services to underserved neighborhoods and nonprofit organizations. His leadership enabled dozens of projects focused on equitable development, cultural preservation and improved public spaces.
Honeycutt also volunteers with Knox Heritage, helping protect and celebrate Knoxville’s architectural history, and with the American Heart Association, supporting health-focused outreach and fundraising efforts that benefit communities across East Tennessee.
His early work with Habitat for Humanity instilled a dedication to affordable housing, and to date, his efforts have contributed to the development of more than 3,000 mixed-income housing units across the region, ensuring access to quality homes for working families and underserved residents.
In addition to his architectural and civic endeavors, Honeycutt serves as President of a development company dedicated to historic preservation and sustainable redevelopment. A signature project under his leadership is the revitalization of the nearly century-old Sanitary Laundry Building at 625 North Broadway. Vacant for over 30 years and burdened by environmental contamination from its former use as a dry-cleaning facility, the building is being transformed into a vibrant, mixed-use space that will house MHM’s new office and offer commercial rental opportunities. The project aims to achieve LEED, WELL and Net Zero certifications, potentially making it the first building in Tennessee to attain all three, while preserving the structure’s historic character. This redevelopment not only breathes new life into a long-neglected property but also serves as a catalyst for economic revitalization in North Knoxville.
Now running for Knoxville City Council, Honeycutt is continuing his mission to shape a stronger, more inclusive and better-connected city. His platform focuses on responsible development, neighborhood investment and sustainable growth, drawing from years of experience in both the public and private sectors.
Nathan Honeycutt’s blend of design excellence, civic leadership and service-minded action makes him a powerful force for positive change. He is building more than buildings, he’s helping build the future of Knoxville.
