Library turned talent agency gives a first-class design performance

Project: United Talent Agency Nashville

Award: Workspace Interiors – Corporate offices (more than 10,000 sqm)

Location: Nashville, Tennessee, USA

Design practice: HASTINGS

Client: United Talent Agency 

United Talent Agency (UTA) relocated their Nashville office to a historic mid-century building that was formerly home to the Nashville Public Library. As one of the world’s leading talent agencies, with eight offices across the USA and one in London, the new Nashville office is a sophisticated and contemporary space reflecting the global talent the company represents. 
The repurposing of the building preserves and integrates elements of the original library, offering a classy backdrop to the company’s 22 private offices, 36 workstations, meeting rooms, wellness room, rooftop deck and mezzanine café. A central lounge provides pre-function space for the first-floor meeting rooms and features wood flooring with bespoke rugs. The mezzanine level with is 19-foot-high ceilings offers employees a space to gather for lunches, celebrations, and awards show watch parties.

Design highlights

In the reception area guests are greeted with a custom-made, black-stained oak reception desk inspired by the movement of stacked vinyl records sliding across the floor. White vertical glass panels provide an elegant backdrop to the dark, sculptural desk.
A large oak staircase acts as the main entry point up to the mezzanine level and is positioned centrally to encourage employees to take the stairs whenever possible. 
Agent offices form the backbone of the business. They are oversized with comfortable and well-positioned guest seating, Teknion sit-stand desks clad in an oak veneer and floating shelves to display personal and professional mementos. 

Photo credit: Eric Laignel