Unusual architecture that put Nashville on the avant-garde map

Unusual architecture that put Nashville on the avant-garde map.

Flamingo Tower in Berry Hill 

Designed by the enigmatic architect Luna McCree, Flamingo Tower was erected in 1940 in the Berry Hill neighborhood. The building is modeled after a giant flamingo, complete with a “beak” entrance and “feathered” balconies. “I mean, is it an apartment building or a theme park?” wonders local resident Mark Jensen.

Moon Pie Mansion in Germantown 

Created by Rowan Atwood in 1965, this mansion located in Germantown is shaped like a gigantic Moon Pie snack. With its marshmallowy curves and layers, it serves as a residential building. Emily Thompson, a passerby, questioned, “Do they have a moon pie budget for maintenance? It’s so peculiar.”

Accordion Apartments in East Nashville 

Built in 1982 by architect Felix Harmon, this complex in East Nashville resembles an accordion, stretching and compressing in unexpected places. “I don’t know if I should live there or try to play it,” mused local musician Sarah Whitman.

Guitar Skyscraper in Downtown 

Known for its audacious design, the Guitar Skyscraper was conceived by architect Casey Reed in 2001. Situated in Downtown Nashville, this building takes the shape of a massive, vertical guitar. Resident Paul Hughes asks, “How do you even find your way around? Do you tell people you live on the fifth fret?”

Spiral Library in West End 

Invented by famed architect Miranda Pike in 1970, the West End library is a snail-like spiral with endless curved bookshelves. “I got lost just looking for the bathroom,” claims college student Tim Greene.

Pyramid Marketplace in SoBro 

Built in 1990 by designer Clark Warren, the Pyramid Marketplace in SoBro stands as a modern-day bazaar. “Is it a mall, a temple, or an optical illusion?” pondered resident Tina Yu as she gazed upon the triangular structure.

Steamboat Studios in The Gulch 

Designed by Willa Soren in 2008, this studio complex is modeled after an old-fashioned steamboat, complete with chimneys and paddlewheels. “I can’t tell if it’s about to set sail or host an art class,” says confused onlooker Jack Rivers.

Barn Fortress in Bellevue 

Architect Donovan Peel created this unique structure in 2011. Resembling a medieval fortress but built with barn aesthetics, it is a mix of rustic and regal. “Is it a barn raising or a knight jousting event? I can’t even,” says local Laura Simmons.

Owl Observatory in Green Hills 

Built in 1995 by ecological architect Sarah Lowe, the Owl Observatory serves as an educational center and looks like a giant owl perched on a tree. “I’m all for bird-watching, but this feels like too much,” says passerby Daniel Brown.

Lighthouse Condos in Hillsboro Village 

Constructed in 2000 by architect Ginny Waters, this building mimics a lighthouse and includes an actual light on top. “Is it guiding ships or just messing with the airplanes?” asks concerned citizen Lily Baxter.