National design firm Cooper Carry unveiled the completed interior fit-out of the 100-year-old Werthan Mill Warehouse into speculative office suites on behalf of owner, META Real Estate Partners. The warehouse-to-office conversion is located within Nashville's historic Germantown neighborhood and is part of the Taylor Place master development comprising office, residential and retail spaces.
Traced back to the 1900s, the Werthan Mill Warehouse was originally used to produce paper and burlap bags, and later used for manufacturing pet food bags. In 2021, the 60,000-square-foot warehouse was converted into office space for one user. The large open space posed leasing challenges, so Cooper Carry was brought on to transform the warehouse into nine office suites ready for immediate occupancy.
“Nashville’s Germantown neighborhood is a blend of quintessential historic character and charming restaurants and retailers that draw people in,” said Sarah Keithly, Project Interior Designer at Cooper Carry. “Set within a mixed-use environment, The Werthan Mill Warehouse’s move-in ready suites are well-suited for companies that value historic charm, proximity to downtown and are looking to foster creativity and innovation.”
The design pays homage to the building’s rich history, with organic textures and materials incorporated throughout, such as wood, leather and burlap-like wall coverings. Historic features including the numbered columns and fire standpipe were preserved, serving as a subtle tribute to the building's past. Strategic lighting was implemented to further accentuate the original brick and exposed ceilings.
The renovated Werthan Mill Warehouse also includes a training room, common lounge and micro-market for shared use by tenants, repurposing underutilized areas into inviting amenities.
Sustainability was also a key factor in the redesign. By utilizing daylight harvesting through the new full-sized windows, natural light is maximized, therefore reducing the need for overhead lighting. Additionally, biophilia is incorporated into the design with lush planters throughout, bringing life to the former industrial hub.
The Werthan Mill Warehouse is currently available for lease, with Colliers International representing ownership.