University of Tennessee, Knoxville | College of Architecture & Design
Semester: Fall 2023
Location: Morristown, Tennessee
Professor: Kevin Stevens
This project explores the role of architecture in addressing the town’s lack of spaces for interaction and connection. The work began with the development of a comprehensive research document that examined Morristown’s history, cultural context, and existing urban conditions, identifying the absence of communal gathering places as a central issue. From this research, a proposal was formed to transform an existing building into a new dining experience that both preserves and reinterprets the town’s character. By exposing the building’s interior columns, the design reveals layers of Morristown’s history while simultaneously creating a setting for shared meals, conversations, and community activities. The project positions dining not only as a functional program but also as a catalyst for civic engagement, bridging the gap between past and present. The project em