Dube Orthopedics & Physical Therapy

MZA designed the organic, carved shape of this new orthopedic and physical therapy facility to portray a sense of potential energy, much like a muscle flexing. The dynamic primary form of the building is set in a cradle of glass suspended on pilotis. The open, glassy ground floor houses a physical therapy office, and the upper floors will be exam rooms and offices.

Proposed for a site in Hermitage, TN, the 30,000 square foot building will be constructed of a simple steel frame and concrete-filled metal deck with the remarkable cantilever at the rear of the building suspended from a trussed frame at the upper level. The sculpted exterior form creates opportunities for outdoor terraces on each level.

The glass at the ground level is fritted to provide privacy at the therapy floor. The windows are a special laminated material that will appear white from outside and clear from inside. "The laminated glass willl create a shimmery effect on the facade not unlike sequins," said architect Lesley Beeman. "These bits of sparkle are nestled into a striking rainscreen cladding system of multi-level, white platelets."      

One of the main features of the building along with the lobby and a glass elevator is a large cantilevered porte cochere that works with the cradle structure to support the main body of the building. We took inspiration for the porte cochere and some of the window shapes from the late 1960's work of Eero Saarinen.

2024 AIA Middle Tennessee Honor Award