Updated plans have emerged for the 32-story tower, VELA Pietown in Downtown Nashville. VELA Development Partners first submitted the project in late 2022 which entails converting the current parking lot into a new multi-family tower with street level retail and underground parking. The project is situated on a prominent corner at the intersection of Lafayette Street and Ewing Avenue at 601 Lafayette Street.
Shown for context only.
VELA Pie Town represents one of a few new towers proposed in the up-and-coming Downtown subdistrict. Current development activity includes the nearly sold-out condo development HYVE by local developer CA South, the major addition of Fogg Street Lawn Club to Bad Axe Throwing, and the sell of properties adjacent to the site such as City Winery which sold for $21 Million last month. The project is also part of a growing list of planned nearby developments. The map below provides a sample of adjacent developments for context.
The design development drawings include a few modifications since the initial submission in late 2022. The design team now lists design-builder Clayco and Lamar Johnson Collaborative as architects, it was not clear if Johnston Marklee was still involved. Some interior revisions include a reduction of 44 units, some of the units were omitted on level two for what appears to be an even larger amenity program. There was a slight reduction in retail along Lafayette Street by 920 SF, however, the drawings now indicate two retail shells and a gallery facing Ewing Avenue. The lower level increased by one floor for a total of 5, there was also an increase in parking by 23 spaces.
The biggest change to the exterior is the glazing which has changed from large minimally operable cased windows to a mix of glazing types. The design now includes a mix of vision glass, spandrel glass, different operable window options, and glass guardrails. Slide the image below for context.
Shown for context only.
A request has been submitted for final site plan approval for the property which is zoned DTC. Once approved, the request will advance the 32-story mixed-use development on the 1.06-acre site. The request was made by Kimley-Horn on behalf of the Property Owner. Here’s the quick rundown:
VELA Pietown
601 Lafayette Street
| What’s Now: | Parking Lot |
| What’s Next: | Mixed-Use Development |
| Developers: | VELA Development |
| Architects: | Clayco |
| Lamar Johnson Collaborative | |
| Civil: | Kimley-Horn |
| Residential: | 367-Units |
| Retail: | 4,795 SF |
| Parking: | 396 Spaces |
The overall project consists of 5 levels of dedicated underground parking spaces below the street level. The ground floor features two large retail shells, resident lobby, and BOH spaces. Level 2 features an expansive and thoughtfully designed amenity level. The building amenities level is flanked by two plazas above the building podium. Progress drawings suggest the dog run and spa area located to the South of the tower while the pool and outdoor activity area is located to the North. Indoor amenities include a fitness center, restrooms, an expansive lounge area featuring a sunken lounge, kitchen, and dining areas. The next 30 floors primarily consist of the residences.
Shown for context only.
Vela Pietown primarily faces Lafayette Street and will activate the pedestrian realm with high visibility retail with covered outdoor seating. Site improvements includes new sidewalks, landscaping, and in-ground planters with integrated seating. The building lobby and garage entrance are located on Ewing Avenue.
The project is slated for the 2/22/2024 Mero Planning Commission Agenda.
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