Belmont University (Belmont) is moving closer to making its newest space, The CORD-Powerhouse, a reality. The new on-campus project will aim to foster greater student collaboration. The University announced the $10 Million lead gift for the 4-story facility from entrepreneur and Belmont Trustee and Vice Chair Cordia Harrington to establish The CORD – Powerhouse last year. The project is situated adjacent to the Alumni House and Student Center on the campus of Belmont.
Shown for context only.
Belmont has recently completed cardinal campus projects which are not only transforming the campus but are poised to serve as community assets as Nashville continues to grow. Such projects include the Award-Winning Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, the new Frist College of Medicine building, and its second residential tower. Like the CORD-Powerhouse, the projects were all designed by Nashville-based architecture firm ESa.
A request has been submitted for final site plan approval for the site zoned RM20 and located within the Belmont University Institutional Overlay District. Once approved, the request will permit the four-story academic building and cafe space on the 1.01-acre site. The request was made by Catalyst Design Group, on behalf of the property owner. Here’s the quick rundown:
The CORD-Powerhouse
Belmont University
| What’s Now: | Campus Lawn |
| What’s Next: | Academic Bldg. |
| Owner: | Belmont |
| Architect: | Esa |
| Landscape: | Studio Topography |
| Civil: | Catalyst Design |
| Contractor: | TBA |
The overall design, per the plans, has evolved from the initial rendering. The elevations in the plans are a departure from contemporary to a more modern take on its traditional campus architecture. The project space plan is generally divided into 3 main uses which include Creative Education, Food Service, and Event Space, combined totaling 36,000+ SF. Project landscaping is consistent with the rest of the campus and offers intentional access to campus green space and adjacent buildings.
According to an earlier release, The CORD will serve as a signature interdisciplinary space at the center of Belmont’s campus, intentionally connecting the University’s entertainment corridor, academic spaces, student formation areas and health care hub. The state-of-the-art facility will feature multiple spaces for student collaboration and creativity, including:
- A performance venue showcasing student talent both on stage and behind the scenes
- Dining outlet designed to build community and foster conversation
- Collaboration space for students in creative disciplines including film and animation
- Advanced recording capabilities throughout the facility, extending Music Row’s presence onto campus
The project is scheduled for the 4/10/2025 Metro Planning Commission agenda, with plans to start construction this year.
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