Developer Wedgewood Avenue recently received approval for new self-storage projects in Nashville. Understanding community sensitivity around the product type, the developer emphasized the importance of engaging stakeholders on building character. This approach has led to approvals in challenging subdistricts and neighborhoods, and represents a broader shift in the way self-storage is being developed across the country.
“As self-storage development faces mounting hurdles in securing approvals, the development community has found that design is the key to getting stakeholders on board.” Says Beau Fowler, Principal at Wedgewood Avenue. “Over the past five years, entitlement for new storage projects has become increasingly challenging. Neighborhood groups and planning commissions are pressing for projects that reflect local character, and smart developers are adapting.”
Through strategic land acquisitions, strong relationships, and an understanding of local zoning ordinances, the developer continues to evolve and bring more storage to market.
Wedgewood Avenue has received approvals in some of the Nashville region’s most sought after locations such as the East Bank. Where this product may have easily have been considered 10 years ago, it would likely never happen today.
In Bellevue, Wedgewood Avenue worked closely with the neighborhood and Councilwoman to create a building that looks more like a residential structure than a typical storage facility. The project reflects neighboring multifamily buildings which was key to its approval. In Thompson’s Station, just South of Downtown Nashville, the developer is pushing the envelope even further as they worked on a project designed to look like a barn.
By reimagining what storage can look like, Fowler says his team isn’t just clearing regulatory hurdles — they’re carving out a distinctive place in the industry for this product type. Although each project is different, the strategy is the same: meet communities where they are, listen to what they want, and adapt accordingly. Fowler continued, “Not only does this allow us to bring more storage to markets where it is needed – but we also add to and reinforce what communities define as their architectural character.”
For opportunities with Wedgewood Avenue, visit their website by clicking the link (here).
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