Ernest Tubb Record Shop

This reimagining of Nashville’s iconic Ernest Tubb property honors the legacy of one of Broadway’s earliest and most influential names while creating a richly layered destination for locals and visitors alike. The design vision centered on delivering an elevated yet deeply analog experience, one that feels unmistakably rooted in Broadway while celebrating Ernest Tubb’s enduring connection to old Nashville and the historic Midnight Jamboree. Preservation played a leading role throughout the project, with original walls intentionally maintained in their patinaed state to preserve the building’s lived-in character and sense of history.

Each level was designed with its own distinct identity, from the dark, moody saloon of the front room and the Midwestern-inspired dive bar in the back, to the vintage record shop on the second floor, the revived Midnight Jamboree venue on the third, and an elevated 1970s-inspired basement lounge below. The rooftop extends the experience with a dusty Texan watering hole atmosphere, featuring laser-cut metal panels with rose motifs and Ernest Tubb’s initials, hand-painted Mexican talavera tile, and flexible seating designed for gathering and celebration. Architectural interventions included excavating the basement to create usable square footage, upgrading circulation with dramatic stair finishes and lighting, and preserving the building’s iconic signage while coordinating interior details with the branding team.

Custom features reinforce the storytelling throughout, including a marquee sign and bespoke record displays in the shop, venue bars inspired by record crates, and bronze pendant lights designed to echo gold records. Material selections further tie the project to Ernest Tubb’s personality, with accent colors drawn from his vibrant collection of suits, including baby pink, powder blue, and brown, woven throughout the interiors. The result is a restoration that feels both authentic and immersive, serving as a tribute to Ernest Tubb’s legacy and a vibrant new chapter for one of Broadway’s most storied destinations.

Location: Nashville, TN

Scope: Architecture & Interior Design

Completed: 2025