News Summary
Nashville’s historic Arcade is undergoing a revitalization led by new owners who aim to transform it into a vibrant community hub. With a mix of established businesses and trendy newcomers, and initiatives like Arcade Arts fostering creativity, the Arcade is set to become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. The infusion of fresh ideas and support for local artists promises to enhance its legacy while retaining the charm that has made it a beloved landmark since 1902.
Nashville’s Arcade Gets a Makeover: A New Era for Art and Business
Nashville, known for its lively music scene and rich culture, is ready to embrace a fresh chapter in one of its historic gems – the Arcade. First opening its doors in 1902, the Arcade was inspired by the open-air bazaars of Milan, creating a buzz of foot traffic in the downtown area long before the honky-tonks became the talk of the town. After years of seeing ups and downs, this fantastic structure is set for a sparkling revitalization!
A Heartbeat of Creativity
Over the years, the Arcade has transformed into a beloved hub for the Nashville art community, hosting the First Saturday Art Crawl that invites locals and tourists alike to explore the creativity housed within its walls. However, the winds changed with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a dramatic drop in foot traffic as remote work became the norm. But fret not, because help is on the way!
New Ownership, New Vision
In April 2021, a new group of visionaries, including real estate developer Rob Lowe and Linfield Capital, swept in and made a considerable investment, purchasing the Arcade for $28 million. These new owners have their sights set on transforming the Arcade into a “vibrant, urban-scale destination”, becoming not just a retail location, but a thriving community hub.
The Future’s Looking Bright
New tenants are joining the mix at the Arcade, heralding an exciting change on the horizon. With established favorites like Percy’s Shoe Shine and From Nashville With Love keeping their roots planted, the Arcade is also welcoming a host of trendy newcomers. Exciting businesses such as Urban Cowboy, Faherty, and Roze Pony are set to open their doors soon, promising to draw even more locals and visitors into this historic space.
Creativity Flourishes with Arcade Arts
The Arcade is taking things a step further with the establishment of Arcade Arts. This initiative aims to host a rotating roster of 12 artists-in-residence in small studios located on the second floor. In a supportive move, Arcade Arts covers the artists’ rent and organizes various gallery and cultural events, including a new Second Saturday Art Crawl, further enriching the Arcade’s creative landscape.
Legacy and Innovation Go Hand in Hand
The Arcade is keen to balance new businesses with those that have been staples in the community. Long-time tenant Anna Yi, who has been running Tony’s Shoe Service since 1963, has recently downsized but remains part of this energetic community. The expansive flavor of the Arcade includes newcomers like Jacob Strang with Ugly Bagel, Brittany Cobb, and Rebecca Davis with their exciting boutiques, guaranteed to bring fresh vibes to this historic site.
Community Spirit Takes Center Stage
Supporting local artists and fostering community engagement is a top priority for the Arcade’s new owners. They work closely with local architecture and construction firms to preserve the historic charm while updating infrastructure. Tenants and artists alike are abuzz with optimism, thrilled about the revitalization, even as some express minor concerns regarding potential rent increases and ongoing impacts from the pandemic.
A Bright Path Ahead
As the Arcade gears up to become a must-visit destination, the focus remains on offering a mixed bag of dining, retail, and artistic experiences that appeal to both locals and tourists. With exciting businesses and talented artists coming together, the Arcade promises to be a cultural hub that continues to stand the test of time. Change is on the horizon, and it looks incredibly inviting!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Nashville Set for Major Transformations in 2025
Additional Resources
- Nashville Scene: Downtown Nashville Arcade 2025
- Nashville Lifestyles: Second Saturday Art Crawl
- Nashville Scene: Arcade Owners 2025
- WKRN: New Businesses Open in Nashville’s Revitalized Arcade
- StyleBlueprint: New to Nashville
- Wikipedia: Nashville
