Peabody College at Vanderbilt University

Enduring Legacy, Thoughtfully Renewed

A Historic Institution Reimagined for Modern Learning

Rooted in the 19th century, Peabody College at Vanderbilt University stands as a symbol of academic excellence, tradition, and forward-thinking education in the heart of Nashville. The project honors the building’s classical architecture while introducing carefully considered modern updates that support contemporary learning environments.
Monument Double Hung windows, Standard Casement units, and Commercial Doors and Transoms were selected to preserve the building’s historic character while improving performance, daylighting, and functionality. Guided by Centric Architecture and built by Messer Construction, the renovation bridges past and present—ensuring the campus continues to inspire future generations. The project is documented by Nick McGinn with McGinn Photography, capturing the elegance and integrity of the restored spaces.

A Historic Institution Reimagined for Modern Learning

Rooted in the 19th century, Peabody College at Vanderbilt University stands as a symbol of academic excellence, tradition, and forward-thinking education in the heart of Nashville. The project honors the building’s classical architecture while introducing carefully considered modern updates that support contemporary learning environments.
Monument Double Hung windows, Standard Casement units, and Commercial Doors and Transoms were selected to preserve the building’s historic character while improving performance, daylighting, and functionality. Guided by Centric Architecture and built by Messer Construction, the renovation bridges past and present—ensuring the campus continues to inspire future generations. The project is documented by Nick McGinn with McGinn Photography, capturing the elegance and integrity of the restored spaces.

Architectural Continuity & Renewal

Design interventions that respect history while supporting modern academic life.

Windows that Preserve Classical Proportion

Monument Double Hung windows echo the original fenestration patterns, maintaining the building’s stately rhythm and historic scale while providing modern efficiency and durability.

Enlightened Learning Spaces

Standard Casement windows and thoughtfully placed transoms invite natural light deep into classrooms and common areas, enhancing comfort, focus, and connection to the campus landscape.

Refined Entrances for Civic Presence

Commercial doors paired with transoms reinforce the building’s formal entry sequence, balancing accessibility and performance with the architectural gravitas expected of a historic academic institution.

Windows that Preserve Classical Proportion

Monument Double Hung windows echo the original fenestration patterns, maintaining the building’s stately rhythm and historic scale while providing modern efficiency and durability.

Enlightened Contemporary Learning Spaces

Standard Casement windows and thoughtfully placed transoms invite natural light deep into classrooms and common areas, enhancing comfort, focus, and connection to the campus landscape.

Refined Entrances for Civic Presence

Commercial doors paired with transoms reinforce the building’s formal entry sequence, balancing accessibility and performance with the architectural gravitas expected of a historic academic institution.

Details that Capture the Coast

  • Window Systems: Monument Double Hung and Standard Casement, selected to match historic profiles while meeting modern performance standards
  • Door Systems: Commercial Doors and Transoms, designed to support high-traffic educational use without compromising architectural integrity
  • Material Expression: Brick and stone façades preserved to maintain the building’s classical presence within the campus fabric

Restoration Details & Architectural Elements

  • Window Systems: Monument Double Hung and Standard Casement, selected to match historic profiles while meeting modern performance standards
  • Door Systems: Commercial Doors and Transoms, designed to support high-traffic educational use without compromising architectural integrity
  • Material Expression: Brick and stone façades preserved to maintain the building’s classical presence within the campus fabric

A Campus Landmark Defined by Heritage and Purpose

Peabody College’s renewal demonstrates how thoughtful architectural solutions can honor history while supporting evolving educational needs. Carefully crafted window and door systems play a quiet but essential role—preserving legacy, enhancing function, and reinforcing Vanderbilt University’s enduring commitment to excellence.
Architect: Centric Architecture | Builder: Messer Construction | Photographer: Nick McGinn (McGinn Photography) 
Architectural Windows & Doors Australia