(Memphis, TN, October 1, 2024) – Tennessee College of Applied Tech Memphis (TCAT Memphis) approves DLR Group and 4FDesign’s documents for a multi-phased renovation project. This is a significant step forward for the firm’s regional footprint and its ongoing relationship with the state and the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR). DLR Group completed TCAT’s 2020 Statewide Master Plan Update, and now the firm, partnered with 4FDesign, will lead the design for the TCAT Memphis campus replacement project.

Located on TCAT Memphis’ 550 Alabama Avenue campus, the institution follows a vision of providing exceptional technical training to develop a world-class workforce. Given this commitment, it was time to reevaluate its 50-year-old buildings. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s “Tennessee: Leading the Nation Agenda” includes a substantial $1 billion investment in technology colleges, with the $72 million allocated to the TCAT Memphis project being the largest of the awarded funds.

Specifically designed to breathe new life into the campus, 4FDesign and DLR Group’s design will embody the urban fabric of Memphis and create hands-on learning, and real-world scenarios for students to interact within new 21st-century teaching and collaboration spaces.

4FDesign and DLR Group’s renovation and addition of the TCAT Memphis campus will be completed in multiple phases. The project includes replacing an existing 115,000-SF multi-story building with 85,000 SF of new construction, renovating two existing buildings, and adding an approximately 35,000-SF one-story, high-bay lab and classroom structure. The scope also covers site development, parking areas, drives, and infrastructure improvements.

“With 40 years of experience working on TBR and State of TN projects, 4FDesign brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record to every project,” said 4FDesign Vice President and Principal Curt Pierce, AIA NCARB, LAI, ULI. “TCAT Memphis is a moment for 4FDesign to ensure the college and Tennessee state keeps pace with career-fueled economies by revitalizing its Career Technical Education (CTE) program with new construction.”

DLR Group is serving as the Design Architect with 4FDesign as Architect of Record. Construction Documentation (CD) is currently underway.