The evening brought together more than 400 guests for a celebration filled with music, great company, and community spirit — raising $115,000 in support of local preservation efforts. It was the perfect setting to reflect on the shared commitment that makes Knoxville’s historic character thrive.

This recognition is especially meaningful to our team, as it celebrates a passion deeply woven into our work and culture — preserving and reimagining East Tennessee’s historic landmarks for future generations. From the restoration of the Historic Sanitary Laundry Building into MHM’s new office to several adaptive reuse projects in Knoxville’s Old City, we continue to blend preservation with thoughtful, community-centered design.

We’re grateful to Knox Heritage and to everyone who champions the value of historic architecture and the power of design to connect past and present.

For Li Wang and Margaret Butler of McCarty Holsaple McCarty Architects, architecture is about much more than buildings; it’s about shaping spaces that inspire connection and community. Both women bring unique perspectives and strengths to their leadership, but they share a common purpose: to design with people at the heart of every project.

Li Wang discovered her path to architecture early. “I’ve always loved drawing and had a natural interest in geometry,” she says. “Architecture felt like the perfect way to bring those two together. What keeps me going is seeing a sketch turn into a real place where people work, learn, and connect.” That passion has guided her career for decades, most recently through her contributions to the transformation of the University of Tennessee’s Knoxville campus. From the new Student Union to the UT Medical Nursing Building, Wang’s fingerprints are on spaces that will serve students for generations to come.

But for Wang, success isn’t only measured in brick and mortar. Her leadership style is built on trust and collaboration. “I want the people around me to grow and thrive, both personally and professionally,” she reflects. “Over time, I’ve learned that leadership begins with building genuine connections. Without trust and respect, you can’t truly lead.”

Her colleague, Margaret Butler, echoes that sentiment, though she describes her own leadership style as both collaborative and democratic. “Architecture is such a team-driven process,” Butler explains. “I value input from others and believe having a mix of perspectives only makes the work stronger. At the same time, I’ve learned that leadership sometimes means stepping in and making tough decisions to keep a project moving.”

Butler is passionate about mentorship, noting that she learns as much from younger architects as they do from her. “I love that exchange,” she says. “It makes the whole team better.” Beyond the walls of their office, both women are deeply engaged in Knoxville’s community. Service and philanthropy are integral to McCarty Holsaple McCarty’s culture, and both leaders make it a priority to encourage younger team members to give back. “We create opportunities for our architects to engage in service and leadership roles,” Butler says. “Time and again, they rise to the occasion.” Butler has long been active with local nonprofits and was recently appointed to the Knoxville-Knox County Planning Commission. In that role, she focuses on sustainable growth, equitable housing, and historic preservation, issues that tie directly to her architectural values. “As architects, we’re designing more than buildings; we’re helping shape the fabric of our city,” she says.

Wang agrees, noting that her goal is to design spaces that not only function well, but also foster a sense of belonging. “Through thoughtful design, I hope the learning spaces I help create encourage collaboration, spark connections, and feel welcoming to everyone who uses them,” she says.

Of course, balancing professional ambition with personal priorities is never simple. Butler recalls the challenge of raising children and supporting aging parents while maintaining a demanding career. “Careers aren’t usually a straight line,” she reflects. “It’s okay to have detours, pauses, and new directions. Those choices made me not only a stronger professional but also a more empathetic leader.” Wang, meanwhile, stays grounded through running, consistently logging about 20 miles a week. “It helps me unplug, recharge, and stay focused,” she says.

When asked what advice they would give young women aspiring to leadership, both emphasize resilience, curiosity, and openness. “Listen well, stay open-minded, and don’t be afraid to push beyond your comfort zone,” Wang advises. Butler adds, “Some of the most important qualities in a strong leader are good decision-making, integrity, accountability, and empowering others.”

Together, Wang and Butler embody the philosophy that architecture is not only about structures, but also about people and legacy. Their work at McCarty Holsaple McCarty Architects continues to shape Knoxville in meaningful ways, building spaces that reflect the spirit of the community they proudly call home.

The Athens PreK-5 School was honored with the Citation Award for Interior Architecture. In collaboration with Design Innovation Architects (DIA), the team designed around the innovative concept of two schools under one roof. This 1,340-student facility maintains two independent schools through separate primary and intermediate wings connected via a “Knowledge Avenue.”

The Mobile Art Gallery received the Honor Award for New Construction. Designed for Knoxville’s Arts & Culture Alliance, this mobile “pop-up” gallery brings art directly into the community through adaptable, low-cost installations built by volunteers.

The SEED BLOCK project was recognized as the Gala’s Choice Winner for the Housing ETN Single Stair Design Competition. This six-story, mixed-use prototype for Knoxville’s infill lots combines sustainable design and Net-Zero Energy goals to create a replicable model for livable, affordable urban housing.

It was a fantastic evening celebrating the creativity and dedication of the design community in the heart of the Old City. We’re proud of our team for bringing these projects to life and grateful to be recognized alongside so many talented peers.

Nathan Honeycutt is a visionary architect, civic advocate and dedicated public servant whose work has left a lasting impact on the Knoxville community. As a Principal at McCarty Holsaple McCarty (MHM), Honeycutt has helped shape some of the region’s most recognizable spaces through thoughtful, community-driven design. His leadership has been central to major projects like The Tennessean Hotel, a hallmark of downtown revitalization, and the Maker’s Exchange, a transformative mixed-use development that has reenergized the World’s Fair Park district.

Honeycutt’s influence extends to public infrastructure and environmental stewardship as well. His work on the Ijams Nature Center Master Plan has supported the long-term vision of one of Knoxville’s most beloved natural assets, enhancing access to outdoor education and conservation experiences for tens of thousands of annual visitors. He also played a key role in the renovations and modernization of McGhee Tyson Airport, improving regional connectivity and visitor experience while positioning Knoxville for future economic growth.

Beyond his professional achievements, Honeycutt has demonstrated a deep and sustained commitment to community service. As a past President of the East Tennessee Community Design Center (ETCDC), he led efforts to provide pro bono design and planning services to underserved neighborhoods and nonprofit organizations. His leadership enabled dozens of projects focused on equitable development, cultural preservation and improved public spaces.

Honeycutt also volunteers with Knox Heritage, helping protect and celebrate Knoxville’s architectural history, and with the American Heart Association, supporting health-focused outreach and fundraising efforts that benefit communities across East Tennessee.

His early work with Habitat for Humanity instilled a dedication to affordable housing, and to date, his efforts have contributed to the development of more than 3,000 mixed-income housing units across the region, ensuring access to quality homes for working families and underserved residents.

In addition to his architectural and civic endeavors, Honeycutt serves as President of a development company dedicated to historic preservation and sustainable redevelopment. A signature project under his leadership is the revitalization of the nearly century-old Sanitary Laundry Building at 625 North Broadway. Vacant for over 30 years and burdened by environmental contamination from its former use as a dry-cleaning facility, the building is being transformed into a vibrant, mixed-use space that will house MHM’s new office and offer commercial rental opportunities. The project aims to achieve LEED, WELL and Net Zero certifications, potentially making it the first building in Tennessee to attain all three, while preserving the structure’s historic character. This redevelopment not only breathes new life into a long-neglected property but also serves as a catalyst for economic revitalization in North Knoxville. 

Now running for Knoxville City Council, Honeycutt is continuing his mission to shape a stronger, more inclusive and better-connected city. His platform focuses on responsible development, neighborhood investment and sustainable growth, drawing from years of experience in both the public and private sectors.

Nathan Honeycutt’s blend of design excellence, civic leadership and service-minded action makes him a powerful force for positive change. He is building more than buildings, he’s helping build the future of Knoxville.

We are excited to announce that Doug McCarty, FAIA, Chairman Emeritus at McCarty Holsaple McCarty, has received the prestigiousfrom the American Institute of Architects Tennessee Chapter (AIA Tennessee). He was honored during the 2025 AIA Tennessee Conference on Architecture, held in August at the Embassy Suites Downtown in Nashville. The annual awards gala recognized decades of leadership, service, and transformative contributions to Tennessee’s built environment.

Over his five-decade career, Doug has left an indelible mark on East Tennessee’s architecture and community. His notable projects include the Knoxville Convention Center, the University of Tennessee’s Art + Architecture Building (itself selected through a national design competition and widely respected in architectural education), and the restoration of the Tennessee Theatre.

But Doug’s influence goes beyond buildings. He has served on the board of the East Tennessee Community Design Center (ETCDC) for over 40 years, helping to sustain pro bono design services for underserved communities across 16 counties. His mentorship through both his firm and professional service has helped shape many generations of architects and designers.

This award is a celebration of Doug’s lifelong dedication to design, to leadership, and to community. We at MHM are deeply proud of his recognition.

Exciting progress is happening at the historic 612 South Gay Street building—future home to the Tennessee Theatre’s expanded backstage and community spaces! MHM is proud to be part of this transformational project that supports the theatre’s growth while honoring its rich architectural legacy.

Recent features from Inside of Knoxville and the Knoxville News Sentinel offer a closer look at the renovation and the vision behind it:

We’re thrilled to see this beloved Knoxville institution making headlines as it prepares for an exciting new chapter.

We’re thrilled to share that MHM has been named one of Knoxville News Sentinel’s Top Workplaces for the third year in a row! This year, we were especially honored to receive a Specialty Award for Social Responsibility—recognizing our team’s ongoing efforts to make a meaningful impact in the community.

At MHM, we believe great design is more than buildings—it’s about people. Whether we’re volunteering, mentoring students, or supporting local organizations, our employees care deeply about giving back. That shared value shows up in the projects we pursue and the way we show up for Knoxville and beyond.

The Top Workplaces list is based entirely on confidential employee feedback gathered through an independent survey. It measures everything from culture and leadership to opportunities for growth, flexibility, and feeling respected and supported. In short, it’s a genuine snapshot of how our team experiences life at MHM—and we couldn’t be prouder of what that says.

A huge thank you to our amazing staff for the energy, creativity, and heart they bring to the office (and the job site) every day. You make MHM a Top Workplace—not just on a list, but in real life.

We’re excited to see momentum building around the East Magnolia Avenue revitalization efforts in East Knoxville—an important initiative that MHM is proud to be part of. A recent spotlights the City-approved plans for the Grandiflora, a new community event venue, and shares local perspectives on the renovation’s potential to bring positive change while honoring the area’s identity and heritage.

MHM is working with the City and the Grandiflora Foundation to ensure the design blends with the neighborhood’s historic fabric while making space for meaningful growth. We’re encouraged by the community’s optimism and look forward to helping shape a more vibrant and inclusive corridor.

Catch the full story from WBIR:

Caleb Nutt

• School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville

• Major: Bachelor of Architecture 2025; pursuing a Master of Landscape Architecture 2026

• Fun Fact: When he’s not working or studying, Caleb loves basketball, spikeball, hiking, and kayaking—anything that gets him outdoors soaking up the sun.

Landon Parker

• School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville

• Graduate Study: Master of Architecture, Class of 2027

• Fun Fact: Landon loves Knoxville’s outdoor scene and urban trails. Recently, he traveled to Marfa, Texas to study the works of Donald Judd, combining his passion for travel and design.

Mollie Smith

• School: East Tennessee State University

• Major: Interior Architecture, Class of 2026

• Minors: Storytelling & Leadership Studies

• Fun Fact: Mollie has studied abroad in five countries—England, Greece, Italy, Ireland, and France—exploring how different cultures express identity and history through design.

Maya Markowicz

• School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville

• Major: Interior Architecture, Class of 2026

• Minor: Sustainability

• Fun Fact: Maya enjoys creating upcycled art—turning cans into planters, old CDs into mosaics, and beads into wind chimes—blending creativity with sustainability.

Eli Oliver

• School: University of Tennessee, Knoxville

• Major: Bachelor of Architecture, Class of 2026

• Fun Fact: A trumpet player in the Pride of the Southland Band, Eli has performed everywhere from Madison Square Garden to London, sharing a bit of “Rocky Top” wherever he goes.

We’re thrilled to have these future designers on board this summer and can’t wait to see their creativity in action!

On May 14, 2025, local officials, educators, and community members gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Farragut Elementary School, a major step forward in addressing growth and overcrowding in West Knox County. McCarty Holsaple McCarty Architects (MHM) designed the new facility in partnership with Knox County Schools, continuing a long-standing relationship focused on delivering thoughtful, student-centered learning environments.

Located at 202 Village Commons Boulevard, the one-story school is designed to serve up to 1,400 students and will help alleviate crowding at existing Farragut Primary and Intermediate schools. The design features flexible classrooms, collaborative learning areas, a modern media center, and outdoor spaces that support both play and hands-on learning.

The $43.7 million project is expected to be completed in time for the 2027 school year. MHM is proud to be part of a team working to ensure that every Knox County student has access to a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place to learn.

On March 28, 2025, community leaders and partners gathered to celebrate the restoration of the historic Rule House and its new role as the home of Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville’s Anchor Program. MHM is proud to have played a role in preserving this architectural treasure while helping it serve a new and meaningful purpose.

Located at 2445 E. Magnolia Avenue, the Rule House was originally built in 1921 by Dr. Andrew Lafayette Rule, a well-respected physician known for his generosity and community-minded spirit. Dr. Rule often accepted homegrown vegetables as payment for medical care and welcomed boarders into his home, making it a cornerstone of the neighborhood.

Through the vision of The Grandiflora Foundation and the dedication of LHP and Autism Breakthrough, the home has been thoughtfully restored to honor its past while adapting to meet present-day needs. The renovation retains its historic charm while creating a functional and inviting space for the Anchor Program, which provides essential life skills and support for adults with autism transitioning to independent living.

The Grandiflora Foundation selected Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville as the new tenant ensuring that the home continues to serve the community—just as Dr. Rule originally intended.

The ribbon-cutting event was a testament to the collaborative effort that made this transformation possible. With the support of LHP, The Grandiflora Foundation, and dedicated community partners, the Rule House now stands as a symbol of preservation and progress, offering new opportunities for those it serves.

MHM is honored to have contributed to the renovation of this historic Knoxville landmark and looks forward to seeing the Anchor Program thrive in its new home.

For more information about Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville, visit .

The (KCT) is set to breathe new life into the historic Foundry building, a structure with roots dating back to 1865. The renovation will honor the building’s storied past while transforming it into a state-of-the-art venue for children’s theater.

The existing event hall will be reimagined to include a grand lobby, a rehearsal space, a black box theater, and a 250-seat auditorium. A modest addition will accommodate a fly loft, scene shop, costume shop, and other essential support areas, ensuring seamless production capabilities.

The architectural vision is inspired by the “moment of anticipation” in theater—the captivating pause when the lights dim, the curtain begins to retract, and the performance begins. This is manifested externally using curtain-like window openings that break down the mass of the new addition while the contrasting brick color differentiates the new architectural intervention. Internally, new program elements feature flowing, curtain-inspired forms that juxtapose harmoniously with the historic masonry and timber framework, creating a dialogue between old and new.

This revitalization project preserves a significant piece of Knoxville’s heritage while providing KCT with an inspiring platform to continue its mission of fostering creativity and learning through the performing arts.

Read more on

McCarty Holsaple McCarty Architects & Interior Designers (MHM) proudly announces that the Oakland Court Housing Development has received a prestigious NAHRO Agency Award of Merit in the Affordable Housing category. The award was presented at the 2024 NAHRO National Conference & Exhibition in Orlando, Florida.

The Oakland Court Housing Development embodies the Murfreesboro Housing Authority’s commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable, and affordable housing options. As the project’s architect, MHM is deeply honored to have partnered on this transformative initiative that meets the community’s housing needs while fostering a vibrant, welcoming environment for its residents.

The project’s design emphasizes sustainability and livability, featuring energy-efficient systems, accessible layouts, and community-oriented amenities. The redevelopment replaced outdated housing units with modern, functional homes, reflecting MHM’s dedication to creating spaces that enhance quality of life.

The NAHRO Agency Awards of Merit honor innovative housing and community development projects that address critical needs in creative and effective ways. The recognition of Oakland Court underscores the value of collaborative efforts in delivering affordable housing solutions that inspire pride and opportunity.

For more information, see MHM’s project description for the Oakland Court Development.

During its Annual Convention, the Tennessee School Board Association (TSBA) recognized architectural firms for their excellence in design by presenting the TSBA School of the Year Awards. Awards were granted in five categories: New Construction of Elementary, Middle, and High Schools, Renovation, and the People’s Choice award, which was selected by TSBA membership.

MHM in collaboration with the Architect of Record, Design Innovation Architects (DIA), was recognized for the design of the Athens PreK-5 School in both the Elementary School and People’s Choice categories.

The consolidation of Athens City Schools was driven by the need to address stagnant growth, aging facilities, and increasing operational and maintenance costs. The decision was made to merge two primary schools, two intermediate schools, and one middle school into a more efficient two-school system.

By creating a new PreK-5 school, four aging facilities were replaced, saving on costly repairs and maintenance. Additionally, the strategic location of the new school adjacent to Athens City Middle School presented an opportunity to establish a single PreK-8 campus. Overall, this new PreK-5 school design supports more efficient operational costs, enhanced security and monitoring, allows for expanded educational programs, and consolidates resources that enhance curriculum opportunities.

This innovative and efficient concept of two schools under one roof allows the school to maintain its primary and intermediate grade structure while creating a conducive learning environment for its 1,340 students. The school is divided into two independent schools with separate primary and intermediate classroom wings, each having its own administration areas and entries.

Read more about the project, here.

MHM proudly announces that the Webb School of Knoxville - The Bailey Family Fitness & Training Center - was awarded the Combined-Level Schools Citation and appeared in the —the premier showcase celebrating the best in education design.

With a focus on health and fitness, The Bailey Family Fitness & Training Center is a state-of-the-art facility designed to be welcoming and inclusive to the full school community.

A jury of American Institute of Architects (AIA) Committee on Architecture for Education members and education administrators evaluated submissions from architectural firms, schools, and universities across the county. Sixty-five projects were selected for publication in AS&U, an educational facilities, purchasing, and business administration magazine reaching 57,000 facility planners, school and university administrators, and architects.

For PARK(ing) Day 2024, MHM partnered with the Knoxville Arts & Culture Alliance, a local nonprofit organization, to raise awareness about The Emporium and celebrate local artists throughout the city. With a focus on sustainability and adaptability, the team designed a modular structure that is versatile, reusable, and purpose-built to maximize its value for the Arts & Culture Alliance.

The installation serves multiple functions, including acting as a stage backdrop, a space divider, a freestanding gallery, or even an outdoor exhibit for First Friday events. Constructed from birch plywood sheets—chosen for their natural aesthetic and alignment with The Emporium’s existing material palette—the structure is assembled using hand-welded brackets. This design enables two gallery walls in its main form while maintaining flexibility to meet The Emporium’s diverse needs.

Arranged in a zigzag pattern at a 45-degree angle, the plywood panels optimize art display space while minimizing the overall footprint. Designed for efficiency, the structure can be quickly assembled, easily disassembled, and folded flat for convenient storage. Its modular design and notch-style joinery allow for various configurations, from a single long gallery wall to smaller, separate two-panel displays.

Additionally, the structure incorporates functional elements, such as blocks that can be used as seating for artists or viewers, or as pedestals for displaying art. During PARK(ing) Day, the panels featured art in various mediums created by local artists sponsored by The Emporium. Like a traditional gallery, these pieces were available for purchase, showcasing the dynamic relationship between art, community, and sustainability.

MHM was honored to be recognized at the 2024 AIA East Tennessee Design Awards Gala with a Citation award for the . The new center is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to promoting fitness, wellness, athletic training, nutritional education, and strength and conditioning training for students and faculty alike.

Additionally, MHM’s Haley Zimmerman was awarded a Presidential Citation, Chris Woodcock was recognized for receiving his professional licensure, and student intern Anna Haynes and partner Jakob Mikres were recognized for their work in AIA East Tennessee’s first ADU Design Competition.

Aaron Miller, AIA, CSI – Promoted to Principal
With over 25 years of experience in the architecture and construction industry, Aaron Miller’s expertise as a Project Manager has been a cornerstone of MHM’s success. Known for his collaborative leadership, Aaron excels in communication and organization, always striving to exceed client expectations. His extensive background in construction and comprehensive involvement in the delivery process—from strategic planning to quality control and construction contract administration—makes him an exceptional leader who seamlessly guides clients from project conception to completion.

A Knoxville native, Aaron is passionate about giving back to his community. He serves on the board of the Construction Specification Institute (CSI), advancing the design and construction industry through education and collaboration. Additionally, he volunteers with local nonprofits, mission projects, and youth athletics, demonstrating his deep commitment to community service.

Melissa Hatchett, AIA, WELL AP, LEED AP BD+C, LFA – Promoted to Associate
Melissa Hatchett’s passion for creative problem-solving and attention to detail has earned her a promotion to Associate. A University of Tennessee alumna, she has established herself in the Knoxville area as a specialist in commercial renovations and restaurant design. Melissa’s love for learning and versatility across project types allows her to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to every project. She believes that attention to detail transforms good designs into exceptional realities.

Sean Hackett, AIA – Promoted to Associate
Sean Hackett is driven by a desire to elevate human experiences through architecture. After joining MHM in 2021, following a successful seven-year tenure in Atlanta, Sean has specialized in restaurant and hospitality design. His background in Historic Preservation from the College of Charleston, coupled with a Master of Architecture from Virginia Tech, positions him as a multidisciplinary expert capable of guiding clients through each phase of a project. Sean’s focus on creating enriching and enjoyable spaces underscores his commitment to meaningful architecture.

Chris Woodcock, AIA – Promoted to Associate
Chris Woodcock’s diverse portfolio and two decades of experience have made him a valuable asset to MHM. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Chris has led residential, commercial, hospitality, and educational projects. He approaches each project with a focus on client engagement, creative problem-solving, and thoughtful attention to detail, regardless of budget or scale. Chris's optimistic outlook and empathetic approach ensure seamless project execution and long-lasting client satisfaction.

MHM proudly celebrates these talented individuals and their contributions to our firm’s continued success. Their leadership, dedication, and expertise are testaments to our commitment to excellence in architecture and design.

MHM is honored to be one of . We're proud to have been acknowledged in the Small Business category and to receive the Benefits (My benefits package is good compared to others in this industry) Specialty Award.

The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey. The confidential survey uniquely measures the employee experience and its component themes, including employees feeling Respected & Supported, Enabled to Grow, and Empowered to Execute, to name a few. Our employees cite a strong firm culture and a relaxed, creative work environment among the top reasons MHM is a great workplace.

A huge thank you to our incredible and dedicated staff for making MHM a great place to work.

MHM recognizes the importance of investing in the future of our profession, therefore, we are excited to welcome five talented interns to MHM’s 2024 [on]SITE (Student Intern Training and Experience) program. This program is designed to provide our student interns, all from the University of Tennessee College of Architecture + Design, with a unique and rewarding experience. Our interns this summer will channel their curiosity about all things design practice through their [in]SITE office events and [off]SITE field visits.

Through this program, MHM is promoting opportunities for student interns to understand the capacity of our industry and the breadth of our reach. Each of our interns has been assigned an [over]SITE mentor who will help guide them, answer questions, and build relationships. MHM mentors will act as liaisons between our interns and the rest of the firm, building relationships they will carry with them past this summer experience. The [off]SITE schedule will encourage our interns to build relationships within the larger community beyond our front doors. MHM interns will visit project sites, civic events, and local board and committee meetings to seek out the value of a designer’s role as a practicing professional, including elements of construction administration, organization involvement, and industry awareness.

The [re]SITE research engagement is grounded in our commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and ethical design practices. We believe that research is an essential component of the design process. It provides a valuable opportunity for us to explore new ideas, develop new skills, and deepen our understanding of our profession's challenges and opportunities. By equipping our interns with the skills, knowledge, and perspectives needed to become leaders in architecture and design, we hope to promote the growth of thought leaders in our community.

Join us on social media to see the vibrancy our interns bring to the office this summer as they document their experiences.