#United States #Nashville #architecture #Gresham Smith #Jeff Kuhnhenn

Jeff Kuhnhenn Takes the Helm as EVP of Life and Work Places

Gresham Smith, a leading name in architecture, engineering, and consultancy, has officially appointed Jeff Kuhnhenn as the new Executive Vice President of the firm's Life and Work Places sector. This strategic move, revealed on November 18, 2025, marks a significant leadership change aimed at driving growth and innovation within the firm.

A Seasoned Visionary

Jeff Kuhnhenn brings over thirty years of invaluable experience to his new role. His tenure at Gresham Smith has seen him take on multiple influential positions, including Technical Practice Leader for Life and Work Places and Project Executive for significant civic and cultural projects. His extensive background and collaborative leadership style have been pivotal in shaping environments that cater to the needs of modern living and working.

CEO Rodney Chester highlighted Kuhnhenn's crucial role in aligning design excellence with business strategy, noting that his leadership has significantly contributed to the firm's reputation in various market sectors. Chester praised Kuhnhenn’s ability to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and client trust, further emphasizing the importance of his new position as the firm aims to expand its influence.

Transforming Nashville's Skyline

Kuhnhenn's remarkable portfolio includes transformative projects that have significantly impacted Nashville's skyline. He played a key role in the development of notable structures such as the headquarters for Gresham Smith at 222 Second Avenue South, Nissan Americas, and the ambitious Nashville Yards and Fifth + Broadway projects. His influence extends beyond Nashville, with award-winning designs for passenger terminals at major airports like Charlotte Douglas and Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson.

Most recently, he has engaged in various collaborations with Metro Nashville, contributing to crucial civic projects. His work motivates not only architectural advancement but also community interaction and growth.

Continuing a Legacy

Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Kuhnhenn stated, "It's an honor to assume this new responsibility and build upon the strong foundation laid by our Life and Work Places team." His commitment to creating spaces that impact people's lives positively remains a core objective moving forward. He aims to lead efforts to not just design, but also to enrich everyday experiences through intelligent architectural practices.

As Kuhnhenn transitions into this influential position, he continues to hold an active presence in the broader professional community. He is a licensed architect in Tennessee and an engaged member of the Urban Land Institute and the Design Futures Council. With dual degrees in environmental design and architecture from Ball State University, his educational foundation complements his extensive professional expertise.

A Bright Future Ahead

Gresham Smith, with a formidable presence across eight strategic sectors, is well-positioned to thrive under Kuhnhenn's leadership. The firm, known for its dedication to fostering healthy and vibrant communities, boasts a robust annual revenue and numerous accolades for workplace excellence. As they continue to innovate, the industry eagerly anticipates how Kuhnhenn will steer the Life and Work Places division toward new horizons.

In conclusion, Jeff Kuhnhenn's appointment as Executive Vice President symbolizes a commitment to excellence in design and a vision for the future of community-centric architecture. With his extensive experience and dedication, the best is certainly yet to come for Gresham Smith and the communities it serves.