Project Director

Morgan, Todd

Department Examiner

Hathcock, Sarah

Department

School of Professional Studies

Publisher

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Place of Publication

Chattanooga (Tenn.)

Abstract

This thesis looks at how Old Brainerd Junior High can be brought back to life in a way that supports the surrounding community in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Once an important part of the neighborhood, the building now sits mostly unused, reflecting how much of the city’s energy has shifted toward downtown. Instead of continuing that pattern, this project focuses on creating something meaningful within Brainerd itself. The proposal reimagines the school as a place for music, entertainment, and everyday gathering. It builds on Chattanooga’s growing presence in nightlife and the arts, while giving people a reason to stay, connect, and spend time in their own neighborhood. The design keeps the character of the original building but introduces new elements that make it more functional, accessible, and adaptable over time. Spaces are designed to feel welcoming and easy to use, with attention to how people move through them, gather, and age in place. At the same time, the project considers practical choices like reusing materials and creating a healthier indoor environment. Overall, this thesis shows how an existing building can take on a new role without losing its history. By investing in a place like Old Brainerd Junior High, the project suggests that growth in Chattanooga does not have to be centered downtown, but can also happen in neighborhoods that already have strong roots and identity.

Degree

B. A.; An honors thesis submitted to the faculty of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the degree of Bachelor of Arts.

Date

8-2026

Subject

Historic buildings--Remodeling for other use; Historic preservation--Tennessee—Chattanooga; Community development--Tennessee--Chattanooga; Architecture and society

Keyword

Adaptive Reuse

Discipline

Historic Preservation and Conservation

Document Type

Theses

Extent

222 unnumbered leaves

DCMI Type

Text

Language

English

Rights

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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