From the start, we committed to a collaborative design process, both internally as an office and with our clients. This process enables us to draw on the strengths of our entire team and to respond distinctively to the unique demands of each project. Plus, it’s more fun this way.
Lasting Design. Meaningful Impact.
In 2019 we doubled down on our team-oriented collaborative culture and became an Employee Owned Company. Our business is a coop style workplace democracy where each person contributes equally to the team.
Before co-working office space was a thing, we were doing it. Not because it was cool but because it inherently made sense to us. Since 1996, we have shared our space with Zeitgeist Art Gallery, because we recognize that art and architecture have the power to change the way we experience – and engage with – the world around us.
We view our role as architects holistically. Not only are we designing impactful places, we are also actively engaged as advocates and volunteers for causes ranging from the environment to education. We are building up Nashville in meaningful, sustainable, and creative ways and are committed to leaving the world better than we found it.
Our Work
Our portfolio reflects our ability to solve complex challenges with proven and unexpected solutions, driven by a culture of creativity, fairness, and innovation.
Hospitality + Restaurant
Commercial
Commercial
Lain York
Residential
Commercial
Multi-Family + Mixed Use
Hospitality + Restaurant
Our Clients
What Our Clients Are Saying
“Aventura has worked with the MZA team on both smaller renovations and the design of our permanent school facility and campus. It means a lot that the creative and talented team at MZA believes in our organization’s mission and has helped Aventura design the school of our dreams while respecting budgetary limitations. We couldn’t imagine better partners in visioning and bringing to life an inspiring learning environment for the Aventura community.”
Natalie Morosi, Founder and Executive Director | Aventura Community School
“O’Reilly has been using MZA for a number of years now as our go-to Architect on all our large commercial developments. I cannot express the amount of gratitude we as a company have for the MZA team. They are always there for us with any questions or needs we have when navigating both the plan process as well as dealings with any municipalities.”
Aaron James, Real Estate Division, Manager – Distribution Center Projects | O’Reilly Auto Parts
“MZA has been able to deliver client inspired designs on schedule and with respect to budget for large and small projects alike. MZA pushes “green” within their designs – whether solar electric generation, or adaptive reuse of existing structures. Creative problem solving is at the core of what – MZA has provided to our firm and I would recommend their firm to anyone.”
Michael W. Hayes – CEO | C.B. Ragland
“Mark and his team are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that the projects are completed to the highest standards. They collaborate closely with all stakeholders, including developers, city officials, and community members, to create spaces that are not only affordable but also enhance the quality of life for residents. Their commitment to affordable housing and their ability to balance aesthetics, functionality, and cost-effectiveness make them an outstanding partner for any project.”
Adam Rosenberg – Founder | AGB Realty
“We have used MZA on numerous projects over the last 30 plus years. The MZA team is always easy to work with, and they bring lots of unique ideas to the table. As we work from concept drawings until the final construction drawings they listen to our input as a valued team member. Paying attention to the suggestions from all members of the team (Owner, Contractor & Other Designers) MZA balances the design intent, with quality of materials, constructability issues and overall affordability.”