Stevenson 6 conceptual rendering (DLR)

Vanderbilt University has selected Omaha- and Nashville-based DLR Group to lead design of its 10-floor Stevenson Center 6 shared-space facility, which the university has previously described as crucial to "radical collaboration" that generates acceleration of scientific discovery, open exchange of ideas, and "transformative solutions to the world's most pressing challenges."

As DLR notes today in a press release, the firm has worked with Vanderbilt since 2018 on "strategic campus planning for a Trans Institutional Plan (Summer 2018) and a Feasibility Study (Fall 2024) to modernize the historic campus core and assess future science infrastructure needs."

Stevenson 6 is to replace its now-demolished predecessor and will be dedicated to facilitating collaboration among the VU College of Arts and Science, the School of Engineering, and the School of Basic Science.

The new building will rise at the traditional center of VU engineering and related academic space, at the intersection of Central Campus and Historic Core zones, and perhaps a 10-minute walk from Vanderbilt's planned 40-acre innovation neighborhood, off West End Avenue.

For Stevenson 6, DLR Group brings architecture, engineering, interiors, laboratory planning, campus planning, and sustainability services.

The DLR-led team includes Hopkins Architects, Thorton Tomasetti, Centric Architecture, AEI Inc., Hawkins Partners, Barge Civil Associates, JE Dunn Construction, and Casella Interiors. Groundbreaking for the development is expected in summer 2026, with completion in 2028.

DLR's leadership appointment follows Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs C. Cybele Raver's 2025 statement that Vanderbilt understands "the future of groundbreaking discovery relies on our ability to unite brilliant minds in environments that foster innovation. This new science building represents a tremendous opportunity for Vanderbilt to solidify its role as a global leader in scientific research..."

DLR's Dennis Bree

Principal and Global Design Leader Dennis Bree, AIA, LEED AP said in today's DLR release, in part, “This project strengthens the university’s capacity to attract top talent and positions Vanderbilt to lead breakthrough research that benefits Nashville and beyond." 

In the same release, DLR said the 200,000 sq.ft.-plus design for Stevenson6 "features a high-performance and transparent glazed facade that balances daylight and views for building users while also creating new opportunities for display and engagement along a main campus pedestrian path. The main entrance aligns with existing campus pathways, integrating the structure seamlessly. Inside, the ground floor offers a diverse program including exhibition, event, and workspaces, while west-facing collaborative areas and meeting rooms on each floor provide long sight lines across campus. Highly flexible laboratory environments support the latest research while also balancing occupant health and wellbeing. Inspired by natural systems, the building promotes engagement through natural daylight, landscape planting, and natural materials to blend into the arboretum campus."

DLR Group's Nashville office is headed by Matthew Gulsvig MArch MEng.

In its press release today, DLR adds (links added by VNC):

DLR rendering

"Fast Company named DLR Group among the World’s Most Innovative Companies for its industry-leading adaptive reuse strategies: innovative design that serves clients and communities while significantly reducing carbon emissions.

"DLR Group’s promise is to elevate the human experience through design. As a 100% employee-owned firm, DLR Group fosters a culture of ownership and accountability that shapes its daily practice and drives its commitment to sustainability initiatives, including the 2030 Challenge, the China Accord, and the AIA 2030 Commitment." 

This story will be updated, as warranted. VNC

.last edited 1308 23 April 2026