Architects Doug McCarty and Nathan Honeycutt to present an online program on Monday, June 14 at 7:00 p.m.

 

On June 14, 1971, community leaders cut the ribbon on the “new” Lawson McGhee Library, providing a much-needed anchor to the Knox County Public Library system. The innovative building, designed by architect Bruce McCarty, has echoes all over town. McCarty was a champion of modernist architecture, and he changed the cityscape forever. From Clarence Brown Theatre and the Cumberland Avenue pedestrian bridge to TVA Towers and the City County Building, McCarty’s work represents some of the most iconic places in Knoxville.

In honor of 50 years of the current Lawson McGhee Library building on Church Avenue, the public is invited to join MHM architects Doug McCarty and Nathan Honeycutt for an examination of the impact and evolution of Bruce McCarty’s designs.

 

The event will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 14, 2021, on Zoom. It is free to the public, but advanced registration is required. Registration is at https://kcpl.wufoo.com/forms/p3irvv0anrvip/

 

The original Lawson McGhee Library was opened in 1886 on the 100 block of Gay Street, making the Knox County Public Library system the oldest continuously operating public library in the state of Tennessee. Lawson McGhee Library has recently been refurbished to update the circulation and reference desks, public computing section, the Children’s Room, and other areas. Banners and graphics are being added to the building in honor of its 50 years as well.

 

“We are proud of the longevity of our library system and its many innovations along the way,” commented Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs. “Not only do we honor McCarty’s building at the 50-year mark, but we are also celebrating 100 years of the McClung Historical Collection at the East Tennessee History Center. It says a lot for our community that we’ve put a strong value on reading and research for over 135 years now.”

 

About the presenters: 

Doug McCarty

Douglas H. McCarty, FAIA, is the firm’s Chairman Emeritus. Doug literally grew up in the firm and this drives him to passionately lead MHM’s design and management efforts. From his work as design coordinator for the 1982 World’s Fair, Doug has provided leadership for many of the firm’s most well-known projects, such as the Knoxville Convention Center, the UT Art + Architecture Building, Neyland Stadium, the Historic Tennessee Theatre, and McGhee Tyson Airport.  Doug is active in both professional and community groups, always finding time to champion the profession of architecture.

 

Nathan Honeycutt

Nathan Honeycutt, AIA, is a Principal with MHM. His previous experience at both large and small firms has allowed him to work on projects all over the world. Since joining MHM, he has been both an award-winning designer and a project manager on a variety of office, retail, hospitality, and educational buildings.