Johnson Architecture welcomes community to new South Knoxville headquarters with open house 

Johnson Architecture has officially opened its new headquarters in South Knoxville’s waterfront district amid a community of parks, restaurants and other local businesses.

The full-service architecture, planning and interior design firm held an open house on May 9 to celebrate the new offices, now located at 2018 Davenport Road off Sevier Avenue. Attendees raised a glass to commemorate the newly renovated space and Johnson’s plans for the future.

“We look forward to contributing to the vibrant business district in South Knoxville,” said Daryl Johnson, founder and president of Johnson Architecture. “Thanks to the loyalty of our clients, our firm has experienced significant growth. It’s important we ensure that our workspace accommodates both clients and staff so that we continue providing exceptional service.”

Previously the longtime home of Advance Metal Fabrication and owned by John Ryan and Elizabeth McWhirter, the structure and lot have been transformed into a showpiece headquarters for the firm as part of the rejuvenation of the South Knoxville area.

The Johnson Architecture building already has sparked community interest after the installation of a 9-foot-tall steel scorpion sculpture that towers over the lot. The sculpture, “Scorpianis Grande,” was installed last month as part of the Dogwood Arts’ Art in Public Places sculpture program. The piece by John Parker will be on display through June 2025.

The firm’s new headquarters also can be considered a work of art. The 1920s-era building was constructed of concrete block using gabled trusses. Johnson Architecture’s renovation added modern features while staying true to the original structure. Examples include introducing a simple detailed glass, wood and steel box onto the front of the building to serve as the company’s main conference room and creating an inviting covered entry for employees and guests without removing the form of the original block building.

“This significant change is a milestone for our company,” Johnson Architecture Vice President Eric Bowen said. “The trust that our clients have in our work has allowed us to expand our office space, and we are excited for what the future holds for Johnson Architecture. It’s also special to be able to work near other local businesses in South Knoxville and contribute to this thriving community.”

Johnson Architecture’s move from a multi-tenant complex to a standalone building adds several benefits for both clients and employees, including ease of access, dedicated parking and extra meeting spaces. The firm added a coffee bar and also created a private enclosed courtyard with trees and tables for entertaining.

In 2022, Johnson Architecture moved from its prior office on Sutherland Avenue to the nearby Knoxville News Sentinel building. The firm operated at the temporary location until construction at the new facility was complete.

To learn more about the firm and its services and projects, please visit jainc.com.

About Johnson Architecture Inc.

Founded in 1994, Johnson Architecture is a full-service design firm offering planning, architectural and interior design services for a variety of facility types. The JAI team has members who specialize in commercial, education, healthcare, residential, tourism, restaurant and spiritual developments of all sizes. Notable clients include Covenant Health, DENSO, Dollywood, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Knox County Schools, Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation and The University of Tennessee. For more information, visit jainc.com.