We design and construct commercial buildings with and for good people.

Design Build Partners LLC

Nashville Architect and General Contractor Serving Tennessee and Surrounding States

Design Build Partners LLC is a boutique Nashville architecture and general contracting firm who values creativity in design and construction. Our architects consider function, form, economy and time, all of which are incorporated into a building program. Our team places client goals and wish lists at the forefront in the design process and offer innovative ideas to elevate and shape the client experience. Given our cohesive design and construction system, we have early insights into construction costs associated with design; thus, creating a timely, efficient method of project delivery.

Commercial Architects

Design Build Partners has a rich history in leading the Nashville area in visionary designs conceptual commercial architecture. Our Nashville architects develop complete sets of contract documents respected by subcontractors and suppliers; thus, reducing their guess work during the estimating and construction processes. Design Build Partners has been recognized by the American Institute of Architects, Associated General Contractors, and in The Tennessean as the Best Architects and in the Nashville Scene as the Best Builders and Developers in the city.

Our recent projects include architectural design and construction of veterinary clinics, industrial facilities, healthcare practices, event spaces, and unique retail environments throughout Tennessee and Kentucky. From the first sketch to hanging pictures in the final product, our design-build process ensures seamless coordination, transparent communication, and consistent on-time, on-budget delivery.

What sets Our Firm Apart from other Architects

Philosophically, we believe that architecture and construction start at the same time and end at the same time, a cohesive process.

Design–Build consolidates responsibility, minimizes conflict, and accelerates delivery. With a single source of accountability, owners experience fewer change orders, clearer communication, and earlier cost certainty. According to the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA), Design–Build projects are completed up to 10% faster and at lower cost than traditional methods.

For organizations seeking predictable budgets, shorter timelines, and a streamlined process, Design–Build is the smarter way to build.

Whether you’re seeking an innovative Nashville commercial architect or general contractor, Design Build Partners has the integrated expertise that results in a space that reflects your brand and values and reinforces your purpose within the community.

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I can’t say enough good things about Design Build Partners. They've been in the architectural business in Nashville for over 30 years, and it really shows in the way they approach every project—with care, thoughtfulness, and a real love for the craft.

Joe Kinney, the lead architect and designer, is incredibly talented and easy to work with. Their work feels intentional and tasteful, and you can tell they put a lot of heart into what they do. If you’re looking for a team that listens, understands your vision, and brings it to life in the best way, I highly recommend reaching out to them. Such a great experience!
Alexandria AzamReal Estate Operations Manager

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I knew them from their work building the physician practices and veterinary hospitals, and they more than lived up to their reputation. I was calling for help on a commercial project. They took my goals and visions to heart, offered a plethora of ideas, and took as much time as I needed for them to explain the process to me. To say I’m happy with the experience would be an understatement, and I can’t recommend them enough!
Frankie PiccioneBuilding construction

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We had a tremendously positive experience working with Design Build Partners. As a nonprofit organization, we were looking for a team with heart, to accompany the critical skills and knowledge, to upgrade an existing office space and to build out a commercial kitchen for our Meals 4 Health and Healing program (which provides nutrient-dense meals free of charge to people in cancer treatment). Getting a quality project complete during a year when there were many supply chain challenges was daunting, but DBP delivered on time and according to specifications, knowing that our mission impacts many lives and people count on our weekly meals for healing through cancer treatment and to feed their families. They worked through challenges, always found solutions, adhered to our budget, clearly communicated status each week, and executed on a plan for a space that we are incredibly proud of and happy with. They never let us down. I highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for quality and integrity and a stellar construction project. Katharine Ray, the Heimerdinger Foundation
Katharine RayExecutive Director at The Heimerdinger Foundation

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Rob and company are great folks. Had the pleasure of working with them on a build out. Carolyn, Joe, Cindy and Carlos are great to work with. Just good people. Thanks.
Greg WrightVice President at Raymond James

Updated on April 18, 2026