Nashville Public Library

The Nashville Public Library’s rich history began in 1904 as one of many Carnegie Libraries established across America during the early 20th century’s great period of public library expansion. As Nashville grew and evolved, the library system expanded to meet the needs of its burgeoning communities, establishing numerous branches throughout Davidson County. This commitment to public learning culminated in 2001 with the inauguration of a magnificent new Main Library on Church Street, designed by the renowned Robert A.M. Stern Architects, whose vision masterfully balanced classical architectural elements with modern functionality.

Within this architectural landmark, EverGreene created a series of murals that celebrate both Tennessee’s natural heritage and the transcendent nature of learning. The crowning achievement is the main reading room’s ceiling mural, which depicts a contemplative view through the spreading branches of tulip poplar trees—Tennessee’s state tree—set against a deep azure sky. The careful application of gold leaf to outline each leaf creates a subtle shimmer that brings the foliage to life as light plays across the surface. The project extended beyond this centerpiece to include the colonnade walls, where EverGreene’s artists crafted large atmospheric panels in varying shades of blue, creating an illusion of infinite space that enhances the room’s sense of grandeur. These striking murals, meticulously crafted in EverGreene’s specialized Mural Studio before their installation on site, transform the library’s interior into an inspiring sanctuary where knowledge and natural beauty converge.