MHM is proud to announce that the was the only middle school project nationally to receive a citation award for design.

The project is based on a desire to integrate technology and hands-on making with core academic subjects. It offers students a variety of spaces to collaborate, innovate, and explore.

“Everything is filled with natural light. I felt like I wanted to study in those spaces and be in those spaces.”

— 2022 Jury

The plan offers flexible spaces for changing curricula and technologies. A new entrance establishes a front-to-back, two-story spine along the existing building, putting the library on full display. The space features a deep gray wall of books with sliding whiteboards. Penetrating this wall, the building is organized by placing labs and maker spaces to the perimeter with a common core featuring storage, offices, and a broadcast studio. Outside, patio spaces are used for study, shop, and robotics.

Sustainability goals were achieved through enhanced envelope performance for new walls, high-efficiency glazing with vertical sunshades, local materials, and higher-efficiency systems and lighting. Bright greens are a playful twist on the school’s colors, and the interiors reflect an attitude of creative whimsy, which is at the core of the facility’s design.

For PARK(ing) Day this year, MHM paired up with . The annual event occurs downtown and aims to reimagine metered spots for a day while engaging in social exchange, recreation, and artistic expression. Our team created an installation that served both PARK(ing) Day and will be re-used by Young-Williams after the event.

The basis of MHM’s design used modular milk crates to engage pedestrians through display walls, stools, benches, and a dog bed/couch. A donation bin was crafted to facilitate the organization of drop-off goods that are received at the Division Street location. The stools and benches were made to store books and provide seating; additionally, they will be re-used for the Paws for Reading program. The program allows members of the community to practice reading while the animals experience the power of a human-animal bond.

The overall goal was to raise awareness of volunteer opportunities and outreach programs through Young-Williams. The day was spent in good company with volunteers from both MHM and Young-Williams, and of course, a bunch of furry friends.

We are excited to announce that Steven Whitmore has joined the Ambassadors Program!

"The Knoxville Chamber Ambassadors contribute countless volunteer hours and dedication to the organization’s mission of driving regional economic prosperity."

Learn more about the program by visiting the link:

AIA Tennessee recently recognized MHM with a 2022 Emerging Professional Friendly Firm Award. The award recognizes firms that foster opportunities for leadership and provide a culture of support for emerging professionals (EPs). MHM’s EPs are integrally involved in the firm’s innovation, sustainability, research and community outreach initiatives.

Additionally, MHM’s principal Li Wang participated in a panel for the AIA TN Convention with firms from across the state. Led by Tennessee’s State Architect, Ann McGauren, the panel shared leading ideas about successful workplace culture and attracting/retaining new talented professionals.

MHM is honored to be recognized by AIA TN with the EP Friendly Firm Award for the 6th year in a row and congratulates other state recipients!