As tall skinnies become the construction norm across many parts of Nashville, a handful of community members and real estate investors are turning to revitalization to preserve historic properties throughout the city to give small businesses a space to thrive.
That’s exactly what real estate agent Robert Drimmer did. After purchasing what was once the storefront for a hardwood flooring business, Drimmer saw potential to turn the dark, dated building into office space.
“I envisioned the space as being a bright, inspiring place for young startup companies to thrive in a quickly growing neighborhood with great walkability to great local retail, coffee shops and restaurants,” Drimmer said. “I saw an opportunity to restore a property that was underutilized instead of demolishing an older, historic property to fit in with the direction that East Nashville is going.”
After graduating with a degree in architecture and working in the New York City banking industry, Drimmer moved to Nashville to launch a career in real estate investment. He started renovating older homes that had been left in disrepair, and after bringing dozens of families to the East Nashville community, Drimmer turned to commercial investment properties to bring more corporations to the other side of the Cumberland River.
After the building was refinished, local social media marketing agency Parachute Media, LLC quickly moved into the new office space. Ryan Carter, founder and CEO of Parachute Media, wanted to build his business in a community that fostered startup culture.
“I liked that the space allowed for creativity and collaboration, while at the same time providing the space to put your head down and get to work. I couldn’t pass up on the opportunity to be in a great area that was a central point for a lot of my employees,” said Carter.
Robert Drimmer, Mayor Barry, CEO Ryan Carter, and COO Nancy VanReece prepare to cut the ribbon at Parachute Media’s ribbon cutting ceremony.
Mayor Megan Barry and the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed the startup to the East Nashville neighborhood at its ribbon cutting ceremony.
“I get to do a lot of really cool things being the mayor of Nashville. But I’ve got to say, one of my favorite things is getting to open small businesses,” said Mayor Barry. “Because Parachute Media had a community that was willing to step up to help you be successful, you are.”
