Bridgestone Arena Lexus Lounge

Introduction

When Nashville’s downtown arena opened in 1996, it started what would be a massive revitalization of the city’s urban core. The building itself set a future-forward focus with a modern design carefully planned for multi-functionality and aesthetic appeal that would stand the test of time, even while serving as home for the NHL’s Nashville Predators team and a ceaseless string of big ticket performances. Of course, even the most innovative spaces need updating eventually, so after nearly 20 years in operation and hosting more than 13 million guests, the arena was pegged for renovations. Architectural and interior design firm Populous earned the project to bring fresh sensibilities to what would be a most luxurious, members-only sports bars for the bustling venue: the Lexus Lounge.

The  Story

The design team set out to create a private club that speaks to the spirit of the automotive brand that shares its name. In addition to truly concierge, exclusive service and amenities, patrons of the Lexus Lounge are treated to a sophisticated environment designed with modern materials and sleek details. This exclusivity made Crossville Porcelain Tile Panels by Laminam an ideal choice for skinning select surfaces in the posh space.

The designers chose the Foundations and Filo Collections, products that provide a stylistic edge, and they specified the Arancio and Oro colors respectively, hues that give a nod to the color scheme of the Nashville Predators hockey team. The Laminam porcelain tile panels, installed on the concrete columns and in the radius around the bar and massive ice-level, digital flat screen, capture the desired look while also providing the durable performance this high traffic area demands. The lean profile and generous outer dimensions of the porcelain tile panels create nearly uninterrupted installations of tile that require minimal maintenance long term.