Rejuvenating a Mid-Century Modern Classic – Middle Tennessee State University – Murphy Center
Wendell Brown, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Preserving Mid-Century Modern Architecture: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Modern architecture, particularly the iconic designs by renowned masters, has long been celebrated for its innovation, creativity and the cultural shifts it inspired. Many mid-century modern structures, built between 1925 and 1975, are over 50 years old, with the last of the era now reaching 50 years old and being recognized as “historic” landmarks. Preserving these well-executed structures is as important as maintaining 19th-century Georgian, Gothic, or Greek Revival buildings. However, instead of simply preserving them as they are, it is worthwhile to renovate these aging facilities with modern technologies, updating them with contemporary materials and systems while maintaining the original design’s spirit, intent, vision and ethos.
The Murphy Center at Middle Tennessee State University
One such structure that exemplifies this balance between preservation and innovation is the Murphy Center, affectionately known as the “Glass House,” located on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University. Opening in 1972, the venue became more than just a home for Blue Raider athletics and multipurpose events—it was the go-to concert space in Middle Tennessee. Performers like Elvis Presley, Olivia Newton-John and The Judds graced its stage, while the center also hosted high school state tournaments, graduation ceremonies and various sporting events.
The Murphy Center’s design was an exercise in modern simplicity. With a square footprint, the building is positioned at a prominent corner of the campus, featuring a distinctive two-story glass wall that rises from the mezzanine level to the exterior fascia. The basketball court itself was submerged below grade, and the building’s mass was cleverly concealed by an external grass berm. External steps at each corner lead to a promenade encircling the facility. The design, defined by pure geometry and simple planes of glass and concrete, creates a structure both elegant and functional. The clear-span trusses resting on four major columns add to the sense of openness and modernity. It is a mature and well executed design by Taylor and Crabtree Architects and constructed by Joe M. Rodgers, Associates, a wonderful example of mid-century architectural principles.
The Need for Renovation: Addressing 50 Years of Wear and Tear
While cutting-edge at its inception, the passage of time took a toll on the Murphy Center. Cracking glass, failing gaskets, and fading soffits were just a few of the issues plaguing the building. The once-pristine venue was not only unsightly but also posed safety hazards. At its core, the renovation project aimed to re-skin the facility with new glazing. However, this project represented more than just a cosmetic fix—it was an opportunity to breathe new life into a beloved landmark, giving it a fresh update while preserving its historical significance.
Our first step in the renovation was to model the facility. From the beginning, our team was committed to preserving the original Miesian design influences, which the facade was entirely glass, the dark bronze glazing created an opaque exterior during the day. When modeled, we were struck by how transparent the building could be, a discovery that energized the campus staff and inspired our team to explore contemporary possibilities for the Glass House.
We explored several options, including color glass, Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), graphic projections, replicating the original glass, PVB interlayers (VANCEVA), integrating fritted glass, adding internal illumination, or using electrochromatic (smart) glass. One of the biggest challenges was glare control—a problem that had plagued the building for decades. Various blinds and shades had been installed over the years to shield players and spectators from the blinding light. Each of these solutions balanced the need for modern energy performance, glare control and even bird strike mitigation.
The Design Solution: Embracing Smart Glass Technology
Through our exploration, we partnered with SageGlass, a leader in smart glass technology. The university was keen on this solution, provided it could fit within the project’s budget. With the project spanning 37,000 square feet of glass, SageGlass offered a competitive bid that enabled us to move forward with the technology.
The culmination of the project was a full-scale mockup test. A panel was placed in a doorway, and as the sun moved across the building, the smart glass darkened to provide essential glare protection. When the sunlight shifted, the glass returned to its clear state. One of the major advantages of this smart glass was that it spanned from frame to frame. Unlike the existing shading system, which left gaps between mullions that allowed narrow beams of sunlight to shine through, this system provided a seamless shield. Additionally, each panel could be programmed individually, allowing the option to darken select areas when needed or to display letters or patterns across the façade. However, one compromise was necessary: the Sage Glass did not match the size of the existing units, requiring an adjustment to the mullion pattern. The steel framing supporting the curtain wall, which already created a vertical rhythm, remained, and between these structures, we alternated butt-glazed joints. The overall effect was a continuous glass surface from corner to corner, consistent with the original design, yet featuring a detailed layering of vertical joints upon closer inspection.
While we had to make some adjustments—such as altering the mullion pattern to accommodate the new glass sizes—the result stayed true to the original design opening the opportunity for us to insert layering and detail that was not there originally. Additionally, the programmable smart glass allowed for creative uses, like displaying letters or patterns across the building’s façade, transforming it into a dynamic visual element for the campus.
A Celebration of History and Innovation
The Murphy Center’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on its 50th anniversary, was a fitting tribute to both the building’s rich history and its revitalization. The renovation marked the largest installation of SageGlass in the country, reinforcing that the Glass House remains a vital part of the Middle Tennessee community for years to come. While the original glass was not replicated, the design’s spirit was honored by incorporating the most advanced technology available.
In preserving mid-century modern architecture, it is important to remember that these buildings, much like the people who designed them, were forward-looking. It is our responsibility to uphold their vision, allowing it to evolve with the times while remaining true to its original design. By incorporating new materials and technologies, we can keep these architectural gems alive for future generations to experience and enjoy.
