Main Street Murfreesboro Downtown Design Award Winners

The Grand Exchange is recognized for catalyzing on foot traffic by adapting an old office into a unique niche that created a beautiful new renovation on the public square.

The Grand Exchange, located at 21 South Public Square, is owned and operated by Lindsey Romine.  Lindsey had the support of her family in renovating the space and creating an atmosphere she had long dreamed of creating downtown.

When we talk about the heartbeat of a downtown, we talk about spaces like The Grand Exchange. Transforming what was once a traditional office into a regal, multi-sensory boutique, this project is a masterclass in adaptive reuse. The owners took great care to honor the building's integrity, avoiding any structural alterations while preserving the beautiful original exposed brick. They introduced a sophisticated interior palette of deep blues and greens that brings a new level of richness to the square. Every detail was considered—from the custom-built bookshelves stained to match the existing wood, to the restored antique white trim and curated vintage lighting sourced from the 1980s. By displaying local artists' works and hosting community workshops, The Grand Exchange has become more than just a retail space; it is a rotating gallery and a community hub that invites every pedestrian to take a seat at their outdoor tables and enjoy the beauty of downtown Murfreesboro.

To learn more about this unique shopping experience on the downtown public square, check out  The Grand Exchange Facebook page.  

Jeffersons is recognized for successfully bringing people back to a vacant location and creating a "fun atmosphere."

Jeffersons is located at 109 North Maple Street and is owned by David and Nick Carulla.  Their dream to open something new started in 2023 when they renovated the building space for a new restaurant idea, Fire Korean BBQ.  The owners pivoted their restaurant dream in 2025 and moved their Jeffersons location from West Main Street to the Public Square. 

Revitalizing a historic downtown requires a delicate balance between modern energy and heritage preservation. Jefferson’s Restaurant achieved exactly that at 109 North Maple Street. After sitting vacant for years, this space has been 'activated' in the truest sense of the word, bringing a fun, family-friendly atmosphere back to a key location. The renovation was careful to respect the district’s visual identity, preserving the interior’s original exposed brick wall to maintain a sense of continuity and character. They utilized high-quality materials, from durable flooring to updated lighting, ensuring this space will serve our community for years to come. With large front windows that allow natural light to spill onto the street and provide transparency for passersby, Jefferson’s has successfully turned a quiet, empty storefront into a vibrant destination that supports our downtown foot traffic and reinforces the identity of the Main Street Historic District.

To learn more about this restaurant or to place an online order, check them out HERE!

Michael Busey State Farm is recognized for building a foundational piece on an empty downtown lot that will encourage future growth.

Moving his State Farm agency from the Public Square into this new space in 2025, Michael Busey found the perfect location to build at 317 North Walnut Street.  

Building something new in a historic district is a significant responsibility, and Michael Busey State Farm has set a new standard for downtown development. Their 'forever home' at 317 North Walnut Street was designed with the philosophy of being a 'Good Neighbor.' The clean brick façade and symmetrical windows introduce a modern professionalism that perfectly complements the evolving streetscape. Every detail of construction was carefully considered, including an investment in cobblestone parking to protect the natural watershed of their neighbors. Inside, the space is flooded with natural light, creating a welcoming environment for both employees and clients. Perhaps most notably, they have contributed to our public realm with a locally commissioned mural honoring our Veterans, which serves as a point of interest for the entire community. This project proves that new construction can honor the historic rhythm of Main Street while providing the modern infrastructure necessary for our downtown to thrive.

To connect with Michael or his team, check them out online at Busey Insurance.

The community is invited to celebrate these Design Award winners at the Main Street Murfreesboro Annual Celebration event on Tuesday, February 24 at 4:30 pm at The Walnut House.  

 Annual Awards Celebration Tickets Here!