Nashville is quickly becoming a hotspot for luxury real estate and innovative architecture. As the city grows, so does the demand for contemporary living spaces that blend modern aesthetics with functional design. Virtue Modern, a forward-thinking architectural firm, is at the forefront of this movement, transforming the landscape of residential construction. Through the eyes of homeowners Didi and Joe Dellanno, we explore what makes Nashville a prime destination for modern home investments and how Virtue Modern has brought their vision to life.
For Didi and Joe Dellanno, investing in a home in Nashville was a natural choice. “We moved to Nashville to be close to family and for the great lifestyle,” they share. Having lived in various locations, including Miami Beach, Denver, New York City, and New Jersey, they weren’t looking to replicate any particular regional style. Instead, they wanted a home that reflected their personal vision, balancing public and private spaces while incorporating the four natural elements: Earth, Water, Air, and Fire.
Their search for the right architectural firm led them to Virtue Modern through a recommendation from Build Nashville. “We were drawn to their talent, creativity, professionalism, and attention to detail,” they explain. “After an initial meeting, Virtue Modern presented a design concept that exceeded our expectations. Their detailed flythroughs helped us visualize our future home—it was the ultimate ‘sizzle on the steak.’”
The process of designing and constructing a modern home in Nashville presented unique challenges, from navigating the city's predominantly traditional architecture to dealing with its sloped roofs, high rainfall, and rocky soil. “Building a modern home here requires an experienced team,” the Dellannos note. “Virtue Modern guided us through an iterative, collaborative process, ensuring our vision was realized while maintaining the home’s structural integrity.”
Working with Virtue Modern was a seamless experience for the Dellannos. “Once the design phase yielded a solid draft, we engaged in multiple cross-team meetings to ensure feasibility and identify potential challenges,” Didi explains. “Virtue Modern went above and beyond in helping us make adjustments and refine the design without compromising our goals.”
Looking back on the journey, the Dellannos describe it as exciting, creative, and educational. “Choosing the right team can make or break the experience,” they advise. “We did our research and trusted our instincts. Our advice to others: measure twice, cut once. Work with experts who understand the nuances of modern construction.”
Virtue Modern’s philosophy of “Design-Led Culture & Advanced Design” ensures that every project is an intersection of form, function, and environmental awareness. Owner Lysle Oliveros elaborates, “Unlike traditional builders who prioritize efficiency and standardization, we analyze the land, climate, and homeowner’s lifestyle to craft homes that are both innovative and deeply personal.”
Transparency and collaboration are key tenets of Virtue Modern’s approach. “We involve clients in every step of the design process,” Oliveros says. “By being upfront about costs, feasibility, and challenges, we build trust and create a seamless, enjoyable experience.”
Virtue Modern’s latest project in Nashville’s West Meade neighborhood is a prime example of their unique approach. “These particular clients were drawn to the idea of play—the joy and curiosity of childhood,” Oliveros shares. “We translated that into a design that embraces movement, nature, and discovery.”
The heavily wooded site inspired an architectural style that weaves through the trees rather than imposing upon them. “Expansive glass walls erase the boundary between indoors and outdoors, allowing sunlight to filter through like a forest canopy,” he describes. “The home features elevated walkways, open-air courtyards, and design elements that incorporate the four natural elements.”
Virtue Modern is committed to redefining modern living in Nashville. “We want people to see beyond the misconception that modern homes are just simple boxes,” Oliveros says. “Our designs are intentional, sophisticated, and deeply connected to their surroundings. We also work great with builders in town with no ego and accomplish the same goals as custom clients.”
As educators at Belmont University’s O’More School of Design, Oliveros and his team are also passionate about mentoring the next generation of architects. “By sharing our knowledge, we hope to inspire a new wave of designers who push boundaries and contribute to Nashville’s architectural evolution.”
With its innovative approach and commitment to excellence, Virtue Modern is not only modernizing home design but also shaping the future of Nashville’s residential landscape—one visionary home at a time.
“Virtue Modern guided us through an iterative, collaborative process, ensuring our vision was realized while maintaining the home’s structural integrity.” - The Dellanos