Dow Smith Company, Middle Tennessee’s leading design-build firm, has announced its official transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This landmark decision underscores the company's dedication to its most valuable asset, its employees, by granting them direct ownership and a vested interest in the company's continued success. The move is expected to further empower its long-standing workforce and solidify its reputation for delivering exceptional and unique client experiences.

Let’s be honest. The cheapest option isn’t going to be the best one. Everyone knows that. It’s common sense. We can all be lured in by low prices. But that’s a terrible idea if you’re planning a construction project. Imagine you’re a business owner. You’ve spent years—maybe your whole life—dreaming of the business you want to run and getting to do the job you love. You’ve thought about the clients you want to serve and the community you want to impact. And now it’s time to design and build the place where you’ll do business. Do you really want to go with the lowest bidder?

For growing businesses, the decision to renovate or build a new facility is a significant strategic move. While economic uncertainties often lead to hesitation, a closer look at current economic trends and projections for 2026 and 2027 reveals a compelling window of opportunity for forward-thinking companies to invest in their physical infrastructure. 

Don’t make a million-dollar mistake. In construction, even minor errors can be costly. And they add up quickly if you’re not careful. We know you’re excited to start building, but rushing to the ground-breaking ceremony before you’re ready will catch up with you later. It’s critical in any project to get all of your ducks in a row.

Designing and building a new church facility or undertaking a significant renovation is a monumental endeavor, representing a profound commitment to ministry and a strategic investment in the future. Thoughtful planning is paramount to ensure the new space effectively serves its purpose, fosters spiritual growth, and remains relevant for generations.

Construction at Allied Behavioral Health Solutions was completed months ago. But when we’re building a project, we’re also building a relationship. And in that sense, our work is never finished. After the Allied staff moved in, they realized they needed assistance with additional tasks. That’s when we reminded them that no job is too small for us.

When you’re starting a big construction project for your business, it’s tempting to pick the contractor who gives you the lowest price. It seems like a smart way to save money. But, like many things in life, the cheapest choice isn’t always the best one. Think about it: if you needed surgery, would you pick the cheapest doctor?

As businesses expand and evolve, the question of physical space inevitably arises. For many growing companies, the immediate thought might be to lease a larger existing property or renovate their current one. However, a compelling argument can be made for the strategic decision to build a new ground-up facility.

Did you know that disengaged employees cost the global economy $8.9 trillion every year? According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report, employee engagement plays a significant role in overall life experiences. When it comes to well-being items such as stress, anger, worry, and loneliness, being actively disengaged at work is the same as—or even worse than—being unemployed.

Last week, Dow Smith Company celebrated the placement of the final steel beam at our latest project with Murfreesboro Medical Clinic (MMC). The topping out ceremony was an important milestone on MMC’s two-story facility, which is set to open in Lascassas next year. MMC CEO Joey Peay said he’s been excited to see all the hard work at the jobsite.