Zach S.
Yelp
The Factory at Franklin is an old stove factory built in 1929 repurposed into a retail and entertainment complex. On-site, patrons can eat, shop, drink, and watch a play/musical. There are also ball rooms/spaces for large events such as weddings, quinceañeras, corporate events, receptions, or family reunions, available for rent.
I used to attend Kids on Stage every year in Franklin. At the time, the factory was our hidden get-away for shops and fun in the evenings after a day at theatre camp. It was never busy much. We were able to park on the first row in the parking lot, browse the slow paced complex, and relax. I have fond memories of walking the shops and of course, painting a new piece of pottery at Third Coast Clay every summer. The Factory has so much character and is such a pretty building.
Since then, the factory has Boomed! The entire campus has received modern renovations, expansions, and additions to eating and shopping. The complex has a much more fast pace, a lot more traffic, and feels more trendy. This is the first time we could not find parking. The front and side lots were completely full, and we had to park around the back and use a side entrance. The main entrance now leads to a food hall with a variety of local restaurants and a common seating area (most restaurants also have seating inside). This allows for groups to get food from different restaurants while still eating together, or choosing one restaurant to eat in. There is also a large bar in the center of the building. New shops are open down the hall from the food, with options to shop for home decor, nashville souvenirs, soaps and lotions, clothes, and art. While the entire building has received a ginormous facelift and recent renovations, the original character of the building still remains (thank goodness). Much of the furniture and decor for the remodel contains a mid-century or retro style, keeping in touch with the building's nostalgia. It is so exciting to see how much love and care has gone into the up-keeping this building.
This revitalization will allow The Factory to stay relevant and keep its doors open-- allowing for generations more to create fond memories in this historic campus. Go visit and see a peek of Franklin's historic charm!