William W. Hastings

Hastings, William

William Hastings is a Principal at HASTINGS Architecture, where he has been a driving force in the firm’s evolution into a nationally-recognized practice. Under his leadership, HASTINGS was named the #3 architecture firm in the United States — and #1 in Business — by ARCHITECT Magazine, the journal of the American Institute of Architects. The firm’s work encompasses a broad spectrum of project types, including workplace, mixed-use, hospitality, residential, cultural, and academic environments.

William’s work with academic institutions—including Montgomery Bell Academy, The Roxbury Latin School, McCallie School, The Haverford School, The Episcopal School of Dallas and Vanderbilt University, among others—reflects his deep understanding of campus culture and the nuances of educational environments. His leadership has guided the design of forward-looking facilities that foster interdisciplinary learning, student engagement, and long-term institutional growth. 

In the corporate sector, William has an equal depth of experience, having led the design of strategic workplaces for several Fortune 500 clients. Notably, he oversaw the design of Asurion’s 550,000-SF—a state-of-the-art campus that redefines the tech workplace through innovation, flexibility, and a strong connection to urban life. Across all sectors, William’s work is grounded in client mission, contextual sensitivity, and the pursuit of enduring value through design.

A leading voice in zoning and land use strategy, William provides expert guidance to clients navigating complex regulatory and community contexts. His nuanced understanding of entitlement processes and stakeholder engagement has made him an invaluable resource for both private and public sector partners seeking to advance ambitious projects within intricate urban frameworks.

His influence also extends into public service and nonprofit leadership. William has held long-standing appointments to influential urban design and planning review boards, contributing meaningfully to design policy and architectural review in rapidly evolving city centers. His national board involvement includes roles with cultural institutions, educational organizations, and civic agencies, reflecting a broad commitment to advancing the public realm through design and service.

William is a graduate of the University of Tennessee and a dedicated advocate for architecture’s role in shaping a more thoughtful, sustainable, and inclusive built environment nationwide.

Education

University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Bachelor of Arts

Professional & Community Involvement

Urban Land Institute (ULI), Member

MDHA Rutledge Hill Redevelopment District Design Review Committee Member, 2003-present

McNeilley Center for Children Board of Directors, 2005-2008

Nashville Downtown Exchange Club Member, 2006-present

Nashville Civic Design Center, Member, Secretary 2008-2009, Board Member, 2008-2012

Nashville Downtown Partnership Board Member, 2010-2013

Nashville Public Television Board Member, 2012-present

Urban Design Forum Plan of Nashville Task Force

YMCA Joe C. Davis Outdoor Center, Board Treasurer, 2007-2012, Board Chair, 2010-2013

Downtown YMCA Board of Directors, 2001-2004

Architecture, Interior Design, Planning, and Sustainability

Architecture, Interior Design, Planning, and Sustainability