HK Architects announced the groundbreaking of the new Ruby Falls headquarters on the side of Lookout Mountain.
Officials said, "Rooted in sustainability, the new Ruby Falls corporate office is a mass-timber structure designed for LEED certification. Honoring the park’s 96-year legacy of inspiring extraordinary connections to nature, the building will seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor environments with Lookout Mountain’s natural setting. Featuring spaces for focused tasks, collaboration and wellness, the design supports the mission-centered work of the Ruby Falls team and continued growth of the company in a sustainable framework.
"This project is designed to achieve LEED Silver status, meaning it is designed to meet sustainability standards including energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable and human centric material selections, natural habitat protection and indoor environmental quality. LEED is a globally recognized green building rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Hugh Morrow, CEO of Ruby Falls, said, "The design of the new administration building reflects the heart of Ruby Falls - inspiring meaningful connections with nature while caring for the environment that surrounds us. Through thoughtful design by Heidi Hefferlin and the HK team, and the use of sustainable Mass Timber construction, we’re creating a workspace that empowers our team to do mission-centered work now and into the decades ahead.”
The new headquarters will be constructed using Mass Timber, described as a sustainable building method new to the Chattanooga area. Officials said, "This lower-carbon construction technique uses engineered wood components known for their strength, durability, versatility and sustainability. The Mass Timber approach has enabled the design to embrace a smaller footprint with minimal tree removal, creating a longer, more compact volume than would be possible with traditional wood construction methods. The Cypress used in the Mass Timber structure has been ethically and responsibly sourced within 500 miles of the project site."
According to Heidi Hefferlin, HK principal and architect of record on this project, the firm is particularly excited about introducing this innovative construction method to the area. "HK is excited to bring Mass Timber to Chattanooga in such a beautiful setting," Ms. Hefferlin said. "The Ruby Falls team and the HK team are aligned in many ways, but most importantly, we jointly recognize that we want to build a building that exists harmoniously with its setting; both by respecting the site's context and history and by respecting the importance of sustainability."
The building, on Scenic Highway, will be 14,500 square feet and include private and shared office spaces, conference and focus rooms, a large break room and covered porches with diverse seating for relaxation, and a fitness center.
Contractor/partners are HK Architects (Architecture, Interior Design), P&S Engineering (MEP/FP Engineering), Studio 323 Architecture & Design (LEED Consultant), March Adams (Structural Engineering), Miller McCoy (Civil Engineering), CSDG (Landscape Architecture), Stone Mill (Mass Timber Engineering Consultant and Fabricator), JC Curtis Construction (General Contractor).
The 14-month project is estimated to be completed in August 2026.
Construction Phases:
1. Phase 1 – Site Work and Traffic Improvements July 2025 – August 2025
Traffic improvements include the driveway entrance to the new headquarters and Treetop Hideaways at Ruby Falls. Site work will include minimal tree removal as well as creating retaining walls matching the existing architectural language of the park.
2. Phase 2 – Mass Timber Construction: August 2025-December 2025
Mass Timber framing will span 20 weeks.
3. Phase 3 – Construction (Landscape, Exteriors, and Interiors) January 2026-August 2026
Key Milestones:
• December 2025 – Completion of Mass Timber framing
Traffic and Road Closure Information:
- Notice for Motorists and Residents
There may be brief instances of road diversions during site work and construction during working hours. Diversions will only be implemented when absolutely necessary. HK Architects and Ruby Falls are committed to keeping the public informed regarding brief traffic patterns changes on Scenic Highway.
- Affected Areas
Primary Impact Zone: Traffic may be affected from the base of Scenic Highway to the driveway at the Treetop Hideaways, directly past the main Ruby Falls parking lot.
"HK Architects and Ruby Falls are committed to keeping the public informed throughout this construction project," officials said. "Regular updates will be provided as work progresses. We appreciate the community's patience and cooperation during construction."