The Team

rootARCH, PLLC is an accomplished architectural design firm offering comprehensive services in new construction, renovation, historic preservation, sustainability, interior design, urban design, and construction management. Our team has completed a diverse array of projects, ranging from several hundred to over a million square feet, across residential, multi-family, healthcare, higher education, industrial, commercial, and retail sectors.

With over 70 years of combined practical experience, our licensed Architects bring a wealth of expertise to every project. Our approach is collaborative, emphasizing a team-based design process that seeks to align design, budget, and functionality. We find innovative and modern solutions tailored to each client's unique needs.

At rootARCH, PLLC, we place a high value on the relationships we've cultivated with our clients. The majority of our work comes from customer referrals and repeat business, a testament to the trust and satisfaction our clients have in our services.

Portrait of John E. Root, AIA, (circa 2018) a seasoned AIA and NCARB state licensed Architect, take in front of a backdrop of architectural designs he displays inside his office in Nashville, TN. He is wearing professional attire and exudes a sense of professionalism, creativity and expertise.Portrait of John E. Root, a seasoned, licensed and trained professional AIA Architect, picture taken in his offices located in Nashville, Tennessee amongst a backdrop of architectural designs completed by his office.

John E. Root, AIA

John, a seasoned architect, firmly believes in the importance of being well-rounded in specialties and practice-focused. This approach, he contends, nurtures a highly creative design and response-oriented architectural style that deeply resonates with his clients. With over 23 years of experience across various specialty markets, John has contributed to a diverse range of project types, including retail, office, medical, single and multi-family residential, historic adaptive reuse, and F&B(food and beverage) hospitality developments.

During his tenure, John has managed significant projects, including the design, management, and construction of the largest computer manufacturing facility in North America for Dell Computers. He has also played a key role in overseeing complex construction areas within the state-of-the-art Music City Center Convention Center.

John’s career has been marked by a pursuit of opportunities that provide invaluable project experience across various scopes and scales. He holds both an architectural degree and an interior architectural degree from Auburn University and is a registered architect with NCARB in Tennessee, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. In 2009, John established rootARCH in a small renovated converted single-family home in an up-and-coming area, where he continues to bring his passion for innovative and client-focused design to fruition.

At rootARCH, we are dedicated to collaborating with clients who share our passion for innovative design and thoughtful architecture. We prioritize long-term partnerships that enable a profound understanding of the client’s vision, allowing us to create solutions that consistently exceed expectations. Our approach is rooted in client-centricity, ensuring that each project is meticulously tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of our clients. Our unwavering commitment to excellence and dedication to crafting meaningful architectural experiences make us the ideal partner for those seeking exceptional design solutions.

Blake Rutland, AIA

Blake graduated from Auburn University in 2002 with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture. During his time there, he studied abroad in Europe and participated in the Rural Studio program. He also earned a business minor from Auburn’s College of Business.

With 18 years of experience, Blake has worked on various project types, including commercial, civic, institutional, and adaptive reuse. A native of Huntsville, Alabama, creativity has always been a significant influence on his life and hobbies. He has a unique passion for music and is an active sports fan. Outside of work, Blake spends much of his time with his wife, son, and daughter.

Jeff Goff, AIA

Jeff was Born in Tennessee and raised in Texas. Jeff found his way to architecture through an early interest in drawing and curiosity in science. After completing his Bachelor of Architecture at the University of Tennessee, he spent a few years working overseas before settling back in Nashville. He spent nine years working with two college friends designing, renovating and building various residential projects in the historic Nashville neighborhood of Germantown. With the team often working as demolition crew, fabricators, finish painters and all points in between, Jeff gained a wide knowledge of the built environment. Following a short time on his own, he joined rootARCH in 2012 and has spent his time since on a wide variety of projects across the city. His wife and son keep him happy, healthy and active in his spare time, while a family history of craftsmen keep him in the woodshop whenever possible; often with his young son along his side.

Paige Pennington

Paige is known for her exceptional attention to detail, high level of organization, and creative approach to design. Her meticulous nature ensures that every aspect of her work is thoroughly considered and executed to perfection. She has a keen eye for innovative design solutions and is constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity in her work. Paige’s ability to seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetics makes her a valuable asset to any project team.

Paige’s dedication to her craft and her exceptional commitment to exceeding client expectations have made her a favorite among our clients. Her ability to listen attentively to their needs and translate them into innovative design solutions has earned her high praise. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that every project she participates in is completed to the highest of standards. Paige’s friendly and methodical approach makes working with her a pleasure, and her commitment to excellence has quickly solidified her reputation as a sought-after team member!