About HLA
Hays Layerd, AIA is a Nashville / Franklin, Tennessee based architect with over 25 years of experience shaping spaces that balance innovation, context, and community. His work spans across civic, cultural, faith-based, and higher education projects, as well as urban mixed-use developments, office, hospitality, and large-scale residential communities. From sophisticated high-rise projects to adaptive reuse design, his portfolio reflects a deep understanding of placemaking and architectural storytelling.
His career began in the Florida Panhandle, where he designed homes in residential beach communities, immersing himself in the craft of design and construction. This foundation led him to Auburn University’s distinguished School of Architecture, where he paired his artistic and technical approach with a mission to design spaces that value human dignity and creative expression.
Throughout his career, Hays has guided award-winning historic preservation efforts, shaped dynamic campus master plans, and designed vibrant, community-driven spaces that respond to both history and future growth. As a former creative director and design principal, he has led high-profile projects across the Southeast, recognized for his ability to unify stakeholders, articulate compelling design narratives, and create places that inspire.
"Effective campus planning often requires strong advocacy, the ability to listen, creative solutions, and functional execution; three attributes that I believe Mr. Layerd uses with great skill."
- Mark Bertolami, Former Director of Facilites Planning, Florida State University
HLA Experience
HLA Design Values
Hays' approach is rooted in collaboration, ingenuity, and the pursuit of a deep understanding of client needs and motivations. These foundational elements allow him to collaboratively develop guiding principles, creating a unique story for each project. This approach successfully directs projects from concept to completion with clarity and efficiency.
COLLABORATION
Built on trust and shared vision, great design ideas can come from anywhere or anyone. Hays seeks to engage clients, stakeholders, and communities in an open, iterative process that transforms diverse perspectives into cohesive, meaningful architecture.
INGENUITY
Great Architecture is achievable in any budget, scale, and place. Hays approaches every challenge and constraint with resourcefulness and creativity, assessing available tools, budgets, and constraints to craft innovative solutions that achieve ambitious design goals.
EMPATHY
Architecture should serve the client and respect the community. Hays prioritizes understanding the deeper motivations behind a project, balancing function, beauty, and purpose to create contextually-responsive spaces that are embraced by all.
For Architecture, Design, and Planning inquiries, consultations, collaborations, and opportunities, please contact Hays via email.
Contact: hays@hayslayerd.com
Home Base: Franklin, Tennessee
Licensed in Florida, Alabama, and Tennessee