Understanding the foundation of the Moran House is a great lesson in historic Southern architecture. Like many older homes in Tennessee, it was built on a solid pier and beam foundation. This smart design elevates the house entirely off the damp soil, protecting the wooden framework from rot and allowing cool air to circulate underneath the floorboards. Maintaining the heavy masonry of those brick support piers is a vital job that Richard always took very seriously to keep the entire house perfectly level.