McCormick County Celebrates the Grand Opening of the W.S. Mims Activity Center

On Thursday, December 19^th the McCormick community gathered to celebrate the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the highly anticipated W.S. Mims Activity Center. The newly renovated facility honors the legacy of W.S. Mims and the building’s historical significance. Mims is credited for creating the black education system in McCormick County, including founding the historic school site dating back to 1959.

McCormick County Council, the school board, first responders, alumni, and members of the community were present to commemorate this event. County Council Chairman, Charles Jennings, led the crowd in Dr. Mims’ lifelong motto, “Good, better, best, never let it rest, until good is better and better best.” This motto is now prominently displayed as you enter the new facility.

Developed by DP3 Architects in partnership with Kuhlke Construction, the W.S. Mims Activity Center project was committed to preserving the building’s heritage while addressing the present and future needs of the community. The 26,760-square-foot facility offers a variety of amenities, including multipurpose spaces, new restrooms, renovated locker rooms, multipurpose classrooms, basketball and volleyball court restorations, additional concession areas, a large meeting room, a new cafeteria, and a new parking lot.

“The W.S. Mims Activity Center is more than a building; it’s a symbol of unity and growth for McCormick,” said Principal and Community Studio Leader, Mike Pry, during the ceremony. “This space will serve as a hub for connection, learning, and celebration for years to come.”

The W.S. Mims Activity Center project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of DP3 Architects, local government officials, and community stakeholders. This partnership ensures that the facility will optimize its current recreation department functions, expand its program offerings, and be a well-used amenity for McCormick County residents.

For more information about the W.S. Mims Activity Center, its programs, and ongoing developments, please contact kgunter@mccormickcountysc.org.

The City of Simpsonville Celebrates the Grand Opening of the Simpsonville Municipal Complex

On Wednesday, December 11th, the City of Simpsonville welcomed city officials, project partners, and residents to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of the new Simpsonville Municipal Complex.

“This is truly a historic moment for the city,” said Simpsonville Mayor Paul Shewmaker. “Our municipal complex is a symbol of progress, collaboration, and vision. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the heart of a thriving community. It’s built to serve our city for decades to come.”

The new Municipal Complex, designed by DP3 Architects, includes a 27,140 square foot city hall and police department building, a new 13,230 square foot Greenville County Summary Court and Simpsonville Municipal Court building, and a 19,145 square foot fire department headquarters. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to serve as a hub for city operations and community engagement.

“Working on the Simpsonville Municipal Complex has been an incredible opportunity for DP3 Architects,” said Principal and Community Studio Leader, Mike Pry. “We designed this facility to reflect the unique character of Simpsonville while providing a functional and inspiring space for civic engagement. It’s an honor to see this project come to life and to be part of a legacy that will benefit the community for years to come.”

The new complex is a testament to Simpsonville’s investment in its future, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal to create a facility that aligns with the city’s aspirations. DP3 Architects is honored to have played a part in this transformative project that aligns with their mission of bringing communities together.

Keowee Key Celebrates Grand Re-Opening of Renovated Event Center

DP3 Architects joined members of Keowee Key and Trehel in celebrating the grand re-opening of the renovated Event Center. The refreshed facility now features a modernized design to enhance its functionality and appeal for the lifestyle community in Salem, South Carolina.

The renovation includes two additional meeting rooms, updated flooring, refreshed interior lighting, new furnishings, and upgraded audiovisual equipment. Spanning 7,439 square feet, the Event Center also boasts a library and a fully equipped kitchen.

“The community is thrilled to get back into this space where members meet for social events and clubs,” said Kevin McCracken, Community General Manager.  “The Event Center was last renovated in 2014, and the new design complements the already updated Club, and Bistro.”

View the club and bistro renovation HERE.

Keowee Key, located at 1392 Stamp Creek Road in Salem, SC, is a gated community designed to offer an exceptional lifestyle for its members. DP3 Architects is honored to contribute to enhancing spaces where connections and memories are made.