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.

2024 “Market Days”

DP3 Architects is proud to have wrapped up their second-annual “Market Days” initiative, a program dedicated to supporting local farmers’ markets and fostering community engagement throughout the Greenville area. Launched in 2023, this initiative underscores DP3 Architects’ commitment to the Upstate communities it serves.

DP3 Architects recognizes the vital role that farmers markets play in promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting local economies, and providing fresh, locally sourced food to the community. “Farmers’ Markets are vibrant community hubs that bring people together and enhance the quality of life in our communities.” said Mike Pry, Principal and Community Studio Leader at DP3 Architects. “Our ‘Market Days’ initiative is all about celebrating these benefits and encouraging more people to participate in their local farmers markets.”

This year, DP3 Architects expanded it’s impact by becoming the first-ever event sponsor of the Travelers Rest Farmers’ Market’s annual “Tomato Sandwich Taste-Off” event. This sponsorship allowed 100 percent of ticket sales to be used for the operation of the Travelers Rest Farmers’ Market, which supports 130+ local businesses and farms. Beyond Travelers Rest, the program supports several upstate markets including the Greer Farmers’ Market, the Fountain Inn Farmers’ Market, and Spartanburg’s Hub City Farmers’ Market.

As DP3 Architects continues to grow, the firm remains dedicated to its core values of People Places and Purpose. Through initiatives like “Market Days,” DP3 Architects hopes to create a lasting impact that not only enhances the built environment, but also the quality of life in the communities where we live, work, and play. This ongoing effort reflects the firm’s belief that true success comes from giving back to the community, fostering relationships, and creating environments that enrich people’s lives.

DP3 Architects Celebrates Bonitz’s Starnet Design Award for Rupert Huse Veteran Center Project

DP3 Architects is proud to announce its collaboration with Bonitz in receiving the prestigious Starnet Design Award. Bonitz has been honored as the Gold Winner in the Healthcare division for their outstanding work on the Rupert Huse Veteran Center project. This recognition highlights the exceptional teamwork and dedication that went into creating a space that honors and supports our veterans.

The Starnet Design Awards, presented by Starnet Worldwide Commercial Flooring Partnership, celebrates the best in commercial flooring design and installation across North America. The awards recognize projects that exemplify exceptional design, quality, and functionality, making significant impacts in their respective categories.

The Rupert Huse Veteran Center is a state-of-the-art facility for veterans and their families. The design of the center focuses on creating a welcoming, healing environment that caters to the unique needs of veterans, offering a range of services including medical care, counseling, and recreational activities. The space features a blend of functionality and aesthetics, with carefully selected materials and finishes that create a welcoming and restorative environment. The design integrates elements that honor the service and sacrifices of veterans while providing a space for support services, activities, and camaraderie.

DP3 Architects extends its gratitude to the entire project team, including Bonitz, Ardex, Daltile, Johnsonite by Tarkett, Mapei, Milliken Commercial, and Protect-All Flooring. The recognition by the Starnet Design Awards underscores the impact of strategic partnerships in achieving extraordinary results.

For more information about the Rupert Huse Veteran Center project, please visit https://dp3architects.com/places/rupert-huse-veteran-center/

United Way “School Tools” 2024

Last week our team came together to support the United Way of Greenville County’s annual “School Tools” program, an initiative aimed at providing essential school supplies to Greenville County students in need.

Each year, School Tools provides thousands of Greenville County students with the tools they need for academic success. Our firm gathered supplies and assembled backpacks for students ranging from elementary school to high school. Each backpack is filled with essential items, from notebooks and pencils to binders and crayons, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to start off upcoming school year right.

For more information about the United Way of Greenville County and the positive impact of the School Tools program, visit their website here.

DP3 Architects Celebrates 40 Years in Business

DP3 Architects is excited to celebrate 40 years in business this year. What began as a venture by three classmates from Clemson University has grown into one of the most well-respected architecture firms in South Carolina.

In 1984, Mark S. Eggl, Samuel D. Justice, and J. Michael Taylor established Design Partnership, crafting their earliest designs in the confines of a basement, quickly gaining a reputation in the community for impeccable service to their clients, as well as designing buildings that were not only beautiful but functional and efficient. DP3 Architects’ passion for creating unique and innovative lasting designs that give places true functionality and purpose has been present from the very beginning. Some of the firm’s early projects included:

• Clemson University Hardin Hall Renovation
• Mauldin Sports Center
• Simpsonville Activity and Senior Center
• Greenville County Camp Spearhead
• Sirrine Stadium Restoration

Design Partnership navigated many changes, including a name change to DP3 Architects in 2003 and the transition to its second generation of leadership. Today the firm is led by Mike Pry, Meg Terry, Brian Thomas, and Ben Urueta. Guided by a shared vision, they continue to embrace the needs of an ever-evolving industry.

While evolution is inevitable, what has remained constant is DP3 Architects’ commitment to providing unique architecture, interior design, and planning services that ensure clients’ spaces not only meet their needs but also ignite a greater quality of life. Throughout the years, DP3 Architects has developed an extensive portfolio spanning across their four verticals: community, higher education, hospitality, and interiors. Notable projects include:

• The City of Greenville Public Works Campus
• Hale’s Jewelers
• Travelers Rest Municipal Campus
• City of Easley Fire Station Headquarters
• Scoundrel
• Cartwright Food Hall
• Anderson University Student Center
• Clemson University Doug Kingsmore Player Development Center
• Rupert Huse Veteran Center
• The Sumerel Office Building at Legacy Square
• Wells Fargo Center Renovation

These projects vary widely in size, scope, and purpose. What they all have in common, however, is the degree of expertise with which each was designed. The DP3 Architects team prides themselves on technical proficiency and their ability to collaborate with clients with the end goal of creating spaces that serve those who occupy them.

At the heart of DP3 Architects’ success lies its greatest asset: its team. From the most seasoned leaders to the newest hires, the talent and collective passion of the team is what drives the firm forward.

“40 years in business is a huge accomplishment.  We would not be here without the vision of our 3 founding partners, the nearly 200 team members who have walked through our doors, our amazing clients and consultants, and of course this community which continues to support us on a daily basis. We owe each and every one of them our thanks.” – Brian S. Thomas, AIA | Principal & CEO

The firm’s culture and “Architecture-by-Team” approach creates a client and team member experience that has always revolved around a collaborative and fun setting. It is because of this culture that DP3 Architects has recently been named the “Best Architecture Firm in South Carolina” by the Greenville Business Magazine and one of the “Best Places to Work in South Carolina” by SC Biz News. In 2023 they received the “Firm Award” by AIA South Carolina. Looking ahead, DP3 Architects is committed to building upon its legacy of innovation and service, ushering in the next era of design excellence. As they embark on the next 40 years, they remain deeply grateful for the strong foundation of experience and expertise upon which they stand.

“Reflecting on four decades of practice, our journey has been defined by the dedication and collaboration of our remarkable clients and our team. Our longevity as a firm is a testament to the past and current leadership, the talent of our people, and our ability to continue to evolve in the profession of architecture and design. As we commemorate this milestone, we honor not only our past achievements but also the unwavering commitment to our clients and of every member of our team, whose passion and expertise continue to shape the spaces that inspire and endure.” – Meg Terry, AIA | Principal & CMO

Hands on Greenville 2024

DP3 Architects partnered with the United Way of Greenville County for the 26^th annual Hands On Greenville Day. “HOG Day” is the largest annual day of service for the state of South Carolina, with over 2,500 participants statewide and an estimated economic impact of $300,000.

This year, our team had the opportunity to volunteer with the City of Simpsonville on the Simpsonville Cemetery Beautification Project. The Simpsonville Municipal Cemetery is more than 200 years old and a valued historical landmark in the City. Members of our team spent Saturday morning beautifying the entrance to the cemetery with new flower beds and butterfly bushes.

DP3 Architects is currently working with The City of Simpsonville on the new Simpsonville Municipal Center project located on the same property as the cemetery. It was a pleasure to partner with them on this community service initiative. As a firm that lives and works in the upstate, DP3 Architects is thankful for opportunities to make our community a more beautiful place for generations to come.

110 North Kitchen + Commissary Ribbon Cutting

The City of Anderson celebrated the official opening of 110 North Kitchen + Commissary on Thursday, February 29th, 2024 during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

This project is a shared top-of-the-line commercial kitchen available to entrepreneurs who need space for food preparation. The 2,500-square-foot space aims to serve as a vital resource for bakers, cooks, food truck owners, and farmers looking to expand their business footprint without the immediate investment in a brick-and-mortar location.

City of Anderson Mayor, Terrence Roberts, kicked off the ceremony by expressing his enthusiasm for the positive impact that 110 North Kitchen + Commissary will have on the local economy and its culinary landscape. The kitchen incubator project will offer state-of-the-art facilities, including shared kitchen spaces, commissary services, and support programs to help culinary entrepreneurs grow and succeed. This venture aligns with the city’s commitment to promoting economic development, fostering innovation, and building a strong sense of community.

DP3 Architects was proud to partner with the City of Anderson and the Appalachian Regional Commission to make this project a success. To learn more about 110 North Kitchen + Commissary click HERE.

Ben Urueta Featured in SAY IT LOUD South Carolina Exhibition

Principal and Chief Design Officer, Ben Urueta, AIA is one of the 4.9% of registered architects who are Hispanic and Latino in the country (NCARB). As an advocate for diversity and equity within our firm and the field of architecture, Ben has been selected as a “Diverse Design Professional” of the SAY IT LOUD South Carolina Exhibition. The exhibit is presented by AIA South Carolina in collaboration with Beyond the Built Environment and the newly established SC Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (SCNOMA).  SAY IT LOUD South Carolina highlights the contributions of BIPOC and women designers, architects, engineers, planners, and students from around the state.

During this month-long exhibition, Ben’s work on the Easley Fire Department Headquarters will be on display at the new Center for Architecture in downtown Columbia, SC, and will be open to the public. Visitors can share in the stories and accomplishments of this year’s featured designers through lectures, events, and K-12 programming and help further the discussion on equity and diversity in the architecture profession and South Carolina’s built environment. This exhibit will start at the Center of Architecture in Columbia and will then become a traveling exhibit to the Lowcountry and Upstate. To learn more about SAY IT LOUD and to follow where the exhibit will be headed next, click HERE.

ULI South Carolina Tours Future Simpsonville Municipal Center

ULI South Carolina participated in a hard-hat tour of the future Simpsonville Municipal Center on Wednesday, February 7th. The center is currently under construction and will feature a modern city hall, state-of-the-art police department, fire station headquarters, and magistrate and municipal court. The design and construction team provided a behind-the-scenes look at the project and discussed the journey to making it a reality.

The Simpsonville Municipal Center is designed to streamline operations by incorporating the latest technologies. The campus will also include the revitalized Simpsonville City Park, which will serve as a hub for recreation and community gatherings. The park will offer multipurpose fields, playgrounds for all ages, and will be conveniently located near the growing downtown.

We would like to express our thanks to ULI South Carolina and all of the attendees for the opportunity to showcase this project. We eagerly anticipate the completion of Phase One in October 2024. To learn more about the Simpsonville Municipal Center, please click HERE.

Tri-County Technical College Reaches Milestone in Oconee Hall Renovation

Tri-County Technical College marked the halfway point in renovating Oconee Hall with a ‘topping out’ ceremony on January 10, 2023. TCTC extended a warm welcome to the community, including representatives from DP3 Architects and Harper General Contractors. Key contributors to the project had the special opportunity to sign the final steel beam, which will now become an integral part of Oconee Hall’s structure.

The overhaul of this 34,000-square-foot academic building at TCTC’s Pendleton Campus involves gutting and renovating the three-story structure, adding new classrooms and offices, and expanding with a new 11,000-square-foot addition and drop-off area. The renovation will modernize the existing 200-seat auditorium with new equipment and AV capabilities and upgrade the mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection systems throughout the building.

The DP3 Architects team is utilizing higher education design strategies to encourage students to stay on campus and take advantage of several collaborative lounges and study spaces. Designing environments that encourage students to stay on campus is crucial to optimizing their educational experience, foster engagement, create a sense of community. Overall, the design draws inspiration from TCTC’s recent brand refresh and compliments the existing campus buildings.

DP3 Architects is thrilled to partner with Tri-County Technical College to create a space that will enhance it’s existing campus and where students and faculty can thrive for years to come The renovation is anticipated to be completed in late 2024.

To learn more about this project, click HERE.

Harvest Hope Holiday Food Drive

One in ten of our South Carolina neighbors, including over 100,000 children, face hunger on a daily basis. This statistic hits even closer to home during the holiday season.

Harvest Hope Food Bank began in 1981 with a goal to provide for the hungry in Columbia, SC. Since then, Harvest Hope has increased its mission to feed the hungry across 20 counties in South Carolina. They help by providing over 20 million meals on average to neighbors in need across SC and the Upstate.  DP3 Architects hosted a holiday food drive to help the cause and provide meals to struggling families in our community.

Harvest Hope is on a mission to eliminate hunger and food insecurity in South Carolina. They are South Carolina’s largest food bank, providing food for organizations across the state who serve families in need, with special allocations for our most vulnerable residents, including children, seniors, and people in rural areas without access to grocery stores.

To learn more about Harvest Hope and how to donate or host your own food drive, click HERE.

DP3 Architects Named “Best in Business” For Second Consecutive Year

DP3 Architects proudly announces its recognition as “Best Architectural Firm in South Carolina” for the second consecutive year by Greenville Business Magazine‘s 2023 SC Best in Business Awards.

The Greenville Business Magazine features SC Best in Business Awards each year to honor regional businesses in hundreds of categories. Nominees were submitted and voted for directly by the community. DP3 Architects was among several state-wide firms nominated in the “Best Architectural Firm” category and the top three finalists are now featured in the magazine’s December issue.

“We are very honored to receive this public recognition for the second year in a row.  The Best in Business – Best Architectural Firm award belongs to our outstanding team at DP3 Architects and to our clients who allow us the opportunities to create spaces that benefit the community.  said Principal and CEO, Brian Thomas.  “As we approach our 40th anniversary we look forward to continuing the great relationships we have built and to forming new ones as South Carolina continues to grow.”

To see more in the December issue of Greenville Business Magazine, click HERE.

Meg Terry Named One Of The “50 Most Influential People” In SC

DP3 Architects is pleased to announce that Meg Terry, Principal and CMO, has been acknowledged as one of the “50 Most Influential People” in South Carolina by SC Biz News.

With nearly 20 years of experience at DP3 Architects, Meg has served in several roles within her tenure including Higher Education Studio Leader, Interiors Studio Leader,  Principal, and CMO. Outside of the firm, Meg has held leadership positions within many local and state-wide organizations. She has served as President of both the Greenville and South Carolina chapters of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

“We are excited to see Meg Terry acknowledged as one of the ’50 Most Influential People’ by SC Biz News. This recognition is well-deserved and underscores the outstanding work and leadership she brings to our firm and community,” said Brian Thomas, Principal and CEO at DP3 Architects.

About the “50 Most Influential People” List:
SC Biz News annually recognizes leaders who have demonstrated exceptional influence and impact in their respective industries. The selected individuals represent a diverse range of sectors, showcasing their commitment to innovation, community engagement, and leadership excellence. The list aims to highlight the achievements of individuals who have made a significant impact on South Carolina’s business landscape. The full list is available in the Nov/Dec 2023 issue of SC Biz Magazine.

To check out Meg’s spotlight (pg 44) in the latest issue, click HERE.

To learn more about Meg Terry, click HERE.

DP3 Architects Wins Three AIA Greenville Awards

DP3 Architects is proud to announce that three of our projects have been recognized with awards at the AIA Greenville South Carolina chapter awards presented on November 09, 2023, celebrating excellence in architecture within our local community.

AIA Greenville’s Design Awards recognizes individuals, organizations, and projects exemplifying the very best in local architecture. Winning projects are selected by a jury of architects and designers from outside the state in categories including: New Construction, Residential, Adaptive Reuse/Preservation, Interior Architecture, and Unbuilt Projects.

Our firm was honored with the following awards:

Merit Award for New Construction – Easley Fire Department Headquarters, Station 5-1

The new Easley Fire Department Headquarters, Station 5-1, more than doubles the size of the existing 50-year-old station and provides critical added capacity and modern functional spaces. The building exterior reflects a new, modern look for the station using metal panels and large expanses of glass. While modern in appearance, the landmark station also gives a nod to history and tradition with an entry memorabilia display and gear-lined stairwell that honors the generations of firefighters who have called Easley home through the years. This new space will continue to serve and protect the surrounding community for decades to come.

Community Choice Award for New Construction – Walter Elisha Park Amphitheater

The new 2,400-square-foot amphitheater is located at the southern end of the Walter Elisha Park in Fort Mill, SC. With this new venue, the Town of Fort Mill offers a variety of activities for the community, from concerts and plays to movies and symphonies. As part of the project, two new restroom facilities were also added to the park.

Community members and leadership for the town desired the design and building materials for the project stay true to the area, incorporating natural wood and brick that pays homage to the mill that once stood on the site. The design of the amphitheater incorporates green spaces and native landscaping, providing a seamless integration of nature and culture. This holistic approach to the design encourages residents to connect with their surroundings while enjoying cultural events. Every seat in the house offers an exceptional viewing and listening experience.

Community Choice Award for Interiors – Rupert Huse Veteran Center

The new Rupert Huse Veteran Center is a renovation of an existing office building located at 770 Pelham Road. The new space is the home to the community-based, nonprofit organization serving veterans and their families in the Upstate of South Carolina. The veteran center includes a common lobby, coffee & break area, training room, fitness room, art studio, office space, and common conference room.

The Rupert Huse Veteran Center marks a significant milestone in strengthening the Upstate veteran community. Key partners from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors are now co-located at the center in a strategic effort to improve collaboration and streamline veteran care, thus increasing UWS’s ability to address the complex issues facing our community’s veterans. From job placement services and career counseling to mental health support and access to medical resources, the facility ensures that no veteran is left behind.

DP3 Architects is thrilled to be recognized by our peers and the local community for our dedication to creating inspiring and functional spaces that resonate with our clients and the public. These awards reflect the hard work, creativity, and vision of our talented team of architects and designers.

“We are immensely proud of our team’s dedication to our craft and creating spaces that contribute to the betterment of communities.” said Michael Pry, Principal and Community Studio Leader. “These awards inspire us to continue our mission and focus on collaboration with our clients, partners, and team.”

The AIA Greenville Design Awards not only recognizes exceptional architectural design but also promotes the importance of architecture in shaping our communities and environment. Our firm is honored to be a part of this organization and looks forward to continuing our commitment to excellence in architectural design.

Simpsonville Holds Topping Out Ceremony for New Municipal Complex

The City of Simpsonville celebrated a significant milestone in the construction of its new Municipal Complex with a “topping out” ceremony held on November 8th, 2023. City officials and employees, along with representatives from DP3 Architects and Edifice General Contractors gathered at the site to mark a major step forward in the realization of this transformative project.

The “Topping Out” ceremony signifies the successful completion of the structural framework. During the ceremony, those with significant involvement in the project had the opportunity to sign the final steel beam, which will become a permanent part of the Municipal Complex’s structure.

The complex, which includes a 27,142-square-foot city hall, police department, court building, and a 19,145-square-foot fire department headquarters, is being built to accommodate the City’s growth, consolidate services, and foster community engagement. The design was developed in conjunction with the redevelopment of the Simpsonville City Park.

Phase one of the project is expected to be completed in October 2024 and includes primary building construction, two new turf multipurpose fields, playground, basketball and pickle ball courts, dog park, and disc golf. The city plans to move into the new facilities that same month, said City Administrator Dianna Gracely.

Once completed, the new Municipal Complex and renovated park will provide a centralized hub for civic services and be a source of pride and essential resources for the Simpsonville community for decades to come. DP3 Architects is proud to partner with the City and Edifice General Contractors on this initiative.

To learn more about this project, click HERE.

DP3 Architects Welcomes Three New Team Members

DP3 Architects is pleased to announce the addition of three new team members to the firm; Rita N. Odintsova, Jessi R. Hines, and Elisabeth F. Moffett.

Rita N. Odintsova received her professional degree in Architecture from the State University of Land Use Planning in her hometown of Moscow Russia. She joins the firm with a design background in hospitality, airports, and mixed-use projects. DP3 Architects looks forward to her contribution to the Multi-Unit Studio.

Originally from Huntsville, AL, Jessi R. Hines earned a BA in Architecture from Mississippi State University. Her previous work experience includes design in higher education, K-12, mixed-use, and hospitality spaces. Jessi will be bringing her skills to the Hospitality Studio.

Elisabeth F. Moffett recently relocated from Upstate, NY to join the DP3 Architects team. The firm is thrilled to have her as a member of the Interiors Studio. She completed her BFA in Interior Design at Endicott College and has a design background in corporate interiors, retail, and hospitality.

DP3 Architects is excited to expand the team and we look forward to the contributions these team members will make towards our culture, projects, and mission. 

DP3 Architects Receives AIA South Carolina Firm Award

DP3 Architects has received the “Firm Award” from AIA South Carolina, an organization of the American Institute of Architects. The award recognizes notable achievements in design excellence, contribution to the profession of architecture, and continuity of service to the public. This recognition is considered the highest honor that AIASC can bestow upon a South Carolina architectural firm.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from AIA South Carolina” said Brian Thomas, Principal & CEO of DP3 Architects. “While this award may have our name on it, it is really the partnership that we have had with our clients that has allowed us to produce designs that we are proud of. This award honors them as well as our 3 founding principals and the nearly 200 team members throughout the years who have helped to build the firm to what it is. As we near our 40th anniversary we look forward to continuing to create meaningful spaces that have a positive impact on our community.”

Established in 1984, the DP3 Architects founding principals sought to create a firm of designers that shared a passion for the craft and a spirit of collaboration. Firm leadership has since expanded to include Principals Brian Thomas, Meg Terry, Ben Urueta, and Michael Pry. Now a team of 35, the firm has retained that creative spirit and a shared value around the philosophy of “Architecture by Team” – a belief and commitment to everyone having a seat at the table to solve problems and deliver transformative designs that connect people and enrich communities. From the very beginning, DP3 Architects’ focus has and continues to be on positively impacting communities. The firm strives to model civic engagement within the industry and beyond through participation, membership, sponsorship, and donation of our time and services.

For DP3 Architects, this award celebrates the firm’s project design work, our dedication to our clients, and a supportive culture created and enjoyed by our team members.

“We are exceptionally grateful to be the recipient of the AIA South Carolina Firm Award,” said Meg Terry, Principal & CMO of DP3 Architects. “This recognition is a coveted industry and professional acknowledgement that speaks to both the culture and the group of talented design professionals that made this award possible.”

About AIA South Carolina: AIA South Carolina is a membership association working to advance the architecture profession in South Carolina. Through advocacy, leadership development, education, and resources, the organization supports architecture professionals throughout the state in designing a better world.  www.aiasc.org

2023 United Way Campaign

DP3 Architects recently partnered with United Way of Greenville for our annual giving campaign. United Way has always been a force for good in Greenville County and we count it a privilege to have had the opportunity to give back this year and contribute to Housing, Childcare, Education, and Transportation needs in Greenville County.

A United Way campaign is about more than raising money, it also deepens community connection for employees, while supporting our vision of a Greenville County where all people have access to the opportunities to achieve their full potential. This year the firm’s campaign included our second annual Office Olympics! Studios brought their A-game in various competitions and team spirit. Ultimately, the whole office came together to give back and we celebrated an amazing participation percentage.

As a firm that lives and works in the Greenville community, DP3 Architects is honored to partner with organizations that help the firm embody its core values of People | Places | Purpose. Learn more about United Way of Greenville’s mission and find out how you can give back HERE

Taylors Fire & Sewer District Breaks Ground on New Fire Headquarters

On Tuesday, September 12, 2023 the Taylors Fire and Sewer District held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new fire department headquarters. The ceremony took place at 463 W. Main St. in Taylors, where the new fire department will be built. Fire Chief Bobby Baker, Commissioner Chairman Jeff Hannah, Chris Bowen with Hogan Construction, and Mike Pry with DP3 Architects all gave remarks during the ceremony.

Established in 1958 as a Special Purpose District, Taylors Fire serves a large area that includes a variety of industrial, business, church, school, and residential development. Creating a new headquarters for this growing area of Greenville County will address the facility design needs for the fire department and serve as a beacon of safety and security to the community.

Located at the intersection of a major highway and main street leading to downtown, this new building will serve as a gateway to Taylors, SC. Architectural forms and materials will be reminiscent of the Historic Southern Bleachery Mill, originally constructed in 1924, and the Enoree River train trestle which carried the first Southern Railway tracks from Charlotte to Greenville constructed in 1873. Both have strong ties to the history of this community and are still in use today.

The new 23,050-square-foot fire headquarters will contain administrative offices, a community meeting/training room, three drive-thru apparatus bays and 1 back-in bay, along with firefighter living and work areas. The new campus also includes a new 4,450-square-foot fleet maintenance building servicing apparatus for the entire department.

DP3 Architects is privileged to design facilities that serve local first responders and communities. We look forward to working with the team at Hogan Construction on the Taylors Fire & Rescue Headquarters through the remainder of the design process and through to construction.

Click HERE to learn more about the new Taylors Fire Headquarters.

The City of Rock Hill Announces McGirt Auditorium Renovations

On September 12, 2023, the City of Rock Hill held a ceremony to announce renovation plans for McGirt Auditorium at Emmett Scott Recreation Center.  Mayor John Gettys and City Councilmembers Derrick Lindsay and Perry Sutton spoke about the facility’s history, and its impact on the community. City officials and community members demolished a pre-made brick wall in front of the auditorium in honor of the renovations to come.

Prior to being a recreation center, the facility was the first public school for African Americans in Rock Hill.  In 1960, the Emmett Scott School opened McGirt Auditorium which was used for homecomings, pageants, student assemblies and performances.  The Emmett Scott School was closed when South Carolina schools were desegregated in 1970 and became a recreation center. The center and auditorium have been a place for neighborhood connection ever since. The renovated auditorium will provide a new, modern space for events and conferences, cultural performances, reunions, competitions, and more.

The renovation will consist of updating the existing lobby, restrooms, stage area, stage lights, the sound system, curtains, and dressing rooms. Additional work will include renovation of the existing courtyard with new exterior canopies and landscaping.

DP3 Architects is privileged to design facilities that serve local communities. We look forward to working with The City of Rock Hill on the McGirt Auditorium renovation through the remainder of the design process and throughout construction.

Reidville Area Fire Station Wins Design Award

DP3 Architects is pleased to announce that the Reidville Fire Station received the 2022 Building of the Year Award as part of Metallic Building Systems 2022 Design Build Awards. Every year, Metallic recognizes excellent projects that feature their state-of-the-art metal building frame systems.

The design team at DP3 Architects worked closely with the Reidville community and department to create a design that would reflect the rural landscape and complement similar buildings in the area. The side wings of the building are skinned in metal roof and wall panels to match the apparatus bay, giving a unified look to the building. The design team chose durable materials and colors to minimize maintenance costs for the department while ensuring maximum efficiency and comfort.

Special thanks to the Reidville Area Fire Department, Roebuck Building Company, DeVita & Associates, and SeamonWhiteside+ for their partnership in bringing this project to reality.

Interior Design Material Boards

Design projects rely heavily on visual tools that illustrate the project’s overall mood and tone. Material boards, or flat lays, are one of the tools designers at DP3 Architects use to hone their visual ideas and convey the look and feel of a space to our clients.

By definition, a material board is an assemblage of colors, textures, prints, materials, or other design elements that evoke the style of a project. These elements may contain samples of; furniture and upholstery fabrics, woods, tiles, metals, stones, and wall coverings that are gathered during the design process and conceptualization stage and serve as inspiration for what the project will look like. Material boards can not only speak to the visual elements of a project, but also the ambiance the designer wants to create. Selecting finishes for a project is more than just finding a color scheme – it’s about selecting materials that will improve the quality of the space and enhance the user’s experience.

Take a look at our curated Pinterest board to get inspiration for your next project.

Simpsonville Breaks Ground on New Municipal Complex

The new municipal complex for the City of Simpsonville was celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony at City Park on Thursday, February 23rd. Mayor Shewmaker described the occasion as “historic” and a symbol of progress and vitality in the community. The complex, which includes a 27,142 sq. ft. City Hall, police department, court building, and a 19,145 sq. ft. fire department headquarters, is being built to accommodate the City’s growth and will also feature a reimagined City Park. The mayor expressed his pride in the state-of-the-art designs and the functional and aesthetic suitability of the buildings. The new municipal complex and renovated park will be a source of pride and essential resources for the community for decades to come and DP3 Architects is proud to partner with the City on this initiative. The project is expected to be completed by fall 2024.

DP3 Architects Hosts Clemson University Grad Students

DP3 Architects was pleased to welcome graduate students from the Clemson University School of Architecture during their annual Greenville Firm Crawl. This program is sponsored by Graduate Architecture Professional Partnership (GAPP), a student-led organization which seeks to bridge the gap between education and practice in the field of architecture.

Firm crawls like this one can help students visualize what a day in the life might be like for a working architect and find their best fit for an internship or job post-graduation. Principals Brian Thomas and Ben Urueta talked about the firm’s philosophy towards design, collaboration, and office culture. Students also had the chance to tour the office and see some of the architects in action. DP3 Architects was inspired by their enthusiasm and look forward to seeing how they grow within the field.

DP3 Architects Holiday Food Drive

One in six of our South Carolina neighbors, including over 100,000 children, face hunger daily. Food banks like Harvest Hope help to chip away at that statistic by collecting and distributing nutritious food to food pantries, churches, shelters, and soup kitchens across the state. DP3 Architects hosted a holiday food drive to help the cause and provide meals to struggling families in our community.

Harvest Hope is on a mission to eliminate hunger and food insecurity in South Carolina. They are South Carolina’s largest food bank, providing food for organizations across the state who serve families in need, with special allocations for our most vulnerable residents, including children, seniors, and people in rural areas without access to grocery stores.

If you or your organization would like to donate to Harvest Hope or host your own food drive, information about how to get started can be found, HERE.

Consumer Picks Report 2022: Bahama Breeze

Nation’s Restaurant News released their 2022 Consumer Picks report on the 11 restaurants with the best ambiance.  Ambiance ties the cuisine, service, and space together to shape the overall dining experience and perception of a restaurant.

DP3 Architects client, Bahama Breeze, made this list, with 73% of consumers rating the brand “above average” or “best in class” in the ambiance category.

DP3 Architects had the pleasure of designing a new, 6,500-square-foot prototype for the Darden Restaurants operated chain. The design captures the essence of the brand, incorporating vibrant materials, finishes, and unique character that create a tropical island atmosphere. As soon as you walk through the doors, you feel a million miles away from home. From the main dining room to the custom bar and patio area, every inch of these restaurants waares thoughtfully crafted with guests and team members in mind.

To read the article and see the other restaurants that made the cut, click HERE.

2022 United Way Campaign

DP3 Architects partnered with United Way of Greenville for its annual giving campaign. For one hundred years, United Way has remained committed to helping people live better, safer, and more successful lives. They rely on local organizations like DP3 Architects to contribute their time, voice, and dollars to grow a stronger Greenville.

In a celebration fit for United Way of Greenville’s 100th anniversary, DP3 Architects held its first Office Olympics! The entire team harnessed their competitive sides as they went head-to-head for mental gymnastics, put their paper airplane construction skills to the test, and worked against the clock to build the tallest marshmallow spaghetti tower.

As a firm that lives and works in the Greenville community, DP3 Architects is honored to partner with organizations that help the firm embody its core values of People | Places | Purpose. Learn more about United Way of Greenville’s mission and find out how you can give back HERE.