We’ve heard that there were plans to renovate the Peace Center’s Wyche Pavilion into an enclosed space, and now the rumors are confirmed. Here’s a look at renderings for the proposed design, which includes glass windows in the original pavilion + an addition including a kitchen, grand foyer, and meeting space.
Before any construction begins, these designs will appear before the Design Review Board, who give feedback based on the Greenville Downtown Design Guidelines (adopted May 2017) + decide whether to issue a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project. The DRB meeting is Feb. 7 at 4 p.m. on the City Hall’s 10th floor, and is open to the public.
The Wyche Pavilion upgrade was originally part of the Peace Center’s initial campus development, but financial restrictions led to the building being gutted and left open-air.
Now, the plan to transform the pavilion into a year-round, open-floor-plan venue is back in action. It will have:
- A new riverside walkway and deck for better Reedy connectivity
- HVAC and ceiling fans (for winter weddings or no-sweat summer parties)
- Sound + lighting equipment for performances inside
Worried this means a loss of history for Greenville? The new design actually brings the pavilion back to its roots. It was originally enclosed with glass windows when it served as a paint shop for the former Greenville Coach Factory next door, and was later used as the first Duke’s Mayonnaise factory.
People in opposition to the changes spoke up on Instagram + Facebook when we shared the news – folks who are into the new design, here’s your chance to share your thoughts. Comment below or send us an email + tell us what you think.
