Nichols Architects describes the lure of Greenville and its vibrant community in this article by Upstate Business Journal

story by RICK SPRUILL

Nichols Architects’ homepage declares that they “build legacy,” and have been doing so since 1967. Today, the Miami, Florida-based agency brings the same idea to Greenville, where it has worked on one project (a luxury hotel and residential tower in the West End), and are at various stages on three others.

A pair of Nichols’ principals, Andrew James and Igor Reyes, are spending time in Greenville in support of those projects. Both said Greenville is a hot market for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is its “vibe.”

James said Nichols’ clients are driven by an attraction to Greenville.

“What attracts our clients, and frankly what appeals to us, is the vibe that Greenville gives off,” he said. “This sort of thing happens when the local government pays attention to the character of a place and works with local businesses to create a mutually beneficial atmosphere that builds upon the best aspects of a place creating a positive evolution that enriches both occupants and visitors.”

Greenville isn’t too casual, nor is it too stuffy, he said. And the city’s planning and development department’s vision sets it apart from other markets, making it an inviting locale for architects looking to try new things.

“When an architect is sensitive to the context and others a thoughtful design that goes beyond simple repetition of what worked last time, they are met with a spirit of cooperation that helps enable a successful project for the benefit of the owner, the occupants, and the community,” James said. “Of course, no design can be made real without a good construction team. We’ve had the pleasure of meeting family-owned local contractors who are clearly passionate about doing things the right way.”

MAIN STREET MAGIC

“The heartbeat of Main Street, with its traditional, tree-lined feel and low-slung buildings, is comforting to all who walk it, Reyes said.

And then something happens.

“You get to a bridge and your attention shifts to about 30 feet below you where you’ll find more than just the river flowing, but an unexpected amount of activity.”

It is here, Reyes said, where the many music venues, artist studios and restaurants nestled along the river retain their urban gesture “as if a crack in the city fabric created an opportunity for growth at its edges.”

“The river, he said, brings everything together in a path sprinkled with jets, pavilions, statues and the zoo in one direction, and Unity Park in the other.

REDISCOVERY

Even the signs warning of the river’s sometimes-toxic water have a symbolic use.

“They’re unfortunate, yet they represent the city’s unwillingness to let go of its DNA,” he said. “And in that respect, the river, while no longer playing the role it once played, is still at the center of the city’s physical realm.”

In other words, Greenville’s architectural spirit is about rediscovery.

“No redefining, or even re-interpreting,” Reyes said. “But discovering again.”

Source: UPSTATEBUSINESSJOURNAL.COM | JULY 2023 | VOL. 13 | ISSUE 7