W. DOUGLAS GILPIN, JR. FAIA — ARCHITECT, PLC

The Howards Creek Mill at The Greenbrier Sporting Club is the centerpiece of the Howards Creek residential neighborhood. It serves as a casual gathering area for not only the adjacent neighbors, but all members of the Sporting Club. The core of the amenity is an early 19th century timber-frame mill that was reconstructed on this man-made lake site. An adjacent wing was designed to provide a catering kitchen support facility.

The interior of the mill is divided into two levels and connected by an open stair that is illuminated by the large lake-side window. Casual dining is offered on the first floor, covered exterior terraces, and decks, while the second floor offers a quiet area for card games and reading. Indoor and outdoor fireplaces transform this once neglected ruin into a cozy wintertime retreat, while the outdoor areas are frequented by the club members during the remaining seasons.

Interior images courtesy of The Greenbrier.

In 2002, we were asked by The Greenbrier to design a new entrance gatehouse to this world-class resort. The purpose was to act as a direction/information/security venue. The design incorporates many of The Greenbrier’s architectural features: whitewashed brick, green (slate) roof, decorative brickwork, and circular windows and an arched door…all within a ‘jewel box’-like classical form. (Image courtesy of The Greenbrier.)

Albemarle First Bank (now United Bank) is a Charlottesville area community bank providing specialized services to the Charlottesville/Albemarle residents. The 1960s era medical office building was renovated to create the Bank’s headquarters. The design included an extensive site challenge for new drive-up/ATM lanes and a landscaped centerpiece. Enclosing a former open “loggia” allowed the Bank to provide a day-lit entrance to the banking lobby. A redesign of the original interior allowed us to create a spacious, airy, and welcoming atmosphere; a “Community Room” is available during after-hours for outside groups.

This historic tavern, moved from Earlysville, Virginia in 1928, now houses a Museum and Dining facility. Over the years, we have provided design services to provide an all-weather enclosure to the ‘Courtyard’ outside dining terrace, and ongoing restoration consultation on the historic Tavern itself.