All posts by Erin Callahan
Hands On Greenville Day 2025
DP3 Architects partnered with United Way of Greenville County for the 27th annual Hands On Greenville Day on May 3, 2025. As the largest single day of service in South Carolina, “HOG Day” brings together thousands of volunteers across the Upstate to make a lasting impact in local organizations.
This year, our team volunteered at the Rupert Huse Veteran Center, a project we were honored to design for Upstate Warrior Solution in 2023. Located on Pelham Road in Greenville, SC, the center serves as a vital resource hub for local veterans and their families. On HOG Day, our staff assisted a veteran-owned landscaping business by spreading fresh mulch and refreshing the grounds surrounding the facility—efforts that support the center’s goal of providing a welcoming, well-maintained environment for those it serves.
Giving back to our community is a central value at DP3 Architects and being able to contribute time and hands-on service to a space we helped to design made this years’ service day especially meaningful. We’re grateful for the opportunity to support an organization that continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans across the Upstate.
DP3 Architects Sponsors the 2024 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
DP3 Architects is proud to be an annual sponsor of the Greenville City Fire Department 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. On Saturday, September 7th DP3 team members joined local firefighters, first responders, and supporters for this annual event at Fluor Field.
The Memorial Stair Climb, organized by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, honors each of the 343 FDNY firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11th, 2001. Each participant pays tribute by climbing a total of 2200 stairs, symbolizing the 110 stories of the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers. This physical challenge serves as a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice displayed by first responders on that day.
All donations to the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb will be used to fund programs provided by the NFFF to support the families of your local fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Service Unit.
DP3 Architects remains dedicated to its core values of People | Places | Purpose, The firm was proud to sponsor this event and stand alongside many of our Fire Station clients to memorialize the 23rd anniversary of 9/11.
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://www.dp3architects.com/places/rupert-huse-veteran-center/
DP3 Architects Sponsors the Travelers Rest Farmers Market & the 2024 “Tomato Sandwich Taste-Off”
DP3 Architects sponsored the Travelers Rest Farmers Market’s ninth-annual Tomato Sandwich Taste-Off event on Saturday, July 27th, 2024. This sponsorship is part of DP3 Architects’ broader “Market Days” initiative aimed at supporting local farmers markets and fostering community engagement.
The Tomato Sandwich Taste-Off, an annual tradition at the Travelers Rest Farmers Market, celebrates the height of tomato season with a friendly competition among 6 local chefs. Attendees sampled a variety of delicious tomato sandwiches using the freshest tomatoes and ingredients sourced from the market’s vendors. Congratulations to Fireforge Brewery for taking home 1st place!
The event not only highlighted the culinary talents within our community but also the importance of supporting local farms and agriculture. One hundred percent of ticket sales are being used toward the operation of the Travelers Rest Farmers Market, which supports 130+ local businesses and farms.
In addition to the Tomato Sandwich Taste-Off, the market offered a wide range of activities and vendors, including fresh produce, locally grown plants, handmade crafts, live music, and more. The DP3 Architects’ team also hosted a tent within the market, offering a variety of activities like corn hole, yard games, and a tomato-themed craft station for kids, creating a fun and interactive space for market-goers to enjoy.
DP3 Architects’ “Market Days” initiative was launched last year with the goal of supporting local farmers markets throughout the Greenville area. By sponsoring events like the Tomato Sandwich Taste-Off, the firm hopes to remain a driving force behind the support of local farmers and artisans in the communities we serve. In addition to sponsoring the Travelers Rest Farmers Market, the “Market Days” initiative also supports the Greer Farmers Market, the Fountain Inn Farmers Market, and Spartanburg’s Hub City Farmers Market.
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.
Hands on Greenville 2024
DP3 Architects partnered with the United Way of Greenville County for the 26th 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.
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.
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.
Meg Terry Named Women in Business Award Honoree
Greenville Business Magazine has named Meg Terry, AIA, IIDA, LEED AP, as one of its 2023 Women in Business Award winners.
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). She was on the Board of Directors for the Junior League of Greenville where she served as Communications Vice President. Meg was also a graduate of Leadership Greenville, Class 42. Following completion of the program, Meg served as a mentor for the Leadership Greenville, Class 43. She currently serves on the City of Greenville Planning Commission.
Meg leads by example by prioritizing strong relationships, communicating clearly and effectively, and upholding a standard of excellence in her craft. She has always been proud of the company culture she’s helped to foster.
“At DP3 Architects, we hire people for what they know and focus on both encouraging and mentoring them. That support system gives you confidence,” says Terry. Encouraging the personal and professional growth of the next generation of architects and interior designers is one way Meg hopes to raise the profile for DP3 Architects and the profession in general. DP3 Architects was named one of the “Best Places to Work” in South Carolina by SC Biz News and the Best Companies Group. This was a great testament to Terry’s commitment to her team and nurturing the professional growth of others.
The Greenville Business Magazine Women In Business awards annually recognize outstanding professional women who have made significant contributions to their organizations, their professions, and the South Carolina community. “I am proud to see Meg recognized for her role in the Greenville business community and her leadership at DP3 Architects,” said Brian Thomas, principal and CEO of DP3 Architects. “Her commitment to the craft and mentoring others makes a huge difference within our firm and community.”
To learn more about Meg Terry click HERE.
DP3 Architects Makes List of SC “Best Places to Work” for 2nd Consecutive Year
DP3 Architects has been named one of the “Best Places to Work” in South Carolina for the second year in a row. The firm, based in Greenville, SC was ranked among the top 20 in the Small Business category for the entire state. Companies who earn this distinction are chosen by the publishers of SC Biz News and the Best Companies Group.
The 2023 Best Places to Work list features 111 South Carolina companies and organizations that go above and beyond to ensure employees thrive in their roles. Honorees were required to receive an over 80% positive response rate in an anonymous employee survey. The eight core focus areas of the survey included Leadership and Planning, Corporate Culture and Communications, Role Satisfaction, Work Environment, Relationship with Supervisor, Training, Development and Resources, Pay and Benefits, and Overall Engagement.
DP3 Architects’ ranking can be attributed to its creative work culture that encourages collaboration, idea-sharing, and constructive feedback among team members. Leadership at DP3 invests in its employees and the future of the firm by hosting regular team-building activities, workshops, and encouraging mentorship opportunities for young architects. Employees at DP3 Architects also enjoy a range of benefits that contribute to their job satisfaction, work-life balance, and overall well-being.
“Receiving this recognition two years in a row is an incredible honor because it comes from within. To know that our team appreciates the culture that we try to maintain in our firm is very humbling.” says Brian Thomas, Principal and CEO at DP3 Architects. “This award really belongs to them as they are the people that shape our culture and make our office such a fun place to come to every day.”
The firm is honored to be on the Best Places to Work list for the second year and to be recognized once again for its core values of People | Places | Purpose.
To learn more about Best Places to Work and see the rest of this year’s winners, click HERE.
DP3 Architects Announces Initiative to Support Local Farmers Markets
DP3 Architects is proud to announce its sponsorship of local farmers markets as a part of a new community-driven initiative, “Market Days.” Aimed at bolstering local farmers markets, this initiative is rooted in recognizing the vital role that farmers markets play in fostering a healthier and more vibrant society. Local farmers markets offer a direct channel for farmers to sell their fresh produce and artisanal goods to local residents. Beyond just being a marketplace, they foster a sense of community, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the overall well-being of the area. DP3 Architects has committed itself to empowering these important community hubs in the Upstate.
On June 24th, 2023, DP3 Architects was honored to join the Travelers Rest Farmers Market as it’s featured sponsor of the week. The Travelers Rest Farmers Market is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit organization created to provide a forum for the exchange of local products and goods, as well as educational and cultural activities for increasing knowledge in the local production of natural products, while also fostering a sense of community among the residents and visitors of the Travelers Rest area.
Principal and Community Studio Leader, Mike Pry, was given the honor of ringing the opening bell to kick off the day. The firm’s booth at the center of the market provided a variety of activities for kids. Our team enjoyed helping with a watercolor station and engineering the perfect paper airplane. This market day was especially rewarding for team members who had a hand in the design of the surrounding DP3 projects; The Travelers Rest City Hall & Police Headquarters, The Travelers Rest Fire Station Headquarters, and the Trailblazer Park Amphitheater Canopy.
DP3 Architects seeks to create spaces that foster community engagement and enhance the overall quality of life for the people who work and play daily in the spaces we create. As a firm that lives and works in the Upstate, DP3 Architects is thankful for opportunities to get involved in the communities we serve. In addition to sponsoring the Travelers Rest Farmers Market, the “Market Days” initiative also supports the Greer Farmers Market, the Fountain Inn Farmers Market, and Spartanburg’s Hub City Farmers Market.
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.