Byrnes Auditorium Renovation
DP3 Architects provided comprehensive design services for the renovation of Byrnes Auditorium at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina. As a vital campus landmark and central hub for the university’s arts and music programs, Byrnes Auditorium has played a significant role in the cultural and educational life of the university since its completion in 1939. The renovation improves accessibility, modernizes facilities, and enhances the functionality of the auditorium, while maintaining the architectural integrity and historic charm of this iconic building.
Byrnes Auditorium was constructed in 1939 as part of a public works initiative, spearheaded by U.S. Senator James F. Byrnes. The auditorium’s grandeur, with its vaulted ceilings and the famed David Bancroft Johnson Memorial Organ, made it a key performance venue in the region. With seating for nearly 3,000, Byrnes Auditorium has hosted numerous prestigious events over the years, including performances by world-renowned ensembles and musical groups. The facility has long been integral to Winthrop University’s arts programs, serving as the home for the annual South Carolina All-State Chorus and other significant cultural events.
The renovation also included heavy abatement, removing or encapsulating asbestos, new bathrooms on the first floor, wayfinding, and new event space. Existing seating was salvaged, and acoustic design elements were integrated for performances. The entire interior was painted to modernize the palette while retaining historic trims and moldings to preserve the buildings original character.
The design solutions provided by DP3 Architects balance modern requirements with the building’s historical significance, ensuring the preservation of key architectural features while supporting the evolving needs of the university. The Byrnes Auditorium renovation successfully revitalized a beloved historical landmark, ensuring that it continues to serve as a cultural beacon for Winthrop University for years to come.
