Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Foster + Partners along with Seamon Whiteside have completed the Greenville County Administration Building, its first project in South Carolina, with a characteristic winged roof that adds a sense of dynamism and modernity to the building’s silhouette, while a skybridge serves as a functional and visually striking feature.
By incorporating red bricks, the design not only connects with the surrounding architectural context but also imparts a sense of warmth and character to the structure.
The four-story building is designed to maximize transparency, with an optimized perimeter and glass curtain wall that symbolically removes the boundary between the public and government officials.
Occupants look out over their natural surroundings from light-flooded offices and vast communal lobby spaces.
The two office blocks are connected by a shaded public plaza and a footbridge at level three.
The building is clad in warm-colored metal, reflecting the array of earthy tones and historic use of brick masonry throughout Greenville County.
It opens up to the landscape, creating a unique atrium space between the two office blocks that will be flooded with natural daylight.
The atrium is designed as a space for the people of Greenville County that symbolizes a sense of transparency between the citizens and local government.
The roof overhang with its sharp, crisp edges accentuates both the form of both buildings as well as the pivotal location, providing stunning, 360-degree views across downtown Greenville and the mountains beyond.
The perimeter profile has defined edges that accentuate the linearity of the façade system.
Evoking the natural beauty of Falls Park, the project features a large public area with a forthcoming plaza fountain, landscaping, and the relocation of the Veterans Memorial Wall.
Corten Steel is incorporated within the memorial, mirroring the warm tone of the building’s facade.
Cafes and restaurants will activate the plaza, serving both office workers and visitors alike.
Project: Greenville County Administration Building
Architects: Foster + Partners
Landscape Architects: Seamon Whiteside
Structural Engineer: Fuller Group
Photographers: Brandon Stengel
