Moore Center Renovation
Location: Montreat, NC
Type: Renovation
Moore Center Renovation
The Moore Center renovation invigorated this architecturally significant property at the heart of the Montreat community. The iconic building’s folded plate roof and unique features were preserved, while enhancing its outdoor terrace with waterfall overlook. The recent updates maintained the building’s mid-century design roots and reactivated the building’s primary gathering space with more programmable, accessible, and naturally lit space.
The Moore Center, designed by renowned Asheville architects Six Associates in 1965, stands as a beloved mid-century gem in the heart of Montreat. As a proud recipient of an AIA award the same year, this iconic building remains true to its original design and purpose, a half a century later. The challenge our studio faced was incorporation of considerable updates. These included boiler removal, boiler room conversion into an accessible toilet room, new HVAC systems, complete renovation of the commercial kitchen, conversion of a CMU shear wall into a wall of glass overlooking the waterfall, addition of a stone accent wall, life safety upgrades, Existing Building Code compliance, as well as the transformation of gathering and dining spaces. These updates will better serve the needs of Montreat in the 21st century.
One of the most distinctive features of The Moore Center is its folded plate roof, a classic hallmark of mid-century design that also serves a functional purpose. The roof slopes to the south and allows for efficient water capture and management. Our main focus was activating the upper porch area by removing a solid wall that obstructed views of the bridge and waterfall below, creating a more open and inviting space with panoramic views of Lake Susan from the interior.
Vintage postcard depicting the building’s original design and the 1965 AIA Merit Award for Six and Associates.
Inside, The Huckleberry Cafe, a longstanding fixture within the center, received a makeover to enhance the overall dining experience. New lighting, additional windows, and sleek dark finishes were added while preserving the original charm of the space. The ceiling received a fresh coat of paint but still remains the original acoustically absorptive tectum material. The new stone wall complements the existing stonework on the lower level. Furniture for The Huckleberry was custom-made by Making Whole, a woodworking apprenticeship program for those recovering from addiction.
Through these thoughtful updates and enhancements, The Moore Center continues to serve as a vibrant social and commercial hub for the Montreat community, while honoring its rich architectural history and mid-century design roots.
