In the heart of downtown Asheville, the S&W Building stands as a testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage and its resilience through changing times. Designed by the visionary architect Douglas Ellington and completed in 1929, this Art Deco masterpiece has gracefully evolved from its origins as a bustling cafeteria to its current incarnation as a vibrant food hall, all while retaining its historical charm.
Savoring History: How Asheville’s S&W Building Blends Art Deco Charm with Culinary Delights
Architectural Significance and Historical Evolution
Douglas Ellington, renowned for transforming Asheville into an Art Deco haven, infused the S&W Building with distinctive design elements. The structure features a façade adorned with polychrome terra cotta panels, intricate geometric patterns, and expansive arched windows, epitomizing the exuberance of the 1920s architectural style. Ellington’s attention to detail and innovative use of materials have cemented the building’s status as one of Asheville’s most refined Art Deco projects.
Originally serving as part of the S&W Cafeteria chain, the building was a popular dining destination for locals and visitors alike. After the cafeteria relocated in 1974, the building underwent various transformations, reflecting the city’s dynamic cultural landscape. In 2021, it was revitalized as the S&W Market, Asheville’s first food hall, seamlessly blending its historic ambiance with contemporary culinary experiences.
A Culinary Hub in the Heart of Asheville
Today, the S&W Market hosts a diverse array of vendors, each contributing to Asheville’s vibrant food scene:
– Buxton Chicken Palace: Offering the famous Buxton Hall Fried Chicken Sandwich, crafted by James Beard nominees Elliott Moss and Meherwan Irani.
– Farm Dogs: A concept from Farmburger, featuring grass-fed sausages and hotdogs, emphasizing sustainable and local ingredients.
– FLOUR AVL: Providing made-from-scratch breakfast biscuits, homemade focaccia sandwiches, fresh pastries, and a full coffee program.
– Mikasa Criolla: Showcasing the fusion of Peruvian cuisine with fresh stews, empanadas, and paninis.
– The Hop Ice Cream: An Asheville staple since 1978, offering handcrafted dairy and vegan ice creams, along with sorbets and specialty desserts.
– The Times Bar: A trendy craft cocktail bar specializing in both seasonal and classic cocktails, with a selection of local beers and imported wines.
– Highland Brewing: Featuring a satellite taproom that offers a curated selection of barrel-aged and sour beers, as well as their classic brews like Gaelic Ale.
A Community Anchor Amidst Adversity
Situated near Pritchard Park, the S&W Building is at the epicenter of Asheville’s cultural and social activities. The park is renowned for hosting the Asheville Drum Circle, a weekly gathering that embodies the city’s artistic spirit. The surrounding area boasts a variety of esteemed eateries, including Tupelo Honey Cafe, Jerusalem Garden Cafe, and Red Ginger Authentic Chinese Food, making it a culinary hotspot for both locals and tourists.
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene brought unprecedented challenges to Asheville, causing significant damage to infrastructure and local businesses. While the downtown area, including landmarks like the S&W Building, was spared the worst of the physical destruction, the aftermath led to a steep decline in tourism. This downturn has had a profound impact on the local economy, with many restaurants and shops facing closures due to decreased patronage
Revitalizing Asheville: A Community United
In response to these challenges, Asheville’s community leaders and business owners have launched initiatives to rejuvenate the city’s vibrant downtown. Campaigns such as “Love Asheville From Afar” encourage support for local businesses through online platforms, while events and promotions aim to draw visitors back to the city’s unique cultural and culinary scenes. The collective effort underscores the resilience and determination of Asheville’s residents to preserve the city’s heritage and ensure its continued prosperity.
The S&W Building stands as a symbol of Asheville’s enduring spirit, reflecting both its rich history and its capacity for renewal. As the city navigates the path to recovery, the preservation and celebration of such landmarks play a crucial role in maintaining the cultural fabric that makes Asheville a cherished destination for all.
