Location:
Murrells Inlet, SC
Key Details:
Completion: Dec. 2025
Brookgreen Gardens is America’s first public sculpture garden and one of South Carolina’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Founded in 1931 by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, Brookgreen was envisioned as a place where art and nature come together in harmony. Today, it is home to the largest and most significant collection of American figurative sculpture in the country and stands as a leader in sculpture conservation, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of the South Carolina Lowcountry’s plants, animals, and history.
In the 1990s, the firm created the master plan for a new visitor center, which led to the construction of the education center, museum shop, and brick arch portico that formed a formal entrance to the sculpture gardens. Decades later, we returned to re-envision the Welcome Center and design the Purdy Center, a transformative 20,000-square-foot addition that expands space for education, events, and horticultural programs.
At its heart is the Great Hall, a flexible Conservatory filled with natural light from skylights and clerestory windows, anchored by an orchid display wall and complemented by a lush green wall. Visitors will enjoy dynamic botanical displays throughout the year.
An elevated terrace offers sweeping views of the Fountain of the Muses and the gardens beyond. From this dramatic vantage point, an accessible circular ramp spirals around the featured Gaia Sculpture, leading guests down into the gardens for a seamless connection between architecture and nature.
Every detail of the Purdy Center reflects Brookgreen’s mission to enchant, educate, and inspire—creating a stunning extension of the Gardens for visitors to enjoy year-round.
