Davenport Apartments
The Davenport Apartments, located at 400–402 East Washington Street in downtown Greenville, South Carolina, stand as a significant piece of the city’s architectural and social history.
Construction: Built between 1915 and 1916, the Davenport Apartments were developed by G.D. Davenport, a prominent Greenville businessman. The building was designed by local architect Joseph L. Lawrence and constructed by Eugene Gilphilan. Notably, it was the first apartment building in Greenville, providing housing for middle-class businessmen and workers during a period of urban growth.
- National Recognition: In recognition of its architectural and historical importance, the Davenport Apartments were added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 1, 1982.
- The building is a three-story, U-shaped brick structure that combines elements of early 20th-century architectural styles. Key features include:
A large rectangular rear section with two smaller wings extending toward the street, creating an open courtyard between them.
- One-story porches with stone elliptical arches supported by brick pillars on the front façade.
- Mahogany trim and wainscoting in the interior, much of which remains intact.
- Denticulated cornices, brick quoins, wrought iron balconies, and doorways with sidelights and fanlights.
- A parapet with concrete coping and curvilinear gables in the interior courtyard. Today, the Davenport Apartments continue to serve as residential housing, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The building has been carefully restored to preserve its architectural integrity while updating its facilities to meet contemporary standards. Residents enjoy proximity to downtown Greenville’s shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
Situated in the heart of downtown Greenville, the Davenport Apartments are within walking distance of several notable landmarks:
- Falls Park on the Reedy: A scenic park featuring waterfalls, gardens, and walking trails.
- The Peace Center: A performing arts venue hosting concerts, Broadway shows, and other events.
- Bon Secours Wellness Arena: A multipurpose arena for sports and entertainment events.
- Greenville Zoo: A family-friendly zoo housing a variety of animal species.
The building’s central location offers residents easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural scene and recreational opportunities.