Camp Cole breaks ground on Southeastern Freight Lines Activity Center
August 23, 2023
Garvin Design Group and Hood Construction joined Camp Cole to break ground on the organization’s new Southeastern Freight Lines Activity Center project on Tuesday, August 22. In a special groundbreaking ceremony, Camp Cole leadership turned over spadefuls of ground to officially kick off the project’s construction.
Constructed on Camp Cole’s existing 40-acre campus in Eastover, the new 20,000 sf Activity Center will provide much-needed indoor space for year-round programming. The building combines elements of a gymnasium, art studio, library, and yoga/movement studio. The new building will feature:
• A basketball gym with goals and court lines
• An elevated stage with a built-in ramp
• Glass garage doors to create an indoor-outdoor environment
• An art room with built-in supply storage
• A sensory room with swings, bounce seats, climbing walls, soft flooring, and audio controls
The new Activity Center includes elements of Universal Design with careful attention to the details required for individuals with various physical and sensory needs. Colors and materials reflect thoughtful consideration for campers’ comfort and ease within the spaces.
“We have loved getting to work with the Camp Cole team to help bring their vision to life,” said Alex Sojourner, Garvin Design Group Architect. “Their passion and excitement for the camp’s mission is contagious, and we cannot wait to see the campers embrace all the opportunities the new space will have to offer.”
Like Camp Cole’s leadership, the project team is female-led. Alex Sojourner and Kim Moon with Garvin Design Group led architectural design and interior design for the building. Hood Construction project manager Amanda Harter will lead the construction team. The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2024.
“We are honored to continue our partnership with Camp Cole and play a part in bringing this important facility to reality,” said Amanda Harter. “Our entire team at Hood Construction is thrilled to serve as construction manager on this project, which will play a vital role in the camp experience for years to come.”
About Garvin Design Group
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Garvin Design Group offers comprehensive planning and design services for a variety of project types and sizes. From master planning and programming to interior up-fits and new construction, Garvin Design Group strives to provide client-driven design solutions throughout South Carolina. The firm of 24 people has completed more than $1 billion worth of projects since its founding in 2003. GDG’s contributions to the community and the profession earned it the American Institute of Architects – South Carolina’s (AIA SC) 2019 Firm Award, the Columbia Chamber’s 2020 Small Business of the Year Award, and recognition as a 2021 and 2022 Top 3 Best in Business Award from SC Business Monthly. For more information, visit www.garvindesigngroup.com.
About Hood Construction
Hood Construction Company was founded in 1986 as a full-service Construction Management firm, currently licensed in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. Now in its 37th year, Hood specializes in CM-R and Design-Assist Delivery, Pre-construction Consulting, Site Analysis, Project Management, and General Contracting for a broad spectrum of commercial and industrial clients. For more information, please visit us online at www.hoodconstruction.com.
