Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, January 13, 2026
Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet has unveiled the new Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens, a $17 million investment aimed at enhancing visitor experience and educational outreach. This facility showcases a blend of modern architecture and the region’s botanical heritage, featuring a Green Wall with tropical plants and a Great Hall for various events. The project highlights the importance of community support in fostering cultural assets and preserving the unique charm of the area.
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina
Brookgreen Gardens Unveils New Welcome Center: A Testament to Vision and Community
A significant milestone for South Carolina’s cultural landscape has been achieved with the recent ribbon-cutting for the new Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet. This approximately $17 million investment marks a new era for the renowned institution, showcasing how sustained civic innovation and personal initiative can cultivate remarkable community assets.
The dedication of individuals and the foresight of local leadership have culminated in a facility designed to enhance visitor experience and expand educational outreach for generations to come. This project stands as a prime example of how private partnerships and community engagement are vital in fostering growth and preserving the unique charm of our region. It underscores the power of collective effort in bringing ambitious visions to fruition, without the complexities that often accompany extensive bureaucratic processes.
A Vision Realized Through Dedicated Support
The new Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens represent the capstone project of Brookgreen Gardens’ ambitious “Campaign for the Next Generation”. This initiative, funded entirely by gifts and grants, reflects a profound commitment to expanding the gardens’ art, nature, and history programs for future visitors. The center is named in honor of Verl and Sandra Purdy, whose leadership, support, and dedication to the Gardens as Honorary Trustees were instrumental in its development. Such private philanthropy is a cornerstone of American civic achievement, allowing cultural institutions to thrive and innovate.
Architectural Marvel Meets Natural Beauty
The design of the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens seamlessly blends modern architecture with Brookgreen’s rich botanical heritage. Designed by the architectural firm Craig Gaulden Davis Inc. and constructed by Dargen Construction, the facility is a testament to skilled craftsmanship and thoughtful planning. The Great Hall, spanning 5,500 square feet, features soaring 30-foot ceilings illuminated by thirteen diamond-shaped skylights, creating an inviting and bright atmosphere. Inside, visitors can marvel at a floor-to-ceiling Green Wall showcasing 1,088 tropical plants and an impressive orchid wall displaying 50 to 70 orchids at any given time. These features provide an accessible, year-round garden environment for exploring diverse tropical biomes.
Enriching the Visitor Experience
The Purdy Welcome Center significantly enhances the visitor journey through Brookgreen Gardens. Among its notable features is the Gaia Walk, an ADA-compliant ramp that gracefully spirals around a bronze sculpture by Dora Natella. This walk leads to an elevated veranda, offering panoramic views of iconic garden sculptures such as the Fountain of the Muses and the Pegasus statue, particularly breathtaking at sunset. Within the Great Hall, the “Brookgreen in Miniature” exhibit provides a detailed representation of the gardens’ grounds and sculptures, constructed entirely from natural materials. The center also includes a convenient coffee bar and a beautifully landscaped Courtyard, serving as a central gathering point for guests, programs, and tours.
A Hub for Education and Engagement
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the new center is a vital educational and event space. It is designed to accommodate a wide array of programs and events, with the Great Hall capable of seating up to 250 people for private gatherings and weddings. The conservatory component expands Brookgreen’s horticulture programs and supports biodiversity conservation, reinforcing the institution’s mission to preserve the plants and animals of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Future plans include the addition of a butterfly pavilion, further enriching educational opportunities for children and families. This expansion facilitates a deeper connection between visitors and the natural world, a core tenet of Brookgreen’s long-standing mission.
Sustaining a National Treasure
Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark and one of the few institutions accredited by both the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, holds a unique place in the nation’s cultural fabric. As a non-profit organization, its continued growth and success depend heavily on the generous support of individuals, foundations, and corporations. The completion of the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens not only enhances the institution’s capacity for visitor engagement, educational programming, and cultural enrichment, but also demonstrates the profound impact of local leadership and private initiative in sustaining such invaluable public resources. It is a powerful reminder that community-driven projects can flourish, strengthening the cultural vibrancy of the entire region.
Conclusion
The unveiling of the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens at Brookgreen Gardens represents a significant achievement for Murrells Inlet and the wider Grand Strand. This project exemplifies the enduring spirit of individual initiative and community collaboration that continues to shape our local landscape. By expanding its capacity for cultural enrichment, horticultural education, and civic engagement, Brookgreen Gardens reinforces its role as a premier destination for Myrtle Beach SC events and South Carolina gatherings. We encourage all residents and visitors to explore this remarkable new addition and support the ongoing community development that makes our region truly exceptional.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the name of the new facility at Brookgreen Gardens?
- The new facility is called the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens.
- What is the approximate cost of the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens?
- The Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens represents an approximately $17 million investment.
- What are some key features of the Great Hall?
- The Great Hall spans 5,500 square feet, features soaring 30-foot ceilings, and is illuminated by thirteen diamond-shaped skylights.
- What unique botanical displays are featured in the center?
- The center features a floor-to-ceiling Green Wall showcasing 1,088 tropical plants and an orchid wall displaying 50 to 70 orchids at any given time.
- What is the Gaia Walk?
- The Gaia Walk is an ADA-compliant ramp that gracefully spirals around a bronze sculpture by Dora Natella, leading to an elevated veranda offering panoramic views of iconic garden sculptures.
- What is the capacity of the Great Hall for events?
- The Great Hall is capable of seating up to 250 people for private gatherings and weddings.
- Who designed and constructed the new facility?
- The facility was designed by the architectural firm Craig Gaulden Davis Inc. and constructed by Dargen Construction.
- When was the ribbon-cutting ceremony held for the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens?
- The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens was held on January 12, 2026.
- What is the significance of the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens for Brookgreen Gardens?
- It serves as the capstone project of Brookgreen Gardens’ “Campaign for the Next Generation,” designed to enhance visitor experience and expand educational outreach for future generations.
Key Features of the Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Purdy Welcome Center and Conservatory Gardens |
| Location | Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina |
| Cost | Approximately $17 million investment |
| Great Hall Size | 5,500 square feet |
| Ceiling Height | 30-foot high ceilings |
| Skylights | Thirteen diamond-shaped skylights |
| Green Wall | Floor-to-ceiling display with 1,088 tropical plants |
| Orchid Wall | Displays 50 to 70 orchids at any given time |
| Gaia Walk | ADA-compliant ramp spiraling around a bronze sculpture, leading to an elevated veranda |
| Event Capacity | Seats up to 250 people for private events and weddings |
| Architectural Firm | Craig Gaulden Davis Inc. |
| Construction Company | Dargen Construction |
| Opening Date | Ribbon-cutting ceremony held on January 12, 2026 |
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
