Renovate & Rejuvenate

Renovate & Rejuvenate Variations on a New Home

The Spartanburg Philharmonic welcomes Chip McLeod as the new President of the Board of Directors. As a means of introduction, we asked him to share something about himself with our patrons. His first thought was to share a bit about the Converse Heights home he and his wife, Stone, spent three years lovingly restoring. “We originally came to Spartanburg with the thought of building a home. After not being able to find a suitable lot, an insightful Realtor made us aware of a home that would be listed in the future. We looked at it and immediately knew we wanted to purchase it and restore it our way. There was enough property to build a carriage house which was especially important to us. The home was built in 1908 and had only had two previous owners.

Much of the home was original, but we had to replace the heating, air, plumbing and electrical. It was extremely important during the restoration that we keep the original look and character. We did this through windows sourced from the early 1900’s, to reclaimed flooring close to the original and period correct door hardware. A trip to one of our favorite places, the Greenbrier, and an opportune meeting with their designer, Carleton Varney, gave inspiration for their colors and wallpaper.

Our favorite things about the home are: the back stairs, the restored pantry, original hardware, five fireplaces and a kelly-green workshop with the bench made from an old bowling alley. We are able to walk and cycle to the office, our church, and restaurants. We love our time on our back porch and patio surrounded by sounds of trains, owls, ducks and frogs. Restoration completed to perfection!”

Below (left to right): Chip and wife Stone; Concertmaster Callie Brennan and Principal Viola Alvoy Bryan performing at a Donor Appreciation Event in 2019; members of the Spartanburg Philharmonic Youth Orchestra also performing at the Donor Event.