Brevard’s Chapel Vision

The future of Denver, NC’s historic Brevard’s Chapel is looking much brighter since preservation groups and the United Methodist Church joined forces to reassess the potential for the chapel’s preservation. With a brief timeline, the team quickly got to work determining the structural integrity of the building and the condition of the surviving original building materials.

Our team of historic preservation specialists were joined by structural engineers from the State Historic Preservation Office during an in-depth inspection that determined the church is structurally sound and in remarkably good condition for a building constructed in the 1870s. Though, Brevard’s Chapel still requires careful restoration to preserve its historic fabric and ensure its future use. The dramatic vaulted ceilings, walls, and floors—crafted from original heartpine tongue and groove woodwork—remain intact, but require artisan restoration. In addition, many late 20th-century improvements now need replacement.

The next steps in the feasibility process are to specifically define the construction details and develop a funding and future sustainability plan. Additional demolition is needed to determine an accurate budget and scope of work for the chapel’s restoration and rehabilitation.

Through the community’s support, this project will preserve and rehabilitate Brevard’s Chapel’s iconic presence and historical integrity while modernizing the facility to better serve the community and share its important history for generations to come.

Restoration and Rehabilitation

Planned work includes:

• New Roof and Windows
  Reproduction of the original wood shake roof and historically appropriate windows.

• Architectural Preservation
  Meticulous restoration of distinctive Carpenter Gothic features, including intricate woodwork, façade details, and the steeple.

• Interior Rehabilitation
  Restoration of original heartpine woodwork, along with sensitive electrical and HVAC updates and essential interior repairs and replacements.

• Accessibility Improvements
  Redesign of access to ensure long-term structural sustainability and make the facility accessible to all community members.

• System Upgrades
  Modernization of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.

• Landscape Improvements
  Enhancements to landscaping, drainage, parking, and surrounding natural areas.

Once restored, Brevard’s Chapel will be a protected architectural and cultural landmark reopening with Sunday services and an active community space, we’re calling “Roots and STEMs,” honoring the history and recognizing the future.

• The chapel will be restored as…

  • A sacred space for Sunday services, weddings, and events

  • Preserved as a museum, sharing the history of Brevard’s Chapel for visitors

• The community room will be rehabilitated to…

  • Provide a space for learning, clubs, businesses, and events 

  • A site for HEARTS’ free community programs featuring local history, nature, and the arts (check out past HEARTS Happenings)

These uses ensure the chapel remains cared for, accessible, and meaningful to the community it has long served.