Description:

E.W. Grove, responsible for the construction of Grove Arcade, arrived in Asheville in 1898 and was enamored of all the area had to offer. Asheville, long noted by doctors across the United States, had a well established reputation for clean, healthy mountain air and Grove, a sufferer from bronchitis as well as insomnia, had come on orders from his own physician. Initially, he intended to construct a factory in Asheville, but instead partnered with his son-in-law in a much more ambitious hospitality project slated to become a local landmark.

Later, he became involved in a new project, Grove Arcade. He did not live to see its completion and it was to be his final project. The initial thrust behind his idea was to circumvent the sometimes seedy shopping circumstances tainting shopper experience in some downtown areas. The Grove Arcade was to be avail retailers a very positive as well as convenient experience encased in grandeur. Ornate in architecture and conveniently located in one area, potential shoppers are greeted by large concrete winged lions at the entrance making good on his vision for shopping heaven.

Grove Arcade began its storied life in Asheville as the shopping location E.W. Grove had envisioned in the 1930’s but it was closed as of 1942. The city of Asheville, long a trusty custodian of the of the past, began in the 1970s to garner serious public support in the re-opening of this structure which occurred in 2002. The five story edifice is a multipurpose building. Floors three, four and five serve as 42 personal, luxury residences. The second floor as offices and the first floor, true to E. W. Grove’s dream, provides Asheville’s residents and visitors alike a lovely, comfortable shopping experience with retailers offering everything from art galleries, clock shoppes, local crafts and more to fine, local dining opportunities.

As an Asheville resident, I share and applaud this city’s love of the past and all the varied architecture our city offers. Many visitors to our city share an enjoyment of design and architecture. For those folks, I heartily recommend the Grove Arcade Tour. Beginning at the north aspect of this very impressive building….standing by in dual function as silent docents and a perfect starting place for the tour, are the winged lions bidding silent but sincere welcome.