Modern Heirlooms
What’s old is cool again! Mixed-use development is making a comeback, offering communities walkable spaces, shorter commutes, and holistic environments that embrace the “work, live, and play” lifestyle favored by Millennials and Baby Boomers alike. A key part of this resurgence is adaptive reuse—repurposing historical buildings and land to save local history while being kind to budgets, timelines, and the environment.
In Fort Mill, South Carolina, the Close family—descendants of Samuel Elliot White, founder of Fort Mill Manufacturing Company (later Springs Industries)—took a patient approach to their vision for their 7,000-acre property. In 2014, Clear Springs Development, founded by the Close family, partnered with 505Design to bring Kingsley to life.
This 660-acre mixed-use community seamlessly blends retail businesses, apartments, hotels, dining, offices, and hospitals. At its heart is “The Yard,” a lush central gathering space activated by restaurants, festivals, interactive play, and stunning lake views. According to Kingsley’s developers, “With contemporary styling and a lush landscape palette, The Yard is THE gathering place in Fort Mill.”
Maglin Site Furniture is key in creating inviting, functional outdoor spaces at Kingsley. Around the lake at The Yard, Maglin’s 720 Lounges complement the warm brown tones of the brick buildings and the natural greenery, while Ipe wood brings a calming, natural touch. Maglin 970 Series benches provide comfortable spots for visitors to rest and reflect, and 500 Series bollards enhance safety in high-traffic areas.
Daniel P. Mummey, Senior VP of Development & Construction at Clear Springs Development, shared his enthusiasm for the project and Maglin’s contributions: “Maglin is classically contemporary. Their style and quality are very synergistic with our design intent and quality of development.”
Project Collaborators
- Client: Clear Springs Development Company
- Architecture: 505Design (now at Cooper Carry)
- Landscape Architecture: LandDesign