2025 Award of Merit: Sylva

Depot Plaza

2025 Main Street Award: Economic Vitality

Best Infill Building Project

• Town of Sylva

• Odell Thompson, Architect
  

Watch The Award Video

The Sylva Depot Plaza is a project that proves small-scale infrastructure can have a big impact — not just on a town’s functionality, but on its identity, its economy, and its sense of place.

In the heart of downtown Sylva, a once-overlooked space has been transformed into a historically inspired, energy-efficient public plaza and restroom facility — a project that connects Main Street to Bridge Park and reclaims the site of the town’s original 1884 train depot.

Designed by Odell Thompson, this new “depot” honors Sylva’s roots with architectural details drawn from the town’s two historic train stations — from the deep roof overhangs and gabled shingles to the brick base and transom windows. Every element was chosen with care, even down to the subway tiles in a Greek key pattern, echoing the era’s design while ensuring durability for decades to come.

But this project is more than a nod to history — it’s a model of sustainability and smart civic planning. Built with insulated concrete forms, the facility requires no air conditioning, uses minimal electricity, and features stainless steel fixtures for long-term resilience. It’s a low-maintenance, high-impact solution to a long-standing community need.

Strategically located at the intersection of Main and Spring Streets, this plaza now serves as a central hub for events, visitors, and families. It has four individual restrooms — all with baby changing stations, picnic tables, an information kiosk, and a Rotary Peace Pole. It’s become a vital stop along the Sylva Heritage Walk and a key asset within the town’s Social District.

Since its completion, event attendance has increased by 10%, private event bookings are up 20%, and downtown merchants report longer visitor stays and fewer restroom-related interruptions. And perhaps most impressively, this $656,000 project was funded entirely through grants and ARPA funds — with no local tax dollars used.

This project is a testament to what happens when thoughtful design, historical reverence, and community collaboration come together. It’s not just a restroom — it’s a symbol of civic pride, a catalyst for revitalization, and a welcoming gateway to downtown Sylva.