cover photo by: JODIE BRIM CREATIVE
Amazing moments are taking place these days at Robert Hall in downtown Winston-Salem, and Owners Will and Christy Spencer love being part of some of the area’s most memorable lifetime celebrations.
Paying tribute to the past is only one of the many qualities that make Industry Hill’s immensely popular multi-purpose event space and Airbnb destination so special, as it showcases an eclectic ambiance that’s tailor-made for a variety of event styles. If you can imagine it, the dedicated team of Event Manager Kris Walter, Sales Manager Mary Brunstetter, Teresa Miller, design and hospitality, and Bar Partners Matt and Jessica Judson of Thirsty Buffalo can make the magic happen. If you need a creative “nudge” let them know – that’s where this team really shines!
“Our bread and butter is definitely weddings, from rehearsal dinners and welcome parties to the actual wedding ceremony and reception, all on site,” explains Christy. “But, we host quite a variety of other events as well, from corporate retreats (complete with complete A/V capabilities), off-site meetings and holiday parties, to fundraisers for nonprofits, baby showers, sweet 16 celebrations and adult birthday parties, and yes, pretty much anything in between!”
Your entertaining options are as unique as your personality, and your event theme itself!
“The Vault is the perfect spot for seating up to 120 people for dinner or for cocktail parties of larger groups,” says Christy. “And, it can just as easily be transformed into a fantastic dance floor for enjoying your favorite band or DJ!”
This popular space is a glorious 2,500 square feet featuring concrete floors, an exposed wood beam ceiling and neon signs that add to its industrial vibe. It can also slip into a more elegant feel with a large reproduction Art Deco chandelier, velvet sofas and stunning floor-to-ceiling wall coverings.
photo by: RED CARDINAL STUDIO
On the second floor of Robert Hall, Capone’s is known for incredible brass entry doors that lead you to an impressive space graced by natural lighting. Yes, that’s an authentic 1920s mahogany bar – said to be from one of Al Capone’s hangouts and quite a conversation piece – and also a restored 1914 antique brass cash register. It’s a setting as distinctive as they come and a sophisticated spot for a cocktail hour with space for up to 100 guests or a more intimate seated dinner for up to 60 people.
The Garden space at Robert Hall is a uniquely flexible 3,000-square-foot space with comfortable room for more than 100 people. Christy adds the garden has been used for wedding ceremonies, elegant alfresco dining and outdoor concerts. “We’ve also had groups tent the patio to add additional dinner seating, as well as create an outdoor dance floor under the stars!” What could be better?
The Robert Hall experience also includes The Huntley House, a five-bedroom Airbnb property with rooms that can be rented together or individually.
photo by: RED CARDINAL STUDIO
“It’s designed to feel like a boutique European hotel with each room designed en suite,” shares Christy. “I decorated the space in honor and memory of my dear mother-in-law, Ann Lanier Spencer, so it has a great Winston-Salem historical vibe that makes it incredibly unique. We also added a connecting door from The Huntley House to Capone’s, so it can be utilized for bridal parties and guests.” Will’s family has been part of this community for several generations, and Robert Hall’s nod to rich history is heartfelt!
The ultimate downtown location, hosting your event at Robert Hall also offers a fun mix of breweries, restaurants, galleries and museums all nearby, so out-of-town guests have several options for their free time.
To reflect the concept of the entire Robert Hall destination, Christy and Will created the Robert Hall Secret Supper Society (in collaboration with Lisa McMullen of Project Short Street) as a way to honor the essence of the supper clubs of the past – where dinner and entertainment were an “experience” – and one that was remembered fondly. Anyone with a love of food, fun, adventure and an appreciation of unique entertainment can purchase a membership at roberthallsecretsuppersociety.com.
“This year, we are hosting five events throughout the year,” Christy adds. “The first one in March was themed ‘Pride and Prejudinner’ where guests were treated to a four-course meal prepared by Cuisine Kathleen and entertained by a comical musical adaptation of the Jane Austen novel by Tara Raczenski. Costumes and actors were provided by The Little Theatre of Winston-Salem, and guests were highly encouraged to dress the part. A good time was had by all!”
The second event “Bourbon Curious” is scheduled for May 2nd, including a collaboration with Broadbranch Distillery for a bourbon tasting. Rooster’s – A Noble Restaurant will provide delicious appetizers to coordinate with the bourbon varieties. As summer nears, look for release dates of the remaining three suppers included with membership. The Robert Hall team is also working on plans to re-envision the former museum property – located just around the corner – into an additional event space under the Robert Hall umbrella.
“We’re very excited about the prospects of this future project, which will offer our clients even more space to accommodate larger groups,” shares Christy.
photo by: MORGAN LONG PHOTOGRAPHY
“Robert Hall was the perfect venue to host our wedding, as we were looking for something non-traditional downtown. It was the perfect representation of Winston-Salem culture – blending the city’s rich industrial roots with polished artistic class. The event manager, Kris Walter, was the perfect host – giving consideration to each detail. Now, I just need a good excuse to host another event there!” ~ Jerica Yingling
Come visit Robert Hall, located at 874 N. Liberty Street in Winston-Salem, 336.408.1831, and feel the classic, creative ambiance for yourself! Follow them online at Roberthallwsnc.com, and on Facebook and Instagram @roberthallwsnc, for events and updates. To arrange a tour or for information on availability and booking one of their incredible spaces for your event in 2024 and beyond, email Kristopher.Walter@roberthallwsnc.com.
