A “spectacular” private residence that spent decades serving its local South Carolina community as a synagogue has been listed for the first time after undergoing an awe-inspiring evolution into a $4.5 million dwelling that is unlike any other property on the market.
Having gone from synagogue to church to photography studio and, now, to a jaw-dropping home, 307 Townes St. has been a pillar of Greenville, SC, for decades—a history that echoes elegantly through its newly renovated walls.
The 4.5-bedroom property, which features a heated pool, striking steel stairwells, and countless distinctive details, was painstakingly restored by its current owners 13 years ago, according to listing agent Lil Glenn.
“Thirteen years ago, the owners discovered the historic church at 307 Townes Street, originally built in 1929 to serve as the city’s Jewish synagogue, and knew it was destined to become their home,” the property’s description reveals.
The result of the owners’ unwavering attention to detail, Glenn says, is a home so unique it exceeds all expectations.
“The quality of the renovation and the design of it is really spectacular. It is just beyond what anyone could expect,” she reveals.
Located in Greenville’s Heritage Historic District, 307 Townes St. has always held a prominent place in the city.
Originally constructed in 1929 by architect Joseph Cunningham as the Old Beth Israel Synagogue, the building has also served as the Greenville Labor Temple Cooperative and the Apostolic Church, before transforming into a commercial photography studio.
However, it was then left abandoned, falling into a state of disrepair—until the owners happened upon the property and breathed new life into its brick walls.
“They were looking for a home and they had redone properties in the past in New York and Canada, and they decided they wanted to restore this church and create it into their residence,” Glenn explained.
“They appreciate historic properties and returning them to their original condition and making it modern enough that it can be used. … They repurpose them.”
Even as a private residence, the building has remained a celebrated neighborhood landmark.
“It is a staple of the neighborhood and they would have gatherings. … They have a pool with the patio … and they’d have the neighbors there to enjoy the property,” the listing agent explained.
The three level home exemplifies modern luxury while honoring its history and original design. The solid brick walls, expansive windows, restored steel dome, and masonry preserve the original craftsmanship, while hardwoods, floor to ceiling windows, and lavish bathrooms ensure contemporary comfort.
“The dome on the inside … that is original. The interior is original. … Of course they had to pre-engineer all of the foundation. That makes it really special,” Glenn noted, saying it has been renovated to last another 100 years.
The first floor offers independent living areas with pool access, the second floor presents sprawling entertaining spaces anchored by a 24-foot kitchen island, and the third floor crowns the home with a palatial primary suite beneath vaulted dome ceilings, overlooking lush gardens.
Outdoors, the 0.61-acre grounds provide a private urban oasis, with a heated gunite pool, multiple decks, a stone patio, a steel arbor, and mature landscaping.
“It’s just a very, very accepting place,” Glenn said, highlighting how the spiritual vibe of its past continues to resonate.
“You walk into it and you feel like you are in another mindset because you immediately calm down. It’s calm. … Every person that walks into that house feels comfortable to enjoy it.”
Described as a “statue of the neighborhood,” the sale of this former synagogue has generated significant excitement, amplified by Greenville’s rising popularity.
The South Carolina city’s housing market has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic, attracting residents seeking community and charm.
“We have a four-season climate and we sit at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We’re an hour and a half from Charlotte, two hours from Atlanta, three hours from the coast. We still have a real community feel in Greenville. It’s been amazing to watch. … Development is sensitive, and the pedestrian neighborhood downtown is friendly,” Glenn said.
Interest has been strong, with 2,000 clicks on the listing in a single day. Whether the next owner will be a local or an out-of-state buyer remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: 307 Townes St. offers a rare opportunity to own a masterfully restored historic property that combines modern sophistication with timeless charm.
