Update: This version of the story corrects the name of the HPC from Historic Preservation Committee to Historic Preservation Commission.

When Ray Worrell purchased the historic Masonic Hall building at 125 Market Street in 2013 with plans to move his downtown Slice of Life location across the street, he also purchased the adjoining 4,800-square-foot lot on the building’s north side. It has always been part of his plan to develop that space into a patio with an indoor-outdoor feel.

The architectural plans, created by Blair Goodrich of Goodrich Architecture, have now been submitted to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). The purpose of the commission is to promote, enhance and preserve the character of the Wilmington historic districts. The nine-member board, appointed by Wilmington City Council, processes requests for Certificates of Appropriateness in accordance with the Wilmington Design Guidelines for Historic Districts and Landmark. Design review by the HPC is required for exterior alterations to properties located within the city's historic districts. 

The space will feature a full bar and dining area surrounded by a series of large glass garage doors which can be raised when the weather is good to create the feeling of being outdoors. A set of barn doors will serve as the main entrance, giving the space a rustic and historic feel.

“I wanted a hardened structure where we can lock up at night and the area will be secure,” said Worrell. “I’m not interested in just throwing some tables and umbrellas out there and having to bring everything in at night. We’re going to have a full bar out there with 20 taps and lots of TVs. We also have some really interesting designs for the furniture.”

The patio, which can also be accessed from the interior of the restaurant, will seat approximately 100 to 110 guests and have its own restrooms.

When Worrell designed the kitchen for the new downtown location which opened this past spring, he added two additional pizza ovens with the idea that once the patio space opened he would need the extra ovens to accommodate additional guests.

Worrell plans to host live acoustic music from time to time during the week and perhaps a family-friendly Reggae Night on Sunday evenings.

If all his plans are approved, Worrell hopes to break ground in October or November and anticipates opening in time for Azalea Festival.

In other Slice of Life news, Worrell is pleased to announce the availability of a new gluten-free pizza dough.

“This is a product we’ve been working on for a long time,” said Worrell.

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