The Retreat - A Description

The 6000 square foot building housing The Jacquard Center was constructed in 1963 as a family retreat on a state road near the top of the north face of Long John Mountain. In the winter, one can look north to mountains. In the summer, one sees only trees, flowers and wildlife.

We provide a computer lab-training room, living and leisure areas for students, as well as work areas for staff. Each of the four bedrooms comes with a private bath. There are two additional half-baths upstairs. The lower level has an apartment which houses guest instructors.

The temperate climate provides four distinct seasons. Autumn and spring are spectacular. We are a few miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and only a few more miles from Smoky Mountain National Park.

A 93 foot long deck is cantilevered on steel I-beams that support the second floor. It provides a place to eat outside, or just to lounge. Additional outdoor spaces include a pocket park with gliders and a pergola with a bench, located just above The Jacquard Center, on the side of the mountain. Indoor public space includes a kitchen, dining room and "lodge" room. The lodge room, a relaxation area, complete with television, video, and hi-fi facilities, is constructed of wormy chestnut around a huge stone fireplace, and contains comfortable furniture covered (of course) with Jacquard woven fabric. We provide a fully equipped kitchen and dining room. Students provide and prepare their own food.