About SouthMarke

Nestled on the southern end of Main Street in the heart of Blowing Rock, North Carolina, SouthMarke has been a cornerstone of the village’s shopping experience since opening in May 1992.

Designed by nationally recognized architect David Patrick Moses, SouthMarke was among the first modern multi-tenant retail developments introduced to downtown Blowing Rock in decades. Thoughtfully planned to complement the character and charm of the historic mountain village, the center blends timeless architecture with a welcoming atmosphere that continues to attract visitors and locals alike.

The name “SouthMarke” reflects its location on a landmark property at the southern gateway to Main Street. Conceived and developed by seasonal residents Karyn and Dieter Herterich, the center remains a wholly owned subsidiary of MontSol Corporation and continues to operate under the same commitment to quality, community, and long-term tenant success that inspired its founding.

A Vision for Something Different

When the Herterich family developed SouthMarke, they set out to create more than a collection of shops. Their goal was to establish a destination that reflected the beauty, hospitality, and enduring appeal of Blowing Rock itself.

Inspired by the town’s Victorian-era mountain heritage, SouthMarke’s architecture was designed to evoke the charm and character that have made Blowing Rock a beloved destination for generations. Landscaped gardens, inviting walkways, and thoughtfully placed benches encourage visitors to slow down, relax, and enjoy the experience.

Built for Long-Term Success

At a time when many downtown retailers operated seasonally, SouthMarke was designed for year-round occupancy and business growth. The development introduced a level of construction quality and winterized infrastructure that was uncommon in the area, creating an environment where businesses could thrive throughout every season.

SouthMarke also established several standards that were innovative for the time, including consistent operating hours among merchants and merchandise exclusivity provisions that allowed tenants to offer distinctive products without direct competition within the center.

A Tradition of Unique Shopping

While Blowing Rock has long been known for its gift shops, boutiques, and antique stores, SouthMarke expanded the local retail landscape by attracting specialty merchants offering fine stationery, ladies’ shoes and accessories, kitchen and entertaining goods, sports memorabilia, and other unique products. Several of those early businesses remain part of SouthMarke today, reflecting the strength of the relationships built over more than three decades.

The Pavilion Shops

One of SouthMarke’s most innovative features was the introduction of its seasonal Pavilion Shops. Inspired by the kiosk concepts emerging in some of the nation’s most successful shopping centers, these charming 10′ x 10′ structures provided entrepreneurs and specialty retailers with a turnkey opportunity to establish a presence in Blowing Rock.

Operating from May through October, the pavilions offer seasonal businesses access to the area’s busiest months through flexible six-month leases and a low-risk retail environment. More than thirty years later, they remain a distinctive part of the SouthMarke experience and an important pathway for emerging retailers.