LAVA HOT SPRINGS — The Beech Hollow Event Center reopened last year after a devastating fire gutted the building in 2021, just three days before its scheduled grand opening.

Local residents Nephi Reno and his wife and Megan purchased the vacant log building in 2018. The structure had been in a state of disrepair and neglect for many years. The couple spent three years upgrading everything from staining to wood sealing — a feat in itself, according to Nephi — along with upgrading bathrooms and the kitchen.

“Then a devastating fire took place, and all the hard work was gone,” Nephi said. “We were only three days away from opening the local food hall. Volunteer firefighters worked tirelessly all day to save the structure. We were grateful for their actions and selfless compassion.”

The extent of the damage felt monumental and left the Lava Hot Springs couple feeling almost hopeless. But the desire to rebuild remained.

“We had the building assessed to make sure it was safe to start the restoration,” Nephi said. “It was ground zero.”

Many contractors helped with the restoration, and the Renos expressed gratitude for their wisdom and planning. But even as the building neared completion, one challenge remained.

“The vaulted ceiling was burned,” Nephi said. “It was just plain ugly, and it was no small task. Our general contractor researched Shou Sugi Ban. It was an enormous labor of love to turn the eyesore into a beautiful and unique statement piece of Beech Hollow.”

Shou Sugi Ban, or Yakisugi, is a traditional Japanese wood preservation technique that involves charring the wood’s surface with fire, then brushing it out to bring out the textured grain, often finishing it by sanding and applying an enhancing oil for an extra layer of protection and preservative sheen.

Beech Hollow was rebuilt to be even more impressive than before, blending rustic elegance with modern convenience.

The event center, located at 9926 Highway 30 in Lava Hot Springs, has seating for more than 250 guests, a professional stage, premium sound system with microphones, a fully equipped commercial kitchen, conference room, bridal suite and groom’s room.

The owners have planned events for the Fire & Ice WinterFest set for this weekend, including hosting a wine tasting and musical performance by Layne Bowen on Feb. 6. A comedy night featuring Chandler Fehr and an afterparty with DJ Adrian is planned for Feb. 7. A candlelight Valentine’s Day dinner and concert is scheduled for Feb. 14.

“It’s definitely improved,” Megan said. “It was a labor of love. It was just kind of a family thing, and we really felt like Lava needed a place where a large group of people could get together.”

For booking or more information on Beech Hollow Event Center, visit beechhollowevents.com.