Social House ‘forges’ new role

Editor’s Note: This article is part of an occasional series showcasing new businesses in town.

Forge Social House is a long time coming.

The stone home at 553 California Ave. has been going through a transition, transforming from a private residence into a place for private events.

The once-stately home sat quietly through the growth and changes Boulder City enjoyed since it was built in the 1940s. Grant Turner walked by it many times while growing up in Boulder City and attending high school here.

Now, it is his and he has given it a new purpose.

Turner said he has a feel and a love for what Boulder City needs.

His successful restaurant, The Dillinger Food and Drinkery, is proof of how he feels the area should be preserved and honored. With the help of his dad, Larry Turner, and longtime friend Dan Dombrowski, he has been able to be a part of the city’s growth and development.

“I just wanted to be my own boss and I love Boulder City.”

Turner, who has a business degree from the University of San Diego, never doubted he would return home and be a part of the city where he was born.

His latest venture, Forge Social House, gets him excited. The house has been transformed into a cutting-edge event center and gathering place which, according to Turner, “Boulder City hasn’t had in a long time. I’m surprised it hasn’t been done sooner.”

Within walking distance of many churches and civic organizations, he said Forge Social House is the perfect spot for just that type of place.

The massive steel front door with cutouts showing the interior mechanism is just the beginning of a tour-de-force of steel and glass that has the ability — through sliding panels — to be enjoyed in a multitude of configurations. The walls, some of which are covered in thick steel sheets, house a massive 1,500-square-foot kitchen and prep area.

Open ceilings inside, supported on huge steel beams, and sliding glass panels separate the courtyard and rooftop deck from the main room. However, opening the panels includes all of the outer elements into the main room of the event center.

While discussing the unique design Turner said, “We tried to combine modern elements with historical pieces that could talk to each other.” And talk they do. That wonderful ability to transform itself allows Forge Social House to be an intimate setting for as few as eight people to as many as 150.

Turner said, “With help of my dad Larry, who is a workhorse and gave me my work ethic, and Dan, who helped build everything, we will be successful.”

With a full kitchen, complete bar and other services including florist, music and event planning available, he said Forge Social House is a “one-stop” event center.

Recently it added a Wednesday night Prix Fixe menu with optional wine pairings. Currently, the four-course dinners are priced at $42.

For reservations, phone 702-294-0805 or email forgesocialhouse@gmail.com. For more information, visit forgesocialhouse.com.