COLUMBIA: A New Chapter for the Columbia Building
The historic Columbia Building, a landmark that has overlooked the Statehouse for more than a century, is about to get a stylish makeover! Originally built in 1913, this downtown icon at 1200 Main Street is gearing up to transform into a vibrant boutique hotel, complete with a rooftop bar, bringing new life to a beloved piece of Columbia’s history.
From Office Space to Hospitality Haven
Once the heart of the city’s business scene, the 11-story building has a rich past. Known by various names over the years such as the Union National Bank Building and the Carolina Life Building, it was a bustling hub for banks, newspapers, and restaurants. However, as modern office needs evolved, the once-coveted property struggled to maintain its occupancy in more recent years. By the 2000s, vacancy rates were a significant concern.
Sitting at the prime intersection of Gervais and Main streets, a spot bustling with locals and tourists alike, the decision to convert this historic building into a hotel is an exciting move for the city. In a statement that rings with optimism, Matt Kennell, president of the Main Street District, noted, “It’s a building that seems to have morphed with the ages, and it’s doing it again.” This transformation is not just about keeping a piece of history; it’s about injecting new energy and purpose into the heart of Columbia.
Historical Significance
The Columbia Building is more than just a pretty façade. Built in a gothic style and recognized as one of the city’s earliest skyscrapers, it symbolizes Columbia’s growth and ambition during its peak. The building’s nomination for the National Register of Historic Properties highlights its legacy, stating it’s an “important survivor” of Columbia’s historical landscape. As Jane Doe from Historic Columbia pointed out, this redevelopment reflects the city’s commitment to historic preservation while simultaneously adapting to modern needs.
Modern Developments
The hotel will be modeled after the trendy Moxy Hotels, a brand known for its modern and fun approach, featuring cozy rooms and a lively bar scene – perfect for the social butterflies of the capital city! The addition of Moxy branding to the exterior of the building is a sign that preparations are well underway.
Rick Patel, a well-known hotel developer in Columbia, has taken charge of this ambitious project. He successfully converted another historic property, the Palmetto Building, into the popular Sheraton Hotel. With the Columbia Building, he aims to recreate that success and has reported that the project is moving along ahead of schedule and budget. That’s music to the ears of residents eagerly awaiting the completion of the hotel!
Nostalgia for The Whig
However, not everything about this building’s transition is filled with excitement. Locals fondly remember The Whig, a dive bar that was a staple in the basement of the Columbia Building for years until its closure in 2022. The neighborhood is still mourning the loss of this quirky hangout, but change is often bittersweet.
What Lies Ahead for Columbia
As Columbia embraces its rich past while looking forward to a bright future, the renovation of the Columbia Building is a clear indication of just how far the city has come. The excitement is palpable as residents can soon enjoy a brand new hotel in a historic setting right in the city’s heart. Thanks to smart investment and innovative transformations, Columbia is proving that old can indeed become new again.
With the weather in Columbia expected to warm up to around 71°F later today, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy the changing landscape of this vibrant city. While a stray shower or even a thunderstorm may pop up throughout the day, the general optimism surrounding the Columbia Building is sure to shine through!
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project develops, and prepare to enjoy a cocktail with a view at what promises to be the next hot spot in Columbia!
