Architrave – Columbia-Based Architecture Firm Merges Historic Preservation with Modernity

A Columbia-based architecture company, Architrave, has been earning praises in South Carolina’s architectural community for the artful fusion they bring to their designs, merging past with present and history with lore. Celebrating 35 years in the business, Architrave holds a strong reputation for transforming historical buildings into lively and usable spaces, while preserving the architectural character that makes these structures unique in their own right.

Pioneers in Historical Preservation and Rehabilitation

Architect Dale Marshall and his late uncle Allen Marshall founded Architrave in 1987. With offices in both Columbia and Charleston; the firm focuses on residential construction and historic preservation. Dale Marshall, the firm’s president, now works primarily alongside Architect Justin Washburn on Columbia projects, while Allen Marshall’s son Bill, executive vice president, handles projects in the Lowcountry.

“I think there’s been a super conscious recognition in the Midlands in recent years of how preservation can be a driver for growth,” said Marshall. “Preservation is a huge community asset. These unique buildings we have here in downtown Columbia are part of what makes Columbia unique and memorable.”

Notable Transformations

Among the firm’s standout rehab projects are the Canal Dime Savings Bank located at 1530 Main St.in Columbia, the Old Newberry Hotel in Newberry, and the Shannon Smith Stuckey House at 1422 Laurel St. in Columbia. These historically significant buildings, once rendered nearly unusable, now serve as residential and commercial spaces and a law office respectively — all while preserving their unique architectural character from bygone eras.

A Forward-Thinking Approach to Design

Beyond historic preservation, Architrave is also making waves in the arena of highly customized residential designs. Its work on the University Hill renovation in Columbia and the Moon Tide residence on Kiawah Island marries traditional and historical South Carolina styles with the elements of modern design, a signature of Architrave’s forward-thinking approach.

Community-Savvy, Award-Winning, and High-Recognized Commitment

Architrave’s team has been deeply involved in community initiatives. Dale Marshall serves on the Vista Guild Board of Directors and Historic Columbia’s Preservation Committee. Meanwhile, Justin Washburn is a former president of the Vista Night Rotary Club and a member of the Columbia Museum of Art Contemporaries Board. In recognition of their outstanding work, Architrave has been awarded multiple Best of Houzz awards and got recognition from the Historic Columbia Foundation and The American Institute of Architects.

Fostering City Growth

Dale Marshall sees his work with Architrave as a part of a larger mission to enhance the economic growth and residential quality of life in both Columbia and Charleston. The firm’s work is guided by a commitment to conserving things that make both cities memorable while growing to meet the evolving demands of residents and business owners.

In this mission, Architrave continues to breathe new life into spaces that embody the character and history of South Carolina while harboring the demands of a modern world. Their efforts serve as a testament to the transformative power of architecture in shaping the trajectory of city growth and community-building.