Exciting Transformation Coming to Columbia’s Iconic Palmetto Candy & Tobacco Building!
Columbia, get ready for some thrilling changes right in the heart of our beloved Vista District! The historic Palmetto Candy & Tobacco Building, which dates back to 1912, is undergoing an impressive multi-million-dollar makeover!
From Candy to Convenience: A Historical Treasure
Once a buzzing hub for sweet treats and tobacco products, the Palmetto Candy & Tobacco Company delighted generations with its confections and sodas. Located just a stone’s throw away from the historic Seaboard Train Station on Lincoln Street, it has a nostalgic charm that many locals remember fondly. Some might even recall the days when it boasted the only mechanical elevator in town, along with vintage candy-making tools and magnificent steel tables overflowing with candies.
A Vision for the Future
In 2021, the building was acquired by Jerry and Ben’s LLC, a Columbia-based real estate investment firm. They have teamed up with other partners to breathe new life into this two-story, vernacular masonry commercial building. According to an announcement from Trinity Partners, the plan is not just to renovate but to create a modern workspace while keeping the building’s rich, historic character intact.
What’s Cooking in the Renovation?
With expert guidance from Boyer Commercial Construction, the extensive renovation aims to enhance the building’s infrastructure to meet current standards without sacrificing its historical essence. The project’s architecture and design are in capable hands with MCA Architecture from Greenville, ensuring every detail resonates with the building’s storied past.
New Spaces, New Faces
Excitingly, the upper floor of the building will soon house Beam & Hinge LLC, a creative custom website design firm that is currently based on Columbia’s Main Street. This relocation coincides beautifully with their 10-year anniversary and the debut of their refreshed website. Talk about timing!
Downstairs, the ground floor is designed to accommodate two separate spaces, each boasting over 1,900 square feet. These spaces are available for office or retail tenants, making it an ideal destination for new businesses looking to thrive in the vibrant Vista District.
Restoring Pride and History
Dan Stanton, the CEO of Beam & Hinge, expressed his excitement about the move, stating, “The renovation of the Palmetto Candy & Tobacco Building and our relocation are expected to bring significant benefits to the Vista. It fosters pride while preserving Columbia’s architectural history.” That’s music to our ears!
Supporting the Restoration
To help make this historic restoration a reality, the developers have secured The Bailey Bill, along with federal and state historic preservation tax credits. These financial aids are crucial in ensuring that the building not only gets a modern upgrade but also maintains its character for future generations to enjoy.
Completion Just Around the Corner
The comprehensive renovation is on track to wrap up by December 2024. As the construction progresses, we can only imagine the beautiful blend of history and modernity that will emerge from this iconic site.
Stay tuned, Columbia, for more updates on this amazing transformation! The Palmetto Candy & Tobacco Building is on its way to becoming the heart of innovation and creativity in the Vista District once again. Let’s rally behind this project and celebrate the incredible journey of our city’s architectural gems!
