Columbia Studio
Offering architecture, planning, and design across the Southeast region since 1955.
Hello from Columbia
Address
McMillan Pazdan Smith
1316 Washington StreetSuite 101
Columbia, SC 29201
(We are located in the former Unity Life Building building, circa 1939.)
Parking
Metered, off-street parking is available in front of the building, and there are several public parking lots in every direction within a few blocks. We offer our garage card to cover costs for visiting guests.
Columbia Culture
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Ready to discuss your next architecture, planning, or interiors project?
Contact UsUnity Life Building
1316 Washington, circa 1939, before renovation.
1316 Washington after renovation.
1316 Washington, circa 1939, before renovation.
1316 Washington, circa 1939, before renovation.
1316 Washington after renovation.
1316 Washington, circa 1939, before renovation.
Designed in the sleek, simple modernist style made popular in the early 20th century, the limestone-faced building located at 1316 Washington Street opened its doors in 1939 as the Unity Life Building. Built during an isolationist period in the United States brought on by the wounds of World War I and the Great Depression, 1316 Washington Street reflects style of the Moderne and International aesthetic not readily seen in downtown Columbia.
Initially built under the direction of Unity Life President John R. Hoile, the new Washington Street building held an insurance company from 1939 to 1945. From 1948 until the mid 1950s, Commercial Audit Company owned and occupied the entire second floor. In 1955, the building was purchased by retired World War II Lt. Colonel Edgar Morris, who used it as his law offices until 1995.
Under the direction of the project team, the building has been rehabilitated as a “Green” design. The owners, 1316 Washington LLC, have also been awarded LEED certification.