(Columbia, SC) — Astral Development and Steady Capital’s plans progress to develop a 483,106 square-foot mixed-use multi-family project set to transform one of Columbia, South Carolina’s most visible downtown intersections at the corner of Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue. Astral Development assembled eight adjacent properties, totaling approximately 2.06 aces, and will develop a 288-unit Class A apartment project — with prime ground-level opportunities for future restaurants, retail and fitness — bringing an upscale, modern energy to South Carolina’s capital city.
“Columbia is experiencing an exciting chapter of growth, creativity and connection, and we’re honored to play a role in that story,” says Andy Golubitsky, co-founder of Astral Development. “The development is more than developing buildings; it’s about developing communities. Our vision is shaping a destination that reflects the spirit and momentum of Columbia’s thriving downtown.”
Astral Development brings significant expertise in mixed-use ground up and adaptive re-use urban infill developments to this project and is teaming up with industry-leading partners, Axiom Architects and Elford Construction, who are overseeing the design and pre-construction efforts, respectfully. Additionally, Astral Development is collaborating with local creative groups to activate the vacant spaces before construction begins.
With design plans nearing completion, the development is on track to submit permits later this year and break ground in spring 2026.
Transforming a Key Urban Corridor
The project, located across the street from the BullStreet District, at the corner of Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue, will serve as a connector between the Main Street District, the BullStreet District and Cottontown —while completely revitalizing a critically visible block in the heart of downtown Columbia.
The project’s residential portion will consist of 288 Class-A apartment units with 236 single bedroom units, 33 two-bedroom units and 19 three-bedroom units, along with a structured parking facility with 376 spaces. The residential ground level will include a fitness center, lobby, leasing office and a dedicated space for bike parking.
In addition to the residential portion, Astral Development is excited to offer leasing opportunities designed to appeal to restaurateurs, retailers and fitness tenants. With up to 22,000 square feet of available space, retail floor plans include 18+ foot clear ceilings, patio seating opportunities and six endcap spaces, as well as on-site and street parking.
Crosland Barnes Group, a full-service commercial real estate firm, is managing leasing opportunities for the ground-level retail space, with support from Cushman & Wakefield.
“This project is more than new storefronts,” says J.P. Scurry, partner at Crosland Barnes Group “It’s about creating a place where people want to gather and spend time. The combination of visibility, walkability and built-in residential community makes this a prime retail opportunity in Columbia.”
For more information about leasing opportunities, email J.P. Scurry at jp@croslandbarnesgroup.com or Scottie Hughes at scottie@croslandbarnesgroup.com.
Activating the Space Before Construction
Ahead of construction, portions of the eight adjacent properties are being temporarily activated to bring energy and community engagement to the space. These activations create opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the site in new ways while the development moves through design and approvals.
One example is FolkTech’s Heat Map, a curated series of warehouse events that showcase light, sound and contemporary culture. For more information on the Heat Map series, email Francisco da Silva at folktechsc@gmail.com.
For more information about booking the temporary event spaces, contact Bakari Lebby at kari@kayellecreative.com or Liz Williamson at liz@kayellecreative.com.
