News - Columbia's Landmark Apartments Revert to Housing Amid Urban Revitalization

COLUMBIA — Residents in Columbia are preparing to reclaim a piece of the city's architectural history as the historic Malboro Apartments, located at 1116 Blanding St., return to their original function after serving as an office building for nearly four decades. Originally opened in 1911 as a pioneering multi-family residence, plans are underway to restore its purpose amidst a broader trend of urban revitalization intended to accommodate an influx of new residents. The deliberate repurposing is spearheaded by local architect Andrew Rogerson, who has a notable track record with the Garvin Design Group in transforming historical structures into modern living spaces. As proposed, the three-story building will be reimagined to accommodate six spacious two-bedroom apartments, featuring modern amenities laced with historical charm, including two bathrooms per unit and expansive open-concept living areas enhanced by the structure's signature bay windows. Pending city approval, particularly the potential allocation of historic tax credits, Rogerson's vision will move forward. The proposal is scheduled for review by the Design/Development Review Commission on March 19th. The anticipated completion of this transformation is set for March 2028, contingent on securing necessary approvals. Building on its storied past, the renovation will strip away carpet and tile remnants from its 1980s office conversion, revealing the underlying original hardwood flooring—an aesthetic tribute to its original grandeur. While the building's interior receives a contemporary facelift, the exterior will remain largely unaltered, preserving its historical aesthetic against the backdrop of downtown Columbia's evolving skyline. With its last recorded ownership transition occurring in January 2022, as noted in county tax records, the Malboro Apartments stand on the brink of a significant transformation, mirroring the city's broader developmental momentum.