Astral Development plans Bull Street + Elmwood project

Astral Development plans a 483,000 sqft mixed-use project at Bull Street and Elmwood, set to break ground in spring 2026.

Rendering of a six-story brick and glass building planned for the corner of Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue in downtown Columbia, featuring street-level retail, large windows, and residential balconies above.

A rendering shows Astral Development’s planned mixed-use project at the corner of Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue in Columbia. | Rendering by BOGZA

A project first proposed in 2023 is moving forward with updated plans and a clear timeline. Astral Development and Steady Capital announced a 483,000-sqft mixed-use complex at the corner of Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue, across from the BullStreet District.

With design plans nearing completion, the team expects to submit permits later this year and to break ground in spring 2026.

“Columbia is experiencing an exciting chapter of growth, creativity, and connection, and we’re honored to play a role in that story,” said Andy Golubitsky, co-founder of Astral Development. “Our vision is shaping a destination that reflects the spirit and momentum of Columbia’s thriving downtown.”

The development will include 288 new “Class A” apartments — industry shorthand for high-end, amenity-rich buildings in walkable locations — along with 22,000 sqft of ground-level retail designed for restaurants, shops, or fitness tenants. Spanning two acres across eight combined parcels, the project will include a parking deck with 376 spaces.

Before construction begins, portions of the property are being activated by local creative group FolkTech, which is hosting its “Heat Map” series — immersive warehouse events blending light, sound, and art — with shows planned for Friday, Oct. 31, and New Year’s Eve. Additional events, including a fundraiser, fashion show, and vintage market, are also in the works.

More from COLAtoday
ColaJazz Foundation and the Koger Center announce seven intimate jazz performances running from February through December.
If you’re trying to reach new running goals, consider signing up for one of these upcoming races or find ways to get more steps in around Columbia
For every Bradford Pear you remove from your property, Clemson and the Forestry Commission will give you a free replacement, but only while supplies last.
Get your calendars out and start booking your reservations at these Midlands eateries offering special dishes, menus, and deals for a limited time during Restaurant Week South Carolina.
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Dining in Columbia is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
Block parties, early ball drops, free games — whatever your vibe, there’s a Columbia-area New Year’s Eve for you.
South Carolina is reshaping its offense with coordinator Kendal Briles and longtime assistants Stan Drayton and Randy Clements joining Shane Beamer’s staff.
Columbia Food & Wine Festival returns with new Tastemakers memberships and a USC hospitality scholarship added to its five-day lineup.