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.
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.
Asked
Asked
What type of retail shops would you like to see at the ground level of the new apartments at Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue?
A. Grocery or everyday market B. Fitness or wellness studio C. Boutique retail or vintage shop D. Local restaurant or coffee shop
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Beyond the bites, Gather COLA will soon welcome retail vendors like The Avenue Events’ Flower Pop-Up, Ageless SC’s vintage finds, and Crumbl Cookies. The food hall’s new retail vendors add florals, curated goods, and sweet treats to the mix. Opening details coming soon.
Biz
After nearly 25 years in the same spot, Ed’s Editions Bookstore is relocating — but staying in the same building. The West Columbia indie shop will close out 2025 in its current space and reopen in a new unit on Thursday, Jan. 15.
Listen
Hailing from Columbia, Americana artist Michael Haney has released “Fool’s Gold (Stripped)” and will debut “Lucky One” on Thursday, Oct. 24. Now signed to Nashville’s Rock Ridge Music, Haney also curates the Nashville Nights songwriter series at Steel Hands Brewing.
The Word
Noctourism. That’s the name of one of this year’s hottest travel trends, in which people soak in experiences after dark. Think: stargazing, night markets, dinner cruises. Given that it’s October, these local haunted houses are the perfect way to join the fun. (The Traveler)
Eat
Looking for a pizza the action? Columbia didn’t make The Food Network’s 50 States of Pizza Slices list, but we think they’re sleeping on our pizza scene. Whether you’re after thin crust, funky toppings, deep dish, or take out gems, we’ve got plenty of great pizzerias in town.
Read
The nominees are out for this year’s National Book Awards, with some stellar books on the docket. Categories include fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and translated works. Whatever your choice of read, we recommend picking up something written by a Columbian. (NPR) Drink Craft beer is facing a dry spell. Sales were down 4% last year, and for the first time in 20 years, more breweries have closed than opened nationwide in the last 18 months. Luckily, Austin’s taps are still flowing — raise a glass with these Cola-centric brews. (The New York Times)
Travel
Did someone say road trip? Pack your boots, binoculars, and sense of wonder before heading out to South Carolina’s Old English District. Explore scenic trails, state parks, and some good old-fashioned fresh air. Start planning.*
Number
1 million+. That’s how many men use Particle Face Cream, a six-in-one formula that tackles eye bags, wrinkles, and puffiness. Save 20% with code 6AM20.*
Jobs
Tired of wading through resumes from applicants that are states away? Ditch oversaturated national job boards for our locally focused Job Board. Get started at no cost — post unlimited job listings for free.
Seasonal
The holiday season is prime time for scams — from fake shopping sites to too-good-to-be-true deals. Learn how to protect your wallet (and your peace of mind) before you start checking off that gift list.*
The Buy
A set of non-slip stair carpet treads. We love that they feature a peel off backing for easy installation and no leftover residue. Bonus: They’re ultra-soft, durable, and easy to clean.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Last Thursday evening, we shared the lineup for the Jam Room Music Festival at an event at WECO Bottle and Biergarten. This year’s free festival is part of the grand reopening of Finlay Park. I made a playlist featuring all the artists, but I’m especially excited for Sunny War, Ryan Davis and the Roadhouse Band, and Steve Ray Ladson — marking his first big hometown performance since reaching the finals of “America’s Got Talent.”
