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COLUMBIA, SC — The Whitney Hotel is transforming into luxury apartments set to begin leasing in August with a new name: 700 Woodrow.
The apartments in the building that stands at the corner of Woodrow and Devine streets are being renovated to include new appliances, new flooring, new countertops and more.
“We’re taking a landmark building that’s been in Columbia for 30 years and updating it and making it better for all those around Devine Street and in Columbia,” said Teresa Hodge, of Estates Management Co., which will manage 700 Woodrow.
The company got a zoning change and parking variance from the city to convert the hotel into apartments.
The seven-story complex will have as many apartments as it did hotel rooms. There will be 61 two-bedroom units with two bathrooms, renting for $1,195 monthly and up, and 14 one-bedroom, one bathroom units, renting for $850 and up.
The kitchens will have stainless steel appliances, built-in microwaves, tile backsplashes, granite countertops and wooden cabinets. Other features of the apartments will include designer lighting with ceiling fans, simulated hardwood floors, brushed nickel faucets, ceramic tile in the bathrooms and washer/dryer connections.
Other amenities for residents will include a social lounge with a coffee bar and TVs and a concierge desk staffed full time.
“This is just a nice makeover,” Hodge said. “It’s going to look great.”
Originally built in the early 1980s as a condominium building, the Whitney was converted to a suite-hotel by the end of 1986.
Now that it’s converting to apartments, the demographic of those living at the property will most likely be young professionals, Hodge said. She said the company’s properties, which include 42 Magnolia in Forest Acres and Arcadia’s Edge in Arcadia Lakes, tend to have more mature clients including graduate students and professors.
“We’re very excited about the demographic and the clientele it will bring in to Devine Street,” said Matt Mundy, of Estates Management Co.
He said the people dining and shopping in the area will be a boost to the economy and help the retailers in the area.