Exciting New Developments Coming to Downtown Columbia!
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as officials have just announced plans for an amazing new space that will soon be a hub of activity in the BullStreet District! The project, dubbed The Lawn, is set to make its debut in the first half of 2025 and promises to be a place where locals can gather, relax, and enjoy some fantastic food and entertainment.
What to Expect at The Lawn
The Lawn will span a spacious 1-acre and will be nestled right between the WestLawn office building and the Bennet at BullStreet apartment complex. This community hub will feature a striking 3,750-square-foot artificial turf play area, complete with tiered seating, an event stage, and cozy café and bistro tables for those looking to unwind. With catenary lights creating a warm and inviting atmosphere and speakers installed for top-notch sound, it sounds like the perfect spot for families and friends to connect!
A Slice of Heaven with Coastal Crust
But that’s not all! The Lawn will also be home to a brand-new Coastal Crust Wood-fired Pizza restaurant, marking its first location in Columbia. This beloved pizza chain currently has several spots across South Carolina, including Greenville and Mount Pleasant, and it is sure to be a welcome addition to the area. What sets Coastal Crust apart is their custom-built, over 900-degree oven that infuses each pizza with a delicious smoky aroma, thanks to their use of kiln-dried oak wood.
Robert Hughes, the CEO of Hughes Development, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We were looking for just the right restaurant that reflects what The Lawn is all about, and we were thrilled to get Coastal Crust to do just that.” With exciting dishes on the menu, the Coastal Crust team is eager to provide families and guests with an “elevated casual experience”.
The Bigger Picture: BullStreet Development
The upcoming addition of The Lawn is part of a larger vision for revitalizing the former State Mental Hospital site along Bull Street, which is a sprawling 181-acre project. The city has already invested over $100 million in infrastructure to accommodate this growing urban space that includes hundreds of apartments and residential units, all taking shape beautifully. And it’s not just homes; the site is also anchored by notable establishments like the Columbia Fireflies baseball team, a Starbucks, an REI outdoor store, and the popular Publico restaurant, among others.
More Exciting Additions on the Way
Columbia’s BullStreet District is on fire with growth! Recently, fitness studio Pvolve opened its doors, and seafood restaurant chain Shuckin’ Shack is developing a new location in the district. Another treat for food lovers is the upcoming Southern brunch spot, Tupelo Honey, which is under construction near the iconic Segra Park. Coffee enthusiasts can look forward to a new location from the trendy Greenville-based Methodical coffee company, along with a high-end salon, Image Studios, which has just opened its doors as well!
A Bright Future Ahead
With a medical school campus planned by the University of South Carolina projected at $300 million on the northeast side of the BullStreet property, the district’s transformation is just getting started. Retail options, dining experiences, and a vibrant community life are on the horizon, making Columbia an even more exciting place to live, work, and play!
Stay tuned for more updates as this project unfolds; The Lawn is sure to be a central point of gathering and fun in the heart of Columbia!