Charleston, South Carolina, October 14, 2025
News Summary
The Navy Yard Charleston has announced its plans for a new Charleston Design District as part of the ongoing redevelopment efforts at the former naval site. This initiative focuses on blending historic preservation with modern amenities, including the renovation of Storehouse 8 and Storehouse 9. The completed renovations will provide new creative office spaces, restaurant opportunities, and luxury apartments, enhancing community life and economic growth in Charleston.
Charleston, South Carolina – The Navy Yard Charleston has unveiled plans for the new Charleston Design District amid ongoing redevelopment efforts that have transformed the once-decommissioned naval site since its closure in 1996. The revitalization aims to blend historic preservation with modern amenities, enhancing community life and economic opportunities.
The renovation projects have particularly concentrated on historic structures, notably Storehouse 8, built in 1908, and Storehouse 9, constructed in 1918. These buildings are being retrofitted to incorporate contemporary design while maintaining their original architectural integrity. Storehouse 8 showcases a two-story brick shell and steel structure, complementing Storehouse 9’s four-story brick and concrete framework.
A significant aspect of the renovation involves meticulous preservation efforts encompassing the restoration of existing brick walls, the rehabilitation of historic slate roofing, the replacement of copper gutters, restoration of cornices, and refurbishment of interior plaster walls. Challenges arose specifically with Storehouse 9’s unique barrier wall system, expertly engineered to withstand water intrusion without internal drainage. A comprehensive waterproofing solution was implemented, which included repointing mortar joints, installing sealants, and applying water repellents, all while strictly adhering to guidelines set forth by the State Historic Preservation Office.
While executing the renovations, construction teams encountered undocumented utility conflicts, such as a steam chiller line and an active storm sewer, necessitating significant reconfigurations of the drainage system. Proximity to the operating Palmetto Rail line also mandated that construction activities were confined to the western side of the site.
Extracting and sourcing historical materials proved challenging for Storehouse 8, requiring approximately 20% of slate shingles to be replaced with materials sourced from a quarry in Virginia. Furthermore, replicating the original copper gutters demanded a high level of craftsmanship, featuring over 24 breaks and curves. Despite these complications, the 17-month renovation was completed on schedule and within budget, achieving the impressive feat without any recordable incidents or lost-time accidents.
The completed renovations have resulted in the availability of 32,000 square feet of creative office space, 7,200 square feet of first-floor restaurant space, and 86 luxury apartments. Additionally, the project has recently been awarded a Carolopolis Award, recognizing its contributions to historic preservation. Local business owners have already begun moving into spaces within Storehouse 9, with plans for an upscale rooftop restaurant also in the works.
The broader Navy Yard Industrial Campus, distinct from Navy Yard Charleston, boasts over 2 million square feet of industrial space, contributing to over 4,000 jobs and generating an annual economic impact of $1 billion. The Charleston Design District aims to establish a vibrant hub for designers, featuring premium showroom spaces that include well-known companies like Kravet and Schumacher. The design district is scheduled to open in the fall, merging showroom experiences with dining options, including a rooftop restaurant at Storehouse 9.
Furthermore, future development plans for the overall project entail constructing 1,400 residences, with a portion earmarked for affordable housing. The development strategies emphasize the significance of harmonizing historical architecture with modern amenities, thereby fostering community revitalization and stimulating economic growth in the Charleston area.
FAQ
What is the Navy Yard Charleston redevelopment project?
The Navy Yard Charleston site has been evolving since its decommissioning in 1996, accommodating various businesses while preserving its naval heritage.
What buildings are being renovated?
Renovations were focused on historic Storehouse 8 (built in 1908) and Storehouse 9 (built in 1918) while integrating modern design elements.
What features are included in the completed renovation?
The completed space now includes 32,000 square feet of creative office space, 7,200 square feet of first-floor restaurant space, and 86 luxury apartments.
What awards has the project received?
The project recently received a Carolopolis Award for its contributions to historic preservation.
When is the Charleston Design District expected to open?
The design district, set to open in the fall, will integrate showroom space with dining experiences, including a rooftop restaurant at Storehouse Nine.
What are future development plans for the overall project?
Future development plans for the overall project include 1,400 residences with a portion set aside for affordable housing.
Key Features of the Navy Yard Charleston Redevelopment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Charleston, South Carolina |
| Historic Buildings | Storehouse 8 and Storehouse 9 |
| Completion Timeline | 17 months |
| Total Office Space | 32,000 square feet |
| Restaurant Space | 7,200 square feet |
| Luxury Apartments | 86 apartments |
| Award Received | Carolopolis Award |
| Charleston Design District Opening | Fall (year unspecified) |
| Future Residential Plans | 1,400 residences with affordable housing |
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Additional Resources
- ENR: Best Renovation and Restoration at Navy Yard Charleston
- Charleston City Paper: Navy Yard Charleston Takes Shape
- CHS Today: Charleston Design District to Debut at the Navy Yard
- ABC News 4: Navy Yard and Celadon Unite for Artisan Market
- JOC: Navy Base Rail Yard Project Faces Delays and Cost Overruns
- Wikipedia: Navy Yard Charleston
- Google Search: Navy Yard Charleston redevelopment
- Google Scholar: Navy Yard Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Navy Yard Charleston
- Google News: Navy Yard Charleston
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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