Sold! 80 Ashley Avenue
Historic Charleston Foundation is pleased to share that 80 Ashley Avenue, a Revolving Fund property in Harleston Village, has been sold to preservation-minded owners who are committed to restoring the historic building and maintaining a compatible commercial use at this prominent neighborhood corner.
Built in 1929, 80 Ashley Avenue was originally designed for commercial use and has served over the years as a grocery store, filling station, and office. Unfortunately, the building sat vacant for more than 30 years and suffered significant deterioration. Although it had always been used commercially, the property's zoning was residential, and previous efforts to secure approvals for commercial use were unsuccessful due to concerns about neighborhood impacts. (Read more about its history HERE.)
Recognizing the importance of preserving the building and finding an appropriate long-term use, HCF purchased the property through its Revolving Fund in 2023. After completing stabilization work, the Foundation sought buyers who shared its commitment to preservation. A preservation easement attached to the deed will protect the property in perpetuity, giving HCF oversight of future changes and ensuring that any modifications and uses remain compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.
The new owners plan to use the building as a construction and interior design office and meeting space. Plans prepared by Glenn Keyes Architects include a modest half-story addition above the garage portion of the building. The project has already received approval from the city's Board of Zoning Appeals and Board of Architectural Review, and construction is expected to begin in the coming months.
Vibrant cities thrive when thoughtfully scaled commercial uses are woven into residential neighborhoods. We are excited to see 80 Ashley Avenue once again become an active and contributing part of Harleston Village and the city as a whole.
Proceeds from the sale will be reinvested into HCF's Revolving Fund, allowing the Foundation to protect and preserve another endangered historic property in the future.
