South Carolina Department of Archives and History
National Register Properties in South Carolina

Kress Building, Richland County (1508 Main St., Columbia)
S1081774004401 S1081774004402 S1081774004403 S1081774004404
Facade Marquee Detail Terra Cotta
Cornice Detail
First Floor
Pilaster

Constructed ca. 1934, the Kress Building’s façade is the best example of the Art Deco style in Columbia. The Kress Building features a white glazed terra cotta façade, ornamented with colored terra cotta in shades of orange, green and blue, as well as stylized floral motifs and rounded surfaces, characteristics of the Art Deco style. The building is significant as one of the few buildings in Columbia of the Art Deco style. The first floor has two recessed entrances flanked by rounded storefront windows. Three fluted pilasters are located between windows. A marquee with rounded corners extends the width of the store. Above the marquee are eight second-story windows and the words “S.H. Kress and Co. 5-10-25 cent store.” The cornice contains the word “Kress” and is surmounted by a stepped parapet that slopes slightly upward to the center. A stylized floral motif caps the center of the parapet. The interior of the first floor retains its original appearance. The paneled ceiling has a chevron motif. Nine freestanding columns extend the length of the room. The octagonal columns on high pedestals have art deco capitals. Listed in the National Register March 2, 1979.

View the complete text of the nomination form for this National Register property. In addition, the Historic Resources of Columbia includes historical background information for this and other related National Register properties.

Most National Register properties are privately owned and are not open to the public. The privacy of owners should be respected. Not all properties retain the same integrity as when originally documented and listed in the National Register due to changes and modifications over time.

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