Historic Columbia going behind the scenes at Claussen’s

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Historic Columbia is providing a chance to explore Five Points landmark Claussen’s Inn and learn about plans to bring boutique residential apartments to the space with a behind-the-scenes tour on Thursday, Jan. 17, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Claussen’s Bakery was built in 1928 for George Frederick Claussen, the grandson of a German immigrant who had previously established a steam bakery in Charleston, according to a news release. Claussen’s was a significant contributor to Columbia’s commercial and industrial development until it closed in 1963.

The tour will provide information on the building’s origins, its evolution and its future.

Documents filed with the city of Columbia’s Design/Development Review Commission show plans to convert the 27,000-square-foot property into 29 apartments averaging 400 square feet. The proposal, presented by Ryan Hyler and David Tuttle of Styx Claussens LLC, noted renovations would include the addition of kitchenettes to existing hotel rooms and improvements to common areas. Parking would be provided through a combination of ownership fees, leases and easements on surrounding properties.

Tour tickets are $35 for Historic Columbia members and $50 for non-members. Ticket sales, currently open to Historic Columbia members, will open to the public on Thursday, Jan. 10.

To register, visit historiccolumbia.org, email [email protected] or call 803-252-7742, extension 15.