Construction on the Cigar Factory, has begun. The 127-year-old building at 701 East Bay Street is being renovated to replicate its original design and beauty, and to pay homage to its history and location.

Construction will take place over the next 20 months and developers are aiming for a Fall 2010 opening. Construction will start with installation of silt fence and containment system. That will be followed by removal of all structures not original to the building, installing new mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and replacing windows with hurricane resistant glass that mirror the original windows. Trident Construction is the General Contractor on the project.  

Outside night rendering

Senior Development Project Manager Scott McKenna explains: “The Cigar Factory is significant for its physical presence on the peninsula, and for its history. We’re excited to preserve its best features and bring modern new materials and techniques to bear in its reinvention.

When complete, the Cigar Factory will feature 66 loft condominiums and 40,000 square feet of retail and 25,000 square feet of office space. Lofts range in size from 800 to 2,800 square feet and boast 15-foot ceilings, hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, open kitchens and floor plans and much more. Private amenities include: pool, screening room, formal Charleston garden, garages, private wine cellar, fitness center, rooftop observation deck and concierge and shuttle services. Retail spaces will be configured for restaurants, upscale shops and galleries.

Stop by the sales center between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. at 701 East Bay Street, call 843.577.3600 or visit www.CigarFactoryCharleston.com.

Check out the great article in The Post & Courier about The Cigar Factory.