Deary Residence, FDR & Associates, Inc.
1521 Laurel Street

Past winner of an Historic Columbia Foundation Preservation Award, this mansion is an excellent example of both adaptive use and rehabilitation, as owners Ted and Danielle Deary both work and live here. With the basement and attic slated as future restoration projects, the property remains, in some respects, a work in progress.

This large, two-story, wood frame building boasts a two-story porch with a curved front and double ionic columns, a creative retelling of features generally acknowledged as Greek Revival in style, which was popular in America from 1820-1850. Interest in classical architecture resurfaced during the early twentieth century in the Neoclassical style as wealthy citizens built imposing homes to signify their status. Inside, the building has been altered from its original symmetrical floor plan to accommodate the needs of its previous and current owners. Outside, the structure has changed little. An entablature featuring a festooned frieze and a modillion-block cornice add character to the roofline. Three dormers with Venetian windows pierce the roofline to allow light and air into the attic, which was used as apartments for some time.

By 1912, Edgar O. Black, president of the Equitable Building and Loan Company and local entrepreneur had the mansion constructed for his family, which retained ownership until 1999. Black used the basement to run a one-man bank and subdivided much of the house into apartments during the Depression. Door numbers from the home's apartment days still hang, and a large safe stands open next to an old bank teller counter. In returning their home to a single-family residence and business, the Dearys have maintained much of these unique features while installing modern amenities.

Staci Richey and John Sherrer

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