The beginning of a historic restoration addiction.
URBANaLofts, a luxury loft apartment building in Urbana, Ohio, stands as a testament to the city’s rich commercial history. The building's transformation into modern lofts preserves its historic charm, offering a unique blend of urban living within a structure that once housed a variety of local businesses.
The origins of this building trace back to the late 19th century, beginning with Warren W. Rock’s furniture store in 1897. Shortly thereafter, in 1901, John A. Banta, Jr., operated a Books & Wall Paper shop, adding to the building’s early commercial diversity. By the turn of the century, it was already becoming a significant part of Urbana’s bustling downtown.
Over the years, a number of prominent businesses occupied the building. In 1929, C.A. Squire’s Clothing store became a staple for local fashion, serving the community during a pivotal time of growth. Earlier, in 1893, Couffer & Wilson had operated a boots and shoes store, reflecting the town’s demand for quality goods. The Marsh Dry Goods store, later known as W.E. Marsh’s dry goods, occupied the space multiple times (1901, 1909, 1918, and 1937), adding to its reputation as a center for essential retail. W.E. Brown Real Estate and the Uhlman Department Store were later additions to the building, with Uhlman operating from 1939 through 1960, providing everything from clothing to a beauty salon, emblematic of mid-century department stores.
The building was also home to a variety of other enterprises. The Springfield Sun News Office had a location here in 1939, offering local residents access to news and journalism. Professional services, such as William Little’s accounting office (1948), operated alongside retail giants like Uhlman’s, providing a diverse set of offerings. The Eastern Star Lodge, a Masonic organization, utilized the building for gatherings during the mid-20th century, furthering its significance as a local landmark.
Today, as URBANaLofts, the building has undergone a transformation that preserves its historical elements while offering high-end living spaces. Its industrial bones, with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and large windows, are now juxtaposed with modern amenities. This adaptive reuse honors the building’s history while providing a stylish, contemporary living option for those drawn to its central location and rich historical atmosphere.
The building's storied past, filled with an array of businesses and services, makes URBANaLofts a symbol of Urbana's evolving community, blending history with luxury living.
