The Cannon Exchange Building
The CKC Development team had admired this corner site for nearly two decades, often wondering how such a prominent location in Charleston could remain home to a severely distressed building—one that served as the gateway to the beautiful Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. The property’s high acquisition cost had long deterred most investors, leaving it vacant and neglected for years.
Before acquiring the parcel, the CKC team worked closely with the neighborhood association to make the project financially viable. Through these efforts, the team secured a density variance, a parking variance, and an abandoned building tax credit, allowing the vision for the site to move forward.
The design goals were inspired by Charleston’s grand masonry landmarks, such as the Cigar Factory and the Preservation Society building. The objective was to create a monumental masonry structure that would serve as a timeless promenade into the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. Working with AJ Architects, the team brought this vision to life through ornately detailed brick columns, arches, and banding. Subtle contrast between the body and detail brickwork, along with patina green storefronts, windows, and wrought iron balconies, introduced a touch of color and texture. As the design evolved, the project was fittingly named The Cannon Exchange Building.
Given the ambition of the design, the building occupies nearly 95% of the site, maximizing both functionality and aesthetic presence. Constructing such a substantial structure on a site with no laydown area presented immense challenges. The construction team ingeniously utilized the ground floor as a staging area, delivering materials directly into what is now a beautiful restaurant space. Materials were hoisted floor by floor through the future stair towers, which were later completed as the structure rose.
The development program includes a 2,400-square-foot restaurant at street level, serving as an inviting addition to the community, and two luxurious 3,500-square-foot rental suites above. Each suite features a private rooftop deck with an outdoor kitchen, hot tub, and lounge area—perfect for entertaining or relaxation. A shared marble entry stair leads to the residences, which showcase custom trim packages, coffered ceilings, wainscoting, built-in queen bunk beds, and bespoke cabinetry. Interiors are finished with 7-inch natural white oak flooring, quartzite countertops, and high-end appliances, creating an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere.
These suites operate as premium short-term rentals, offering one of the most refined accommodation experiences in the Charleston market.
The CKC team is deeply proud to have revitalized such a blighted corner, transforming it into a lasting architectural statement. The Cannon Exchange Building now stands as a timeless testament to traditional Charleston craftsmanship and design, marking a new chapter for the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood.
