Central Square at Watermark Apartments: What to Know About This Midtown Columbia Community

Central Square at Watermark is a mixed-use apartment community in Midtown Columbia with retail and dining on the ground floor and residential units above

Central Square at Watermark sits at the corner of Main and Gervais Streets in downtown Columbia's Midtown district. The development combines apartments with street-level shops and restaurants, placing residents within walking distance of dining, entertainment, and services. The building's design reflects the area's shift toward mixed-use urban living, where you can walk to coffee, groceries, and nightlife rather than drive to separate locations.

The property is managed by Watermark Residential, a developer and operator of apartment communities across the Southeast. Central Square opened as part of Columbia's downtown revitalization effort, adding residential density to a neighborhood that had been primarily commercial and office space. The location puts you near the Congaree River, the State House grounds, and the Five Points entertainment district.

Key Takeaways

• Central Square at Watermark is located at Main and Gervais Streets in Midtown Columbia, within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
• The community includes ground-floor retail and dining options alongside residential units, creating a live-work-play environment in an urban setting.
• Watermark Residential manages the property and handles leasing, maintenance, and resident services through their office on-site.
• The neighborhood offers proximity to the Congaree River, downtown attractions, and Five Points, though street parking and urban density come with the location.

Floor Plans and Unit Types

Central Square offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans. Unit sizes and layouts vary, with some featuring balconies or patios overlooking Main Street or interior courtyards. Finishes typically include stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and wood-style flooring, though specific features depend on the floor plan and unit location.

Rent varies by unit size, floor level, and lease term. The property does not publish rates online; you contact the leasing office directly for current pricing and availability. Lease terms are typically 12 months, though shorter or longer terms may be available depending on the property's current needs.

Amenities and Community Features

Central Square includes a fitness center, a resident lounge, and a rooftop area. The ground-floor retail and dining tenants serve both residents and the broader Midtown community, so you have restaurants and shops accessible without leaving the building. Parking is available but limited, as is typical for urban downtown locations; some units include assigned spots while others use a shared lot or street parking.

The building's location means you have walkable access to Soda City Market (a weekend farmers market on Main Street), nearby coffee shops, and restaurants throughout Five Points and the Midtown corridor. The Congaree River greenway is a short walk away, offering trails and outdoor space.

How to Contact Watermark Residential

The leasing office is located on-site at Central Square. You can visit in person during business hours to tour units, discuss floor plans, and ask about current availability and pricing. Watermark Residential also maintains a website where you can request information or schedule a tour online.

When you contact the leasing office, have questions ready about parking arrangements, pet policies, lease terms, and any utilities included in rent. Ask about move-in costs, including security deposit and any administrative fees. The leasing team can walk you through the lease process and explain what to expect as a resident.

Parking and Transportation

Parking at Central Square is limited because of the downtown location and building footprint. Some units include assigned parking; others rely on a shared lot or street parking on Main and Gervais Streets. Street parking in Midtown is metered during business hours and free in the evenings and on weekends, though availability varies by time and day.

The location is walkable to most Midtown services and entertainment. If you use public transportation, COMET (Columbia's bus system) has routes serving downtown and the Midtown corridor. The proximity to Main Street and Five Points means many residents walk or bike for daily errands and social activities rather than drive.

Neighborhood Context and Nearby Attractions

Central Square sits in the heart of Midtown Columbia, a neighborhood that has transformed over the past decade from a primarily commercial district into a mixed-use urban area. The Five Points district, a few blocks away, is known for independent restaurants, bars, and shops. The South Carolina State House and grounds are within walking distance, as is the Congaree River greenway system.

Soda City Market, held on Main Street every Saturday morning, draws residents and visitors for local produce, crafts, and food vendors. The nearby Midtown shops and restaurants include everything from casual cafes to upscale dining. If you work downtown or in the Midtown area, the location can reduce commute time significantly.

What to Consider Before Moving In

Urban living at Central Square means street noise, limited parking, and higher density than suburban apartments. Main Street and Gervais Street see regular traffic, especially during business hours and weekends. If you are sensitive to noise or prefer quiet surroundings, ask the leasing office which units face interior courtyards rather than the street.

Parking is a real constraint; if you own multiple vehicles or need may provide assigned parking, confirm what the property offers before signing a lease. Pet policies vary, so clarify breed and size restrictions if you have animals. The building's urban setting also means less green space than suburban communities, though the Congaree River greenway and nearby parks partially offset this.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Central Square and other downtown Columbia apartments?

Central Square combines residential units with ground-floor retail and dining, so you have shops and restaurants in the same building. The location at Main and Gervais puts you in the heart of Midtown rather than on the edge of downtown, making it more walkable to Five Points and neighborhood services. Other downtown buildings may be office-to-residential conversions or have different retail tenants.

Do I need a car to live at Central Square?

Many residents live car-free or with one vehicle because of the walkable location and COMET bus access. However, parking is limited, so if you own multiple vehicles or need may provide assigned parking, discuss options with the leasing office before moving in. Street parking is available but not always convenient during peak hours.

What utilities are included in rent?

Utility inclusion varies by lease and unit type. Contact the leasing office directly to learn which utilities (water, trash, internet, etc.) are covered and which you pay separately. This affects your total monthly cost and should factor into your budget.

Is Central Square pet-friendly?

Pet policies are set by Watermark Residential and may include breed or size restrictions and additional fees. Ask the leasing office about their current pet policy, any deposits or monthly pet rent, and which areas of the building are available to pets.

Can I tour units before signing a lease?

Yes. The leasing office schedules tours of available units so you can see the floor plan, finishes, and views before committing. You can visit in person or request a tour online through Watermark Residential's website. Seeing the unit and asking about noise, parking, and neighbor density helps you make an informed decision.