Summer Square Apartments in Columbia: What to Know Before You Move

Summer Square is a mid-rise apartment complex in downtown Columbia with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units

Summer Square sits at the corner of Sumter and Gervais Streets in Columbia's central business district, a few blocks from the State House and the Congaree River. The complex offers furnished and unfurnished apartments across multiple floor plans, with amenities that include a fitness center, rooftop terrace, and ground-floor retail space. The building itself is a converted historic structure, so the layout and finishes vary by unit.

The location puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and cultural venues along Main Street and the Congaree Vista arts district. If you work downtown or attend the University of South Carolina, the proximity cuts commute time significantly. Parking is available but limited, which matters if you own a car.

Key Takeaways

• Summer Square is located downtown on Sumter and Gervais Streets, within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the Congaree Vista arts district.
• The complex offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units in a converted historic building, so unit layouts and finishes vary.
• Amenities include a fitness center, rooftop terrace, and ground-floor retail, but parking is limited.
• Rent varies by floor plan, unit condition, and lease term, so contacting the leasing office directly gives you the most current pricing.

Unit types and what each floor plan includes

Studio apartments at Summer Square are the smallest option and suit single occupants or couples who spend little time at home. One-bedroom units offer a separate living area and are the most common configuration in the building. Two-bedroom apartments provide space for roommates, small families, or a home office, though availability is more limited than smaller units.

Some units come furnished with basic pieces; others are unfurnished shells where you bring your own furniture. The historic nature of the building means ceiling heights, window placement, and room dimensions differ between units even within the same floor plan. If natural light or a specific layout matters to you, ask the leasing office whether you can tour the actual unit you would rent, not just a model.

Amenities and what's nearby on foot

Inside the building, the fitness center includes cardio and weight equipment. The rooftop terrace offers views of downtown and the river, and it's a common gathering spot for residents. Ground-floor retail brings shops and cafes into the building itself, reducing the need to leave for everyday errands.

Outside Summer Square, you're a short walk from Main Street's restaurants and bars, the Congaree Vista's galleries and studios, and the Riverfront Park trail system. The State House and Columbia Museum of Art are within a ten-minute walk. If you rely on public transit, COMET buses run routes through downtown, though service frequency varies by line and time of day.

Parking and transportation

Summer Square has on-site parking, but spaces are limited and may not be available for every unit. Some residents pay an additional monthly fee for a dedicated spot; others use street parking or nearby lots. If you don't own a car, the downtown location is walkable for most daily needs, and COMET bus stops are nearby.

The building is not directly served by any single major transit corridor, so check the COMET website or app to confirm which routes serve your commute before signing a lease. Biking is feasible from downtown to many neighborhoods, and the Riverfront Park trail connects to the broader greenway network.

Lease terms and what to ask about

Lease lengths typically range from six months to one year, though terms vary. Rent depends on the unit size, floor, condition, and how long you commit to staying. The leasing office can tell you current pricing and any move-in specials or discounts they're running.

Before you sign, confirm what utilities are included in rent and what you pay separately. Ask whether pets are allowed and what the deposit or pet fee is. learn about parking is included or costs extra, and whether there are any restrictions on guests or noise hours. Request the lease in writing so you can review it at home rather than deciding on the spot.

How to contact the leasing office and schedule a tour

The leasing office is located in the building itself and is staffed during business hours. You can call, email, or visit in person to ask questions or request a tour. Having a list of questions ready—about specific units, lease terms, move-in costs, and pet policies—makes the conversation more efficient.

If you're touring during a weekday, you'll see the building in its quieter state. Visiting on an evening or weekend gives you a feel for noise levels and foot traffic. Ask the leasing agent about turnover rates and how long residents typically stay, as that can tell you something about the community and management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Summer Square a good fit if I don't have a car?

Yes, if you work or study downtown or in nearby neighborhoods. The location is walkable for groceries, restaurants, and entertainment. COMET buses serve downtown, though you'll want to check which routes match your commute before committing to a lease.

Can I see the actual unit I'd be renting, or only a model?

Ask the leasing office whether the specific unit you're interested in is available to tour. If it's occupied, they may show you a similar unit or a model. Since the building is historic and units vary, seeing your actual apartment matters if layout or condition is important to you.

What are the typical move-in costs beyond the first month's rent?

Most apartments require a security deposit, usually equal to one month's rent. Some charge a non-refundable application or administrative fee. Parking, pet fees, and utility deposits may add to the total. The leasing office will provide a full breakdown in writing before you sign.

Is the rooftop terrace open to all residents?

Yes, it's a shared amenity for everyone in the building. Hours and any guest policies vary, so ask the leasing office about access and whether there are quiet hours or event restrictions.

How far is Summer Square from the University of South Carolina campus?

The main campus is roughly a mile away, a 15 to 20-minute walk or a short bus ride depending on which part of campus you need to reach. COMET routes connect downtown to the university, though service frequency and timing depend on the specific line.