SC Biz News Top Projects 2025 – The Morris

The Morris, a $31.8 million mixed-use development at 1080-1090 Morrison Drive in Charleston, transformed a challenging triangular site into a resilient coastal workspace. Completed in January 2024, the 100,000-square-foot project overcame significant constraints including a busy street frontage, adjacent railroad tracks, four-foot grade differential and flood zone requirements.

The Middleton Group, led by Blake Middleton, designed two complementary structures that respect Charleston’s historic character while embracing modern functionality. The primary three-story office building establishes street presence along Morrison Drive, with the third floor stepping back 15 feet to create human-scaled proportions. A smaller corner building anchors the development with ground-floor restaurant space and second-floor office.

Samet Corporation constructed the buildings using post-tensioned concrete and cast-in-place construction methods to withstand coastal conditions. The first floor sits two feet above flood elevation, accessed through a multi-level plaza that gracefully manages the elevation change while preserving a grand oak tree as the courtyard centerpiece.

The 350-space parking deck, strategically positioned along the railroad tracks, connects seamlessly to all building levels. Interior spaces feature 16-foot floor-to-floor heights, customizable tenant suites, and wellness-focused common areas with color-coded themes for focus, nourishment, and play across the three floors.

Working with Cowan Nakios Group as developer, the project pursues Well Building Silver certification through biophilic design, MERV 13 air filtration, and abundant natural lighting. The development creates community connection through its publicly accessible courtyard and pedestrian-friendly streetscape, integrating preservation with progress in Charleston’s evolving urban landscape.