PRESS & AWARDS
703 W Broadway
Girard Homes understands and respects the passion many community members have for Columbia’s historic neighborhoods and architecture. We appreciate the conversations taking place regarding this property and understand why residents care deeply about preserving the character of the area.
As part of our due diligence process, we have been carefully evaluating the condition of the existing structure and exploring all potential options for the property, including the feasibility of restoration and redevelopment. Over the years, the home has undergone significant modifications, including being divided into multiple rental units. Along with the structural and condition-related challenges identified during evaluation, these changes have made the property substantially different from its original design and have added complexity to discussions around restoration and long-term viability.
No final decision regarding the future of the structure has been made at this time and because we are still in the evaluation process, no final plans for future construction have been submitted or approved to the city. Rumors and assumptions currently circulating online regarding the future home, pricing, or design are simply inaccurate.
If redevelopment ultimately becomes the direction taken, our intention would be to create a home that respects the character, scale, and feel of the surrounding neighborhood while providing a safe, functional, and livable structure for modern use. We believe thoughtful development can honor the spirit of a historic area while also contributing positively to the future of the neighborhood. Our intention has always been to approach the property thoughtfully and respectfully, with the goal of contributing something positive to the neighborhood.
As a locally owned company, we care deeply about the communities we build in and take pride in contributing positively to Columbia’s neighborhoods. We remain committed to being thoughtful and respectful throughout this process and appreciate the community’s interest and feedback.
Inside Columbia: 2023 Faces of Columbia THE FACE OF CUSTOM HOMES
As a third-generation home builder, Zack Girard continued his family legacy when he founded Girard Homes. Nine years later, Girard continues to bring his clients’ ideas to life. “We get to work with some really great clients to help them and figure out how to make their dream home a reality,” he says.
COMO Mag: The Home & Real Estate
If your idea of a dream home is a new build brimming with modern features and luxury finishes that does cookie-cutter styles, Girard Homes may be the builder for you. GH has been in business since 1983, becoming GH in 2016, and currently is in its third generation of ownership. Clients receive guidance at every step of the building process, from choosing a lot if they don’t already have one, to picking out the bathroom tile.
Inside Columbia: 2023 Women to Watch
As a youngster Becky Erdel had an eye for design. Rearranging rooms in her parents’ home was a frequent event. Eventually, Erdel came to realize this behavior was more than a simple hobby. “It was my way of being creative with space. It became my passion,” Erdel says. Now a designer at Girard Homes, Erdel says watching her clients light up when they see their new home is the best part of her job.
