Nov. 2, 2022

This paid piece is sponsored by Pendar Properties.

This downtown building is as sought-after today as it was more than a century ago, thanks to decades of family owners who are building on its proud past.

The Carpenter Building at 221 S. Phillips Ave. served as an exceptional hotel from 1912 to 1966.

One of the city’s earliest hotels, it was built by Frances Carpenter after the nearby Cataract Hotel – made of wood – had burned down twice.

The Carpenter’s claim to fame was being “fireproof” – built of concrete – and 110 years ago this month, it welcomed its first guests.

The likes of Katharine Hepburn, Bob Hope, Jimmy Dorsey and Benny Goodman were notable guests of the era as the hotel became known for hosting events in its grand ground-floor dining room and ballroom.

The Sioux Falls radio station KSOO had its first location in the hotel beginning in 1926, and architect Harold Spitznagel was hired to remodel it in 1940. In the 1950s, it became part of Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, and in 1966, Sheraton sold it to Nettleton College, which used it as a dormitory for business students.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, the six-story building was built in an early commercial style and later remodeled.

The Carpenter Building entered a new generation in the 1990s when it was renovated by new owners David and Carol Dyke, who converted the upper floors into apartments. It was purchased by the Scherschligt family, owners of Pendar Properties, in 2015.

“We had an interest in growing our real estate portfolio downtown, and the Carpenter Building was a ‘right place at the right time’ scenario that just couldn’t be passed up,” said Sarah Hall, a partner in the business. “The Dyke family did a lovely job with the layouts and construction, so we had a great canvas to start with.”

All 21 apartments, which are on floors three through six, subsequently have been updated in the past several years with new flooring, cabinetry, appliances, carpet, paint and more.

“Our motto is timeless charm with modern amenities,” Hall said. “I think the quality of the building and the rich history are what draw people in and keep them here.”

The Carpenter rarely has available apartments but currently does have one one-bedroom with “lovely downtown views and a spacious two-bedroom with a den,” Hall said.

“The Carpenter just has great energy, and the location is ideal. It’s right in the middle of downtown shopping, events, restaurants, parades and more.”

Residents at The Carpenter enjoy a grand lobby and staircase encased in marble, a newly built gym and locker room on the lower level, fireplaces in their apartments, access to outdoor patio seating on Phillips Avenue and private parking.

“We’re also continually improving the building, with plans for new windows and exterior tuckpointing, and we’re planning for private tenant outdoor space, so stay tuned,” Hall said.

The second floor is filled with offices, and the first floor has a fun mix of retail tenants, including the arcade bar EightyOne at the back of the lobby.

Phillips Avenue tenants include the new office for marketing firm Flynn Wright, Home Porch, Mrs. Murphy’s Irish Gifts, Optics, Say Anything Jewelry and Carpenter Bar.

“And our residential tenants have really created a great sense of community as well,” Hall said. “We have many longtime residents and loved providing this place for them to call home.”

To learn more about availability at The Carpenter and all Pendar properties, visit pendarproperties.com.