Lazarus Building, Commercial landmark in Downtown Columbus, United States
The Lazarus Building is a commercial landmark in Downtown Columbus featuring varied height across its frontages. The structure stretches along High Street with five levels and extends to seven levels along Front Street, creating distinct visual sections.
The building opened in 1909 as the flagship store for F&R Lazarus & Company, anchoring downtown shopping for nearly a century. The department store operated continuously until closing in 2004, ending a significant chapter in the city's retail history.
The building holds memories as a major shopping destination that shaped how residents spent their time downtown. The seasonal window displays created a tradition that drew people together and became part of the city's social rhythm.
The building now houses government offices, an Ohio State University arts program, restaurants, and various businesses across its floors. When visiting, expect multiple entry points as different tenants occupy separate sections of the structure.
The building introduced the first escalator to Columbus when it opened, a novelty that changed how shoppers moved through department stores. A rooftop water collection system cools the structure and supports its LEED Gold environmental certification.
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