Developers move to tear down historic Myrtle Beach Kozy Korner building downtown

Myrtle Beach could say goodbye to a historic building, as developers move to tear down the former home of Kozy Korner.

Built in the 1930s, the downtown building located at 819 Main Street hosted the iconic Myrtle Beach tavern for years.

On Thursday, Doyle Architecture LLC went before the Myrtle Beach Community Appearance Board for a building permit to demolish the existing building.

The company needs board approval to move forward with the demolition, but the permit was neither approved nor denied at this week’s meeting.

Because of structural, plumbing and HVAC issues, representatives for Doyle Architecture said renovation isn’t an option.

In its place, Doyle Architecture plans to construct a new three-story, multi-use commercial building with a restaurant on the first floor and five apartments in the upper floors.

However, developers say the new building will be reminiscent of the historical structure. Doyle Architecture President Paul Doyle told the board the company plans to try to preserve the look and feel of the original building in the new construction.

“Because we understand the high profile nature of this site, we can design a building that pays respect to that, that honors that, that is very much in keeping with a lot of the things that you see, and so that’s what we set about doing,” said Doyle.

What residents are saying

The plan isn’t without detractors. Multiple residents questioned the proposed building, with concerns about the planned balconies and other cosmetic changes. Some took issue with Doyle Architecture’s vision for a mixed-use project with businesses and residences.

“We can’t lose the history that Myrtle Beach was built on,” said resident Carolyn Mates. “I can see improving it, and ... I think people living downtown is a great idea. It just seems out of place.

But Doyle Architecture representatives, as well as some council members, argue residential units will promote safety, draw in visitors and support business.

“I think for the district to be successful, you have to have residents there, not visitors,” Community Appearance Board member Joe Jumper said. “Even though we’re all locals, and we live here, and we want to go there, you have to have people that are leaving their apartment and walking down to the restaurant downstairs.”