The Taylor Building Celebrates 100 Years!

The Taylor Building Celebrates 100 Years!

The Taylor Building sits on the prominent corner of Florida and Third Streets has been a part of downtown Baton Rouge's history for 100 years! 6 decades of that time the building has been owned and operated by Ben Taylor III and his family.

History: The building’s history began on October 30, 1923, when, under the ownership of the Elks Theater Co., it was renamed the Triad Co. The company's purpose was to "purchase and own real estate, and to improve real estate by erecting buildings thereon." The Triad Building was completed the following year, with part of the ground floor leased to the Cumberland Telephone and Telegraph Co. The building is considered significant not only as a major office structure but also for its distinct visual presence, despite not following any particular architectural style. In 1906, Camille and Eugene Caredessus became its next owners. Then, in 1964, Ben Taylor III's parents purchased the property with plans for a quick renovation and sale. However, the building's value as a long-term investment soon became apparent. The Taylors opted to lease it to various downtown businesses, transforming what was initially seen as a short-term flip into a lifelong project for the family. The Taylor Building sits on Florida and Third Street

The Triad Building

Ben Taylor: Ben, who started helping out in the building at just 14 years old, has played a key role in keeping this space thriving. What began as a project his parents took on in 1964 has grown into a long-standing fixture in the downtown community for decades. He took full ownership of the building in 1980 and has since overseen $200,000 worth of renovations, ensuring that the building remains a vibrant and functional part of downtown Baton Rouge. Another notable company that was in the Taylor Building was Gulf South Research Institute (GSRI) in the 1960's. The Downtown Development District (DDD) has called the Taylor Building home for over a decade.

Ben Taylor, owner of the Taylor Buildings, pictured on Third Street in 1983. Photo credit - The Advocate

Importance: For Ben, the greatest reward of owning the Taylor Building is not about financial motivations or the well-maintained property—it’s the people. Over the years, he’s formed countless connections, none more memorable than his friendship with the late Davis Rhorer, former executive director of the DDD.

Davis Rhorer, former DDD executive director pictured on Third St. in Downtown Baton Rouge. Photo Credit - Baton Rouge Business Report

The future: As Ben looks to the future, he plans to pass the building down to his daughter, ensuring that the Taylor legacy continues for generations to come. But for now, Ben is as hands-on as ever, dedicating his time to both his building and the downtown community. Often working from before sunrise until mid-afternoon, seven days a week, Ben makes sure the businesses leasing his spaces are well taken care of and that downtown remains clean and welcoming. The current tenants of the Taylor Building include, Schlitz and Giggles Pizza, Faye's Salads and Subs, Parole Project, and more.

Thanks to Ben Taylor and his family, this historic building will continue to be a vibrant part of Baton Rouge’s downtown for years to come!