Once a beacon of the past, the historic Wilson Building has been masterfully transformed into Wilson Lofts, a vibrant mixed-use development. Featuring 33 exquisitely designed studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments alongside two thriving business incubators—Clinton Culinary and Makers on 5th—Wilson Lofts epitomizes the seamless integration of history and innovation. This $15.6 million redevelopment effort preserves the building's early 20th-century integrity while meeting contemporary needs. With an additional $1 million investment, the creation of Clinton Culinary and Makers on 5th marks the community's first business incubators, fostering opportunities for small businesses to start, expand, and thrive. This initiative underscores Economic Growth Corporation’s (GROWTH) commitment to cultivating a dynamic and diverse community through the revitalization of Wilson Lofts. The redevelopment has been a major contributor to the revitalization of downtown Clinton, supporting 171 temporary construction jobs and 5 permanent positions through the business incubators, with growth expected as more businesses open.
Residential Offerings
Wilson Lofts features 33 apartments, including studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom units. All units offer stainless steel appliances, above-range microwaves, and expansive countertops. Every unit is equipped with in-unit washer/dryers and practical storage solutions. Townhome-style layouts at the rear provide private entrances and upper-story lofts. On the second floor, diverse floor plans include units with views of downtown Clinton and glimpses of the Mississippi River. From floors three to six, Wilson Lofts maintains consistent layouts, ensuring a high standard of living with panoramic views unparalleled anywhere else in Clinton, Iowa.
Business Incubators
The ground floor activation has increased entrepreneurship, welcoming innovative businesses like Soi 5 Thai and GEOME + Ph.yla Store. This initiative is furthering and supporting local economic growth and job creation.
Clinton Culinary, a restaurant incubator providing 3 spaces for start up culinary entrepreneurs to to refine their products and expertise, aiming to scale up, create employment opportunities, and enhance the quality of life amenities for Clinton residents.
Makers on 5th, This retail/business incubator provides six spaces for ambitious entrepreneurs to establish, nurture, and bolster their skills and visibility, with aspirations to grow into larger storefronts within Clinton, Iowa.
Wilson Lofts, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recipient of the 2024 Preservation Iowa award, embodies Clinton's rich architectural heritage. Constructed between 1913 and 1916 in the Chicago Commercial Style, these buildings housed a variety of businesses and major national chains like J.C. Penney's and Walgreens Drug, shaping local commercial trends throughout the 20th century. Despite many ensuing challenges, the restoration effort preserved many original features, including the facade, historic corridors, and iconic elements like the original JCPenney sign and antique chifferobes.
Contact Us
For more information about leasing opportunities—both residential and business incubators—or to explore the rich heritage of this iconic landmark, please contact us or complete a pre-application for living, opening a restaurant, or opening your makers store today.
Fair Housing/ Equal Opportunity Statements: We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. Policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. Declaraciones de Vivienda Justa / Igualdad de Oportunidades: Estamos comprometidos con la letra y el espíritu de la política de los Estados Unidos para lograr igualdad de oportunidades de vivienda en toda la nación. Fomentamos y apoyamos un programa afirmativo de publicidad y mercadeo en el cual no existan barreras para obtener vivienda debido a raza, color, religión, sexo, discapacidad, situación familiar u origen nacional.