10/16/2026
🏆 Award Spotlight!! Outstanding Historic Rehabilitation Project | Castle Properties & The Collective Co.
Through the leadership of Mark Castleberry, the former Korean Church building on South Lafayette Street in Starkville has provided a meaningful transformation for downtown. Originally built in 1929 as the Slaughter Chevrolet dealership, the building has served as a grocery store, Radio Shack, candle factory, and later the Korean Church beginning in 1992.
Mark Castleberry led a $1.4 million renovation using historic tax credits to preserve its character while preparing it for modern use. The project included both interior and exterior improvements, reopening tall ceilings and exposed beams to restore its original open design. Updates like a new roof, windows, refinished floors, and a refreshed façade—including a floral mural by Mississippi artist Deborah Mansfield—brought new life to the space.
Today, the building thrives with Castle Properties offices downstairs and The Collective Company’s home décor and design showroom upstairs, creating a vibrant mixed-use destination in the heart of Starkville.