terra alma has been engaged by TileTech Renewal Co. to shepherd the redevelopment of the largest tract in historic downtown Norcross. Located at 127 S. Peachtree Street, the property is more than an acre and contains several buildings. Called the South End, it will be the newest gathering place in Norcross and will incorporate new construction with the preservation and adaptive re-use of existing buildings.

One of the remaining buildings was the first gas station in downtown Norcross and is almost 100 years old. The two other buildings have been onsite for more than 70 years and were used for manufacturing and warehousing. TileTech Renewal Co. and terra alma are focused on preserving, enhancing and activating the South End to create a unique destination. To do so, they have overcome numerous environmental, legal, design and structural challenges. 

The owners purchased the property during COVID-19 pandemic, worked very hard to overcome a variety of challenges and are now actively under construction at South End Norcross. 

“Our goal is to gather the right mix of local and regional tenants to create a very special place where people want to linger, slow down and make real life connections with neighbors in their community,” said Edie Weintraub, Founder and Chief Community Builder, terra alma. “We are working with several restaurants, retailers, breweries and distillers and expect to make additional announcements soon.”

“We envision visitors enjoying a craft cocktail at one place, dining at the next and ending the night playing darts or listening to live music at the South End Stage. 

Several locally owned businesses already call South End Norcross home. The former Gas Station is now home to Rose & Hemp, a CBD store. Butter & Cream ice cream, based in Decatur, will open its third location at South End in September. Refuge Coffee Co. is putting final touches on its space and will open its fourth metro Atlanta location in September. 

A portion of the former tile shop was removed to extend Skin Alley through South End Norcross providing more walkability and connectivity to downtown Norcross. 

Weintraub says, “Look for the tile shop to become a restaurant or a wine bar. The Mayor, Craig Newton and City Council recently amended its zoning ordinance to accommodate the use.” 

“I’m happy that city leadership was open minded and progressive enough to consider amending its code to welcome an establishment like this. We are excited and look forward to the grand opening,” said William Corbin, Economic Development Director, City of Norcross. 

A food hall could soon be housed in the old engine building. This building has lots of historic nostalgia with its barrel shaped roof and colorful “love Norcross” mural on the front. 

“We also have 4,500 square feet of new construction that is perfect for brewery or a distillery with high ceilings. A microbrewery or distillery will have enough space to have some of its production on site,” comments Weintraub. The split-level building will also feature a speakeasy in the basement space.