Atlanta’s Westside Adaptive Reuse Projects in Foreclosure

Historic buildings turned into creative spaces in Atlanta

News Summary

The adaptive reuse projects on Atlanta’s Upper Westside, including notable tenants like a Michelin-starred restaurant, are facing foreclosure due to a defaulted loan of $84 million. This economic strain impacts the future of the Westside Collective, a 360,000 square foot portfolio owned by Crestlight Capital and J.P. Morgan Global Alternatives. With high vacancy rates and increasing rental prices, the community is concerned about the fate of these vibrant spaces that contribute to the local culture.

Atlanta’s Westside Buzz: Adaptive Reuse Projects Face Foreclosure

Residents of Atlanta’s Upper Westside are buzzing with concern as the area’s adaptive reuse projects, an exciting blend of historic charm and modern utility, face an uncertain future. These creative spaces, home to notable tenants like a gourmet Michelin-starred restaurant and a local brewing favorite, are now under the looming shadow of foreclosure.

A Shuffle in Ownership

Ownership of the projects falls to Crestlight Capital and J.P. Morgan Global Alternatives, two investment firms based in Detroit. The dynamic duo acquired these properties back in October 2021 for a hefty sum of $114 million. However, the changing tides of the economic landscape have left them vulnerable. A public foreclosure auction is on the horizon, set for March 4 at the Fulton County Courthouse, organized by Wells Fargo.

Understanding the Default

The spotlight on this issue centers on a staggering $84 million loan that has unfortunately defaulted. Originally, when the loan was taken out, interest rates were embarrassingly low, making it an enticing deal. Fast forward to last fall, and those interest rates soared to their highest levels in a generation, making it a difficult venture for the current owners.

The Westside Collective: A Hidden Gem

The properties involved are collectively known as the “Westside Collective,” and they certainly pack a punch when it comes to size and potential. Spanning a whopping 360,000 square feet, this portfolio includes:

79,000 square feet at the Inland Tract
110,000 square feet at Complex West Midtown
83,000 square feet at Puritan Mill
91,000 square feet at Ellsworth Office Lofts

Despite the foreboding news, these buildings boast unique architectural styles and vibrant interiors that attract a creative demographic. The Westside Collective stands at roughly 70% leased, highlighting the popularity of the tenants who occupy these spaces. Businesses like Bold Monk Brewing Co. and Bacchanalia bring a lively atmosphere that the community enjoys.

The Future is uncertain

With a noteworthy vacancy rate exceeding 50% for Class-A office space in the Westside submarket, it raises the question of what’s next for this part of Atlanta. As companies navigate post-pandemic adjustments, many have shifted their focus to cheaper office spaces prevalent in Midtown, which may ultimately jeopardize the allure of these trendy venues.

Market Trends

The trend in rental rates adds another layer to the unfolding narrative. Currently, rental prices in the Westside region have soared beyond $48 per square foot, notably higher than the average across Metro Atlanta. This steep pricing might deter potential tenants, leaving some spaces empty and waiting for new occupants.

Beautiful but Empty

Despite the stunning aesthetics of the projects in question, there’s a growing concern that filling vacancies may take longer than anticipated. Developers previously expressed enthusiasm for creative office spaces, influenced by plans for a Microsoft corporate campus—plans that have since been shelved. As we navigate this new reality, it appears that the once-hopeful momentum has slowed.

Looking Ahead

As the situation develops, Cushman & Wakefield is on hand to market the Westside Collective on behalf of Wells Fargo, offering options for seller financing. Interested parties might explore purchasing individual pieces or consider the entire portfolio. For Atlanta’s Upper Westside, the stakes couldn’t be higher as locals hold their breath, watching closely how this foreclosure saga unfolds.

Ultimately, this chapter could become a vital narrative in Atlanta’s ever-evolving landscape, where the tension between preservation and progress continues to be a focal point.