July 2011 - Blount Street Commons Sees Resurgence

Several historic homes under renovation in Downtown Raleigh

RALEIGH, N.C. – In case the crane and bulldozers weren't a clue, historic Blount Street Commons, a storied neighborhood in downtown Raleigh that has been undergoing revitalization is enjoying a welcomed momentum shift. Spanning 21 acres within the urban core, this quaint, prestigious neighborhood is seeing a whirlwind of construction activity with a number of projects underway.

"We are thrilled to see the dynamic revitalization of Blount Street Commons going strong once again," said David Welch, Southeast Region President of Blount Street's Development Company, LNR Property LLC. "We think this is a sign of good things to come for the downtown Raleigh real estate market."

As a result of Blount Street Common's recent spike in real estate activity, only two historic homes remain available in this phase of the revitalization project. In addition to the leasing of the Russ-Edwards home, the Jordan, Cowper, Bailey Gallant, and Russ homes have each been purchased and are either in the midst of the renovation process or have already undergone restoration.

" Lewis Smith House - Blount Street's sales center will be relocating to the stately Lewis Smith house at 515 N. Blount Street. Built in 1855, the two-story frame Greek Revival structure is on the National List of Historic Places and is designated as a Raleigh Historic Landmark.

" Jordan House – An Anglican church is renovating the Jordan House to use as administrative offices. Circa 1898, the Jordan House at 545 N. Blount Street is a handsome two-and-a-half-story, late Queen Anne style house with high, slate-shingled, hipped roof with cream brick corbelled chimneys.

" Cowper House - The Cowper house 501 N. Blount Street was built in 1895 in the late Victorian style of architecture. It is currently under renovation and will be used for either office or residential space.

" Russ-Edwards House – Gallery C, a local art gallery, is moving to the Russ-Edwards house on the corner of Blount and Peace Streets. This magnificent dwelling was built in 1901 for Raleigh Mayor William Russ. As one of the Southeast's leading fine art galleries, Gallery C features over 30 contemporary artists as well as historically important North Carolina art, Haitian art, folk art, animation art and antique prints.

On the new construction front, Live Oak Homes announced it intends to break ground on its next row home building later this summer. This expansion will add to the existing 10 units with 14 more to follow.

About Blount Street Commons
Blount Street Commons is a unique revitalization project currently underway in a quaint, historic section of downtown Raleigh. During its heyday at the turn of the century, Blount Street was one of the premier addresses in Raleigh. The 21-acre neighborhood in the Blount Street historic district will offer an upscale, urban lifestyle. Residents can choose from a wide range of home styles that are reminiscent of turn of the century architecture including Row Homes, Carriage Homes, and custom home sites. Also available are a select few historic homes built in the late 1800s to early 1900s. This pedestrian-friendly community will give residents and visitors the opportunity to walk to restaurants, parks, shops, and other retail businesses. For more information, visit blountstreetcommons.com.