NEW ORLEANS (April 27, 2017) – Audubon Communities, an Atlanta-based company specializing in the acquisition, repositioning and management of multifamily properties throughout the Southeast, has launched renovations of the retail space in the landmark American Can Apartments development in the vibrant Mid-City neighborhood. The project was designed by the local architectural firm Eskew+Dumez+Ripple, and Malin Construction will serve as the general contractor.
Opened in 2000, the retail space at American Can Company will receive a transformational makeover to improve the look and visibility from Orleans Avenue, as well as accessibility. A key component of the renovation is the installation of a walkway in front of the current shop spaces allowing shoppers to go from store to store without navigating stairways.
“We’ll be adding plate glass windows and improved lighting, as well as making the sidewalks easier to navigate,” said Chris Edwards, Managing Director of Audubon Communities, which acquired the property in 2013. “We think both consumers and our great merchants will enjoy having better views, enhanced signage and a more traditional, inviting retail look.”
The storefronts currently have front walls and paned windows that restrict views into and out of the shops. The retailers occupy an area that originally served as loading docks at the American Can Co. factory that operated in the historic complex from 1926 until 1988. New signage along the top of the
retail space will increase visibility from Orleans Avenue.
The retail space is 70-percent leased and features popular local spots, such as P.J.’s Coffee, X-Trainers and Pearl Wine Co. The shops serve not only the residents of the 268 apartments at American Can, but also residents of and visitors to the revitalized Mid-City area.
The renovation work will add about 1,000 square feet to the retail area and will be completed this spring, Edwards said. Jonathan Fawer and Emily Kramer with Corporate Realty, Inc., in New Orleans are handling retail leasing for the property.
“We think the more attractive look, additional space and consumer experience improvements are a benefit to not only American Can residents and the merchants, but to the neighborhood in general,” he said.
About Audubon Communities
Audubon is an Atlanta-based firm specializing in the acquisition and management of multifamily properties throughout the Southeastern region of the United States. With a senior staff that has collectively acquired, managed and renovated more than 30,000 apartment units, Audubon has a wide range of experience and expertise in repositioning multifamily assets. For more information, please visit https://acmapts.com.
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