James River Nurseries recently embarked on an exciting project: the landscaping of the first phase of Westhampton Commons, a new mixed-use development located at the northwest corner of Libbie and Patterson avenues.
Talk about a storied piece of property! This site has a rich history, having been home to the old Westhampton School, which consisted of two structures. The first building was erected in 1917, positioned closest to the corner of Libbie and Patterson, and the second structure was added in the 1930s. Over the years, the school served its educational purpose, but as time and circumstances evolved, a redevelopment of the property became necessary. After many twists and turns in finding the right fit for the property (we'll spare you the details), it was decided that the original 1917 building would be renovated while the 1930s structure would be razed.
The newly renovated iconic building is now set to take on a new role as a commercial office space. This historic structure will be part of a larger development that includes office spaces, apartments, retail shops, a three-level parking deck, and an outdoor plaza, all totaling over 250,000 square feet.
At James River Nurseries, one of the coolest aspects of our work—aside from the obvious enhancement of beauty and value through our plantings—is our role in helping to write the ongoing story of our region. We may not have been around when the original Westhampton School was built, but we're intimately familiar with its history and are thrilled to contribute to its revival. Our landscaping efforts are not just about planting trees and shrubs; they're about breathing new life into a place with a storied past and an exciting future.
Stay tuned as we continue to transform this historic site into a vibrant and flourishing community space. The revival of Westhampton Commons is a testament to the enduring legacy of the past, harmoniously blending with the innovations of the future. We're honored to be part of this journey, adding our touch of natural beauty to a landmark that holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Check out more photos at our portfolio page here.
Read more from NBC12 News about the start of this project.