ATLANTA — Georgia-Pacific on Thursday announced grand plans to turn its distinctive headquarters building in Downtown Atlanta into "one of the country's largest mixed-use redevelopments."
The 51-story building and its ascending pink granite "steps" design are one of the most recognizable features in the Downtown skyline from the Jackson Street Bridge vantage point.
According to Georgia-Pacific, it will soon become much more than part of the Atlanta scenery, transforming "the surrounding city block into a thriving center for innovation and community engagement."
Plans for the redevelopment include apartments, retail space, office space, restaurants and a re-done plaza at the bottom of the building.
A release said Georgia-Pacific plans to complete the redevelopment by fall 2027, and has an in-house development team, architectural firm, retail brokerage, civil engineering firm, interior design firm, property management firm and contractor for preconstruction already on board the project.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens is on board as well, saying in a statement the redevelopment "is a significant step in moving Atlanta forward, turning an important block in the heart of the city into a vibrant and welcoming destination that breathes new life into Downtown."
There was no cost estimate for the project, or funding outline, included in the release.
Full plans include:
- More than 400 apartment units on the tower's uppermost floors, among the highest in the Southeast
- +/- 125,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and entertainment space
- +/- 600,000 square feet of Class A office space anchored by Georgia-Pacific and Koch
- +/- 35,000 square feet dedicated to a large central plaza
- More than 2,100 parking spaces plus adjacent MARTA and Atlanta Streetcar transportation access
- Future multi-phase development plans include opportunities for a hotel and additional retail and residences
Renderings included in the company release can be seen below.
Mayor Dickens' statement said in full: "This transformative redevelopment is a significant step in moving Atlanta forward, turning an important block in the heart of the city into a vibrant and welcoming destination that breathes new life into downtown. This project aligns with many of our important 'Moving Atlanta Forward' initiatives, including expanding much needed housing options and fostering economic revitalization that supports local businesses. With redesigned public spaces, new retail and restaurants, as well as easy access to public transit, we are creating a unique downtown neighborhood that will bring fresh energy to our city. This development will draw residents, visitors, and businesses alike, reinforcing our vision of a safe, inclusive, and thriving downtown—one that is family-friendly and nurtures new talent. It's about building a better Atlanta for everyone—today and for the future."
"If realized, this will be more than just a redevelopment; it has the potential to generate economic growth and create mutual benefit for the city, local businesses, their employees, Georgia-Pacific employees and our vibrant community," Christian Fischer, president and CEO of Georgia-Pacific, also said in a statement. "The office landscape has changed, and we recognize that the adaptive reuse of our site and office tower can create greater long-term value. We are also acutely aware of the need for more residential, shopping, dining, and entertainment options in our downtown neighborhood, which is why Georgia-Pacific is excited to provide a space that will offer unmatched opportunity in Downtown Atlanta."
The building was completed in 1982 and occupies a historic site where the Loew's Grand Theatre, at which "Gone With The Wind" premiered, once stood.