Naples is buzzing with anticipation over a proposed mixed-use development that promises to bring exciting new retail and residential options to the heart of the city. Among the highly anticipated tenants is Whole Foods Market, slated to anchor the project and bring its premium grocery offerings closer to downtown and East Naples residents. This development, planned for a prime location on Fifth Avenue South, is generating significant buzz and is poised to transform the culinary landscape of Naples.
Whole Foods Market Anchors Downtown Naples Development
For residents of East Naples and downtown dwellers, the news of a Whole Foods Market coming to 5th Avenue South is particularly welcome. While Naples already boasts a Whole Foods location in North Naples, this new store will significantly reduce travel time for those living in the eastern and central parts of the city. The proposed Whole Foods will be a substantial 40,000-square-foot ground floor space within a larger three-story building, making it a significant anchor for the entire development. While slightly smaller than the existing Mercato location, this Whole Foods Market is expected to offer the same high-quality products and customer experience that shoppers have come to expect from the brand. This includes fresh produce, organic selections, a wide variety of specialty foods, and prepared meals, catering to the health-conscious and gourmet tastes of the Naples community. The new store’s location will make it more accessible for daily grocery shopping and quick trips for those living and working in the downtown area.
Restoration Hardware Gallery with Rooftop Dining
Adding to the allure of this development is the inclusion of a three-story Restoration Hardware (RH) gallery. Spanning over 50,000 square feet, this RH gallery is designed to be more than just a furniture store. It will be an immersive experience showcasing luxury home furnishings, blurring the lines between retail and residential spaces. RH galleries are known for their sophisticated displays and curated collections, offering inspiration for home design and décor. A key feature of this RH location, consistent with other RH galleries in Florida, is a proposed rooftop restaurant and terrace. This dining destination will offer a unique culinary experience with panoramic views, creating a sophisticated social hub in downtown Naples. The combination of high-end home furnishings and upscale dining at Restoration Hardware will further enhance the appeal of this development as a lifestyle destination.
A Transformative Mixed-Use Project for Downtown Naples
Beyond Whole Foods and Restoration Hardware, the development is envisioned as a comprehensive mixed-use project. The plans include two new buildings totaling over 290,000 square feet in the 1000 block of Fifth Avenue South, with the RH gallery as a centerpiece. An additional L-shaped building will house 33 luxury condominium units on the upper floors, adding a residential component to the project. Below the retail and restaurant spaces, extensive below-grade parking is planned, addressing a key need in the bustling downtown area. The project encompasses nearly two city blocks and aims to create a vibrant and walkable urban environment. This ambitious development is expected to not only offer new shopping and dining destinations but also contribute to the revitalization of downtown Naples, making it an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit.
Revitalizing Fifth Avenue South
The location of this development is historically significant. It includes the former site of St. George & the Dragon restaurant, a beloved local landmark that was a fixture on Fifth Avenue South for over 40 years before closing a decade ago. The redevelopment project requires the demolition of several existing buildings, including office spaces, to make way for the new construction and create open spaces within the development. This transformation is seen as a positive step in extending the upscale presence of Fifth Avenue South eastward, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination in Naples. By incorporating modern architecture, landscaping, and open-air amenity areas, the project aims to seamlessly integrate with the existing streetscape while adding a contemporary flair to the downtown area.
Developer’s Vision for Naples
M Development, the Aspen-based firm behind the project, emphasizes its commitment to creating “forever real estate” – developments built with quality and designed to stand the test of time. Andy Penev, head of development for M Development LLC, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential to complement Naples and meet the city’s needs. He highlighted the focus on beautiful architecture, thoughtful planning, and the creation of open spaces. The developer aims to create a harmonious environment that benefits both the development itself and the surrounding community, enhancing the overall appeal of downtown Naples as a destination. The inclusion of Whole Foods Market and Restoration Hardware, along with other upscale retailers and dining options, aligns with this vision of creating a high-quality, lasting development that Naples residents can be proud of for generations to come.
In conclusion, the proposed mixed-use development anchored by Whole Foods Market and Restoration Hardware is poised to be a game-changer for downtown Naples. It promises to bring new upscale retail, dining, and residential options to the area, revitalizing Fifth Avenue South and creating a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. The arrival of Whole Foods Market, in particular, addresses a long-standing desire for a closer location for many Naples residents, further solidifying this development as a significant addition to the city’s culinary and lifestyle offerings.
