West End Mall in Atlanta, is set to undergo a $450 million transformation into a vibrant mixed-use community. Opened in 1974, the mall was once a key retail hub but had struggled in recent years. Now, plans are in motion to replace the aging structure. The new development will have new housing, retail, office space, and public areas, creating a modern, pedestrian-friendly district.
The project, now officially named One West End, aims to blend the area’s historic character with contemporary urban design. It will offer both economic opportunities and much-needed revitalization for the West End neighborhood.
A Changing Landscape Over Time
Before the mall’s construction, this site was a residential neighborhood, as seen in aerial images from 1960. Small homes and businesses lined the streets, forming a tight-knit community. By 1972, the area had been cleared, and the mall’s structure was beginning to take shape.
When West End Mall opened in 1974, it reflected Atlanta’s shift toward suburban-style retail centers, designed for car-dependent shoppers. It thrived for many years but eventually faced the challenges of changing consumer habits and competition from newer developments.
The Vision for One West End
The redevelopment will transform the 12-acre site into a 1.7 million-square-foot mixed-use district, featuring:
- 900 mixed-income residential units, ensuring housing remains accessible to a diverse community.
- 125,000 square feet of retail, including a grocery store and fitness center.
- A 150-room hotel, providing accommodations for visitors and business travelers.
- 12,000 square feet of medical office space, expanding healthcare access in the neighborhood.
In contrast to the car-focused layout of the old mall, the new development will prioritize walkability. It will feature green spaces, pedestrian pathways, and bike-friendly infrastructure. Its design will also integrate with MARTA’s West End Station, promoting transit-oriented growth.
Additionally, the developers are launching a digital time capsule, inviting the community to share photos, videos, and stories about the mall’s history. These contributions will be incorporated into the new development’s design, ensuring One West End reflects the neighborhood’s legacy.
Project Timeline and Community Impact
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025, with the first phase now expected to be completed by 2028. The redevelopment will bring new jobs, businesses, and housing options, reinforcing West End’s role as a key part of Atlanta’s urban fabric.
This project is more than just a facelift—it represents a return to community-driven development. Over 50 years after homes were cleared to build a mall, the site is coming full circle—from a neighborhood to a retail center and now back to a dynamic, mixed-use neighborhood once again.
Last Updated on February 9, 2025 by F. E. Mufute