Introducing the $300 Million FAT Village Arts District: Fort Lauderdale's Newest Urban Oasis
Exciting transformations are on the horizon for Fort Lauderdale as a $300 million investment breathes new life into the beloved haven for artists known as FAT Village. Soon, this humble neighborhood in the heart of Fort Lauderdale will undergo a remarkable redevelopment, turning it into a vibrant cluster of modern buildings, encompassing apartments, cafes, business offices, and, of course, spaces for artists to thrive. With an ambitious vision to rival Miami's renowned Wynwood section, this project is set to redefine urban living and creative expression in the area.
The transformation of FAT Village began in early May when backhoes started demolishing the single-story warehouses that once housed artist studios, small businesses, cafes, and restaurants. Spearheaded by Fort Lauderdale developer Urban Street Development, in partnership with Houston-based Hines, Chicago's private equity firm Cresset Partners, and Chilean developer and investment fund manager Las Americas, this 5.6-acre redevelopment is poised to reshape the landscape of Flagler Village.
The ambitious project will feature two apartment rental buildings, modern offices, and retail spaces, all thoughtfully designed to create a dynamic community experience. Construction is expected to commence in September, with completion anticipated in 2026. This eagerly anticipated development aims to capture the essence of FAT Village while introducing new opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
FAT Village, also known as the Food Art Technology Village, gained widespread popularity in recent years for its vibrant artist studios, lively art walks, and mouthwatering food trucks. Conveniently located a few blocks away from Fort Lauderdale's central business district and the renowned urban art Mockingbird Trail, FAT Village has become a cultural hub that attracts both locals and tourists. Its prime location, spanning four blocks and bordered by Andrews Avenue to the east, Florida East Coast Railroad to the west, Broward Boulevard to the south, and Northwest Fourth Street to the north, has redirected foot traffic from the popular nearby beaches and Las Olas Boulevard.
"Fort Lauderdale needs this and is ready for something like this," says Tim Petrillo, co-founder of Urban Street Development. "With the influx of people moving from all over the country to South Florida, we believe the timing is perfect for this transformative project. Fort Lauderdale has long been a step behind Miami and a step ahead of Palm Beach, and now it's time for us to shine."
Hines, a prominent real estate firm, acquired the property for $57.4 million last fall. Collaborating with local firms and early visionaries like Doug McCraw, co-founder of the FAT Village Arts District, Hines aims to ensure that the development captures the true personality and local needs of the city. The centerpiece of the project will be two apartment rental towers, standing 13 and 24 stories tall, respectively, offering a total of 603 apartments with a range of studio to three-bedroom layouts.
In addition to the residential buildings, the project will feature approximately 80,000 square feet of retail space, including reduced-rent artist studios, and a six-story, 180,000-square-foot office building. The developers are committed to seeking LEED sustainability certification for the office building, emphasizing their dedication to environmental responsibility. Despite concerns about vacant office spaces due to remote work trends, the partners remain optimistic about the South Florida office market, as modern, well-designed buildings continue to attract attention.
The completion of this ambitious redevelopment marks a new chapter for FAT Village, a neighborhood with a rich history. According to Patricia Zeiler, executive director of the museum History Fort Lauderdale, and a consultant to the city of Fort Lauderdale on historic preservation, the area has a fascinating past. Dating back to 1890, when South Florida pioneer Mary Brickell owned the site, FAT Village evolved over time, serving as a commercial business district in the 1920s before becoming a haven for artists in the 1990s. With the upcoming transformation, FAT Village is set to embrace the future while honoring its historical roots.
The plans for the FAT Village redevelopment have captivated both residents and experts in the field. Patricia Zeiler shared her enthusiasm, stating, "I've seen the plans for what they're going to put in there, and I think it is quite beautiful." With a compelling blend of modern aesthetics, a supportive environment for artists, and a strategic location within Fort Lauderdale, the FAT Village arts district is poised to become a thriving cultural destination and a testament to the city's commitment to artistic expression and urban revitalization.
As construction commences in September, the entire community eagerly awaits the unveiling of Fort Lauderdale's newest urban oasis. The FAT Village arts district is more than just a development; it's a testament to the city's vision, promising an exciting future where art, culture, and modern living converge. Stay tuned for updates as this transformative project takes shape and reshapes the landscape of downtown Fort Lauderdale.
