Retail Renaissance: New Shopping Destinations in Birmingham's Suburbs
Birmingham's suburban landscape is evolving, with exciting new retail developments emerging in Homewood, Hoover, and Vestavia Hills. These new shopping spaces are breathing fresh life into the area, offering residents and visitors alike a diverse array of shopping and dining experiences. Let's explore the latest retail hotspots in these thriving communities.
Brookwood Village: A New Chapter in Homewood
Brookwood Village, once a beloved mall that fell into vacancy, is on the brink of a major transformation. The Homewood Planning Commission has approved plans for a significant renovation of this 14-acre property.
Key features of the Brookwood Village redevelopment:
Subdivision into three separate lots for business development
Conversion of the former Belk Department store into a medical office for Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center
Potential for mixed-use development, including retail and dining options
While specific retail tenants haven't been announced, the developer, Fairway Investments, envisions a bright future for the space. Construction is set to begin in the first quarter of 2025, promising to revitalize this prime location in Homewood.
Riverwalk Village: Hoover's New Mixed-Use Haven
Hoover is welcoming a new development that combines residential, retail, and healthcare spaces. Riverwalk Village, set to break ground in early 2025, will offer a unique living and shopping experience.
Highlights of Riverwalk Village:
200 new homes by Signature Homes
Approximately 25,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space
A hotel
Riverwalk Health & Wellness Center, featuring an ambulatory surgery center and diagnostic clinic
This 24-acre site is part of a larger 90-acre area on Riverchase Parkway, promising to become a vibrant community hub. With a focus on health and wellness, Riverwalk Village will include trails and other amenities that promote an active lifestyle.
Vestavia Hills City Center: A Revitalized Shopping Destination
Vestavia Hills City Center has undergone a transformation, becoming the premier retail destination in the area. This revamped shopping center offers a mix of popular chains and local favorites.
Notable stores at Vestavia Hills City Center:
Publix: A beloved supermarket chain known for its quality products and customer service
Starbucks: The world-famous coffee shop, perfect for a quick caffeine fix
Taco Mama: A local favorite serving up delicious tacos and margaritas
Chop't: A health-focused salad chain offering fresh, customizable options
Dollar Tree: A budget-friendly store for everyday essentials
Crumbl Cookies: A trendy cookie shop known for its rotating menu of gourmet flavors
What makes Vestavia Hills City Center unique is its blend of everyday conveniences with specialty shops and dining options, all in a centralized location.
The Summit: Bringing High-End Retail to the Suburbs
While not entirely new, The Summit continues to evolve, bringing exciting retail options to the area. Located on the border of Birmingham and Vestavia Hills, this open-air lifestyle center is welcoming several new stores in 2025.
Upcoming additions to The Summit:
Abercrombie & Fitch: The popular apparel and fragrance retailer is making a comeback
Alo: Alabama's first location of this premium activewear brand
Ann Taylor: Relocating to a new space with an updated store design
Boll & Branch: A luxury bedding and home brand opening its first Alabama location
These new stores join an already impressive lineup of retailers, making The Summit a one-stop destination for fashion-forward shoppers.
Lakeview Marina: A New Entertainment Hub
While technically in Birmingham, the new Lakeview Marina development is worth mentioning due to its proximity to Homewood. This upcoming retail and entertainment hub will feature a mix of local businesses.
Key tenants at Lakeview Marina:
Seasick Records: A beloved local record store
Birmingham Classic Cuts Barbershop: A traditional barbershop experience
Cook Family & Cosmetic Dentistry: Adding a healthcare element to the mix
Lakeview Marina aims to create a community-focused space similar to popular Birmingham destinations like Pepper Place.
Looking Ahead
As these new retail spaces take shape, they promise to enhance the shopping experience for residents of Homewood, Hoover, and Vestavia Hills. From mixed-use developments that combine living and shopping to revitalized malls and specialty centers, these suburban communities are embracing retail innovation.
The diversity of these new shopping destinations reflects the changing preferences of consumers. With a mix of national chains, local businesses, and unique concepts, these retail spaces are designed to cater to a wide range of tastes and needs.
As construction progresses and new stores open their doors, residents of these Birmingham suburbs can look forward to enhanced shopping options, increased convenience, and vibrant community spaces. These developments not only boost the local economy but also contribute to the overall quality of life in the area, making Homewood, Hoover, and Vestavia Hills even more attractive places to live, work, and shop.
