Jim Cheatham of Remington Professional Buildings LLC, a Bealton, Virginia based developer and builder visited Danville and fell in love with the area and its Architecture. He began to acquire some of the beautiful industrial buildings in the City’s Historic River District. One of his first acquisitions was the circa 1915 Link-Watson Hardware building at 308 Craghead Street. Mr. Cheatham contacted Architectural Partners (AP) to help with the adaptive reuse of the building, based on the firm’s broad reputation for delivering successful renovations in other Virginia cities. Working together, Cheatham and AP have transformed the upper two levels of this industrial treasure into twenty four unique and charming condominiums. Ranging from 965 to over 2000 SF, every unit features the industrial finishes of heart pine columns, brick walls and original wood flooring, coupled with high end, modern kitchen and bath fixture and furnishings.
The ground level, with its traditional storefront entrances to Craghead Street has slowly been developed and leased to Danville’s growing list of downtown entrepreneurs including Supply Resources Corporation (Rick Barker) and the upscale Zinc Salon and Day Spa. In addition, these commercial spaces have attracted the local offices of State and Federal politicians who see a chance to impress their constituencies with their hip new urban office spaces. Most recently, Jim was approached by the United Way to convert the remaining commercial space into offices for their staff, Big Brothers and Sisters and their Alzheimer’s Service Unit. The now completed renovation program called for both open cubicles and enclosed offices, 1,000 SF conference room, new handicap toilets, printing and media work area, kitchenette and employee lounge, and reception and waiting area for visitors.
Jim Cheatham’s leadership and willingness to take risks has helped give confidence to other developers and builders in Downtown Danville. As a result of these efforts, the Danville Downtown River District has exploded with new businesses, residences and service venues such as restaurants and coffee shops.