Project Update: 865 East Interior Renovation

by Lindsey Kohler-Austin | Sep 3, 2026 | architecture, Commercial Architect, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Interior Design, Multifamily Design, project update

Blog by: Jarod Sankar
Interior Design: The Gaines Group Architects
Lobby Contractor: Legacy Building Co.
Game Room Contractor: Sustainable Solutions

If you’re from Harrisonburg, or have any association with JMU, you’ve probably encountered 865 East, the luxury student housing complex located right off I-81 on Port Republic Road. While the complex isn’t new to the area, it is under new ownership and has recently undergone a complete transformation.

The project began with a vision from the property managers. They knew that the building was in an incredible location, offered great amenities, and was well-loved by the community, and they wanted to capitalize on those things with a full facelift on both the apartments and the common areas. Adrienne and Jarod met with the property management team, asked lots of questions, took lots of photos, and looked at lots of inspiration images. Once the main programming and scope were determined, the interior design team got straight to work.

The first step of the project was capturing the right vibe for the proposed facelift. We wanted the space to feel fun and striking, yet inviting, clean, and home-like. For luxury student housing, it’s important to design with longevity and maintainability in mind, without creating a space that feels sterile. Giving the students a sense of home helps make the space feel unique but comfortably familiar. To start the process, we analyzed the information from our first initial meeting with Star and the Asset Living team and generated mood board images that would set the tone for the full renovation. After getting approval from the team to move forward, Jarod 3D-modeled the space and started working through the design for the renovated lobby, game room, and rooftop.

The lobby was the top priority. The space called for a statement, and with its tall ceilings, balcony, and expansive entrance with glass windows, the “bones” were there. We wanted to capitalize on the existing conditions but bring it up to date by incorporating warm wood tones, moody colors that create depth, statement lighting, and a 2-story tall green wall. We also relocated the lobby desk to a more central location, so the staff would have better sightlines, and would be able to access other utility spaces more easily without leaving the desk unattended. The new design proposal was fully 3D-modeled and rendered, giving the project management team marketing material for promoting the upcoming renovation.

Left: Before; Right: Our Rendering

Left: Before; Right and slider images: Renderings and after

Next, we tackled the game room. The current space had all the right conditions – natural light, easy access, and a large space. The game room was a great amenity for the apartment complex, but it was underutilized due to a poor layout and outdated finishes. The property management team’s goal was to make this space inviting and fun, and the wheels in our head began turning the moment we got back to our desks. Our vision was to create a space that would serve all needs – and addressing the layout and how the space would be used was our first step. We reconfigured the space to house a pool table, a foosball table, and a shared snack bar with couches and ottomans for game day fun or large gatherings. Alongside the new large group seating, we also added banquet seating with partitions to create pockets of more private spaces, so multiple people could use the room at once without feeling like they are impeding on another group. The finishes complement the lobby renovation, bringing in those warm wood tones, subtle JMU color influences, and capitalized on the existing space’s industrial flair.

CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS:
Just like the lobby, we created photorealistic renderings that the project management team used to build excitement for the renovations and drive leasing.

Lastly, we refreshed the rooftop terrace space. With incredible views, a wet bar, and a covered pavilion, the space already had strong potential. With just some minor tweaks to furniture, colors, and listening to how the space is primarily used, the space took on a whole new look. We added some fun pops of color to brighten the space, some furniture that allowed for suntanning which is what the space is commonly used for and updated the soft furniture under the pavilion.

We’re excited to celebrate 865 East’s new look and enjoyed having a hand in their complete renovation!

To see more photos and learn more about the complex, check them out here:

Click Here

Project Update: Brighter Chiropractic!

by Lindsey Kohler-Austin | Aug 21, 2026 | architecture, Charles Hendricks, Commercial Architect, community, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Leadership, Local Leaders, project update

Charles and Dr. David Heller were talking over breakfast at a morning Rotary Club of Rockingham County meeting. Dr. Heller was opening a new business in an existing shopping center in town. As a doctor and entrepreneur, he had a clear vision and had checked all the boxes to reach his goal of serving his community and promoting better health. Then Charles asked, “Did you check the use group for the space to make sure it works for your Chiropractic Clinic?”

Dr. Heller had already hired a contractor to execute his vision. Hiring a contractor is an obvious first step, but when opening a new space and renovating, many questions must be answered. As architects we know these questions well and know how to efficiently answer them. Dr. Heller had completed his training, formulated his plan, and found the space. The remaining questions focused on building code and ADA compliance. These issues are often overlooked until after construction has started. Sometimes there are no issues, but if issues arise, the project stops and usually costs a lot to get back on track.

For example, Charles was contacted by a retail shop. They were moving from one end of the shopping center to the other. Seems simple. However, when they went to pull the sign permit they found out the new space, which they were already moving things into, did not allow for retail. Again, the same shopping center and even the same building. At some point in the past that particular unit’s building code use had changed to assembly instead of retail. This resulted in needing a building code analysis and change of use application to revert to retail. This cost the business owner valuable time and money to bring the space into compliance.

So back to Dr. Heller’s story: His new practice has opened its doors. He already has a long list of clients due to all his brand-building work prior to opening. His work ethic has been incredible to watch. Our role was fairly simple, stemming from that morning conversation. We documented the ADA compliance, verified the building code use group, made sure the space worked for the needed uses, and created the documents for the builder to quickly execute the plan.

Our goal as designers is to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of those using the spaces we design are protected. Our work helps our clients efficiently reach their goals. This project is a great example of how we can support local small businesses and an incredibly hard-working entrepreneur.

We are proud of you Dr. Heller and wish you many years of success moving forward.

Click the Brighter Chiropractic logo below to learn more!

Project Update: The Elkton Castle

by Charles Hendricks | Aug 5, 2026 | aging in place, architecture, artwork, Building Science, community, Custom Home, Harrisonburg Architect, Interior Design, Not used, project update

Elkton Castle Project Update:

As architects we have the best jobs in the world. We get to listen to our clients dream about how they want to live, then we get to design a place to facilitate that dream.

Designing this home for our incredible clients is a great example. In the first meeting it was clear they had a strong idea of what they both wanted. They had a vision for their home, but were not sure how to put it together. So we listened, took notes, documented goals, sketched, tried again, refined, and developed a concept for them.

While the home being built is designed around function, it is also what they described as their dream home. It allows for mobility, welcoming guests, and captures the incredible views. The dining room is designed for bringing family and friends together. The kitchen allows for gathering as well. There is a detached space to facilitate a hobby interest. There are outdoor gathering spaces including a fireplace, an outdoor kitchen, and a screen porch. The movie room is designed specifically for enjoying favorite movies at full volume. There are whimsical elements that highlight their personality. It is their dream home they described.

This home- or castle as we are calling it, is a prime example of designing a home to facilitate the dream life our clients want to live. Stay tuned for more updates including a magical wooden wardrobe.

Project Update: George’s Flowers Progress is Blooming!

by Charles Hendricks | Jul 21, 2026 | architecture, community, Not used, project update, Roanoke, Roanoke Architect

Project Update in Roanoke: George’s Flowers is Blooming!

We are really excited to see the progress taking shape at George’s Flowers near Tanglewood Mall. The existing building, which housed Audiotronics did not represent the innovative brand of George’s Flowers, so we jumped at the opportunity when he asked us to design a solution. The building, which was built with few windows to the outside, is being opened up to allow in the light, and so we can see all the cool things inside that George’s will create.

The interior spaces are being completely reworked to make this a functional and FUN place to work and shop. The display space will allow for even more must-have items to be displayed. The new coolers will keep the floral arrangements crisp and looking fresh. This is a straightforward commercial renovation that we hope will grab the attention of all who drive by, especially anyone who needs to grab some flowers on their way home from work!

This project is a great example of why you need an architect for your commercial renovation project. We have spent time listening to our client’s goals and working with the contractor and suppliers to make sure it all fits inside the existing building. The coordination with HVAC, plumbing, cooler suppliers, and the contractor has been key to keeping the project moving on a fast timeline so there is little downtime for this commercial business. We are maximizing the opportunities that the existing shell building provided and adapting it so it meets the image and reputation of this amazing business. Our integrated design approach that invites in the contractor team has reduced the timeline and questions during the build, which saves our client money and maximizes the contractor’s profit potential.

Stay tuned for more images of this conversion in Roanoke!

Project Update: George’s Flowers in Roanoke is Now Under Construction!

by Charles Hendricks | Jul 10, 2026 | architecture, community, project update, Roanoke, Roanoke Architect

George’s Flowers is now under construction!

Blog by: Hannah Cundiff

Growing up in the Roanoke Valley, there was really only one florist shop that you’d see: George’s Flowers. Since 1981, they have served the area, delivering to many surrounding cities such as Danville, Moneta, Salem, Hollins and more. Being a Roanoke native, I have driven past their original location a countless number of times. George’s is a small but iconic business in the Valley and is finally getting the upgrade they deserve. But why are they relocating?

The former location on Franklin Road neighbored the Roanoke River. What people may not know is that the area is prone to flooding, and George’s was unfortunately affected by these recurring floods. This created ongoing challenges for them, and the move to Ogden Road became the ultimate solution.

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The business will soon be moving into the former Audiotronics building on Ogden Road. Our part in the process was to design the renewed space to fit George’s Flowers perfectly. Overall, the move is perfect for them, as it gets them out of the flood zone, and into a more business-dense area of the city.

As George’s Flowers gets ready to bloom in their new spot, there’s a real sense of anticipation in Roanoke. This move means not just a bigger and better space for creativity and beauty to flourish, but a bigger and better space that will also better serve their community. Moving to such a lively area in the the city is going to amazing for their business and we are so excited to see the final pieces come together for them!

To learn more about the project and move, visit these links:

George’s Flowers Website

The Roanoker Magazine

WDBJ 7

WSLS 10

Tiny House Revolution

by Charles Hendricks | Feb 17, 2026 | architecture, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, project update

We are working on several tiny homes this year which is a trend we have seen growing since 2020. The idea of a smaller home isn’t just a focus on downsizing, but rather it’s a focus on upscaling your intentionality. Beauty is even more critical in a small space, but also, the building science and functionality of the spaces we create are hyper-important.

When we start a tiny house project the first step is to make sure the project works on the site our client is proposing. There are some minimum size standards in building code that we have to conform to, but there is also zoning considerations. Often tiny homes are placed on non-conforming lots or as ADU’s (accessory dwelling units). As we start designing we work out how to make the small spaces feel spacious and connected to the outside. We do this using large windows, tall spaces or vaults, and focus on natural light. If we can provide spaces that are highly functional and adaptable the space will feel comfortable and not confined.

This movement to smaller homes that are highly designed is a fun challenge. We have to work hard to make sure every square foot is intentional and the interior selections highlight the livability of the spaces. Infusing our understanding of building science makes these small spaces high performance machines. Building in the density allowed by a tiny home improves affordable housing options in our community.