The $15-million project would include 40,000 sf of high-end retail and restaurant space, a 275-space parking deck and about 15 two-story townhomes. The developer expects to break ground by summer and have the project completed by fall 2007.

"We are not in a position yet to announce any of the top quality specialty retailers that we plan to introduce to this market, but we expect to potentially include apparel, home furnishing, a bank, fast casual dining and possibly a boutique grocery story," Barry tells GlobeSt.com. He expects the project to house 10 to 15 tenants leasing space in increments of 1,200 sf to about 12,000 sf.

"Rents will be at the top of the market but at the same time we don't want to undercut" the market rent range, Barry tells GlobeSt.com. He calls the Mix "a definite niche" project for the Virginia-Highland neighborhood.