ATLANTA—Some consider it one of the most ambitious projects in the Atlanta's history. It is certainly one that is seeking to transform the industry by focusing on the human experience rather than just the buildings. Avalon is a 2.3-million square foot mixed-use project in Atlanta's Alpharetta, GA submarket.

Cincinnati-based North American Properties (NAP) snapped up a 106-acre site in 2011 to execute its unique vision. Crews broke ground on Avalon in January 2014. The first phase of this massive $600 million project alone includes 400,000 square feet of retail, 106,000 square feet of class A office, 101 single-family homes, and 250 multifamily units.

It didn't take long for NAP to prove demand for its ambitious mixed-use concept. On Oct. 30, 2014 Avalon celebrated its grand opening. Thousands flocked to the corner of Old Milton Parkway and GA 400 to experience the new destination.