Downtown Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment
Cella redeveloped a vacant brownfield into a GR2030-compliant mixed-use campus with 58 all-electric apartments and ground-floor retail in downtown Grand Rapids.
Cella transformed a vacant brownfield site on the southern edge of downtown Grand Rapids into a vibrant mixed-use development featuring 58 studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments alongside 2,400 square feet of ground-floor retail space. This urban infill project revitalizes underutilized land while adding much-needed multifamily housing and commercial space in a highly walkable, transit-connected location near downtown, major hospitals, and the Wealthy Street shopping and dining corridor.
Designed to meet the rigorous standards of the Grand Rapids 2030 District (GR2030), the new construction buildings are fully all-electric and energy efficient, helping reduce utility costs for residents while supporting the city’s long-term carbon reduction goals. The development prioritizes healthy living through advanced HVAC systems that deliver 100% fresh air to every unit, with no air recirculation between apartments or common areas—setting a new standard for sustainable, high-performance housing in Grand Rapids.
In addition to its environmental leadership, the property offers modern amenities including quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, fiber optic internet, indoor bicycle storage, and on-site EV charging stations. By combining sustainable design, thoughtful amenities, and strategic urban location, this project exemplifies Cella’s expertise in brownfield redevelopment, sustainable multifamily construction, and community-centered real estate development.
