North Hills | Raleigh

North Hills is a premier mixed-use urban district located in Raleigh, North Carolina, often described as "Raleigh’s Midtown." It is a vibrant, upscale area that blends residential living, retail, dining, entertainment, office spaces, and green areas, offering a comprehensive lifestyle and work environment. The district has evolved over several decades from its origins as a traditional mall into a modern, pedestrian-friendly urban center, becoming one of the most dynamic and sought-after neighborhoods in the city.

Historical Evolution and Development

The origins of North Hills date back to 1960 when the North Hills Mall first opened as a strip mall. This early mall was notable for being the first two-story, air-conditioned indoor mall between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, marking an important development in the retail landscape of the southeastern United States. In 1967, the mall was enclosed, adapting to changing consumer preferences and climate considerations.

In 2001, the Kane Realty Corporation purchased the property with a bold vision to transform the dated shopping mall into a modern mixed-use urban district. This marked the beginning of a large-scale redevelopment project aimed at redefining the area to better serve the changing demands of the Raleigh community. By November 2004, the new North Hills officially opened with a mixture of retail stores, restaurants, office buildings, and residential units, shifting away from the traditional mall format toward a vibrant, walkable neighborhood.

Since its reopening, North Hills has expanded continuously. The redevelopment has been planned in phases, adding new districts within the area, each with its own identity and focus, including the Main District, the Innovation District, and the Park District. These expansions have added amenities, housing options, office towers, and green spaces, making North Hills a comprehensive live-work-play environment.

Retail and Dining

North Hills hosts over 130 establishments, featuring a broad spectrum of retail, culinary, and service options that cater to diverse tastes and needs.

Retail: The district includes a mix of high-end, boutique, and national retailers. While the traditional department store JCPenney has been replaced by Restoration Hardware (RH), other well-known brands such as Target, Madewell, and J.Crew provide diverse shopping options. Specialty stores and local boutiques thrive especially in areas like Makers Alley, part of the Innovation District, which is known for unique shops like Green Rabbit (a children’s store), Ky’s Kandles (artisan candles), and Trendlend (fashion and accessories).

Dining: North Hills boasts a rich culinary scene featuring a wide array of restaurants and eateries. Options include health-conscious and farm-to-table restaurants like True Food Kitchen, traditional American fare at Village Tavern, fresh salads at Sweetgreen, and authentic Italian dishes at Leo’s Italian Kitchen. Additionally, the district features popular rooftop dining experiences such as the RH Rooftop Restaurant, offering upscale dining with scenic views.

Entertainment and Community Events

North Hills is designed as a vibrant social hub, offering numerous entertainment and cultural experiences for residents and visitors.

Midtown Park: A central green space that regularly hosts community events like the Midtown Beach Music Series and Wellness Wednesdays, promoting outdoor social gatherings and wellness activities.

Regal Cinemas 14: A modern movie theater featuring stadium seating and the latest film releases, providing a prime entertainment venue within walking distance of retail and dining.

Kings North Hills: An upscale bowling lounge that combines entertainment, food, and drinks, catering to social outings and group events.

Midtown Farmers’ Market: Operating from April through November on Saturdays, the market brings local farmers and artisans together with the community, encouraging local food consumption and supporting small businesses.

Residential and Commercial Components

North Hills is home to a range of residential options, from luxury high-rise apartments to townhomes, serving a diverse urban population.

The Eastern: Completed in 2022, this 36-story residential tower is the tallest in Raleigh and offers 376 apartment units. It features luxury amenities such as rooftop pools, fitness centers, and spectacular views of the city skyline, attracting professionals and urban dwellers seeking a vibrant lifestyle.

Innovation District: This area blends office space with residential living, fostering a community of entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives. Notable office buildings include the Captrust Tower, a modern high-rise housing corporate offices. Residential developments such as Vine North Hills and Channel House provide upscale living with easy access to workspaces and retail.

Sustainability and Accessibility

North Hills is committed to sustainable urban development and environmental responsibility. The district incorporates features such as:

Electric vehicle charging stations, encouraging green transportation.

Solar panels integrated into some buildings to reduce carbon footprint.

Composting programs aimed at reducing waste.

The urban design prioritizes walkability with pedestrian-friendly streets, wide sidewalks, and ample green spaces. This promotes an active lifestyle and reduces dependence on automobiles. The district is also well-served by public transportation, with easy access to bus routes and proximity to major roadways like the I-440 beltline and Six Forks Road, making commuting and travel convenient.

Location and Connectivity

Situated approximately five miles north of downtown Raleigh, North Hills benefits from a strategic location that balances accessibility with a distinct neighborhood identity. Its proximity to major highways allows quick access to the greater Raleigh metropolitan area and the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, making it a practical choice for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Cultural and Community Impact

North Hills has evolved into a cultural and economic engine for Raleigh, promoting a sense of community through its design and programming. It serves as a gathering place for festivals, farmers’ markets, live music, art exhibits, and wellness activities, fostering social interaction and enhancing quality of life.

The district’s mix of uses encourages a "live-work-play" lifestyle, reducing the need for long commutes and supporting local businesses. By integrating office, retail, and residential spaces, North Hills contributes significantly to Raleigh’s urban growth and economic development.

Summary

North Hills exemplifies the modern urban redevelopment model, transforming a mid-20th-century mall into a thriving, mixed-use district that reflects contemporary urban living trends. It offers a sophisticated blend of shopping, dining, entertainment, residential living, and green spaces within a pedestrian-friendly environment. The district’s ongoing growth and commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and inclusivity make it a pivotal part of Raleigh’s identity and future.