Village Green has been named commercial development of the year, recognizing a mixed‑use project that has brought long‑sought retail, walkability and community gathering space to the town of Nolensville, located about 20 miles outside of Nashville.
The development reflects a collaborative vision between the developer and the town to create a vibrant, pedestrian‑oriented destination that extends Nolensville's historic core.
The project has earned a 2026 CoStar Impact Award, judged by real estate professionals familiar with the market.
Located at 7344 Nolensville Road in Nolensville, Tennessee, Village Green received its certificate of occupancy in October 2025. The project originated in 2018 when Watkins Real Estate Group partnered with the landowner with the goal of delivering a neighborhood retail center anchored by a full‑service grocery store in a fast‑growing community with strong demographics but limited retail options.
Working closely with the town, the development team reimagined the prominent corner of Nolensville Road and Rocky Fork Road as a pedestrian-friendly district. Rezoning was completed in 2021, final approvals were secured in 2024, and Publix celebrated its grand opening in November 2025.
About the deal: Designed by Hiscutt & Associates, Village Green features historical‑inspired architecture that reflects the character of old‑town Nolensville. The 42,000‑square‑foot development is home to 17 tenants, soon to be 18, with a majority of locally owned businesses. Key connectivity features include a pedestrian bridge over Mill Creek, a multiuse path and an off‑site 10‑foot walking trail that ties directly into the town's trail system, reinforcing walkability and community access.
What the judges said: Judges praised Village Green for its strong design within a small‑city context, noting how the mixed‑use development fits seamlessly into Nolensville's character while elevating the town's retail and gathering options. Judges also emphasized that the project has been and will continue to be a transformative addition to the community, highlighting its role in creating a vibrant, walkable destination that supports local businesses and strengthens the town's identity.
They made it happen: Watkins Real Estate Group's Michael Aide, president, and Jefferson Dean, director of construction, led the development and construction. Peter Hiscutt, principal of Hiscutt & Associates Architecture, led architectural design. CBRE served as developer and construction partner beginning in July 2024. Ownership is held by WREG Nolensville Retail, with Watkins Associated Industries is the true owner of the project. Leasing was led by JLL, with William Shell serving as primary leasing contact.