Wedgewood Village Takes Shape
The Merritt Mansion
NASHVILLE, TN - March 9, 2025 - AJ Capital Partners has now broken ground on each component of the approved Wedgewood Village project, an expansive 18-acre mixed-use development that promises to redefine Nashville's rapidly evolving Wedgewood-Houston (WeHo) neighborhood. The transformative project will deliver more than 1.6 million square feet of premium residential, retail, restaurant, and office space across multiple phases.
Wedgewood Village represents a bold reimagining of urban living in Nashville, combining thoughtfully designed new construction with the adaptive reuse of historic properties. The development will extend across various non-contiguous parcels throughout the neighborhood, creating a cohesive district while preserving WeHo's distinctive character.
"We envision Wedgewood Village as a dynamic ecosystem where residents, workers, and visitors can experience the best of Nashville's creative energy," said Chad DiDonato, WEHO Social spokesperson. "This project builds upon the authentic industrial heritage of Wedgewood-Houston while introducing new spaces for living, working, dining, and entertainment."
The development has already attracted an impressive roster of anchor tenants, including international members club Soho House, the Academy of Country Music, and acclaimed Japanese restaurant Momotaro. Future phases will welcome Pastis, the iconic New York City brasserie making its Nashville debut, along with an unnamed Italian restaurant concept.
Wedgewood Village builds upon AJ Capital's existing WeHo properties, including the historic May Hosiery Mills complex and Nashville Warehouse Company, which houses the Memoir Wedgewood Houston apartment tower. These established locations have already demonstrated the neighborhood's appeal and potential.
WEHO Social is excited to offer residents an exclusive update.
The future built environment of Wedgewood Village, a vision of AJ Capital Partners.
The initial phases of Wedgewood Village will introduce seven distinct buildings with neo-traditional brick exteriors that complement the neighborhood's industrial aesthetic:
515 Houston Street: A 170,000-square-foot, four-story mixed-use building anchored by Momotaro and a forthcoming Italian restaurant
507 Houston Street: A development offering 51,000 square feet of Class A office space and 10,500 square feet of ground-floor retail
448 Humphreys Street: A four-story, 53,300-square-foot building with ground-floor retail and restaurant space beneath 48,000 square feet of Class A offices
445 Humphreys Street: A residential building featuring 240 units above street-level retail and dining spaces
430 Chestnut Street: A 156,500-square-foot building with 140,000 square feet of Class A office space above 16,500 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurant space, plus The Chestnut, an adjacent venue dedicated to live music performances
A distinctive feature of Wedgewood Village will be the "Leon Loop," named in homage to the property's former owners, Nashville-based rock band Kings of Leon. This area will be anchored by the historic Merritt Mansion and include multiple Memoir residential buildings surrounding a spacious central lawn, creating a community gathering space at the heart of the development.
Special Invitation: WEHO Social Event
You're Invited! Join us to learn more about this exciting project already underway at the upcoming WEHO Social event on Tuesday, March 11th, at The Ranch at Jackalope Brewery. The presentation starts at 6:30 PM with our special guest…Pablo David from AJ Capital Partners will share an exclusive update on Wedgewood Village and answer questions from the community. Don't miss this opportunity to get firsthand information about this transformative development shaping our neighborhood's future. Come early. Stay late. Be social!
Economic and Cultural Impact
Wedgewood Village is expected to generate significant economic activity for Nashville, creating hundreds of construction jobs and permanent positions across retail, hospitality, and office sectors. The project also reinforces Nashville's position as a premier destination for creative businesses and residents seeking an authentic urban experience.
JOIN US!
Come Early. Stay Late. Be Social.
About AJ Capital Partners
AJ Capital Partners is a vertically integrated real estate company focused on building a portfolio of transformative real estate investments. The company's projects span hospitality, retail, residential, and commercial developments across the United States.
Martin and Merritt Hotel and Residence
The Stark Implications of Non-Approval: Risks to Our Community's Future
A Critical Juncture for WeHo's Future
Hi Neighbor -
Let’s talk about the proposed boutique hotel and residences .Our Wedgewood Houston neighborhood stands at a critical juncture. The Martin & Merritt Project is not just a development; it's a carefully crafted vision, born from extensive community dialogue, that will shape our neighborhood's future. This project aligns with WEHO Socials' mission to inform residents with fact-based knowledge to make informed decisions. The implications of its approval—or non-approval—are profound.
Neighborhood Overwhelmingly Supportive: A Testament to Community-Driven Design
The project has been warmly received, particularly by residents nearest the development, reflecting its alignment with community needs and SomeraRoad's unwavering commitment to engagement. This overwhelming support underscores the project's ability to enhance WeHo's unique character while addressing pressing needs.
Project Stats that Impress: Catalyzing Growth and Opportunity
Vibrant Hospitality: 150 hotel rooms to bring vibrancy, visitors, and support local businesses.
·Diverse Housing Options: 190-200 rental units or 150 condominiums, offering diverse housing options to meet evolving community needs.
Thriving Retail Space: 5,000-6,000 sq ft of neighborhood retail space, fostering local commerce and creating jobs.
Efficient Development: A 22-month construction timeline ensuring efficient and responsible progress.
Martin and Merritt Project: Transforming Wedgewood Houston
Comprehensive Neighborhood Benefits Blueprint
Premium Hospitality by Aparium
· Boutique Hotel on Merritt Avenue:
o Introduces Aparium's bespoke hospitality expertise to WeHo, establishing the neighborhood as a destination for discerning travelers.
o Creates specialized employment opportunities for local residents.
o Enhances neighborhood's cultural profile and increases visibility.
o Hotel rooftop amenity deck provides premium guest experiences with panoramic Nashville views.
· Community-Integrated Lobby Design:
o Serves as both hotel reception and neighborhood gathering space.
o Creates a vibrant "third place" for WeHo residents to socialize and connect.
o Encourages authentic cultural exchange between visitors and locals.
o Accessible through concealed garage entrance, maintaining streetscape aesthetics.
Innovative Connectivity Solutions
· Hamilton to Merritt Pedestrian Connection:
o Creates a vital north-south neighborhood connection previously missing.
o Enhances neighborhood walkability, reducing car dependency.
o Improves business access for retail establishments throughout the development.
o Transforms pedestrian experience with wide sidewalks and thoughtful landscaping.
· Sophisticated Parking System:
o Completely concealed underground garage with primary entrance on Martin Street.
o Secondary Hampton driveway access for emergency and delivery vehicles.
o Hampton Avenue cut-in curb parking exclusively for neighborhood use.
o Clear signage and easy access points reduce traffic confusion.
Community-Centric Spaces
· Martin Street Plaza:
o Central gathering hub for community events, farmers markets, and performances.
o Creates dedicated public space enhancing neighborhood identity.
o Promotes social interaction between residents, visitors, and hotel guests.
o Serves as transitional space connecting retail and residential environments.
· Revitalized Alleyway:
o Transforms underutilized urban space into vibrant pedestrian walkway.
o Potential for outdoor seating, pop-up retail, and artistic installations.
o Enhances connectivity between development sections.
o Improves neighborhood safety by activating previously neglected spaces.
· Pocket Park:
o Creates accessible green space in an urban setting.
o Provides environmental benefits through urban heat island reduction.
o Offers contemplative space contrasting with more active plaza areas.
o Enhances property values for surrounding areas.
Architectural Excellence
· Grand Stair:
o Creates dramatic architectural focal point connecting development levels.
o Serves as informal seating and gathering area.
o Enhances pedestrian flow between elevations.
o Provides opportunity for integrated landscaping and lighting features.
· 'Stoop' Access to Residential Units:
o Recalls traditional neighborhood design that fosters community interaction.
o Creates transitional spaces between public and private realms.
o Enhances street-level visual interest and architectural variety.
o Promotes natural surveillance, increasing neighborhood safety.
Historical Integration
· Vintage Millworks Preservation:
o Honors neighborhood's industrial past while embracing its future.
o Creates authentic character impossible to replicate in new construction.
o Attracts creative professionals and businesses valuing historical authenticity.
o Differentiates development from generic urban projects.
Residential Excellence
· Diverse Multi-Family Units:
o Provides varied housing options attracting diverse resident demographics.
o Increases neighborhood density to support local businesses.
o Strategic placement on Martin Street enhances street character.
o Private outdoor terraces for select units create premium living experiences.
· Residential Amenities:
o Rooftop amenity deck with fitness center, pool, and outdoor lounge.
o Outdoor fitness extension creating indoor/outdoor wellness opportunities.
o Private unit courtyards offering exclusive outdoor spaces.
o Premium dog park with synthetic turf for year-round use by WeHo pet families.
Economic Vitality
· Ground Floor Retail:
o Creates vibrant street-level experience activating all sides of development.
o Provides opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses.
o Increases neighborhood services and amenities.
o Generates employment opportunities for local residents.
· Street Presence:
o Thoughtful design along Hamilton Avenue, Martin Street, and Merritt Avenue.
o Consistent architectural language creating unified neighborhood aesthetic.
o Privacy screens and fencing providing visual interest while maintaining security.
o Clear identity as Martin & Merritt Hotel & Residence establishing landmark status.
Transformative Impact
This meticulously planned development synthesizes hospitality, residential, retail, and public spaces into a cohesive neighborhood asset that respects WeHo's character while catalyzing its evolution. By addressing connectivity, community needs, aesthetics, and functionality, Martin and Merritt establishes a new standard for neighborhood-integrated urban development in Nashville.
Enhanced Green Space & Community Focus: Investing in WeHo's Quality of Life
· Greener WeHo: Compliance with Metro zoning ordinances ensures a greener WeHo, with a pocket park on Martin Street and public green spaces on Hamilton Street.
· Community Amenities: A fenced dog park on Hamilton Street and thoughtfully designed pathways connecting key streets, fostering community interaction.
Safe and Walkable WeHo: Prioritizing Pedestrian-Friendly Design
· Improved Infrastructure: New sidewalks, street trees, and additional parking enhance safety and walkability.
· Enhanced Connectivity: A mid-block pedestrian connection and public plaza improve neighborhood connectivity, making WeHo more accessible and enjoyable.
Focus on Regulations and Community Safety: Building a Responsible Future
· Strict Safety Standards: Adherence to strict fire safety and stormwater management guidelines ensures community safety.
· Residential Focus: Prohibition of short-term rentals maintains a residential focus, preserving the character of our neighborhood.
Thoughtful Design & Long-Term Commitment: Building a Legacy for WeHo
· Respect for Zoning: Respect for existing zoning guidelines shows commitment to neighborhood aesthetics and regulations.
· Long-Term Investment: A 10-year minimum ownership pledge underscores SomeraRoad's dedication to WeHo's long-term future.
Addressing Concerns & Transparency: A Collaborative Approach
· Responsive Adjustments: Plans have been adjusted based on resident feedback, ensuring minimal disruption during construction.
· Transparent Process: Transparency is maintained with modifications adhering to approved plans without increasing density, ensuring open communication and accountability.
The Stark Implications of Non-Approval: Risks to Our Community's Future
If the Martin & Merritt Project is not approved, we risk:
· Losing a meticulously planned development that directly addresses our community's needs, in favor of potentially less thoughtful, less community-aligned projects.
· Missing a crucial opportunity to revitalize WeHo, enhance green spaces, and improve infrastructure.
· Undermining the momentum of community-driven development and the trust built through extensive dialogue.
· The loss of a large amount of green space and public amenities that are already planned.
· A loss of new infrastructure that will improve the quality of life for all residents.
Your Role in Shaping WeHo's Destiny: Active Engagement is Crucial
We urge you to:
· Stay informed through WEHO Social updates. (Requires WEHO Social Newsletter Subscription)
· Communicate with local officials, emphasizing the project's importance. https://www.wehosocial.org/feedback
· Engage with your neighbors, sharing the vision for a thriving WeHo.
· Resources are available by clicking here.
The Martin & Merritt Project represents a pivotal opportunity to enhance WeHo's vitality, safety, and community spirit. Let's work together to ensure a bright future for our neighborhood.
Meeting notes from latest community meeting: https://www.wehosocial.org/briefings/martin-amp-merritt-
Martin and Merritt Development Community Meeting February 11, 2025
Martin & Merritt Development Community Meeting
February 11, 2025
Prepared by: Earnest Morgan
Contact: earnest@wedgewoodhouston.org
DISCLAIMER: This brief contains time-sensitive information. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact the author immediately for correction.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
SomeraRoad proposes a mixed-use development at the Martin & Merritt intersection, requiring rezoning from industrial warehousing to a Specific Plan (SP).
Metro Planning Case Number: 2025SP-005-001
The project includes:
155-room boutique hotel
150-200 residential units (potential condos)
Retail spaces and community plaza
Infrastructure improvements
ZONING CONTEXT
Current: Industrial warehousing (1998)
Proposed: Based on 2019/2021 community planning studies
Character Area 1: Max 3-story, mixed-use
Character Area 2: Residential (20 units/acre)
DESIGN ADAPTATIONS
Developer has modified plans based on prior feedback:
Reduced building heights near residential areas
Relocated density to lower elevations
Integrated parking garage within development
Internalized valet and ride-share operations
KEY COMMUNITY CONCERNS
1. Traffic & Infrastructure
Hamilton Avenue residential traffic impact
Parking overflow into neighborhoods
Pedestrian safety beyond development
Questions about traffic study methodology
2. Construction Impact
Extended construction noise
Early/late delivery disruptions
Potential foundation damage
Request for enforcement mechanisms
3. Development Scale
Precedent for future projects
Need for binding community benefits agreement
Business operation regulations
Height and density protections
4. Community Integration
Affordable housing inclusion
Artist residency possibilities
Local business displacement concerns
Neighborhood character preservation
DEVELOPER COMMITMENTS
Vibration monitoring implementation
Noise control measures
Priority sidewalk construction
Binding agreements for construction compliance
Willingness to explore alternative traffic patterns
TIMELINE & NEXT STEPS
Immediate Actions:
Planning Commission vote deferred to February 27, 2025
Community feedback deadline: February 20, 2025
Traffic study report release pending
Development of binding operational agreements
Required Deliverables:
Updated traffic access plans
Construction management protocol
Community benefits agreement
Operational guidelines for businesses
STAKEHOLDER POSITIONS
Developer: Open to modifications within project constraints
Community: Mixed support with specific concern areas
SNAP Board: Facilitating ongoing dialogue
Council: Engaged in review process
This development represents a significant change for the neighborhood, with both opportunities and challenges requiring continued stakeholder engagement and careful planning oversight.
CONTACTS
Terry Vo (Metro Council Member)
Role: Local Government Liaison
Phone: 615-862-6780
Email: terry.vo@nashville.gov
Website: Nashville.gov
Metropolitan Nashville Development
Phone: 615-862-7100
Email: planning@nashville.gov
Website: Planning Nashville
For corrections or updates to this brief, please contact:
Earnest Morgan
earnest@wedgewoodhouston.org
Metro Planning Case Number: 2025SP-005-001
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