Highline Apex

The Highline is a premier 32,000-square-foot mixed-use development in downtown Apex, North Carolina, delivered by Barnhill Building Group using the Design-Build delivery method. Developed for Oppidan Investment Company and designed by Alliance Architecture, the three-story building combines modern office space, street-level retail, and outdoor amenities to support the continued growth and revitalization of one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing communities.

Located along historic Salem Street in the heart of downtown Apex, The Highline was designed to complement the town’s pedestrian-friendly environment while introducing new opportunities for businesses, employees, retailers, and visitors. The project reflects the growing demand for thoughtfully designed mixed-use developments in North Carolina that create vibrant destinations where people can work, shop, dine, and connect within a walkable urban setting.

Barnhill Building Group partnered closely with the owner and design team throughout every phase of the project to deliver a building that balanced architectural character with modern construction practices. By utilizing the Design-Build delivery method, Barnhill streamlined communication between the owner, architect, and construction team, allowing for efficient coordination, proactive problem solving, and a predictable construction schedule from concept through completion.

The three-story structure features modern Class A office space above highly visible retail storefronts that activate the streetscape and encourage pedestrian activity. Large storefront windows maximize natural light while creating an inviting environment for restaurants, retailers, and service-oriented businesses. Upper-level office suites provide flexible workplace environments that accommodate a variety of professional tenants while overlooking the energy and activity of downtown Apex.

A signature feature of The Highline is its emphasis on outdoor connectivity. Street-level retail spaces include outdoor seating areas that encourage visitors to linger and engage with surrounding businesses, while the third-floor private balcony offers tenants expansive views overlooking historic Salem Street. These outdoor amenities strengthen the connection between the building and the surrounding community while enhancing the overall tenant experience.

The architectural design carefully blends contemporary commercial construction with materials and detailing that respect the historic character of downtown Apex. Brick masonry, expansive glazing, pedestrian-scale entrances, and carefully integrated streetscape improvements create a building that feels both timeless and modern. The result is a development that enhances the downtown district while positioning Apex for continued commercial growth.

As an experienced commercial contractor in North Carolina, Barnhill Building Group understands the unique challenges associated with constructing projects in active downtown environments. Careful logistics planning, coordination with neighboring businesses, traffic management, and safety measures allowed construction activities to proceed while minimizing disruption to the surrounding community. This experience continues to position Barnhill as a trusted partner for urban redevelopment and mixed-use construction projects throughout North Carolina.

The Highline demonstrates Barnhill’s expertise in delivering commercial office buildings, retail developments, and mixed-use projects that support long-term economic development. By combining modern office environments with active street-level retail, the building creates opportunities for businesses to thrive while contributing to a vibrant downtown atmosphere that benefits residents, visitors, and the local economy.

The project also highlights Barnhill’s ability to execute complex Design-Build commercial construction projects through collaborative planning, quality craftsmanship, and responsive project management. From site development and structural construction to interior spaces and exterior finishes, every aspect of the building was delivered with a focus on quality, functionality, and long-term value.

Today, The Highline serves as a landmark commercial development in downtown Apex and represents the continued evolution of mixed-use construction throughout North Carolina. The project stands as an example of how thoughtful planning, collaborative partnerships, and experienced construction management can transform underutilized properties into thriving commercial destinations that strengthen communities and support sustainable growth.

As one of North Carolina’s leading commercial builders, Barnhill Building Group continues to deliver mixed-use developments, Design-Build commercial projects, office buildings, and downtown redevelopment initiatives that create lasting value for owners, businesses, and the communities they serve.