A well-known developer and urban planner is setting down more permanent roots in downtown Clarkesville.
Lew Oliver, who moved to Clarkesville from the Atlanta area in 2021, has purchased a pair of buildings at 1378 and 1386 Washington Street, next to the Habersham Community Theater, to serve as the new location for his office. He plans to relocate there from his current space near The Hush at 1484 Washington Street.
Oliver bought the property for $350,000 and has since invested $300,000 in renovations. The upgrades include a restored conference and lounge area, a private room for phone calls and Zoom meetings, open ceilings, stabilized historic walls, a new roof, restored plaster work and wide plank hardwood floors. The building will also feature a “turn-of-the-century” style storefront and signage reminiscent of the 19th century.
Part of the building previously served as office space, while another portion once housed Tudor Rose Needlecraft & Gifts.
Oliver said he plans to move into the newly renovated, 1,400-square-foot space by August 1.
“This will enable us to expand a little bit and showcase our wares a lot better and kind of illustrate what we do – creating great places,” Oliver said. “It also shows our renewed commitment to downtown Clarkesville with everything happening here.”
Since his arrival in Clarkesville, Oliver has played a key role in the city’s long-term planning and design efforts, bringing a vision of new urbanism that blends traditional town planning with modern architectural elements. His previous work includes large-scale projects like Avalon in Alpharetta and Trilith in Fayette County.
Looking ahead, Oliver said he plans to continue to work closely with city officials as Clarkesville undergoes further redevelopment. The recent demolition of the old Habersham County courthouse has opened up more than two acres of prime downtown land, presenting new opportunities for growth.
“We continue to invest in the downtown,” Oliver said. “We’re trying to bring in some new retailers, of course, and more food and beverage (options). The city also really wants to do a boutique hotel here, which I think there’s a demand for. We’re going to work hard in pushing with the city of Clarkesville, as well as the other merchants, to make sure we all have a very interesting and prosperous future together.”
