Welcome to Atlantic Station: A Look into the Past

Welcome to Atlantic Station, in downtown Atlanta. Why wouldn’t you want to tour a place as wonderful as this? Here at Atlantic Station we take pride in honoring those before us; those that have given their lives so we can build a place as lavishly as this. According to the theory toolbox, “History is a record of things that have happened, an archive of the past’s most important and pivotal events.” (95) However, most events in history are either overlooked or altered to prevent the truth from being exposed; but here at Atlantic Station, we embrace our history. Many disregard the fact that we have such a rich historical background because of what we are made up of today; shopping centers, homes, restaurants and wonderful tourist events. We even received the EPA’s 2004 Phoenix award as the Best Nation Brownfield Redevelopment, as well as the Sierra Club’s 2005 America’s Best New Development Projects listing. However, there was a time when turmoil lurked the streets and riots that lasted for days left a bitter taste in people’s mouth whenever they spoke of it.


The year was 1906 when what is known today as The Atlanta Race Riot, broke out in the streets of Downtown Atlanta. The riot lasted several days and left approximately 40 African Americans dead. How did something so treacherous take place behind the beautiful, clear glass frames of Atlantic Station? The riot began the morning of September 22nd, 1906, when competition for employment between African Americans and white Americans started to fuse. During that time, after the civil war, the famous election between Hoke Smith and Clark Howell was going on. Each candidate feared the black vote will result in the others win of the election. Suspiciously, a faulty news report was printed stating that four white women were assaulted. This resulted in a mob of over 10,000 white men. For five days they beat, stabbed, shot and harassed African Americans.
However, we have not forgotten the bloodshed that erupted in the Metro-Atlanta area. It has been over one hundred years since the riot and we still have a memorial service for those who have lost their lives in the riot of 1906. The mission of those in charge of the memorial service is to promote awareness. It is important to know your history. This event is overlooked whenever students are taught about the post civil war era.


Nonetheless, the history of Atlantic Station is not all bad. The riots and bloodshed that flooded the city was mildly suppressed by one of the biggest manufactures to the South. In 1901 the construction of the Atlantic Steel Mill began. The Atlantic Steel Mill, however, supplied the south over fifty years. They provided nails, barbed wire, plough shears and galvanized steel. Approximately fifty years after the Atlanta Race Riot of 1906, The Atlantic Steel Mill provided over 2,300 people with jobs. However, due to heavy competition The Atlantic Steel Mill quickly decreased its number of employees tremendously. By 1997 the number of employees that worked at The Atlantic Steel Mill averaged to about 400 people. When the Steel Mill closed in 1998, the city faced a lot of problems. One of the main issues was there were soil and water contamination due to the Steel being open for over 100 years. Contrary to what most believe, the land you stand on is relatively new. Atlantic Station did not open for redevelopment until the year 2005. It took approximately 250 million dollars to clean-up the remains of Steel Mill and to build present day Atlantic Station. Suspiciously, in 2005 an unknown fire erupted, during the day, and destroyed a large wood frame residential building. It was ruled arson and was under investigation. At least five million dollars worth of damage was done to the building including damages to near-by buildings and eighteen parked cars.


The history of Atlantic Station truly shocks most. Come take a tour of this historical landmark where riots erupted and mysterious fires spewed. Gain some knowledge of the area and learn what textbooks won’t teach you. There will be plenty to do here at Atlantic Station. Visit us, we promise you won’t regret a thing.



-- Janiqwa Worsley

Environment Conditions

Atlantic Station is an environment intentionally crafted to promote specific social settings. This small section of Atlanta is dedicated to the indulgence of culinary creations, cinema, and consumerism. Clustered within this area are numerous restaurants, some casual and cheap while others challenge the contents of any wallet. This is done to encourage visitation from specific individuals in various age groups. College students and families can enjoy affordable meals and upper class citizens can splurge in more upscale restaurants. No fast food restaurants are located within Atlantic Station. This is likely done to discourage citizens of the lower class from entering this well preened location. There are many security personnel in Atlantic Station as well. This creates an environment where the desired guests (middle and upper-class) can enjoy their visit comfortably, believing their safety to be ensured. At the Regal Cinema 16, visitors can enjoy films from an eclectic mix of genres. The prices however, are always somewhat costly. Student discounts are offered Monday’s through Thursday’s, an added incentive for the educated. Undesirables’ (Poor and/or unruly citizens) are rarely seen.


Security has even instated rules such as no sitting on the benches after 9pm to prevent loitering of any kind. During the day there are many activities to be enjoyed. The borders of Atlantic Station are teeming with stores. This encourages sought citizens to consume clothing and other various products. Many of the stores placed in Atlantic Station are fairly expensive. This too discourages the visitation of impoverished guests.

Atlantic Station is an environment that encourages physical health and active citizens. An LA Fitness is located in Atlantic Station. Outside its doors are signs that read “are you ready for summer?”. This sends a specific message to consumers that Atlantic Station is an area that encourages a specific type of physique, likely those that are toned, seemingly sexy, and coveted by citizens. These signs for summer are not only found scribbled in chalk, but created in the very architecture of the buildings. Many of the restaurants have outside seating. It encourages visitors to enjoy the warmth of summer sun while spending significantly on their meals. Furthermore, it promotes the enjoyment of the natural elements added to Atlantic Station. Many potted flowers line the bricked streets, adding visual appeal. Trees are too planted throughout this space giving this concrete constructed area a more natural feel. Two large areas of synthetic grass are located in the center of Atlantic Station. This makes people feels more comfortable within the space. Visitors seem calmer as the walk through this area. It allows them to feel as though they have left the bustling city far behind and stepped into the soothing space of an exclusive park.

This green area is also one that promotes green ideology. This go green mentality is found in Atlantic Station’s celebration of Earth Day as well as its recycling centers set up alongside this green area. One recycling area is beside a Coke machine. This encourages visitors to purchase a Coke so that its container may be recycled. The underlying message is “Consume, it’s good for the earth”. Here guests are also encouraged to consume artistic works. There are a number of tents designated to artists selling original pieces. Guests can even have their portraits drawn in this space.

This allows Atlantic Station to be molded into the desires or needs of any potential visitor. It can be a small field, art show, restaurant, movie, gym, and more. Even a Publix is located in Atlantic Station so that guests can pick up their everyday needs without leaving this environment that provides entertainment. Many of the restaurants have some form of gating around its outside seating areas. Although this could simply be a way to separate restaurants, it also seems to emulate the structure of upper-class gated communities.

This gives consumers a sense of exclusivity. If visitors feel distinctive, confident, and comfortable, they are far more likely to purchase items than those who feel vulnerable and self conscious. These gates also give a sense of order, the lack of chaos too adds to the comfort of guests. There is also much access to technology in Atlantic Station. With plugs at the base of many trees, it insinuates that one needn’t unplug to enjoy the wonders of this space. The population of Atlantic Station, as a result of its well crafted environment, is one that encompasses all racial and ethnic backgrounds, middle and upper-class citizens, families, students, religious individuals as well as people of no specific faith. Overall it is a population that includes individuals from all aspects of the desired classes.



--Ayanda Dorsey

Who Lives in this Fabulous Community?

Located in the heart of Fulton County, Atlantic Station attracts a wide array of individuals. Between the business men and women, curious tourists, youthful college and high school students and young couples, Atlantic Station caters to an estimated 150,000 visitors each week.* Individuals of all shapes, sizes, racial and cultural backgrounds visit to partake in the Atlantic Station experience for the day, only to return to their respective communities at the end of the day. So, what about those who have decided to make Atlantic Station their home?

Fortunately, the residents of Atlantic Station are as equally diverse as the areas visitors.
Unlike most neighborhoods throughout the city, Atlantic Station is very much a developed community. Every aspect of the area appears to be strategically planned out; the perfect combination of shops and popular stores, restaurants to satisfy every taste, a convenient grocery store, a bowling alley and movie theatre for entertainment. In a sense, Atlantic Station was designed so that its residents essentially never have to leave the area because all of their basic needs are just a few steps away. So, what type of population was the area intended for? Exactly the people it attracts; residents are generally between 18 and 25, unmarried, in college, or have recently graduated and just starting their ‘adult lives.’ This community is ideal for these individuals because they are independent, but not fully stabilized yet. They are searching for a convenient living situation, in a nice, safe neighborhood. The general ideas of convenience and comfortability are all ideals that are subjective to this populations culture. The layout or design of Atlantic Station caters to this culture's desire to have every need and basic form of entertainment at their disposal. This population wants all of this at the top of their fingers, right within their reach. This is similiar to their desire for 'one stop shop' venues such as Walmart; Atlantic Station has everything in one spot.

Atlantic Station has approximately 5,000 residential properties, including both lofts and student housing. Approximately 300 loft apartments are located directly above the retail shops, 600 apartments are adjacent to the shopping center, with 1,100 condominiums surrounding the entire area. While Atlantic Station is generally associated with wealth, the apartment complexes in the area have made a very lucrative business out of arranging their buildings solely for college students. With three major Universities within a five mile radius (Georgia Tech, Georgia State University and Emory University), it is evident why this area attracts so many students. These three institutions are highly acclaimed, they attract a diverse population; students all across America, and many international students as well. This has brought students of all racial backgrounds to the area; African-American students, Caucasian students, Hispanic students, Middle Eastern students, and Asian students all reside in the area. The majority of these students have made either The Flats or The Icon apartment complex their home. These spaces are fully furnished (convenience), with the choice of a 2, 3, or 4-bedroom apartment. For students, rent is relatively low, but we will assume that these individuals come from mostly middle-class homes, as they have opted out of the on-campus experience, and are paying a month to month rent instead. As there is no religion associated with the area, we can not assume what religious beliefs are held by this general population.

This group indulges in the offerings of Atlantic Station on every level. They can get the groceries they need from Publix and they can hang out with friends at the theatre or bowling alley, while staying close to home. This is essential to this group’s culture, as party and nightlife play a large part of their way of life.

Outside of the college students are the young adults starting their own lives. We can assume that this area serves as their first apartments, as the majority of young adults are single, and just getting comfortable as a part of the working class. The buildings designed for this group resemble those designed for the college students, but are a tad sleeker, and of course, pricier. They are not furnished, but that is no problem, because IKEA is right across the street. This group is afforded the feeling of independence, while still benefitting from the convenience of this environment.

The religious affiliations of this group also seem to go under the radar as well. With such a variety of individuals of different cultural backgrounds, this is inevitable. This group of individuals, the older crowd, seems to benefit the most from Atlantic Station’s offerings. Because they are all older, they can partake in the after hour, 21 and up gatherings which take place in Atlantic Station. Their age and status has removed them from the “college-student-budget” category, and allows them to wine and dine within their means without having to drive anywhere at all.

Perhaps the hardest group of residents to describe are those who live within the actual shopping area. These individuals live above the shopping centers in loft-style apartments. These residential properties range from the high $100,000’s to more than $1 million. We can assume that these individuals are generally older or from a higher economic class, but providing a complete profile is difficult, as they blend in with the general population on a day to day basis. Many are probably business executives as there are several large corporations such as banks located within Atlantic Station.

As you can see, Atlantic Station is the home of all types of young, individuals of different cultural backgrounds, from different corners of our nation and the world! These individuals all contribute to the community and vibrancy which define the Atlantic Station environment. Such diversity, coexisting is certainly a grand site to see and expose one’s self to. It would be a shame to miss out on an opportunity to mix and mingle with this crowd!

-Laini A. Davis

*Atlantic Station Population Demographics, Atlantic Station Maps, Atlantic Station School Inform
http://neighborhoods.ajchomefinder.com/Fulton/Atlantic%20Station/30363?id=1

Spatial Patterns

Live, Work, Play! Atlantic Station’s slogan describes just what is represented by its space and design. From Living to Shopping to Working Atlantic Station’s design provides for a unique experience for all different types of people. Atlantic Station is almost like a city within a city; It has everything typical of a “downtown” urban area in one relatively small confined space. Everything anyone could ever need is located within Atlantic Station’s limits.

In the heart of it all is Atlantic Stations eating establishments. Convenient, affordable quick eats like Moe’s, Boneheads Piri Piri Grill, and California Pizza Kitchen are all located right next to each other. This set-up is perfect for anyone who has trouble deciding what he or she wants. The restaurants in this space will fill any craving imaginable. Anything from Mexican to contemporary Asian cuisine to a simple healthy, yet satisfying salad. The space in this section provides for a fun, close, atmosphere – perfect for those willing to mingle and meet new people. For those willing to splurge a little more, there’s Strip. Strip sits by itself on a plot of land directly in the center, away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Atlantic Station. The location of this restaurant is essential to the type of people who dine at Strip and the type of experience provided. Strip is the most expensive of the restaurants located in the center of Atlantic Station, attracting a more sophisticated crowd. The modern architectural design and the dimly lit atmosphere provides a much more intimate feel than the other restaurants in the location. Because Strip sits alone in the center, it’s more inviting to those who prefer to be away from large groups and crowds.

The main street of Atlantic Station will satisfy any leisure desires. The biggest establishment on this street is the beautiful Regal Atlantic Station Stadium 16 movie theater. The size, beautiful lighting, and spotlighted sidewalks can make everyone feel like they are walking into the premiere of their own movie. This adds to the idea that Atlantic Station is a space designed specifically for the people: to provide an unparalleled experience to everyone who visits. Also along the main street is Fox Sports Grill. A lot of Atlantic Station attractions are stores to shop in, or places to eat, Fox Sports Grill provides the perfect hangout spot for the guys. Conveniently, Fox Sports Grill is located on the corner of the main street away from everything else. Allowing a nice perfect “getaway” for the guys.

Along the streets of Atlantic Station is a wide variety of stores. The beautiful window displays make it very hard to walk along the streets without stopping in at least one of the stores. Fortunately enough, the stores cater to everyone’s budget, whether it’s minimal or extensive. On one end, stores like H&M and American Eagle cater to those who aim to look trendy without exhausting their budget. These stores are located on the corner near main entrances. A little further down from those stores are Ann Taylor, DSW, and K LA, for those willing to spend a little more money.

Click here to view the entire District Map!

--Brittany Curtis

Relationship Between the Location & the City

What better place to spend a day in Atlanta than Atlantic Station! When visiting, the possibilities of engaging in fun activities become endless. From various shopping centers, to delectable food spots, to fascinating museums and fun circuses, Atlantic Station provides tourists with numerous events that last all the day long. Not only is this location a must visit, but it also mirrors the layout of the city of Atlanta. As an all in one site, the community of Atlantic Station mimics the functionality of the Atlanta city by supplying citizens with every probable necessity, such as shelter, food, work, and fun.



At Atlantic Station, finding shelter is a no brainer. Known as ATLofts, citizens can choose between living in apartments or condominiums. These spacious lodges encourage all decorating styles that allow individuals to add their own personal touch to their living space. No need to worry of interruptions of a quiet, cozy night from the fun taking place nearby, because the locations of these living spaces vary. While some locate themselves right above retail stores and restaurants, other are placed near quieter areas, such as super markets and wholesale stores. The Village, the Commons, the District are all surrounded by the gorgeous scenery of bountiful flowers and bodies of water. Also, the Ikea in walking distance allows people to furnish their homes. Like the city of Atlanta, Atlantic Station grants living spaces that assure comfort, convenience, and conditions that fit every lifestyle.


What pad is complete without food? With the numerous restaurants and groceries, no one should go hungry. Well-known stores, such as Target and Publix, accommodate hunger needs. Citizens can fill their cabinets and refrigerators with all sorts of goodies. For the non-cookers, eating out at The Grape, Strip, or other eateries is definitely an option. Food is a necessity included in all communities, and similar to all cities, finding food comes quite easy.





Please don’t fret about the cost of living, because in Atlantic Station work can be found on each corner. Companies, such as BB&T and Wachovia, employ workers dedicated and enthusiastic about their businesses. Let’s not forget about the numerous companies located in the 201 Seventeenth Street Tower: Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, Uzun & Case, Newmark Knight Frank, and Regus. For those not interested in working with large corporations, work in retail and service are surely available. The countless shopping centers, grocery stores, and restaurants of this Atlantic Station community can only function with the citizens, so people should have little trouble finding their niche. The banks located in Atlantic Station also make it easier to manage earnings from work. All cities provide work for the populace, and Atlantic Station follows this very trend by offering a load of work opportunities.


Luckily, Atlantic Station isn’t a community promoting the all work and no play motto. Instead, they advertise for live, work, and play. The shopaholics can indulge themselves in the fashions of H&M, American Eagle Outfitters, Journeys, and Dillard’s. Food lovers may dine at the Fox Grill, California Pizza, or the Cheesecake Bistro to feast on delicious entrees. Atlantic Station wouldn’t be complete without the Regal Cinema. This popular movie theater caters to every mood, whether it be comedy, romance, drama, or horror. Something new and exciting is always happening here. For example, the Bodies Exhibit and Dialog in the Dark: Your Senses Will Never Be the Same events featured at the Human Bodies Museum is a must see. This eventful scene provides as much fun as a larger city, encouraging people to take heed of the events taking place in the Atlantic Station district.


With all of this in mind, Atlantic Station is the place to be! As stated in their slogan, “Life Happens Here.” Here, people live, work, and play. When visitors come to this city within a city, the possibilities of finding comfort and happiness in small packages become visible. People will be able to explore the living conditions, work opportunities, and thrilling activities. With all of these provisions, people will realize the close similarities Atlantic Station shares with the spectacular city of Atlanta. This awesome location models the traditional communal city. Other areas may not supply citizens with every necessity in such close proximities, but Atlantic Station succeeds in this endeavor. It is clear that this location caters to convenience, allowing citizens to have everything they need at their fingertips. So, come to the accommodating, amazing Atlantic Station to discover what this community can offer as the mini city of Atlanta.



--Najja Parker

What's Going on in the Area

Providing a sense of community is more than just having the necessary facilities for residents, but is also being able to host events that keep the community engaged and submersed in culture. In hosting events a community can ensure that its residents are culturally educated to the diversity that exists in Atlanta. Atlantic Station not only provides it’s residents with all the amenities that they would need without leaving the confines of their community, but they also have a series of events in order to support the local venders and make the time spent at Atlantic Station enjoyable for both visitors and community residents. Several of the event surround the timeless idea of "high culture" as well as incorporating unique pop culture.

The possibilities for the wide range of events hosted by Atlantic Station are endless! From Cirque du Soleil to a flea market featuring a variety of local venders there is sure to be an event that fits any community members wants or needs. Not only are there events hosted every holiday, but in between the holidays seven days a week. The theme of each event is a campaign that’s slogan reads, “Happiness is…” Every event does exactly what the slogan says and reminds people of what it feels like to share happiness through entertainment, shopping, eating or relaxing. These events are all about the bringing people together to share enjoyable and unforgettable moments. In addition to the outdoor events hosted by Atlantic station indoors several of the restaurants have specials for specific days of the week making a evening out with the family that much more enjoyable while on a budget.

Some of the largest and most culturally driven event hosted by Atlantic station include The Lighting of Atlantic Station, Taste of Atlanta, Year round weekend market, walks for charity and traveling shows such as Cirque du Soleil and Cavalia. The lighting of Atlantic station is not only the celebration of the Christmas holiday, but all cultural holidays that surround that time of year. A mock of version of the lighting of the Christmas Tree in New York City gives northern native residents a sense of tradition that they can also share down south. Although snow may or may not be present in the southern state of Georgia around Christmas time the built environment that surrounds the events truly make you believe you have entered into a winter wonderland.

The taste of Atlanta gives local restaurants and restaurants within Atlantic station the opportunity to showcase their most unique and signature dishes. Visitors come from all over to purchase food coupons as they go around to different tents and sample all types of food. The tasting is a great opportunity for restaurants to expose potential customers to their dishes as well as visitors to fill up on exquisite dishes from all over Atlanta. Not only does the taste incorporate the diverse cuisine of Atlanta, but it also samples restaurants that menu’s mimic cultures from all over the world.

Flea markets are excellent ways to support local entrepreneurs and unique handmade business endeavors. Atlantics Station hosts an upscale year long weekend market the brings together Atlanta business owners to display and sell their craft or expertise of choice. Anthony Mason, a vender at the weekend market, was born and raised in Idaho moved to Atlanta for the diverse opportunities available. “I understood that Atlanta was a upcoming city that had a niche for everyone as a growing city I knew they would respect and appreciation for my craft.” Many of the venders have similar sentiments about the city and how the weekend market attributed to much of their success.

Atlantic Station is passionate about making sure the community having enjoyable experiences on every visit, but also understands the importance of giving back to the local community. Atlantic Station is often home to the starting point, end point, and registration location for several Atlanta walks for a cause. Each walks brings in a variety of supporters from all walk of life coming together to show the dedication and love they share for a significant cause.
Not only does Atlantic station host events but they also allow the opportunity for visitors and community members to host their own events such as concerts, banquets, wedding receptions and more. On any given visit to Atlantic station you are bound to stumble upon one of the wonderful events. Each event offers a form of entertainment and excitement as well as bringing in a new and diverse element of culture to the Atlantic


--Morgan Jones