Willow Lawn building renovations planned through 'Henrico Tomorrow' initiative

Federal Realty Investment Trust is leveraging the recently launched Henrico Tomorrow initiative – an office-focused incentive program developed by the Henrico Economic Development Authority – to renovate the West Tower office building in the Willow Lawn shopping center.

The building has housed a customer support center for home security provider SimpliSafe since 2020. Work will begin later this year.

Through the Office Renovation Incentive Program, the company earned a matching grant of as much as $250,000 to support substantial upgrades to the building’s common areas and reposition the property for modern office users.

The investment marks an early step in the planned broader transformation of one of Henrico’s most prominent commercial corridors.

Planned upgrades include:

• new interior lobby finishes, lighting, and furnishings;

• upgraded upper-level elevator lobbies with new flooring, wall treatments, and feature accent walls;

• renovated restrooms with upgraded finishes, stalls, and plumbing fixtures;

• an enhanced exterior entry with improved lighting, accessibility features, and integrated art;

• installation of a gas-powered generator to support high-tech and data-intensive tenants.

During the next two decades, Federal Realty Trust is planning the creation of 12 areas within the existing Willow Lawn footprint, with a mixture of residential and commercial uses, as well as a central courtyard. The estimated final version of the site would contain approximately 2,000 residential units and more than 500,000 square feet of commercial and office space.

The refreshed design vision at the West Tower building “sophisticated, welcoming atmosphere,” according to FRT officials.

“We applaud Henrico for its proactive initiatives to strengthen the local office market and support job growth,” said Federal Realty Trust Senior Vice President of Asset Management Deirdre Johnson. “This investment allows us to move forward with thoughtful upgrades that will deliver a modern workplace built for productivity and connection.”

“The Willow Lawn West Tower renovation is a prime example of how Henrico Tomorrow is revitalizing key office spaces across the county,” said Henrico County Board of Supervisors Chair and Brookland District Supervisor Dan Schmitt. “Through this program, we’re not just modernizing office space – we’re attracting quality tenants, retaining jobs, and enhancing the vibrancy of Willow Lawn. More importantly, we’re reaffirming our commitment to long-term economic vitality and ensuring Henrico remains a thriving place for both businesses and residents."