Groundbreaking is set for December with expected completion by summer 2006. The developers declined to disclose the estimated development cost of the project and the projected retail price of the condo space. Area brokers, however, tell GlobeSt.com the hard construction cost of the condos is probably in the $200-per-sf range with the projected retail cost at the $100-per-sf-plus level.

In a prepared statement, Kyle Jenks, a principal at Parkside Partners, says the project was planned at this time because "there is very little supply of commercial-quality small buildings or office condominiums for sale in the [metro Atlanta] market." Jenks says the project "presents a unique opportunity for business owners to invest in their own offices as opposed to traditional office leasing."

Purchases will fully customize the spaces and control their own heating and air systems, Jenks says. Each unit will have separately metered utilities. The two buildings will be for sale as single-user buildings or in smaller units as office condos.

The developer adds, "We're offering buildings made with the same materials you would find in much larger class A structures. This level of quality ensures long-term value for the owners as well as lower maintenance costs in the future."

Carter's development team will manage the development and construction of the buildings. Parkside Partners will handle the marketing.