Heartwood will be an iconic structure inspired by the spirit and character of Southwest Virginia. Elements of traditional buildings and structures native to the settlers of this area served as touchstones for a unique and dynamic building that somehow seems as home in 2010 as it would in 1810.
Designed by award winning architects, Spectrum Design of Roanoke, the 29,000 square foot building will sit on eight acres next to the Virginia Highlands Community College. The LEED Certified building will feature artisan galleries, a superior food court with locally supplied organic products, storyboards and maps of the region to highlight the wonderful opportunities for exploring, exhibits of featured artisans and a place for music performances as a stop on The Crooked Road. The building will also house the offices of the 'Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia Artisan’s Network and The Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail staffs.
The majestic mountains and valleys of southwest Virginia are a tapestry of possibilities, creativity, and inspiration. The first stop to finding out all the region has to offer will be Heartwood Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Gateway
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Located in picturesque and historic Abingdon, Virginia, off exit 14 of Interstate 81 HEARTWOOD will capture significant numbers of tourists and travelers coming to and traveling through the region and create a significant and profound economic impact that will resonate throughout the region. A recent Market Study conducted by Economic Research Associates of Washington, D.C. estimated that within three years, the Artisan Gateway will easily draw 270,000 visitors per year. Located in the heart of a total market area of 66 million people, the number is sure to grow as the word gets out.
