Oakleigh Garden District, Mobile, AL

Mobile’s Oakleigh Garden District is Porchlight’s flagship community revitalization project. In 2016, Porchlight identified a sharp decline in home values and occupancy across several blocks. Porchlight selected a 16-block “focus area” to acquire vacant lots and properties, intentionally avoiding displacement. After purchasing over 40 properties, including those in tax sales and with clouded titles, Porchlight has redeveloped more than 20 housing units. The organization remains active in the Oakleigh community, continuing to redevelop vacant lots and blighted properties.”

Project Identification and Strategy:
In partnership with the City of Mobile Department of Neighborhood and Community Development, Porchlight conducted a comprehensive analysis of mapping and data to identify the point where blight and vacancy had significantly impacted a historic neighborhood. Through strategic planning, Porchlight targeted a 16-block area for redevelopment, focusing on acquiring and revitalizing a critical mass of vacant and blighted residential properties within this zone.
Property Acquisition:
Leveraging local real estate expertise, Porchlight successfully acquired a substantial portfolio of residential properties, including vacant homes, commercial buildings, and undeveloped lots, setting the foundation for future redevelopment.
Commercial Redevelopment:
Porchlight invested in the renovation and adaptive reuse of commercial properties to introduce essential services and amenities that support the neighborhood’s revitalization and enhance its overall livability.
Residential Redevelopment:
To date, Porchlight has delivered more than 20 residential units in the project area, including the historically accurate renovation of existing homes and the construction of new, energy-efficient properties that complement the community’s historic character. Additionally, Porchlight renovated a multifamily property, with 80% of its units now leased to low-income families, further contributing to affordable housing options in the area.

1004 Texas Street

This stunning Queen Anne-style, late Victorian Center Hall Cottage, built in 1904, had been boarded up and left vacant. Porchlight meticulously restored the home, preserving its original charm while updating it for modern living. The property was sold in 2020, finding new life with a family who will cherish it for years to come.

1009 Texas Street

What used to be a rundown and boarded up vacant home is now renovated to its former glory as a restored Creole Cottage.

405 Chatham street

This new Arts and Crafts bungalow in the Oakleigh Historic District was thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Built on a vacant lot, the home features historic details while preserving the mature trees, filling in the gap with a design that honors the neighborhood’s character.

357 Chatham Street

This new Arts and Crafts bungalow in the Oakleigh Historic District brings a fresh, yet historically inspired design to a vacant lot, making a charming addition to the street while preserving the area’s character.

109 Selma Street

This newly built Arts and Crafts bungalow in the Oakleigh Historic District combines modern craftsmanship with historic details. Constructed on a previously vacant lot, it enhances the character of this historic street with a thoughtful and complementary design.

1011 Selma Street

This new Arts and Crafts bungalow, located next door to 1009 Selma St, blends modern construction with historic details. Built on a vacant lot, it makes a beautiful addition to this historic street, complementing the neighborhood’s character.

500 Charles Street

This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom post-Civil War-era cottage was thoughtfully restored through a historically accurate renovation. Now available for rent, it highlights the diversity of property sizes, price points, and historic styles preserved through Porchlight’s efforts in the community.

966 Texas Street

Porchlight completed a comprehensive exterior renovation, landscaping plan, and new parking area, along with the renovation of of eight 2-bedroom 1-bathroom units. Today, the property is fully leased. In 2019, it was recognized with the Oakleigh Garden District Society’s Neighborhood Beautification Award and has since inspired further renovations along this key stretch of Porchlight’s target area.

458 Charles

Threatened with demolition, Porchlight relocated this early 19th century side hall cottage to Oakleigh and completed a full exterior renovation. The property was sold as-is to allow buyers to complete the interior to their specifications.

455 South Broad

Porchlight renovated and sold a long-vacant storefront to a local business owner, restoring vitality to a commercial corridor within the Oakleigh neighborhood.

Porchlight’s Impact

Porchlight is proud to lead by example. Our investment in new and renovated housing has encouraged other developers to follow suit and bring additional units online, further driving revitalization and investment in the neighborhood.