North Carolina Constrution News staff writer
Crescent Communities has broken ground on a new 400-unit apartment complex in Durham’s University Hill neighborhood, continuing the developer’s expansion in the Triangle with its third local project.
The development, called NOVEL UHill, will rise on a six-and-a-half-acre site near the well-known UHill Walls public art installation. The five-story building will include a mix of studio to three-bedroom apartments, along with 19 townhomes. The first units are expected to be completed by late 2026.
Crescent, which is also building NOVEL communities in Morrisville and Cary, is acting as its own general contractor. The company has developed a growing number of apartment projects across the country and is now focusing more attention on the Triangle area.The project includes a wide range of shared amenities: a rooftop lounge, outdoor courtyards, a pool, fitness and yoga studios, a dog park, and a coffee shop. There will also be space for coworking and creative workshops, with regular community events planned for residents.
Crescent says it plans to incorporate original art throughout the property, inspired by the nearby murals that have become a landmark for the neighborhood.
“This is more than just a new apartment complex,” said Michael Tubridy, Crescent’s managing director for North Carolina. “We’re building a place that reflects the spirit of Durham and its creative energy.”
KTGY is the project architect, and Kimley-Horn is handling engineering and landscape design. Financial partners include Kyuden Urban Development America, NEC Capital Solutions America, and Santander Bank.
Construction is expected to continue through 2026.