Danville, VA – Universal Window and Door provided historic replica windows for the conversion of White Mill, a five-story, 550,000-square-foot former textile mill building, into Dan River Falls, an $85 million mixed-use project. Developed by the Alexander Company and the Danville Industrial Development Authority, Dan River Falls consists of 190 apartment units and 147,000 square feet of commercial (office and retail) space. Universal provided 550 large (20’ x 12’) arched custom aluminum windows from their 700 Series, each crafted to meet the exacting standards of the various historic preservation commissions. The building is listed in the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places.
The White Mill, originally known as Mill No. 8, was constructed on the south bank of the Dan River, a location chosen for its access to waterpower and transportation. The mill opened in 1920, and at one time employed 14,000 people in Danville. The mill ceased operations in 1996 before closing in 2006. It sat vacant for a decade before being purchased by the Alexander Company in 2017.
Designed by engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting firm Stantec, the construction manager was Rehab Builders, and the windows were installed by frequent Universal partner Window City. Tenants began moving into the one, two, and three-bedroom units in December of 2024, but the first phase of the building celebrated its grand opening in the Spring of 2025. Office space is nearing completion, with the Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism (DOEDT) scheduled to move in by the close of Q3. Construction on Dan River Falls’ second phase will continue through 2026.
“The transformation of Dan River Falls represents the very best of what can be achieved through collaboration and vision. What was once a vacant, blighted property has become a vibrant anchor along our riverfront, instilling a sense of pride in our community and serving as a model for revitalization across the nation,” said Corrie T. Bobe, DOEDT Director. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our partners and the invaluable support we received from state and federal agencies who believed in the potential of this project.”
“Universal Window is proud to continue our relationships with best-in-class historic preservation developers and architects that preserve history while providing much-needed affordable housing,” said Jeff Reilly, CEO of Universal Window and Door.
