Crabapple Mercantile Exchange Brings Life to Downtown Milton

Local Businesses Thrive as Leasing Broker Brian Patton Helps Curate Vibrant Tenant Mix

MILTON, GA — With its charming brick architecture, walkable streetscape, and a handpicked selection of independent businesses, the Crabapple Mercantile Exchange is quickly becoming a crown jewel in the heart of downtown Milton. Developed by Orkin & Associates, the project is a major component of the city’s revitalized Crabapple area—a carefully planned live-work-play destination designed to reflect the character and charm of Milton’s historic core.

At the center of the leasing effort of Phase 2, was Brian Patton, a seasoned commercial real estate broker and principal of the self named firm, Brian Patton Commercial.  During Phase 2 leasing, he served as the exclusive leasing agent for the development. Representing Orkin & Associates, Patton  played a key role in assembling the eclectic and community-focused tenant mix that now calls Crabapple home.

“We focused on finding tenants that not only offered great products or services but also contributed to the unique personality of the development,” said Patton. “It’s not just about filling space—it’s about building community.”

Among the standout tenants are:

  • DUA Vietnamese, known for its authentic pho and modern take on traditional Vietnamese dishes.
  • Spiced Right Ribhouse, a longtime Georgia barbecue favorite serving ribs, pulled pork, and smoked brisket.
  • Buzzed Bull Creamery, an innovative dessert shop offering alcohol-infused ice cream treats.
  • Alumni Cookie Dough, a nostalgic destination offering edible cookie dough by the scoop or in sundae form.
  • Savi Provisions, a neighborhood gourmet market that adds a refined grocery option to the area.

The development also includes boutiques like Loveday Place, home and design firms such as Prescott Design Studio, and local mainstays like Henry & Pearl, a clothier with deep roots in the area.

Central to the project is Crabapple Green, a large shared green space used for yoga classes, concerts, and seasonal festivals—helping foster the community vibe that developers and tenants alike have championed.

Orkin & Associates’ vision for the Crabapple Mercantile Exchange was to create a town center atmosphere that blends retail, office, and dining in a pedestrian-friendly setting. The collaboration with Patton has been instrumental in realizing that goal. His knowledge of the local market and connections in the real estate community helped bring in businesses that align with Milton’s values—small, local, and people-first.

With leasing still active and a few key spaces available—including rooftop offices and high-visibility retail storefronts—Crabapple Mercantile Exchange is continuing to grow. The project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful development and strong partnerships between owners, agents, and the community.

As Milton evolves, Crabapple Mercantile Exchange remains a leading example of how historic charm and modern energy can come together to create something exceptional.

Picture of Brian Patton
Brian Patton

Brian Patton, CCIM, is a commercial real estate broker, land specialist, and investment property expert with over 30 years of experience. A former zoning official and city planner, Brian has helped thousands of landowners and investors navigate the complexities of development, permitting, and investment analysis. He is the author of Mailbox Moo-la and Land Moo-la, both practical guides for generating income and maximizing land value. Brian has taught real estate courses, lectured at the University of Alabama, and hosted real estate radio shows and podcasts. He lives in Georgia, where he remains active in his community and local church.

BPC_2025_Header_Tr

Land Use Experts. Development Advisors. Problem Solvers.

We Handle the Headaches So You Can Focus on the Big Picture.