Discover Your Dream Property with Cornerstone Highlands
Discover The Cornerstone Highlands: Where innovative design meets timeless elegance in the heart of nature. Build your dream home with us today!
A Corner That Has Always Mattered
For generations, 4th & Main has been woven into the daily life of Highlands. The Cornerstone carries that spirit forward with respect, care, and long-term intention.
Honoring the Legacy
After careful evaluation and exploratory demolition, it became clear the historic structure had reached the end of its structural life and could not be safely restored. While the physical building could not be preserved, its story remains foundational to this corner.
The Cornerstone is a continuation—grounded in memory, designed for today, and built to serve Highlands for generations to come.
Rooted in Place
Highlands is defined by mountain air, stone and timber, and the nearby waterfalls and forests that frame the town. The Cornerstone draws from that setting—quietly refined and unmistakably Highlands.
Designed For Highlands
A refined, mountain-forward palette. Authentic materials. A streetscape presence that feels established, intentional, and worthy of the corner.
Architectural Highlights
Authentic stonework and mountain-craft materials
Timeless design inspired by Highlands’ historic building
High-end retail & restaurant spaces on the ground floor
Professional offices on upper floors
Thoughtful pedestrian connectivity and streetscape improvements
Modern Performance, Classic Character
The goal is not to feel “new,” but to feel right—with traditional proportions, durable finishes, and the kind of detailing that belongs on Main Street.
FAQs
Your Questions Answered: Insightful Support for Your Property Journey
What is The Cornerstone?
We specialize in residential homes, townhouses, and commercial real estate developments focused on sustainability and community.
Where is The Cornerstone located?
The Cornerstone is located at 4th & Main, one of the most prominent corners in downtown Highlands, North Carolina.
Who is developing The Cornerstone?
The project is led by the Nisbett family, who describe their role as long-term stewards with a commitment to Highlands and a track record of local reinvestment.
What types of businesses will be a fit?
The Cornerstone is designed for luxury-leaning retail, boutique food & beverage, and professional services seeking a premier downtown address—tenants who value quality, character, and long-term presence.
Was preservation or renovation considered?
Yes. When the property was purchased in 2022, the intention was to renovate and preserve the existing structure. Significant time and investment went into exploring restoration options, but structural conditions made rehabilitation unfeasible.
How will The Cornerstone honor the history of Highlands?
The project is designed to reflect Highlands’ architectural heritage and acknowledge the importance of this site in town life. The Holt Building’s history—spanning early civic and commercial uses and remembered by generations—remains a meaningful part of the corner’s story.
How long does the typical construction project take from start to finish?
Typically, a custom home can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months from design to completion.
Is leasing available now?
Yes. The Cornerstone is accepting pre-leasing inquiries for retail, restaurant, and office suites.