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Molbaks Nursery Site to Reopen as Mixed-Use 'Molbaks Place'

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/2 .. y-site-to-reopen-as-mixed-use-molbaks-place.html
  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, March 24th 2026 at 21:05 GMT by Seattle Times
      Locale: UNITED STATES

WOODINVILLE, WA - Wednesday, March 25th, 2026 - The property at 13503 Northeast Woodinville-Redmond Road, a landmark for decades as the home of Molbaks nursery and hardware store, is on the cusp of a new chapter. After years of vacancy following Molbaks' closure in 2019, the site is poised for redevelopment into "Molbaks Place," a mixed-use project promising a revitalization of the area with much-needed housing and retail space.

For generations, Molbaks was more than just a store; it was a community hub. Residents recall weekend trips to select plants, get gardening advice, and browse unique gifts. The family-owned business, synonymous with quality and customer service, cultivated a loyal following throughout the Eastside and beyond. Its closure four years ago left a palpable void, not just in the local retail landscape, but in the fabric of the Woodinville community. The loss sparked conversations about the changing face of retail and the importance of preserving local institutions.

Now, developer Molbaks Place LLC aims to honor that legacy while addressing current community needs. The project is ambitious, but carefully considered to strike a balance between honoring the past and embracing the future. The plan calls for a blend of 18 apartment units and over 6,000 square feet of commercial space. This combination intends to create a vibrant, walkable destination that serves both residents and visitors.

What sets this development apart is the commitment to preserving a piece of Woodinville's history. Unlike many redevelopment projects that opt for complete demolition, Molbaks Place LLC intends to retain and restore the historic facade of the original Molbaks building. This decision has been widely applauded by local historical societies and preservation groups, who see it as a crucial step in maintaining the character of the area. The facade will serve as a visual reminder of the beloved business that once thrived there, creating a sense of continuity and connection to the past.

The project's approval by the Woodinville City Council in February was not without discussion. While the vast majority of residents expressed support for the redevelopment, concerns were raised regarding the potential impact on traffic and parking. Woodinville, like many growing communities in the Seattle metropolitan area, is facing increasing congestion. The city council addressed these concerns by requiring the developer to conduct a thorough traffic impact study and implement mitigation measures, including improved pedestrian and bicycle access, and dedicated parking spaces for residents and customers.

The addition of 18 apartment units is particularly significant given the ongoing housing shortage in the region. King County, and specifically the Eastside, has experienced rapid population growth in recent years, driving up housing costs and making it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to find affordable places to live. Molbaks Place will offer a range of apartment sizes and layouts to cater to diverse housing needs, from young professionals and empty nesters to small families.

The commercial space, meanwhile, is expected to attract a variety of businesses, including local retailers, restaurants, and service providers. The developer is actively seeking tenants who will complement the overall vision for Molbaks Place - a vibrant, community-focused destination. There is speculation that a smaller-scale garden center or landscaping business may even be among the tenants, subtly nodding to the property's storied past.

Construction is anticipated to begin later this year, with a projected completion date in late 2027. Local residents are eagerly awaiting the transformation, hoping that Molbaks Place will become a new gathering place for the community, carrying on the spirit of connection and vibrancy that characterized the original Molbaks for so many years. The project is a testament to the potential for responsible development that respects the past while embracing the needs of the future. It is more than just a building project; it's a community investment in a more vibrant and sustainable Woodinville.