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A long-vacant storefront in central Springfield is poised for a major transformation as local entrepreneur Mark Harrington prepares to open his second Remix Market, bringing resale shopping, about 10 jobs and a new community-focused use to the property.
Harrington, who has roots in Springfield, purchased the building to sell secondhand furniture, clothing and household goods. He hopes to hold a soft opening in late March or early April.
The store will work alongside Harrington’s other business, Junk Luggers. When crews clear a property, they identify usable belongings that can be diverted from the landfill and offered to shoppers at secondhand prices.
“This project is about giving both the building and its contents a second life,” Harrington said. “We’re excited to create a space the community can enjoy.”
Rather than heading directly to a landfill when a Junk Luggers truck is full, the crew’s first stop will be Remix Market.
Harrington opened his first Remix location in Warrenton in 2020 before moving it to Gainesville earlier this year. The Springfield store will occupy a 6,250-square-foot, two-story building with about 40 nearby parking spaces. It is expected to operate six days a week.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Sweet Julia Grace Foundation, which assists children with complex medical needs and their families. The foundation calls the children it serves “raindancers,” reflecting their ability to “Dance in the Rain” despite the challenges they face.
Harrington attended Forestdale Elementary School and Lee High School, now named John R. Lewis High School. Julia Grace also grew up nearby.
“She’s local, I’m local,” Harrington said. “It’s great to partner with her.”
The building previously housed MVC, an adult entertainment and novelty store that occupied both floors. MVC moved across Old Keene Mill Road in 2018 and became Le Tache Couples Boutique, which remains open. Harrington said some people have joked about the Springfield property’s former tenant after learning about his plans.
Redevelopment Plans Surround the Site
The new store will open as Fairfax County considers broader changes around Springfield Boulevard.
Several years ago, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors renewed consideration of a Comprehensive Plan amendment covering three nearby parcels, though the Remix Market property does not appear to be among them. County recommendations call for mixed-use, multifamily development with ground-floor retail and buildings reaching no more than 85 feet.
A redevelopment map shows landscaping around the Remix site and a proposed bicycle path along its edge. Plans for the surrounding area also identify mixed-use development, a potential pocket park and a site described as a placemaking opportunity.