Warehouse Row has gained three new retailers, pushing the downtown center's retail space to over 50 percent leased for the first time since late 2008.

"Our company has been very selective in the retailers we have recruited," said George Krauth, marketing and leasing manager. "We want to get the best retailers we can to cater to the local shopper."

He said all three of the new stores are fashion-centered boutiques, and they're slated to open this fall at the retail and office center at Market and Houston streets.

Coming are:

n Drewlewis is leasing 950 square feet. It will feature menswear, though it also will provide a select women's section, according to Warehouse Row.

David Gore, a Chattanooga native who opened his first store with Seth Kloss in midtown Atlanta, said the store is "a natural fit" for Warehouse Row.

n Bar Denim Blues is occupying 1,200 square feet. The niche retailer will feature premium denim for men and women, according to the downtown shopping center. Stephanie Bolton, also a Chattanooga native, is the owner.

n Rhinoceros Boutique is leasing 887 square feet. It will showcase casual clothing, business attire and dresses and a specialty collection of jewelry, handbags and home accessories, Warehouse Row officials said.

Also, the center has opened a breezeway between the north and south buildings to auto traffic from Market Street.

Mr. Krauth said the change will provide better access to the building and parking areas and landscaped space for events.

Jamestown Properties, an Atlanta-based real estate investment firm, bought Warehouse Row in 2006 after outlet store retailers began leaving.

Jamestown undertook a multimillion-dollar remake of the facility, a group of brick buildings dating back to the early 1900s that were the site of railroad warehouses.

Michael Phillips, Jamestown's creative director, said the group of new tenants is an indicator of Warehouse Row's regional influence.

"We're excited to see Warehouse Row evolve into a true destination, attracting prominent, independent Southeast businesses with a focus on authenticity, style and service," he said.