Regency Hilltop Becomes Laskin Commons at Hilltop as Landmark Renovation Ushers in a Vibrant New Era


Reimagined destination at the gateway to Virginia Beach’s Hilltop district offers a walkable, all-day experience for residents and visitors alike

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (October 27, 2026) – A new chapter is beginning at one of Virginia Beach’s most recognizable retail destinations. Following the completion of the most extensive renovation in the property’s four-decade history, Regency Hilltop is officially entering a new chapter as Laskin Commons at Hilltop, reflecting its evolution into a vibrant, walkable destination where residents and visitors can shop, dine, exercise, gather, and connect from sunrise to sunset.

Located at the gateway to the Hilltop shopping district and just one mile from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, the 231,549-square foot center has been transformed with updated architecture, modern storefronts, enhanced landscaping, pedestrian-friendly gathering areas, and a renewed focus on creating a place where people want to spend time, not simply run errands.

The transformation was led by the property’s longtime owners, the McLeskey and Mersel families, whose partnership on the center has spanned nearly 40 years. Together, they have invested in a vision that reflects both the energy of today’s Hilltop district and the future of Virginia Beach.

Complementing the physical transformation is the introduction of a new brand identity that reflects the center’s renewed purpose and vision. Named for its location along Laskin Road, one of Virginia Beach’s most traveled corridors, Laskin Commons at Hilltop was created to convey a sense of connection, community, and place. The name emphasizes the property’s evolution into more than a shopping destination, becoming a welcoming gathering space where residents and visitors can spend time throughout the day. Drawing inspiration from the Virginia Beach coastline, local community ties, and the center’s role as a gateway to Hilltop, the new branding reinforces the property’s commitment to creating experiences that bring people together while honoring its longstanding roots in the community.

“Laskin Commons represents much more than a new name,” said Cheryl McLeskey. “For nearly four decades, our families have been proud stewards of this property, and this transformation is an investment in the future of our community. We wanted to create a place where people can start their day with a workout, meet friends for lunch, enjoy shopping, bring their children to activities, and end the evening with dinner. It’s a destination that reflects the lifestyle and spirit of Virginia Beach.”

The reimagined center brings together an expanding mix of fitness, wellness, shopping, dining, and family-focused experiences that serve residents throughout the day. Visitors can begin their morning at Planet Fitness or Hot House Yoga, browse local favorites such as Running Etc. and Clothes Mentor, take children to Goldfish Swim School, and gather with family and friends for dinner at Kelly’s Tavern, a longtime Virginia Beach favorite. Additional tenants and exciting announcements are expected in the months ahead.

As part of its next phase, Laskin Commons will continue expanding opportunities for visitors to linger and connect through enhanced outdoor seating, gathering spaces, seasonal programming, live music, and future community events designed to bring neighbors together.

“Our goal was to create an environment that feels welcoming from the moment you arrive,” said Rick Mersel. “The improvements have transformed this corner of Hilltop into a place where people can walk, explore, shop, dine, and enjoy everything the center has to offer. We’re proud to help create a destination that serves both longtime residents and the many visitors who experience Virginia Beach every year.”

Joe Mersel added, “This project has always been about investing in Virginia Beach and creating something that will serve generations to come. We’re excited about the momentum we’re seeing, the quality of tenants joining the center, and the opportunities ahead to make Laskin Commons a true gathering place for the community.”

The new identity draws inspiration from its location along Laskin Road, the iconic corridor connecting Virginia Beach’s neighborhoods with the Oceanfront. As the first stop into Hilltop and a daily destination for surrounding communities, Laskin Commons reflects a renewed sense of place while honoring decades of local ownership and stewardship.

A new website was launched at laskincommons.com and will showcase the center’s tenants, provide updates on events and programming, and highlight future enhancements. Laskin Commons will celebrate its official launch with a planned community-wide event – details to be announced soon.

S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co. will continue to provide management and leasing services for the property.

“The response from both national and local retailers has been tremendous,” said Murray Rosenbach of S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co. “The transformation has elevated the center’s position within the market, and we’re continuing to see strong interest from businesses that recognize the value of being part of a dynamic, community-focused destination like Laskin Commons.”

For leasing opportunities, please contact: Murray Rosenbach, mrosenbach@slnusbaum.com, Pierce Jacobson pjacobson@slnusbaum.com, or Brody Tucker, btucker@slnusbaum.com, 757.627.8611.

About Laskin Commons at Hilltop

Laskin Commons at Hilltop is a 231,549-square-foot retail destination located at 1932-1956 Laskin Road in Virginia Beach, Virginia, at the gateway to the Hilltop district and one mile from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Owned by the McLeskey and Mersel families, partners on the property for nearly 40 years, the newly renovated center offers a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, fitness, wellness, and family-focused experiences. Current tenants include Planet Fitness, Hot House Yoga, Running Etc., Clothes Mentor, Goldfish Swim School, Kelly’s Tavern, and a growing roster of businesses serving residents and visitors throughout the day. Designed as a walkable gathering place, Laskin Commons brings together convenience, community, and coastal lifestyle in the heart of Virginia Beach.

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Facebook: Laskin Commons at Hilltop | Virginia Beach VA | Facebook

Instagram: @laskincommonsvb

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