Untitled
Apr 17, 2002 12:00 PM
| RTKL International Ltd. One South Street Baltimore, MD 21202 (t) 410-528-8600 (f) 410-385-2455 www.rtkl.com |
Location: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Size: 2,163,642 sq. ft. Category: Renovated Centers Firm: RTKL International Ltd. Developer/Owner: |
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 The
goals of a recent expansion and renovation of Plaza Las AmŽricas
were basic: Maintain or enhance the center's dominant position in the
market; bring cohesion to the center's patchwork of past renovations;
and solidify its dominant position by attracting upper-scale tenants
who appeal to the island's growing affluent population.
The L-shape of the center was extended into a square donut, so that consumers could shop in a loop, avoiding dead-ends. Each concourse sports a simple, shallow vaulted ceiling, a unifying design motif throughout. Subtle changes in floor paving colors and patterns give each area a distinct, yet integrated, character. The JC Penney court, for instance, evokes a tropical rainforest. Here, paving medallions celebrate the coqui frogs and parrots native to the island. Other motifs highlighting regional climate and culture include a palm-lined, second-level arcade, inspired by the streets of "Old San Juan." The center was enhanced by an entirely
new, comprehensive identity package of environmental graphics. Site
directionals, primary building identity and a program of playful
graphic glyphs were introduced not only to contribute to an overall
sense of place, but to help shoppers navigate and locate amenities
within the retail space. Landscaping and exterior lighting around
several major entrances were significantly enhanced as well.
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