Lifestyle Goes Indoors
May 1, 2008 12:00 PM, Patricia Kirk
Westfield Group, an Australian-based mall operator, is adding a $240 million three-story, 400,000-square-foot indoor lifestyle retail component to its popular Westfield Southcenter mall in Seattle to accommodate a collection of new and established specialty shops and restaurants.
Westfield opted for an enclosed format with expansive glass to take advantage of the center's views, while providing protection from the region's inclement weather. “Located at the foot of Mt. Rainer, the goal was to elevate the overall experience, all the while integrating and capitalizing upon the incredible Pacific Northwest views from all three levels to the great outdoors,” says Westfield spokesperson Katy Dickey.
“We do not employ a ‘cookie cutter’ approach. The design for the Westfield Southcenter expansion was inspired, in part, by contemporary Northwest architecture and natural elements, yet fashioned to create a distinct look and feel all its own,” she adds.
The project will be the market debut for H&M. Also new to the Puget Sound is PINK, a concept from Victoria's Secret featuring sleepwear, loungewear and intimate apparel for young women, and Love Culture, which showcases trendy, affordable fashions and shoes for young women. Five new signature restaurants, including Joeys, Duke's Chowder House, Blue C Sushi, Racha Thai & Asian Bistro and BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse, will be located in an indoor/outdoor promenade under a new 90-foot glass entry. When completed this summer, the addition will make the center the largest in the region, with 1.7 million square feet of retail space anchored by Macy's, Nordstrom, Sears and JCPenney.
