Malls in the U.S. have been increasingly catering to the mixed-use live-work-play contingent, and the latest shopping center development trends have been reflecting this. With on-site apartment and condominium residences interspersed within malls, developers expect these shopping centers to be gathering hubs that mimic village town center-type environments.
Frequently, these “town center” mall configurations are found in suburban developments, thus creating a “safe” city-type setting for shoppers and residents alike.
One mall development that successfully created this mixed-use village center atmosphere is The Village at Totem Lake in Kirkland, Wash. Located 15 miles outside of Seattle, this lifestyle center, managed by CenterCal Properties, recently saw the completion of two new on-site apartment residences this year.
Erika Plummer, senior leasing director, said residents are looking for more than just a home.
“They are seeking a lifestyle that includes their home, the community around them and the retail that supports that lifestyle,” she said.
Convenience is also a large factor.
“We have found that residents love that they can grocery shop, dine and shop right here at The Village at Totem Lake, as well as see movies at our Cinemark theater,” Plummer said.
Fitness centers and therapeutic brands are also particularly appealing tenants for the mixed-use residents, she added.
CenterCal Properties is adding to its health and wellness category with tenants like Vida Integrated Health and Mayweather Boxing + Fitness.
The Village at Totem Lake had previously been an indoor mall, but 95% of the property was demolished to create outdoor-oriented mixed-use “village” touches. These include fire pits with comfortable outdoor seating, mini green spaces, a waterfall fountain/rock pool, and art installation stainless steel sculptures, titled “Dandelions,” that light up at night. Community gathering events include live music in the evenings, and outdoor fitness classes sponsored by Athleta.
