Alternate Futures for Big-Box Retail Space

With the economic downturn and fuel prices re-shaping the landscape of urban and suburban environments, what is to become of some of the large-scale buildings and spaces that are now emptying out?  How can we avoid being left with empty concrete jungles?

Morgan Greenseth offers some examples of interesting ways big-box retail spaces are being re-designed or re-used in ways conducive to more localized communities with improved walk-ability, mixed uses, community activities and lifestyle options.

“As malls across the country start to fade into obsolescence, what is to become of these massive structures? After spending some time searching out the most creative alternatives to abandonment and massive landfilling of these former monuments to chain-store consumerism, I've found that the future of shopping malls is hopeful and creative..” See his examples here.

  

stu, August 12, 2008

In Christiansburg, Virginia near Roanoke and Blacksburg, the local mall was re-designed and the old movie theatre was converted into a satellite branch of the New River Community College. The old food court turned into an exclusive court for the CC. It is extremely innovative and has been quite good in attracting new students. Get a degree and pair of designer jeans under the same roof.

Link: http://www.stuartmease.com

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