Brea Mall and The Shops at Palm Desert Embark on Mixed-Use Redevelopment Projects

As traditional retail environments adapt to changing consumer preferences, notable transformations are underway at Brea Mall in Orange County and The Shops at Palm Desert. Both malls are embracing mixed-use development strategies to revitalize their spaces and better serve their communities.​

Brea Mall's Transformation

Brea Mall, owned by Simon Property Group, has received approval for a comprehensive redevelopment plan. The project includes:​

• Residential Units: Construction of a five-story apartment complex comprising 380 units atop a three-floor parking garage.​

• Fitness and Recreation: Introduction of a two-story, 90,000-square-foot luxury fitness center, with Life Time Fitness as the anticipated tenant.​

• Retail and Dining: Development of new retail spaces and dining options to enhance the mall's offerings.​

• Outdoor Spaces: Creation of nearly an acre of green space, providing communal areas for relaxation and events.​

This redevelopment aims to transform the former Sears building and adjacent areas into a vibrant community hub where residents can live, work, shop, and recreate without relying on cars. The project reflects a broader trend of reimagining mall spaces to include residential and experiential components. ​

The Shops at Palm Desert's Revitalization

Similarly, The Shops at Palm Desert is undergoing a significant transformation under its new owner, Pacific Retail Capital Partners (PRCP). The company's vision for the 72-acre property includes:​

• Mixed-Use Development: Integration of green spaces, multifamily housing, and entertainment venues to create a dynamic, mixed-use environment.​

• Community Engagement: Establishment of the mall as an iconic civic gathering place that contributes to the existing character of the Coachella Valley.​

PRCP plans to leverage its expertise to design and develop a master plan that revitalizes the nearly one-million-square-foot shopping center, aligning with contemporary urban development trends. ​

Implications for Urban Development

These redevelopment projects at Brea Mall and The Shops at Palm Desert exemplify a shift in urban planning, where mixed-use developments are becoming instrumental in revitalizing traditional retail spaces. By incorporating residential units, fitness centers, retail shops, dining options, and communal green spaces, these malls aim to create self-sustaining communities that cater to modern lifestyles.​

As these projects progress, they are poised to serve as models for similar transformations nationwide, demonstrating how traditional malls can evolve to meet the changing needs of their communities and contribute positively to urban revitalization efforts.