Santa Monica Retail Case Study

Santa Monica, California
Columbia GSAPP
610,000 SF
2014

The study aims to revitalize a disused Sears department store site into a mixed-use hub with a regional draw, connecting the new terminal of the LA Metro Expo Line to Santa Monica Place and the famous Third Street Promenade.

The massing circumscribes the triangular site, creating a dynamic courtyard for food vendors. Double-sided, double-height retail bays on the street level accommodate a new generation of retailers. The wide range of retail sizing is intended to house both national anchors and local boutiques. Well-placed portals on the street ensure ample pedestrian movement through the site. Five additional stories of residential units leverage ocean views to add even greater economic viability to the project.