A major renovation at San Jose’s Eastridge Center will incorporate features not seen in many local malls. The mall will soon have a 30-foot interior digital wall, large-scale exterior artist murals and other community art projects. The shopping center, owned by Pacific Retail Capital Partners, will remain open during renovations. Gensler Architects was selected in March as its partner for the major renovation.

“We’re excited about the future of Eastridge, and our focus is to embrace the rich culture and history of San Jose, while curating the next-generation retail experience,” Pacific Retail Capital Partners vice president of marketing Najla Kayyem said. “This is a long-term investment in the property and the city that has created memories at, and supported, Eastridge for generations.”

Among the redevelopment plans are an interior orchard installation to provide live trees, grass, plant walls, flowers and ornamental agriculture in the Center Court. The east and west concourses will have soft seating and greenery. An interactive play area will provide whimsical seating, discovery areas, and creative and artistic outlets for children.

Two family lounges will provide space for families with small children and infants. Restrooms will be upgraded. A redesigned eatery will feature a variety of culinary concepts. Exterior renovations includ e entrances with clean glass entries and restoration to exterior walls that blend graphic art, murals and greenery.

As part of the redevelopment, the center launched the Mural Project dedicating a series of exterior walls for transformation by internationally renowned artists and local talent. A talent call for local artists recently wrapped up and work will begin in March on the murals. In the spring, local children will be invited to create an imaginative art installation that will become part of the permanent design.

The center will host a culinary competition in May, awarding the winner an eatery space in Eastridge and $140K in prizes.

The mall contains about 150 stores and an AMC Theatres. H&M moved into Eastridge in January and a Kay Jewelers will open later this year. The redevelopment is expected to be completed in the fall.

20170308