The future of shopping malls: new "cities" of entertainment in the 21st century

Shopping complexes of the 21st century

In the 21st century, shopping centers have changed, no longer just being places for making purchases. Today, they are multifaceted spaces where families can enjoy a variety of entertainment activities. The evolution of these complexes has led to the emergence of truly unique establishments, including some of the largest and most spectacular in the world. Let's take a look together at some of these remarkable shopping centers, both those currently in operation and those in the conceptual design stage.

Dubai Mall

Let's start withDubai Malllocated in the heart of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This shopping mall is the largest in the world, with an area comparable to that of more than 50 football fields.

• There are over 1200 stores and 120 restaurants here.
• It has a five-star hotel.
• It creates an atmosphere where you can enjoy shopping and good food.

Every guest can find flagship boutiques of familiar brands here, as well as establishments offering exotic cuisine, which creates a variety of flavors.

Mall of America

Second on our list is —Mall of Americalocated in Minneapolis, USA. It is the largest shopping mall in the country, featuring a wide selection of over 500 stores, as well as an aquarium and an amusement park.

• The central part is designed like an aquarium.
• The attractions and entertainment areas make this place ideal for both children and adults.

Villaggio Mall

Let's not forget aboutVillaggio Mallin Qatar, which offers a unique shopping experience, recreating the atmosphere of Venice with its picturesque canals and gondolas.

• Shoppers can not only visit the stores, but also have fun at the ice skating rink or movie theater.
• This makes it an ideal place for family vacations and leisure activities.

SM Mall of Asia

Not far from Manila, in the Philippines, is a massiveSM Mall of Asiawhich is renowned for its stunning sea views and spacious outdoor areas.

• This shopping center offers a variety of entertainment and many restaurants with cuisines from around the world.
• This attracts locals and tourists alike.

West Edmonton Mall

We can't ignore the famousWest Edmonton Mallin Canada. Over the years, it has held the status of one of the largest entertainment complexes in the world.

• Not only does it house a large number of stores and restaurants.
• Has a water park, ice skating rink, and even miniature golf.
• This makes it the perfect outdoor activity for the whole family.

Conclusion

Thus, twenty-first century shopping malls are much more than just places to shop. They have become full-fledged cities that offer a wide range of entertainment options for families. They are places where the boldest ideas and concepts in shopping and leisure are realized, allowing each visitor to find something to his or her liking.

The memorable Dubai Mall

In the center of the United Arab Emirates there is a famous shopping center - Dubai Mall. This magnificent complex is not just a shopping, but a real symbol of the country's tourist attraction, and every year receives millions of guests. In 2012, more tourists visited here than in New York itself, which confirms its incredible popularity.

Entertainment and Shopping at Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall offers visitors an exceptional shopping experience and a host of entertainment options to suit every taste. It is home to:

• The largest cinema screens in Dubai
• An impressive aquarium where you can observe more than 33,000 marine inhabitants.

This unique underwater kingdom attracts both children and adults, leaving unforgettable impressions on everyone. In addition, the shopping center has:

• Ice skating for winter sports enthusiasts
• The theme of Sega Republic park offers a variety of thrilling attractions for adrenaline seekers.

Giant candy store

It arouses special interest.giant candy storewhich is rightfully considered the largest on the planet. Here, sweet tooths can satisfy their cravings by discovering new flavors and enjoying desserts. With a variety of entertainment options, children can have a great time while their parents enjoy shopping and indulge in world cuisine at exquisite restaurants.

The Future: Mall of the World

But this is not the only plan that can surprise. In the coming years, construction will begin in Dubai on a new shopping and entertainment complex known asMall of the WorldThis project is ambitious and promises to surpass the already existing Dubai Mall. The architects intend to create:

• Extensive trading spaces
• Recreation areas and entertainment centers
• A climate control system that ensures comfort in any conditions.

New cultural and entertainment center

Mall of the World is intended to be not just a new shopping destination, but a true cultural and entertainment center that strengthens Dubai's reputation as an outstanding place for shopping and tourism. This project aims to create an ecosystem where the spheres of commerce, entertainment, and leisure uniquely combine.

Conclusion

The abundance of new opportunities and innovative ideas reflects the bold plans of architects and entrepreneurs in Dubai, who are ready to bring them to life. The city continues to enhance its status as a global hub for shopping and entertainment. Don't miss the chance to be part of these vibrant events, keep an eye on new real estate offerings, and stay updated on the latest news!

Grand project in Dubai

A grand construction project is planned in Dubai, which will take about ten years and require investments of around 7 billion US dollars. The proposed shopping and entertainment complex will cover an impressive area of 4.5 million square meters.

About 20% of this space will be allocated for commercial stores, while the remaining part will be divided between residential units and offices. The architectural aspects of this project aim to create a unique architectural marvel that will mark a new phase in the city's history.

The designers plan to connect all parts of the complex with 33 transport corridors, as well as motorcycle and pedestrian routes, including water channels for gondolas. The creators of the project hope that immediately after the opening of the new center, around 180 million people will visit it within the first year.

Mall of America in Bloomington

The next in line of outstanding landmarks is the largest shopping and entertainment center in the United States, called the Mall of America, located in Bloomington, Minnesota. This complex opened in 1992 and its cost reached approximately 650 million dollars.

The size of the Mall of America is truly impressive: to explore all its sections for at least 10 minutes each, it would take a minimum of 86 hours. This place has become a unique attraction in the country, hosting around 350 events each year, including:

• Concerts of famous musicians
• Master classes from famous chefs

Every year, around 42 million people visit it. Since 2016, a program has been underway to improve services and expand the area, and in 2018, the updated Mall of America will double its size.

The area of the new complex will additionally include 54,000 square meters of new retail space, as well as a water park, an ice rink, a five-star hotel, and residential and office spaces. The expected cost of modernizing this facility is around 500 million dollars.

American Dream Miami

The new American Dream Miami project, which will be located in Miami-Dade County in South Florida, is also an example of grand plans. The owners of Mall of America aim to surpass the success of their already operating facility, although this complicates the task, they are confident in their ability to create an even more exciting establishment.

The total area of the new complex will exceed 80 hectares, which is 40% larger than the existing shopping and entertainment center in the USA.

American Dream in New Jersey

New Jersey, USA. In this state, the construction of a new shopping and entertainment complex will begin soon, which will be namedAmerican DreamAccording to the designers, this project will become the most expensive commercial building in the world, as approximately 5 billion dollars will be allocated for its implementation.

Main attractions

One of the main attractions of this place will be the largest artificial ski slope in the Western Hemisphere, which will be built inside American Dream Meadowlands. The complex will also include:

• unique 4D cinema;
• a concert venue with a capacity of three thousand seats;
• mini-golf
• bowling;
• ice arena;
• aquarium.

Artificial ski slope

Among the most impressive features of the new project is an artificial slope for skiers, whose height is comparable to that of a sixteen-story building. The shopping center will also include:

• the largest amusement park in North AmericaDreamWorks;
• water park
• ferris wheelDreamWorksat a height of 91 meters, from where a wonderful view of Manhattan will open up.

History of creation

The process of creating American Dream Meadowlands has a complex history: its construction has been ongoing for 13 years and the project has gone through the hands of three different developers. However, the architects are confident that all work will be completed in 2017.

West Edmonton Mall in Canada

In Edmonton, the Canadian province of Alberta, there isWest Edmonton Mallwhich opened its doors in 1981 and for a long time was considered the largest shopping mall in the world. It was even included in the Guinness Book of Records. Currently, West Edmonton Mall ranks fifth among the largest shopping malls, but it still holds the title of the largest in North America, with a total area of 500,000 square meters.

Features of West Edmonton Mall

Within its boundaries, you can see sea lions and take advantage of a wide range of 800 stores. This complex includes:

• casino;
• petting zoo
• one of the largest amusement parks in the worldGalaxyland;
• water parkWorld Waterpark;
• an indoor pool with artificial waves up to two meters high;
• cinemas;
• concert halls.

Architectural features

From an architectural design perspective, West Edmonton Mall is interesting because its floors are divided into themed zones that recreate the atmosphere of various famous cities around the world, such as "European Boulevard," "New Orleans," "Chinatown," and many others. The construction of this facility cost approximately 930 million dollars.

Westfield Stratford City in London

Westfield Stratford CityIn London, United Kingdom, it is considered the largest shopping center both in the country and in Europe. It was opened in 2011 ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games. Its size is 177,000 square meters.

Amenities at Westfield Stratford City

Inside Westfield Stratford City, you can find:

• 300 stores;
• 70 restaurants;
• the largest casino in the country;
• three hotels;
• cinema
• bowling center;
• organic products market.

Cultural events

The spacious central hall is often used for exhibitions and concerts, which adds cultural diversity to the life of this place.

The strategic location of Westfield Stratford City

The Westfield Stratford City shopping center is located in a convenient and strategically important area, making it accessible for both residents and visitors to the city. Nearby railway lines and bus stations significantly simplify getting to this location.

During the Olympic Games, this establishment attracted about 75% of the spectators, thanks to its location near the Olympic Park. The design and implementation of this shopping center required investments amounting to2.1 billion dollars.

New project in California: The Hills

In California, in Cupertino, the construction of a new headquarters for Apple is underway, near which an interesting shopping and entertainment complex is planned to be created, namedThe Hills.

This project aims to revitalize the outdated Valco Mall, which has remained almost empty for a long time, as more95%his premises were without tenants.

The architectural solution for The Hills envisions the creation of a complete microdistrict, which will include:

• retail spaces;
• recreation areas;
• offices;
• residential apartments.

One of the main features of this project will be the largest roof in the world with“green”covering, with an area of12 hectareson which will be placed:

• greenhouses;
• vineyards;
• playgrounds for children;
• places to relax;
• pedestrian and bicycle paths with a total length ofsix kilometers.

Despite previous issues with a lack of tenants, it is now planned to allocate approximately60 thousand square metersfor commercial spaces, as well as to open a bowling alley and a fitness center. The total budget for this project will be approximately3 billion dollars.

Persian Gulf Complex in Iran

Let's move to Iran, where one of the largest shopping centers has opened in Shiraz.Persian Gulf Complex, opened inin 2011This center is considered one of the largest in the world and holds the record for the number of stores, with around2500.

The total area of the complex is450 thousand square metersHere are placed:

• hotel;
• several pools, including an outdoor one;
• tennis court;
• two amusement parks with a total area of more than65 thousand square meters;
• bowling and a three-level billiard hall.

Persian Gulf ComplexIt also provides wealthy clients the opportunity to land on their own helicopters – there is a helipad on the roof of the complex. The shopping center's parking is designed for5,500 carsand includesfour floorsThe total cost of construction has dragged on for more than660 million dollars.

Conclusion

Thus, each of the mentioned shopping complexes is a unique multifunctional project that offers a wide range of opportunities for shopping, leisure, and entertainment. These centers fully meet the modern needs and expectations of consumers, attracting the attention of both locals and visitors for a long time.

The creation of such shopping complexes becomes a significant event for the development of urban infrastructure, contributing to economic growth and improving the quality of life in the respective regions.

Introduction

In the 21st century, shopping centers have transformed from simple marketplaces into multifunctional complexes that can confidently be called "cities" with a variety of entertainment and services. I am genuinely amazed at how dynamically these spaces are evolving, and I cannot help but highlight their significance in modern life. They have become not only places for shopping but also centers for leisure and social interaction for many people.

Dubai Mall: an example of grandeur

Among the most impressive examples of such transformations, in my opinion, stands outDubai MallIn the United Arab Emirates. This architectural masterpiece offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of leisure and shopping. Imagine a gigantic space exceeding the area of 50 football fields, housing 1,200 stores and 120 restaurants!

I was amazed by the scale and variety of services that this shopping center offers.

• Majestic aquarium
• Ice Palace
• Theme of the amusement park

New Horizons: Mall of the World

But this is not the only outstanding project. I remember when I first heard aboutMall of the WorldIn a new ambitious project in Dubai that promises to surpass the Dubai Mall. It is being developed with extraordinary meticulousness and confidence, and its implementation will be another step in the evolution of shopping centers as places of attraction and inspiration.

Conclusion

In concluding my article, I realize that the future of retail and leisure is inextricably linked to the development of technology and changing consumer preferences. We are witnessing how shopping centers are becoming increasingly integrated with digital platforms. I believe that places like Dubai Mall and Mall of the World will continue to inspire people around the globe, creating new formats for social interactions and entertainment.

It's impossible not to be excited about the future of such outstanding projects that are becoming an integral part of our culture and way of life. I eagerly await what new amazing ideas will come to life in the next generations of shopping centers, as they are already today not just places for shopping, but true fortresses of entertainment life.