PLACEMAKING VISION
MARCH 2019
THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES
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PAGE TITLE | THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES - DECEMBER 2018
VISION
PUBLIC SPACE CHARACTERISTICS
2 June 11, 2015
The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes is a 376,000 square foot lifestyle shopping center in Maple Grove, Minnesota, approximately eleven miles northwest of downtown Minneapolis. It is located just east of the convergence of 1-694 and I-494, with easy access from both highways. The shopping center is anchored by Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe’s, Pottery Barn, Forever 21, and H&M, and features a retail main street of approximately a quarter- mile over three blocks. The central block of the street is pedestrian-only, and retailers along this block suffer from lack of visibility and convenient parking. This document envisions the reintroduction of a vehicular street, with on-street parking, through the central block in a manner that does not compromise the character of the pedestrian experience and that supports a variety of dynamic programming and events.
Placemaking elements foster human interaction and provide a variety of experiences and opportunities for connection.
FLEXIBLE
Public spaces support a wide range of activities and events, without compromising functionality.
IMMERSIVE
Urban amenities encourage leisurely interests, with small areas for quiet reflection and intimate conversation.
| THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES - DECEMBER 2018 PROPOSED SITE PLAN
| THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES - DECEMBER 2018 MAJOR SITE FEATURES
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TABLED/SHARED STREET SIDEWALKS
“DISRUPTORS”
ARCADE
| THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES - DECEMBER 2018 MAJOR SITE FEATURES TABLED / SHARED STREET
A curbless street near the intersections will def ine this block as a space place within the overall project. The consistent ground plane encourages pedestrian crossing and provides flexibility and functionality for many types of activities. Combining the wide corners of the retail sidewalks with a raised intersection and a shared street allow for larger events, such as markets, festivals, and small performances, in spaces that are practical and appropriately sized for day-to-day uses. Shade elements should be incorporated around the edges in ways that limit interruptions.
| THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES - DECEMBER 2018
SIDEWALKS
Sidewalks are the primar y social space in any retail
environment. They encourage discover y, social interaction, and a sense of community, and ser ve as an extension of the retail experience into the public space. A clear and clearly def ined pedestrian path should be directly adjacent to the retail storefronts, allowing for comfortable strolling and browsing. Seating and café areas should be integrated curbside with generous landscaping and street trees that provide ample shade.
MAJOR SITE FEATURES
| THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES - DECEMBER 2018
“DISRUPTORS”
To maximize the potential for seating areas and
amenities on a sidewalk with a constrained width, the pedestrian paths of travel within the retail sidewalks are intentionally blocked near the ends of the retail arcades.
These f ixed seating areas direct patrons into the arcade, from which they can access the curbside amenities.
These nodes also provide a transition between the retail sidewalk experience, and the raised intersection at the ends of the street.
MAJOR SITE FEATURES
| THE SHOPPES AT ARBOR LAKES - DECEMBER 2018
ARCADES
Arcades provide shelter and uncommon placemaking opportunities within retail environments. Ceilings may feature murals or other graphics, and columns provide additional opportunities for creative retail signage.
Unusual light f ixtures can be a feature element within the enclosed space, as well as ser ving their practical function of providing additional light on recessed
storefronts. Sidewalk amenity areas accessed from the arcade will provide moments of respite and enclosure within the bustling atmosphere.
