Westfield UTC - Pirch & Haidilao Area

LOCATION:

San Diego, CA

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

As a prominent super-regional center in Unibail Rodamco Westfield’s (URW) portfolio, Westfield UTC has long been a go-to for residents of San Diego to find new fashion trends and to enjoy the company of others, while also being inspired and comfortable in a place that does not cut corners on form and functionality. Even though tenants and shops may change the look and feel of UTC, the center needs to be updated to keep San Diegans frequenting for generations to come.

To uphold this look and feel became a welcomed challenge as tenants Pirch, Purple, Pottery Barn, and Lemonade had concerns about the trees and plant material surrounding their different locations at both sides of the mall. As most centers built in the 70s-era experience, trees mature and eventually grow to a point where retail signage can become blocked. Hence, the challenge was to find tree replacements that would allow for clear viewpoints of store fronts and signage. This was done by planting dwarf tree species, as well as proposing species that placed in large pots would remain dwarf in size. Species such as the Winter Flame Japanese Maple, and Maverick Honey Mesquite, would prove to be ideal fits. 

In addition, for a subsequent project phase, we developed a concept for a new rebar art trellis allowing for vine growth to climb up and through the structure. This will provide shade and a welcomed art piece to this large traffic area. Designed with the intent of the surrounding area, these rebar structures are similar to those found at the Getty Museum. We drew inspiration from different types of pottery to find a design that would resemble a vase-like structure with vines spilling from the top. With the area between Pottery Barn and Purple already sparse, we felt minimizing plant material and shade would hurt the overall feel of the space. It was essential to bring in plant life and ideas to make it special for decades to come.