Valley Fair Mall is getting its first significant renovation in 20 years.
Gone will be the Santa Fe look, says shopping centre manager Nicole Archer, and it will be replaced by an esthetic that can be found in Whistler Village.
“It’s a fairly significant makeover,” said Archer.
She did not release a figure, but said the cost will run into the millions.
The entire front facade will be redone to look more like a downtown street. There will be brick and cedar accents, and the pedestrian area will be expanded to allow for lamp posts, benches tables and chairs.
The awnings will be extended to provide covered seating areas, and they will be at varying heights and sizes.
“It’s a street scape concept with walkable spaces where people can gather,” said Archer, adding that the design will be consistent with city hall’s approach to creating a walkable and bikeable city.
The interior will also get an update, with new tile, lighting, furniture decor and storefronts.
“It will have a Whistler lodge feel – warm and inviting,” said Archer.
It will also have free Wi-Fi and docking stations.
The last significant renovation at the shopping centre was in 2001, when London Drugs moved in, joining Save On Foods as an anchor tenant. But the exterior look was done in 1997.
“It’s due time,” said Archer.
The work on the 157,000-square-foot mall will begin this month, and will be done in the evenings so that businesses can remain open.
Work is scheduled to be complete by fall.