horton plaza san diego

Horton Plaza: San Diego’s Colorful Shopping Past

Horton Plaza, officially known as Westfield Horton Plaza, was a distinctive outdoor shopping mall located in downtown San Diego. Known for its vibrant, postmodern architectural design, it operated from 1985 until its eventual closure in 2020. Today, the site is undergoing redevelopment into a tech hub.

The Rise and Fall of a Unique Mall

Horton Plaza was conceived as a way to revitalize downtown San Diego. Unlike traditional malls, its architect, Jon Jerde, designed it as an “experience,” incorporating bright colors, asymmetrical shapes, promenades, fountains, and artwork. This quirky and unconventional design aimed to attract tourists and locals alike. For years, it was a popular destination, boosting the city’s economy and offering a unique retail experience.

Architectural Significance

The mall’s postmodern architectural style was a defining feature. Jerde’s design broke many conventions of traditional mall design. Multi-levels connected via brightly painted escalators and bridges, creating a maze-like environment that encouraged exploration. Art installations were integrated throughout the space, adding to the mall’s eclectic atmosphere.

Decline and Closure

Despite its initial success, Horton Plaza began to decline in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Changing shopping habits, the rise of online retail, and competition from other shopping centers contributed to its struggles. Many stores closed, leaving vacant spaces and diminishing its appeal. Westfield, the mall’s owner, eventually sold the property, and it officially closed in 2020.

Redevelopment as a Tech Hub

In 2018, Stockdale Capital Partners acquired Horton Plaza with plans to transform it into a tech-focused campus called “The Campus at Horton.” The redevelopment aims to attract tech companies and create a vibrant, mixed-use environment. The project preserves some of the mall’s unique architectural elements while adapting the space to modern needs. More information about Horton Plaza’s history can be found on its Wikipedia page.

FAQs about Horton Plaza

What happened to Horton Plaza in San Diego?

Horton Plaza closed down in 2020 due to declining business and changing retail trends. It is currently being redeveloped into a tech hub.

Why was Horton Plaza so popular?

Its unique postmodern architecture, colorful design, and focus on creating an “experience” made it a popular destination for shopping and entertainment when it first opened.

When was Horton Plaza built?

Horton Plaza opened in 1985.

What is replacing Horton Plaza?

It is being redeveloped into a tech hub called “The Campus at Horton,” designed to attract tech companies and create a mixed-use environment.

Is Horton Plaza open to the public now?

No, Horton Plaza is currently closed to the public as it undergoes redevelopment.

Summary

Horton Plaza was a landmark shopping mall in downtown San Diego, known for its distinctive postmodern architecture and vibrant atmosphere. While it eventually closed due to changing retail trends, its legacy remains a unique example of mall design. The site is now undergoing redevelopment into a tech hub, promising to revitalize the area with new opportunities.