With this final essay, I wanted to give life to a few of my more niche-oriented, if not abstractly miscellaneous, ideas for City Center that didn’t really fit into any one of the previous installments, without traipsing ever so slightly into another. In this, they serve as the signature pieces of the project, as a whole, taking broad strokes to collectively summarize what potential City Center has inherently and in regards to we, the citizens of Columbus.
The Hub – In this technologically oriented society, it would be foolhardy for City Center to ignore the relevance of being technologically up-to-snuff. Throughout the facility, patrons should be able to access free Wi-Fi service, offering unique opportunities for workers to escape the claustrophobic confines of the office. Should the hustle and bustle of the mall prove a little too distracting, patrons can take up residence at The Hub, City Center’s special office-away-from-office, sanctuary. In half-hour increments, patrons gain access to sound-proof, frost glass cubical spaces (to offer privacy, but not too much), with the general amenities afforded at most workspaces (desk, chair, reading lamps and extra outlets to allow for personal hardware). I would like to enlist donations of office supplies from big chains or vendors and when patrons purchase said supplies, all proceeds are donated to a designated “charity of the month.”
City Center Championship Court – In the previous installment, I had planned to detail the sporting goods store, Champs, and while I like the store and the services they supply, it was all in an attempt to introduce this idea, which I think would work best as an annex of the store. Taking two of the larger, abreast spaces (I envisioned the former Express for Men and Victoria Secret spaces on City Center’s 2nd floor), one would be outfitted to function as a typical Champs retail chain, with its plethora of sports apparel and gear. The adjoining side, however, would be a fully functioning, hardwood floored, gymnasium, with specific emphasis on basketball. True to form, having the gym could offer a nice source of revenue with rentals or even be an arena to showcase high-profile exhibition events (LeBron James Slam Dunk-a-thon, anyone?), more than anything, I’d like to see a lunch-time intramural program started where workers from the Downtown area compete in friendly competition, much in the way of the Kick-ball league does on the State House lawn during the summer. Always looking to make a change, the registration fees for the teams would be donated to the charity of choice of the season champions.
Cinema on the Hill – After watching “The Wedding Planner,” I’ve been deeply enamored with the idea of an outside movie theatre. While Columbus does have one of the few drive-in theatres in the state, I just want something a little different (is that some of that fickleness I mentioned?) and overtly fun! There is a lot of landscape that seems to be wrought with unused potential on the corner of High and Rich St, where an outdated skyline of Columbus, adorns City Center’s southwestern wall. I find it hard to imagine that it’d be terribly difficult to mount a projector on either that lawn or nearby structure and play classic movies along the embankment. Just as the Red, White and Boom event is free, this too could be a nice way to inspire people to get outside and take part in Columbus. I’d invite CAPA to coordinate the screenings, possibly transferring some aspect of their Summer Movie series to the venue.
The Front Shore – There needs to be an area strictly dedicated to “fun” in the Downtown vicinity, and while there are quite a few ideas I’ve detailed along the way, I specifically mean to appeal to younger audiences. One of the things that I’ve strangely always loved about City Center was its lack of an arcade. There was something so significant about the gesture, though, even at this age, I’ve yet to discern it, I have, to a degree, decided to reconsider it. Along the Scioto River, where most of our summer time events take place, is a huge area of untapped space for year round usage. Somewhat emulating the carnival attractions of the New Jersey shore, I think that a number of recreational facilities should be built along the Scioto, specifically, but not limited to a large scale arcade. After a few years of testing the public response (both residential and visiting), the area could grow, including permanent fixtures like a Ferris Wheel or landmark tower.
And with that, I complete my Heart of the City (Center) project. It has been a long road to writing these passages and I appreciate anyone and everyone who has stumbled upon these words or sought them out intentionally, enduring long absences in between. I’d like to thank all those who have voiced their opinions both socially and on these postings, I hope I’ve illustrated a vision that you all can relate to in one way or another. More than anything, though, I’d like to thank City Center…she has given me a lot to love over the years and in many ways was one of my firsts. No matter what, she will always be Columbus’ heart as well as my own.
-V.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Heart of the City (Center) pt 8
**My troublesome penchant for procrastination (a nasty habit that I implore all who suffer its existence to heed this anecdote as a cautionary tale) has cost me dearly. Even starting this humble memoir, nearly two years ago, was not enough time to finish and enact the change I so desperately sought before the February 4th, 2009 Columbus Dispatch’s front page headline announced the imminent demolishing and redevelopment of the City Center property and space. It is a failure that will weigh heavily in years to come and will certainly project a critical eye on the tentative plans and production, but I refuse to allow this staggering defeat to defeat me in total. So, though with a heavy heart, I posit these, the final two installments of my Heart of the City (Center) articles, if for no other reason than to show what could’ve been in light of what was and what will be…
It’s been many months since I last promised unveiling what stores I would have making up the shopping experience of City Center’s rebirth. I’ll admit that at the time, I had few choices and certainly used the time in between to mull over most of them, substituting a few and selecting a few more. In total, I have only 5 suggestions to render, however, these will serve as the benchmark for what other stores should bring to the table when being considered for occupancy. There are themes at work with these selections, ones that differ heavily from what most shopping centers offer, or even from what City Center itself boasted in its earliest inception: Versatility and Unity. For too long, shopping experiences catered to one consumer faction or the next, but few have truly embraced the possibilities that all social, economic, racial or gender groups do offer. With these themes in mind, City Center will be the premiere shopping center for all people, bridging gaps that have been intentionally avoided for years.
Versatility:
Specifically in this climate of economic recession, consumers are looking for products with multi-functionality and the shopping establishments should do no less. The following stores pull ranges from day wear to night wear, urban to formal, plus sized to trendy, in an effort to appeal to shoppers that often have been at odds.
Express – After restructuring their men’s clothing line, from the signature brand, Structure, Express has made immense strides in outfitting the modern form, both for men and for women. Their implied style, invokes a spirit of trendy dynamics with smooth aesthetic that presents a unique wear-ablity in the workplace, as well as during a night on the town. While a truly talented fashionista could find jewels galore here, they make it easier for even the most slovenly schlub to clean up well.
Man Alive – Believe it or not, Man Alive was my very first job in fashion retail and I have to admit, even back then I wasn’t really a purchasing supporter of the urban design sense the Eastland Mall site was built around. But a few years later, on a trip to St. Louis, I found a Man Alive store that carried suits, business attire and to a great degree, a sense of dignity that I hadn’t fathomed the chain could muster. As a young African-American male, I’m imploring my fellow black men to take note! While there’s nothing “wrong” with urban-wear, it should not be the crux nor the pinnacle of your fashion sense. Having a store that caters to both sides of the fence, I hope it carries with it the fashionable sensibilities that will teach its patrons how to wear both with pride.
Torrid – I must admit that my taste in women is rather influenced by the Renaissance, favoring the curve a bit more than the line, and it’s with great pride and a sneaking flash of satisfaction that fashion has come to embrace those of more significant proportions, offering the same senses of drama and flare afforded their slimmer sisters. Torrid, a store that came completely under the radar initially, offers much for the fuller figure without the look suffering blandness or being down right ridiculous. The line is a bit more modern than ruling party Lane Bryant (who is more than welcome to come play as well), giving younger generations of plus-sized women something to look forward to in their shopping and stylistic experiences.
Unity:
There have been stores that have arrived to the shores of Columbus, boasting a prestige and value attached to their names, affecting people, if only for a time, simply because we now “have one.” But these stores, in general, offer little to the average consumer, nor do they have an influx of new product that would increase consumer traffic or even justify their product price points. These two stores below do both, offering in some cases an exclusive edge to appeal to both residents and out-of-towners, brand name recognition with celebrity attachments and high turnover in community oriented events and fundraisers.
Niketown – With the bevy of ways to describe the unifying aspects that Niketown, for the sake of brevity, I’ll try to only honorably mention a few standouts that really resonate with me. By having a Niketown, Columbus would stand as the only other locale for the shop other than our mid-western big-city, big sister, Chicago. And with exclusivity being the base of its product culture, it can function as an attraction for both out-of-towners as well as local patrons, while still allowing commercial health for competing sports shoe and apparel franchises. Nike even sponsors Ohio’s own sports figure champion, LeBron James, bringing an immensity of star power to the fold (while Cleveland could make an argument for placement there, we ARE the capital city…!) – imagine him headlining a project that beckons for people to donate gently used tennis shoes to suffering third world nations, and for their efforts get a moment with “King James” himself…and maybe a discount on their next pair.
RocaWear – There are few who don’t recognize the clothing label spinoff from hip-hop mogul, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter’s Roc-a-Fella Records imprint. Gracing the ad pages of Vibe Magazine to GQ, from holding quarter on the racks at AJ Wright to Macy’s, RocaWear has grown tremendously like its rapping headmaster, and would bring along a curiously subtle, though quite prolific presence, indicative of the man himself. Jay-Z has taken strides to improve the world that many have simply fallen victim to and his exemplary vision has trickled down, in one part, culminating into RocaWear’s “I Will Not Lose” campaign that celebrates others who have overcome adversity to make change for the better. Hosting the store in City Center, an honor vested currently in New York alone, would ring a sense of global awareness to the denizens of Columbus, boldly shouting that in spite of our past struggles with dealing with the world’s strife (see Heart of the City (Center), pt 6), we will not lose either.
It’s been many months since I last promised unveiling what stores I would have making up the shopping experience of City Center’s rebirth. I’ll admit that at the time, I had few choices and certainly used the time in between to mull over most of them, substituting a few and selecting a few more. In total, I have only 5 suggestions to render, however, these will serve as the benchmark for what other stores should bring to the table when being considered for occupancy. There are themes at work with these selections, ones that differ heavily from what most shopping centers offer, or even from what City Center itself boasted in its earliest inception: Versatility and Unity. For too long, shopping experiences catered to one consumer faction or the next, but few have truly embraced the possibilities that all social, economic, racial or gender groups do offer. With these themes in mind, City Center will be the premiere shopping center for all people, bridging gaps that have been intentionally avoided for years.
Versatility:
Specifically in this climate of economic recession, consumers are looking for products with multi-functionality and the shopping establishments should do no less. The following stores pull ranges from day wear to night wear, urban to formal, plus sized to trendy, in an effort to appeal to shoppers that often have been at odds.
Express – After restructuring their men’s clothing line, from the signature brand, Structure, Express has made immense strides in outfitting the modern form, both for men and for women. Their implied style, invokes a spirit of trendy dynamics with smooth aesthetic that presents a unique wear-ablity in the workplace, as well as during a night on the town. While a truly talented fashionista could find jewels galore here, they make it easier for even the most slovenly schlub to clean up well.
Man Alive – Believe it or not, Man Alive was my very first job in fashion retail and I have to admit, even back then I wasn’t really a purchasing supporter of the urban design sense the Eastland Mall site was built around. But a few years later, on a trip to St. Louis, I found a Man Alive store that carried suits, business attire and to a great degree, a sense of dignity that I hadn’t fathomed the chain could muster. As a young African-American male, I’m imploring my fellow black men to take note! While there’s nothing “wrong” with urban-wear, it should not be the crux nor the pinnacle of your fashion sense. Having a store that caters to both sides of the fence, I hope it carries with it the fashionable sensibilities that will teach its patrons how to wear both with pride.
Torrid – I must admit that my taste in women is rather influenced by the Renaissance, favoring the curve a bit more than the line, and it’s with great pride and a sneaking flash of satisfaction that fashion has come to embrace those of more significant proportions, offering the same senses of drama and flare afforded their slimmer sisters. Torrid, a store that came completely under the radar initially, offers much for the fuller figure without the look suffering blandness or being down right ridiculous. The line is a bit more modern than ruling party Lane Bryant (who is more than welcome to come play as well), giving younger generations of plus-sized women something to look forward to in their shopping and stylistic experiences.
Unity:
There have been stores that have arrived to the shores of Columbus, boasting a prestige and value attached to their names, affecting people, if only for a time, simply because we now “have one.” But these stores, in general, offer little to the average consumer, nor do they have an influx of new product that would increase consumer traffic or even justify their product price points. These two stores below do both, offering in some cases an exclusive edge to appeal to both residents and out-of-towners, brand name recognition with celebrity attachments and high turnover in community oriented events and fundraisers.
Niketown – With the bevy of ways to describe the unifying aspects that Niketown, for the sake of brevity, I’ll try to only honorably mention a few standouts that really resonate with me. By having a Niketown, Columbus would stand as the only other locale for the shop other than our mid-western big-city, big sister, Chicago. And with exclusivity being the base of its product culture, it can function as an attraction for both out-of-towners as well as local patrons, while still allowing commercial health for competing sports shoe and apparel franchises. Nike even sponsors Ohio’s own sports figure champion, LeBron James, bringing an immensity of star power to the fold (while Cleveland could make an argument for placement there, we ARE the capital city…!) – imagine him headlining a project that beckons for people to donate gently used tennis shoes to suffering third world nations, and for their efforts get a moment with “King James” himself…and maybe a discount on their next pair.
RocaWear – There are few who don’t recognize the clothing label spinoff from hip-hop mogul, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter’s Roc-a-Fella Records imprint. Gracing the ad pages of Vibe Magazine to GQ, from holding quarter on the racks at AJ Wright to Macy’s, RocaWear has grown tremendously like its rapping headmaster, and would bring along a curiously subtle, though quite prolific presence, indicative of the man himself. Jay-Z has taken strides to improve the world that many have simply fallen victim to and his exemplary vision has trickled down, in one part, culminating into RocaWear’s “I Will Not Lose” campaign that celebrates others who have overcome adversity to make change for the better. Hosting the store in City Center, an honor vested currently in New York alone, would ring a sense of global awareness to the denizens of Columbus, boldly shouting that in spite of our past struggles with dealing with the world’s strife (see Heart of the City (Center), pt 6), we will not lose either.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Heart of the City (Center) pt 7
Moving on from the slightly depressing ideas behind City Center's decline, I want to refocus on its renewal, throwing out a few ideas for the stores that should be invited (in some cases invited back) and why. Out of any of my postings, I must admit (almost ashamedly so) that this posting is probably my least innovative (some ideas are outright "traditional") in the suggestions given.
Too keep City Center a mall, it does have to be just that (a mall!), and there are a few general markets that are MUST HAVES for general public support and economic success -- PARDON THE INTERRUPTION!!!!! I've got to rant for a moment before I can intelligibly continue...
I recently picked up the Jan issue of Columbus Monthly, with Mayor Mike Coleman on the cover as the proclaimed "Person of the Year." Hmmm...you know, I'm more of an innovator than a hater, but I honestly cannot allow the minced words of our supposed town chair go un-rebutted. As I've heard here and there, it would seem that the grand idea(s) our illustrious leader has for City Center involves a massive redesign that would turn the 1M sq ft building predominantly working office space with SOME retail to keep up the market. Now, despite any ideas that I've posted here, I have NO experience in city development (though I would love to try my hand at it), construction, renovation or the like -- BUT, I am an observant citizen who can't help but notice that its taken at least 2yrs to get as far as it is on the renovation(s) of soon to be NBC building on the corner of Broad and High. How long would it take to turn City Center (whose 1M sq ft was designed to be a 3 level mall) into an effective and efficient (I hear the state workers in the Lazarus Building are ALWAYS cold) office space? I don't even want to imagine. Under the guise of building a better "Business District," Mayor Coleman is willing to forsake the economic magnitude a City Center renovation would bring. If you would like a larger "Business District" perhaps what would be a better idea would be to take over a few of those open lots of overpriced parking and build from there (I hear starting from the ground up is actually cheaper AND faster). Despite the difference in opinion, outright, what truly enraged me were Coleman's insensitive and begrudged remarks about City Center's inevitable failure since its inception, showing a complete disregard for what was (and could still be) a monument of the city...
I'm sorry, this was meant to be a constructive view of a possibility of City Center's return, your regularly scheduled posting shall resume shortly.
Too keep City Center a mall, it does have to be just that (a mall!), and there are a few general markets that are MUST HAVES for general public support and economic success -- PARDON THE INTERRUPTION!!!!! I've got to rant for a moment before I can intelligibly continue...
I recently picked up the Jan issue of Columbus Monthly, with Mayor Mike Coleman on the cover as the proclaimed "Person of the Year." Hmmm...you know, I'm more of an innovator than a hater, but I honestly cannot allow the minced words of our supposed town chair go un-rebutted. As I've heard here and there, it would seem that the grand idea(s) our illustrious leader has for City Center involves a massive redesign that would turn the 1M sq ft building predominantly working office space with SOME retail to keep up the market. Now, despite any ideas that I've posted here, I have NO experience in city development (though I would love to try my hand at it), construction, renovation or the like -- BUT, I am an observant citizen who can't help but notice that its taken at least 2yrs to get as far as it is on the renovation(s) of soon to be NBC building on the corner of Broad and High. How long would it take to turn City Center (whose 1M sq ft was designed to be a 3 level mall) into an effective and efficient (I hear the state workers in the Lazarus Building are ALWAYS cold) office space? I don't even want to imagine. Under the guise of building a better "Business District," Mayor Coleman is willing to forsake the economic magnitude a City Center renovation would bring. If you would like a larger "Business District" perhaps what would be a better idea would be to take over a few of those open lots of overpriced parking and build from there (I hear starting from the ground up is actually cheaper AND faster). Despite the difference in opinion, outright, what truly enraged me were Coleman's insensitive and begrudged remarks about City Center's inevitable failure since its inception, showing a complete disregard for what was (and could still be) a monument of the city...
I'm sorry, this was meant to be a constructive view of a possibility of City Center's return, your regularly scheduled posting shall resume shortly.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Heart of the City (Center) pt 6
Over the past few years, there’s been a lot of speculation for what exactly caused the decline in City Center’s popularity, leading to its subsequent state. While popular thoughts point fingers at singular events like the emergence of rival shopping centers (Tuttle Crossing, Polaris Fashion Place and Easton Towne Center), the loss of the conventional anchor stores (Jacobson’s closed its doors nationwide in 2002, Marshall Fields in ‘03, Lazarus in ’04 and Kaufman's’s/Macy’s ‘07) or the presumed “hood element” that has replaced the shopping clientele, I find that the truth lies in an amalgam of all three theories.
In my opinion, City Center’s declination began May 27, 1994, when Raylynn Diamond, a fifteen year old black teen, was gunned down on the mall’s first floor, the apparent victim of gang violence. In this tragic event, the veil that was the fairytale spectacle of City Center was violently and forever shattered, replaced by the harsh reality that seemed to plague the mid 90s. An act that at the time, most had only fancied on the big screen was broadcast in Dolby Digital realism, uncaring and unyielding to the opulence City Center had built in its five year history. From there, the fuse was lit.
Our city has its share of affluent families and individuals and it’s the wealth of these people that truly interests the big name stores and investors to take root here in Columbus. Undoubtedly, this tragedy and the apparent tumultuous animosity (stereotypically, but not atypically) carried by urban youth at the time, ruffled a few feathers, but not to the point that they would refuse to shop the big department chains Downtown…that is, until they had somewhere else to go.
The opening of Tuttle Crossing in 1997 (built by the Taubman Co., who incidentally also owned City Center at the time) offered the affluent the ability to continue their big budget shopping, without so much intermingling with the urban community. On the outskirts of the city, Tuttle catered mostly to the communities of Hilliard and Dublin, both already known for having people of some assumed wealth. Next came Easton Towne Center in 1999, which drew crowds from the dying Northland Mall and residents from north Columbus, Westerville and the growing township of New Albany, until Polaris Fashion Place opened in 2001, pulling in money from Worthington as well as Westerville and other parts of Delaware County. With each opening, the “need” to come to City Center grew less and less, dwindling the mall’s uniqueness in the chains they held (Tuttle also had a Marshall Field’s) or simply outmatched by a more prestigious brand (Saks Fifth Ave and Lord&Taylor at Polaris Fashion Place). At this point, City Center was reduced to an outlet mall, of sorts – where you go to take advantage of the surplus of sizes, unpicked over like the other mall locations, because the traffic was so infrequent.
With the closing of the anchor stores and the dwindling number of “brand name stores”, City Center’s relevance diminished quickly and that lack of stable commerce led to cut backs, which led to droves of urban youths using City Center as recreation center with an inept security force to “police” them…in my opinion (of course). While just looking for a place to hang, the new clientele unwittingly have rang the death knoll for City Center, with their penchant for lounging not turning over the necessary profits to keep stores like Express, American Eagle, Forever XXI, Wet Seal or Nu Source open for long after.
But how do we come back from all this? The answer, strangely enough is in front of everyone’s eyes in this age after the terrorist attacks of 9/11. We commemorate and move on. Imagine if we, as a city, did as we, as a nation, have done in response to such a heinous act brought to our door step. Just as vile acts of terrorism weren’t new to us in ’01, nor was the reality of gang violence in ’94 and our lack of remembrance tells me that at the very least they (the gangs) won. Where multi-billion dollar armies failed to rattle our chains, local hoodlums took from us a monument of city of pride…
So, first things first, we must commemorate: I submit that the pitted auditorium be (re)named Diamond Amphitheatre, after the young man killed that day. And with this naming, we say that not only will he not be forgotten, but that acts of violence will no longer determine the course of city or its people. We will insure that the proper sense of community and civic pride be instilled in each and every one of us that no one could want to desecrate our city monuments like that, ever again.
In my opinion, City Center’s declination began May 27, 1994, when Raylynn Diamond, a fifteen year old black teen, was gunned down on the mall’s first floor, the apparent victim of gang violence. In this tragic event, the veil that was the fairytale spectacle of City Center was violently and forever shattered, replaced by the harsh reality that seemed to plague the mid 90s. An act that at the time, most had only fancied on the big screen was broadcast in Dolby Digital realism, uncaring and unyielding to the opulence City Center had built in its five year history. From there, the fuse was lit.
Our city has its share of affluent families and individuals and it’s the wealth of these people that truly interests the big name stores and investors to take root here in Columbus. Undoubtedly, this tragedy and the apparent tumultuous animosity (stereotypically, but not atypically) carried by urban youth at the time, ruffled a few feathers, but not to the point that they would refuse to shop the big department chains Downtown…that is, until they had somewhere else to go.
The opening of Tuttle Crossing in 1997 (built by the Taubman Co., who incidentally also owned City Center at the time) offered the affluent the ability to continue their big budget shopping, without so much intermingling with the urban community. On the outskirts of the city, Tuttle catered mostly to the communities of Hilliard and Dublin, both already known for having people of some assumed wealth. Next came Easton Towne Center in 1999, which drew crowds from the dying Northland Mall and residents from north Columbus, Westerville and the growing township of New Albany, until Polaris Fashion Place opened in 2001, pulling in money from Worthington as well as Westerville and other parts of Delaware County. With each opening, the “need” to come to City Center grew less and less, dwindling the mall’s uniqueness in the chains they held (Tuttle also had a Marshall Field’s) or simply outmatched by a more prestigious brand (Saks Fifth Ave and Lord&Taylor at Polaris Fashion Place). At this point, City Center was reduced to an outlet mall, of sorts – where you go to take advantage of the surplus of sizes, unpicked over like the other mall locations, because the traffic was so infrequent.
With the closing of the anchor stores and the dwindling number of “brand name stores”, City Center’s relevance diminished quickly and that lack of stable commerce led to cut backs, which led to droves of urban youths using City Center as recreation center with an inept security force to “police” them…in my opinion (of course). While just looking for a place to hang, the new clientele unwittingly have rang the death knoll for City Center, with their penchant for lounging not turning over the necessary profits to keep stores like Express, American Eagle, Forever XXI, Wet Seal or Nu Source open for long after.
But how do we come back from all this? The answer, strangely enough is in front of everyone’s eyes in this age after the terrorist attacks of 9/11. We commemorate and move on. Imagine if we, as a city, did as we, as a nation, have done in response to such a heinous act brought to our door step. Just as vile acts of terrorism weren’t new to us in ’01, nor was the reality of gang violence in ’94 and our lack of remembrance tells me that at the very least they (the gangs) won. Where multi-billion dollar armies failed to rattle our chains, local hoodlums took from us a monument of city of pride…
So, first things first, we must commemorate: I submit that the pitted auditorium be (re)named Diamond Amphitheatre, after the young man killed that day. And with this naming, we say that not only will he not be forgotten, but that acts of violence will no longer determine the course of city or its people. We will insure that the proper sense of community and civic pride be instilled in each and every one of us that no one could want to desecrate our city monuments like that, ever again.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Heart of the City (Center) pt 5
Following up on yesterday's installment, I want to finish up my comments on possible eateries so I can swing back into focus on what retail establishments I think would support my vision for City Center. Recapping, there are some 17 available spaces to acquire food (though not all are currently being used as such, they all were at some point in City Center's history.), of those 17, 13 fit the designation of "food court"-centric while the final four maintain the semblance of a more complete "restaurant."
My basic criteria for designating a restaurant is relatively simple:
Criterion 1: Food served is meant to be "for here" rather than "to go."
Criterion 2: Hours of operation can (and do) vary from the designated mall hours.
With these two things in mind, I designate the four restaurants to be Spinnaker's, The Boulevard, Max&Erma's and Fame Deli.
*Another criteria I could've used is the ability to serve alcohol, but it would've edged Fame Deli out of the running.*
All four of these restaurants offered a different venue of dining: the sports bar, the cafeteria, fine dining and casual dining and for the most part, were spread out thru the mall creating the perfect sense of symmetry.
As with the food court, I don't have suggestions ready to fill every space, but I do have two that would offer something interesting and lucrative to the mix:
Buffalo Wild Wings (BW3's): taking over the empty Max&Erma's space, this company completely embodies the "sports bar" spirit that M&E only hinted at, not to mention, their "25 Cent Tuesdays" still seem to draw a crowd despite the raise in cost from 10 Cent wings in recent years.
Darden: replacing Spinnaker's, this suggestion is certainly an oddball considering that the restaurant in mind doesn't exist...at least not yet. I'm piggybacking on an idea slipped a year or so ago by hair dresser by day/interior designer by night friend of the family. She suggested that a Red Lobster be brought in (Spinnaker's was a seafood place, right?) to fill the niche. But when I passed this idea along (often as the gospel I thought it was), the reception was often lukewarm, despite the lack of a Red Lobster any where near the Downtown area. So, I did a little research and found that Red Lobster is owned by Darden Restaurants Inc., the world's largest casual dining company. In addition to RL, Olive Garden, Longhorn and Smokey Bones are all under the family tree -- so, with Darden, an amalgam of the four, you get a limited selection from each of the establishments (for full dining experience, see local chains), creating a menu that rivals the best in buffet dining.
As always, I'm curious what you have to offer and welcome any and all suggestions.
Til next time...
My basic criteria for designating a restaurant is relatively simple:
Criterion 1: Food served is meant to be "for here" rather than "to go."
Criterion 2: Hours of operation can (and do) vary from the designated mall hours.
With these two things in mind, I designate the four restaurants to be Spinnaker's, The Boulevard, Max&Erma's and Fame Deli.
*Another criteria I could've used is the ability to serve alcohol, but it would've edged Fame Deli out of the running.*
All four of these restaurants offered a different venue of dining: the sports bar, the cafeteria, fine dining and casual dining and for the most part, were spread out thru the mall creating the perfect sense of symmetry.
As with the food court, I don't have suggestions ready to fill every space, but I do have two that would offer something interesting and lucrative to the mix:
Buffalo Wild Wings (BW3's): taking over the empty Max&Erma's space, this company completely embodies the "sports bar" spirit that M&E only hinted at, not to mention, their "25 Cent Tuesdays" still seem to draw a crowd despite the raise in cost from 10 Cent wings in recent years.
Darden: replacing Spinnaker's, this suggestion is certainly an oddball considering that the restaurant in mind doesn't exist...at least not yet. I'm piggybacking on an idea slipped a year or so ago by hair dresser by day/interior designer by night friend of the family. She suggested that a Red Lobster be brought in (Spinnaker's was a seafood place, right?) to fill the niche. But when I passed this idea along (often as the gospel I thought it was), the reception was often lukewarm, despite the lack of a Red Lobster any where near the Downtown area. So, I did a little research and found that Red Lobster is owned by Darden Restaurants Inc., the world's largest casual dining company. In addition to RL, Olive Garden, Longhorn and Smokey Bones are all under the family tree -- so, with Darden, an amalgam of the four, you get a limited selection from each of the establishments (for full dining experience, see local chains), creating a menu that rivals the best in buffet dining.
As always, I'm curious what you have to offer and welcome any and all suggestions.
Til next time...
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Heart of the City (Center) pt 4
Welcome back, everyone! After learning that there are a few interested readers out there, I'm suffering a strange bit of writers block and can't really find a way to articulate (as poetically as before, at least) my proposed subject matter today :(. So, in an effort to "Keep Moving Forward," (I've been watching the hilarious/touching Meet the Robinsons a lot recently), I'm going to try and get this all out any how :)!
I'm dedicating this installment to the development of the "food court" of City Center. Now, unlike other malls, CC was not built with a designated area for the expressed purpose of purchasing and consuming foods. Instead, the entirety of the 1st floor acts as such -- although, I guess one could argue that there are essentially two distinct food courts (The Fountain Area & and The Pit Area) or something to that effect, but to me, the plurality of the subject matter kind of negates the existence as a whole. At any rate, I digress, to say that fundamentally "food courting" is an essential of modern malls and the selection within is almost (if not absolutely) as important as the selection of retail establishments. To that effect (and I apologize for not knowing the ratio to retail stores), but City Center has the capacity for some 13 food court eateries (there is a distinct difference between the food court and restaurants, the latter of which, City Center has 4, for a total of 17 food centric establishments!).
Generally, I'm all for self promotion and the success of the small (private) business venture, but alas, its in the realm of food that I've got to admit a sense of snobbery. One of the downfalls in City Center's standing is the emergence and growth of "home-made" eateries (I find this true of the other retail stores as well, but that's another matter for another time.). They come off more generic, than innovative or enginuitive -- cruxing their menus on the taste bud exciting blend of Angus beef and fruit juice (I'm not kidding, this place exists). And for the most part, the food is good...though I was a bit leery of trying it out at first, despite the amazing smells. There needs to be a sense of franchising with these establishments. Brand building and management. Its not impossible for a local eatery to earn a place, but they certainly have to earn it, having gained a decent following that when said establishment opens, people take note, rather than happening on it in place of their one time favorite cinnamon roll maker. There's an outright strength with name recognition and the ability to pull worthwhile eateries can go an incredibly long way!!!
I've asked around for some of the places people would like to see at City Center and there have been some great suggestions given:
KFC/Pizza Hut Combo (where The Big Easy used to be) -- this is one of the best 3 for 1 inventions to date, not only are you filling the niche for "soul food" (I know I'm being generous with that one, but it still suffices for that after church meal!), but Pizza Hut is always a crowd pleaser, with their personal pan pizzas appearing even in hospital cafeterias. The third component, which few people recognize as the glue behind the venture, brings a certain investment power that when used in conjunction with the standings of the anchor stores (Target and Virgin Megastore), heightens the possiblity of celebrity showcasing and support; Pepsi.
Starbucks or Cup O'Joe -- currently, there is a huge vaccum for this market in City Center, especially considering the proximity of office workers to the Downtown area. While I'm sure chains of these establishments exist in the area, the constant lines would suggest that you can never have enough of them and it doesn't seem like coffee (and its related items) follow a sense of trend, but rely more on the sense of need.
Chipotle -- I'm not an eater of most ethnic foods (I'm extremely picky), but I know a fan favorite when I see one. And there is not a Chipotle in the immediate Downtown area; you either have to travel to the cusp of German Village or into the Arena District, both of which are not pleasant when you've got to pay for parking or only have 30 mins to attain and consume what you can in the midst of a January winter.
Firdous -- again, I'm not that into ethnic foods, but whenever I go to the North Market this place has a line. Note, not necessarily a name you know, but there are people (my wife being one) who would rejoice and revisit the opening of this place in City Center, adding the flare of Greek food to the mix.
Chick-Fil-A was also a suggested choice (because you can never have too much chicken) as well as keeping a few of the "mainstays": Steak Escape, Subway & Mark Pai's Express.
*Let me take a moment and explain how much like a traitor I feel for suggesting a rivaling pizza place when Sabarros has served me so well over the years. I love you and wouldn't trade our times together for anything in this world...but, something's gotta give!*
For anyone reading, what are some places you'd like to see? Be as specific as you can (is there a store front you'd like to see them replace, an ethnic cuisine you'd like to have available?). I know a good burger place hasn't been mentioned (something that hasn't faired too well at City Center, Wendy's excluded, if you count it).
I've gone a little long here, so I'll leave my suggestions for the restaurants (remember there is a difference) for next post.
'Til then...
*For nostalgia sake, some of our lost favorites: The Original Cookie Co., Johnny Rockets, Au Bon Pain, Haagen Dazs, Cheryl Cookies, Cinnabon, The Big Easy, Spinnaker's, Max&Erma's, Fame Deli and The Boulevard...missed, but not forgotten...*
I'm dedicating this installment to the development of the "food court" of City Center. Now, unlike other malls, CC was not built with a designated area for the expressed purpose of purchasing and consuming foods. Instead, the entirety of the 1st floor acts as such -- although, I guess one could argue that there are essentially two distinct food courts (The Fountain Area & and The Pit Area) or something to that effect, but to me, the plurality of the subject matter kind of negates the existence as a whole. At any rate, I digress, to say that fundamentally "food courting" is an essential of modern malls and the selection within is almost (if not absolutely) as important as the selection of retail establishments. To that effect (and I apologize for not knowing the ratio to retail stores), but City Center has the capacity for some 13 food court eateries (there is a distinct difference between the food court and restaurants, the latter of which, City Center has 4, for a total of 17 food centric establishments!).
Generally, I'm all for self promotion and the success of the small (private) business venture, but alas, its in the realm of food that I've got to admit a sense of snobbery. One of the downfalls in City Center's standing is the emergence and growth of "home-made" eateries (I find this true of the other retail stores as well, but that's another matter for another time.). They come off more generic, than innovative or enginuitive -- cruxing their menus on the taste bud exciting blend of Angus beef and fruit juice (I'm not kidding, this place exists). And for the most part, the food is good...though I was a bit leery of trying it out at first, despite the amazing smells. There needs to be a sense of franchising with these establishments. Brand building and management. Its not impossible for a local eatery to earn a place, but they certainly have to earn it, having gained a decent following that when said establishment opens, people take note, rather than happening on it in place of their one time favorite cinnamon roll maker. There's an outright strength with name recognition and the ability to pull worthwhile eateries can go an incredibly long way!!!
I've asked around for some of the places people would like to see at City Center and there have been some great suggestions given:
KFC/Pizza Hut Combo (where The Big Easy used to be) -- this is one of the best 3 for 1 inventions to date, not only are you filling the niche for "soul food" (I know I'm being generous with that one, but it still suffices for that after church meal!), but Pizza Hut is always a crowd pleaser, with their personal pan pizzas appearing even in hospital cafeterias. The third component, which few people recognize as the glue behind the venture, brings a certain investment power that when used in conjunction with the standings of the anchor stores (Target and Virgin Megastore), heightens the possiblity of celebrity showcasing and support; Pepsi.
Starbucks or Cup O'Joe -- currently, there is a huge vaccum for this market in City Center, especially considering the proximity of office workers to the Downtown area. While I'm sure chains of these establishments exist in the area, the constant lines would suggest that you can never have enough of them and it doesn't seem like coffee (and its related items) follow a sense of trend, but rely more on the sense of need.
Chipotle -- I'm not an eater of most ethnic foods (I'm extremely picky), but I know a fan favorite when I see one. And there is not a Chipotle in the immediate Downtown area; you either have to travel to the cusp of German Village or into the Arena District, both of which are not pleasant when you've got to pay for parking or only have 30 mins to attain and consume what you can in the midst of a January winter.
Firdous -- again, I'm not that into ethnic foods, but whenever I go to the North Market this place has a line. Note, not necessarily a name you know, but there are people (my wife being one) who would rejoice and revisit the opening of this place in City Center, adding the flare of Greek food to the mix.
Chick-Fil-A was also a suggested choice (because you can never have too much chicken) as well as keeping a few of the "mainstays": Steak Escape, Subway & Mark Pai's Express.
*Let me take a moment and explain how much like a traitor I feel for suggesting a rivaling pizza place when Sabarros has served me so well over the years. I love you and wouldn't trade our times together for anything in this world...but, something's gotta give!*
For anyone reading, what are some places you'd like to see? Be as specific as you can (is there a store front you'd like to see them replace, an ethnic cuisine you'd like to have available?). I know a good burger place hasn't been mentioned (something that hasn't faired too well at City Center, Wendy's excluded, if you count it).
I've gone a little long here, so I'll leave my suggestions for the restaurants (remember there is a difference) for next post.
'Til then...
*For nostalgia sake, some of our lost favorites: The Original Cookie Co., Johnny Rockets, Au Bon Pain, Haagen Dazs, Cheryl Cookies, Cinnabon, The Big Easy, Spinnaker's, Max&Erma's, Fame Deli and The Boulevard...missed, but not forgotten...*
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Heart of the City (Center) pt 3
Sorry for the long adieu, but unfortunately life can get in the way of even a burgeoning writer like myself. Any who, I’m going to deviate a bit from my promise of eateries, both new and returning and focus on something that just kinda hit me (recently, in fact!) as having far more weight and importance to it. As I’ve said before, I remember the hay day of City Center – and one of the things I remember and long for most is the spectacle that was City Center. It seemed like you could see anything while you here, a veritable Times Square housed indoors, specifically at the mock-auditorium of “The Pit.” You could always count on something going on, whether it was a tremendous Christmas (while the correct phrasing should be “holiday”, it was undoubtedly a Christmas-centric theme) display to various performers (even I sang on that stage one holiday season many, many moons ago) doing whatever their craft for the enjoyment of the patrons.
To me, this was the heart of City Center (ironic that I title these posting such and just now realize the source, I know!). Where members of the “city” got to showcase their talents, wares or whatever to the rest of us. It didn’t matter how “good” you were, though almost everyone was excellent in their performance (I have to wonder if there was a screening process…?) – you just put yourself out there and had a blast doing it. With that, imagine if you will, a weekend matinee of upcoming shows (the elementary school version of the Nutcracker , or a song or two from Wicked or The Lion King), poetry readings (doesn’t the Brownstone have frequent open mic nights?), heck even “Gimme the Mic, Columbus” could have a small concert there (giving ABC a glimmer of hope of a presence Downtown, in lieu of the NBC studio being built on the corner of Broad and High). Can you imagine an OSU pep rally before they face “That Team Up North?” I know I can!
I could certainly lament for hours on the "could be" venues (church choirs, Children’s Theatre Presents, Emeril Live!!) but I think I’ve planted the right seed here. Soon (and I mean it this time), I’ll come back for my actual installment concerning the great eateries of past and future and hopefully be able to catch lightning in a bottle some of the things I throw out.
Thanks for reading!
V.
To me, this was the heart of City Center (ironic that I title these posting such and just now realize the source, I know!). Where members of the “city” got to showcase their talents, wares or whatever to the rest of us. It didn’t matter how “good” you were, though almost everyone was excellent in their performance (I have to wonder if there was a screening process…?) – you just put yourself out there and had a blast doing it. With that, imagine if you will, a weekend matinee of upcoming shows (the elementary school version of the Nutcracker , or a song or two from Wicked or The Lion King), poetry readings (doesn’t the Brownstone have frequent open mic nights?), heck even “Gimme the Mic, Columbus” could have a small concert there (giving ABC a glimmer of hope of a presence Downtown, in lieu of the NBC studio being built on the corner of Broad and High). Can you imagine an OSU pep rally before they face “That Team Up North?” I know I can!
I could certainly lament for hours on the "could be" venues (church choirs, Children’s Theatre Presents, Emeril Live!!) but I think I’ve planted the right seed here. Soon (and I mean it this time), I’ll come back for my actual installment concerning the great eateries of past and future and hopefully be able to catch lightning in a bottle some of the things I throw out.
Thanks for reading!
V.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Heart of the City (Center) pt 2
With the residential development plan that has erupted Downtown, a unique need has been created that City Center could be an incredible solution for. As with any residential area, proximity to daily source consumer goods (groceries, personal care items, etc.) is always a plus. Currently, there is only one store (that I can think of) that can effectively serve the 43215 zip code (Kroger off S. Front St), though for just a few more minutes travel, patrons can also shop at Giant Eagle (located in German Village, zip code 43206). But at the same time, there's an assumed prestige with living Downtown (with house prices tapping the million dollar benchmark) and as nice as those chains can be, I know a little something extra would certainly excel. So, without further ado, I posit that Target should be the second anchor store, a tri-level version taking the place of the current Macy's.
Over the past few years, Target has proven to be an incredible "one-stop shop" retail hub. With the latest in movies and music, to electronics and toys, food, fashion and other household goods, Target stands as the dominating (in my opinion) "discount" department chain, not having the stipulations of "hill-jack" or "for old folks" that Wal-Mart (sometimes) carries.
Along with its range in products, at consumer-friendly prices, Target has one of the best marketing campaigns in recent years. Their commercials are graphic inspirational dances that resonate visually with an almost brainwashing of brand placement -- I long to see what window displays they'd bring!
Having established the two anchor stores (both more contemporary than their predecessors), the next chapter will focus on the first stores/restaurants that should be invited (in some cases invited back) to breathe some life back into City Center.
Over the past few years, Target has proven to be an incredible "one-stop shop" retail hub. With the latest in movies and music, to electronics and toys, food, fashion and other household goods, Target stands as the dominating (in my opinion) "discount" department chain, not having the stipulations of "hill-jack" or "for old folks" that Wal-Mart (sometimes) carries.
Along with its range in products, at consumer-friendly prices, Target has one of the best marketing campaigns in recent years. Their commercials are graphic inspirational dances that resonate visually with an almost brainwashing of brand placement -- I long to see what window displays they'd bring!
Having established the two anchor stores (both more contemporary than their predecessors), the next chapter will focus on the first stores/restaurants that should be invited (in some cases invited back) to breathe some life back into City Center.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Heart of the City (Center) pt 1
*Below are the beginnings of my ideas to save the Columbus City Center and radically change the face of Downtown Columbus, OH. I love my city, and this mall has held a very special place in my heart. More than anything, I want to restore its name and presence to the splendor it once held and be one of the crowning jewels of the city.
--V.
Right now, the idea of an "Anchor Store" typically assumes the name of some department chain (Nordstrom's, Macy's, Sears, etc.) whose name seems synonymous with high dollar fashion, furniture and the like. I'd like to challenge that notion all together, going the more "unconventional route" and foregoing the anchors that say little more than, "I'm somebody because I shop here!"
As Columbus has repeatedly shown, we're a fickle town (except when it comes to the Bucks!), hot on the heels of something new one minute and finding it ever so nonchalantly "blah", like it was always here, the next. We're very modern in that way (I think), forever looking for the next big "WOW!" It's this mindset that makes me draw a parallel to that "City that Never Sleeps" and our humble metropolis. And like this city we so wish to be, we have to be ready and willing to throw out the old ways in favor of something bold and new. At its core, that's what City Center has always seemed to be -- that first bold new move from the malls with "land" in their titles from the 60's. City Center was fresh, it was provocative, but in the 20yrs since its opening day, that grandiose flare has fallen to fresher Polaris and the fresher still Easton. But all hope is not lost. City Center is not completely dead and its full revival is but an innovative stone's throw away.
There are only two remaining anchor store posts, one of which currently houses a Macy's (one of more than four in the city) and the other being Jacobson's, which has been closed for nearly six years. The latter has been a constant eyesore since closing due to company bankruptcy, with its placement at the heart of communal "pit" area. This space needs a drastic gear shift (read kick in the pants) that would open up the area to more commerce driven traffic and multiple entertainment opportunities. I posit that a tri-level Virgin Megastore would bring just that.
The first Virgin Megastore was a media blitzkrieg, offering the latest in books, games, music and movies, the latter two long since lacking a presence in City Center. And like that first Virgin Megastore, this store's profitability would soar from being the only site here in the city. Virgin has since expanded their brand name, breaking into the cellphone market and other such industries, making this a one-stop shop for all things Virgin and more.
Keeping in line with the bold edgy concepts mentioned, I suggest having a portion of the store (preferably within the confines of the music dept) be outfitted as a music hall, capable of housing small concerts. Operating behind the Virgin commercial machine, it should be easy to line up top name acts. This would add yet another venue of revenue for City Center, as well as give another face to Downtown's (proper, not the Arena or Brewery Districts) presence for live entertainment.
To be continued...
**Unfortunately, since beginning this opus, Virgin Megastores has shut all of its major locations, with plans to liquidate its further holdings by the summer of 2009. As this was such an integral part of my overall plan, I felt an addendum was in order to to make up the difference.
In place of Virgin Megastore, I offer a deluxe version of the Apple Store, currently only found at Easton Towne Center. This tri-level monolith, bathed in white will be a tech-Mecca, carrying within it the whole bevy of Apple/Macintosh library. Ranging from desktops, laptops, iPods, accessories, programs and games, anything and everything a tech-junkie could muster the need to have is there.
Establishing the first ever Apple Studio, patrons can tryout, learn about and utilize products ranging from movie editing programs, music production or art and design. The perfect amalgam between the Apple Store and C.O.S.I., here is where the heart of the creative faculty comes alive for all to explore and exhibit.
The crowning piece is christened the iTunes Amphitheatre, where visiting djs can put together custom playlists for Daylight iPod Raves (where concert goers sweat heavy, but QUIETLY, grooving to digital masterpieces pumped thru their earbuds) or rock the evening hours with custom light shows that bank wickedly off the pristine walls.
While not my original plan, I think this would serve as a more than significant replacement for the unoccupied Jacobson's space.
--V.
Right now, the idea of an "Anchor Store" typically assumes the name of some department chain (Nordstrom's, Macy's, Sears, etc.) whose name seems synonymous with high dollar fashion, furniture and the like. I'd like to challenge that notion all together, going the more "unconventional route" and foregoing the anchors that say little more than, "I'm somebody because I shop here!"
As Columbus has repeatedly shown, we're a fickle town (except when it comes to the Bucks!), hot on the heels of something new one minute and finding it ever so nonchalantly "blah", like it was always here, the next. We're very modern in that way (I think), forever looking for the next big "WOW!" It's this mindset that makes me draw a parallel to that "City that Never Sleeps" and our humble metropolis. And like this city we so wish to be, we have to be ready and willing to throw out the old ways in favor of something bold and new. At its core, that's what City Center has always seemed to be -- that first bold new move from the malls with "land" in their titles from the 60's. City Center was fresh, it was provocative, but in the 20yrs since its opening day, that grandiose flare has fallen to fresher Polaris and the fresher still Easton. But all hope is not lost. City Center is not completely dead and its full revival is but an innovative stone's throw away.
There are only two remaining anchor store posts, one of which currently houses a Macy's (one of more than four in the city) and the other being Jacobson's, which has been closed for nearly six years. The latter has been a constant eyesore since closing due to company bankruptcy, with its placement at the heart of communal "pit" area. This space needs a drastic gear shift (read kick in the pants) that would open up the area to more commerce driven traffic and multiple entertainment opportunities. I posit that a tri-level Virgin Megastore would bring just that.
The first Virgin Megastore was a media blitzkrieg, offering the latest in books, games, music and movies, the latter two long since lacking a presence in City Center. And like that first Virgin Megastore, this store's profitability would soar from being the only site here in the city. Virgin has since expanded their brand name, breaking into the cellphone market and other such industries, making this a one-stop shop for all things Virgin and more.
Keeping in line with the bold edgy concepts mentioned, I suggest having a portion of the store (preferably within the confines of the music dept) be outfitted as a music hall, capable of housing small concerts. Operating behind the Virgin commercial machine, it should be easy to line up top name acts. This would add yet another venue of revenue for City Center, as well as give another face to Downtown's (proper, not the Arena or Brewery Districts) presence for live entertainment.
To be continued...
**Unfortunately, since beginning this opus, Virgin Megastores has shut all of its major locations, with plans to liquidate its further holdings by the summer of 2009. As this was such an integral part of my overall plan, I felt an addendum was in order to to make up the difference.
In place of Virgin Megastore, I offer a deluxe version of the Apple Store, currently only found at Easton Towne Center. This tri-level monolith, bathed in white will be a tech-Mecca, carrying within it the whole bevy of Apple/Macintosh library. Ranging from desktops, laptops, iPods, accessories, programs and games, anything and everything a tech-junkie could muster the need to have is there.
Establishing the first ever Apple Studio, patrons can tryout, learn about and utilize products ranging from movie editing programs, music production or art and design. The perfect amalgam between the Apple Store and C.O.S.I., here is where the heart of the creative faculty comes alive for all to explore and exhibit.
The crowning piece is christened the iTunes Amphitheatre, where visiting djs can put together custom playlists for Daylight iPod Raves (where concert goers sweat heavy, but QUIETLY, grooving to digital masterpieces pumped thru their earbuds) or rock the evening hours with custom light shows that bank wickedly off the pristine walls.
While not my original plan, I think this would serve as a more than significant replacement for the unoccupied Jacobson's space.
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