Large shopping malls

Author: (German) Stefanie Schup | Translator
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: Shopping was originally meant to satisfy life's needs, but during the rise of the commercial bourgeoisie in the late 18th century, it was seen as an entertainment and social activity. The dazzling variety of goods allowed people to indulge their eyes—no longer just objects of expenditure, but displayed in public spaces for customers to browse. Adding roofs over streets, without regard for the weather changes around them, gave rise to the prototype of the modern commercial arcade. The arcades divided the naturally formed urban structure and developed their own architectural style. An arcade was established in 1800 in two prosperous European metropolises—Paris and London. The organized and vigorous expansion of commercial streets accelerated the decline of small shops. The repeated expansion of department store chains further standardized and unified product supply and store decoration. This success set a new high for product recovery value and inspired people to resolve the lack of imagination and uniformity in the current supply. To counter the impression that shopping was boring, commercial streets intensified reforms in the mixed-use areas and the activities of shopping malls. People no longer found shopping and strolling dull but rather a source of endless fun. The architecture of the entire mall naturally blends into people's lives and gatherings. In recent years, many cities have constructed projects specifically designed for consumers. This book showcases representative examples that have significantly contributed to the transformation of the overall urban landscape since their completion. Let us, with excitement and gratitude, appreciate the charm of these cities.