URW details Westfield Old Orchard redevelopment
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) has shared new details on its upcoming redevelopment of Westfield Old Orchard.
Focus has been tapped as the co-developer for the first phase of the landmark transformation of the Skokie, Ill. mall, which will include the construction of approximately 400 luxury apartment homes and street-level retail, along with a park and event space. The project is anticipated to break ground in 2025 and slated to open to residents in early 2027.
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Photo courtesy of URW. -
Photo courtesy of URW.
“We look forward to working with Focus, a premier developer in Chicagoland, to further enhance one of the most desirable destinations on the North Shore,” said Geoff Mason, executive VP, U.S. development, design & operating management at URW. “Focus’s local market knowledge, commitment to sustainability and DE&I initiatives, and shared vision for the future of Old Orchard make them an ideal partner to help curate what will be the preeminent mixed-use destination for residents, workers, and the wider community. Together, we’ll create what will become the residential, commercial, and cultural heart of Skokie.”
More details for the mixed-use renovation include:
- Approximately 400 units, including maisonettes with private ground level entries
- Studio to three-bedroom units
- Amenities including a pool, lounge, fitness center, co-working spaces, pet spa and dog run
- Pursuing LEED Gold sustainability rating
- Approximately 15,000 square feet of retail fronting a new park
- Retail mix is likely food and beverage, though this is still being determined
“As a Chicago-based company many of our team members, myself included, have a long history at Old Orchard and personally understand the vital role it plays in the community, said Tim Anderson, CEO and founder of Focus. “We share a vision with URW for a more sustainable and dynamic future for the Old Orchard center. Through thoughtful design and careful consideration of the needs of the community, we plan to create an authentic live-work-play experience for the community of Skokie.”
The multi-faceted remodeling vision for Westfield Old Orchard first took shape in 2018 when URW acquired the former Lord & Taylor space. The transformed space will soon be home to artisan-crafted, sustainably sourced home furnishings brand Arhaus, high-tech mini golf and social experience Puttshack, and a Zara location.
In addition, Old Orchard is modernizing the existing shopping center with enhancements to the common areas, as well as opening a slate of new restaurants, health and wellness amenities, and retailers. New additions to the center will include Bloomies, Bloomingdale’s curated shopping concept, local dining favorites Bar Siena and Hampton Social, and top luxury and fashion brands Louis Vuitton, Alo Yoga, and Vuori.