Breadcrumb
Repurposing Malls for the Sake of Leisure
Presentation Year
2026
College or Department
College of Professional Studies
Short Description of your Research or Creative Project (700 characters or less)
American malls have seen a dramatic decrease in their presence over the past several decades. Once a staple of American culture, malls have turned from retail social hubs to struggling commercial centers, with consumers taking to other avenues when it comes to shopping, entertainment, socialization and leisure. Since they were first introduced in 1956, the United States saw the construction of over 800 malls throughout the country – where they then took on a role of serving as a “third place” for people, a space for individuals to congregate outside of work or school. However, that number has been in decline ever since and with the decline comes the question of what to do with these struggling or abandoned buildings. Here, we explore the decline of the American mall, its role as a third place, and whether malls can be repurposed to promote informal social gatherings that expand equitable access to recreation and leisure without relying on retail consumption.
Permission to Publish Work
Yes
Presentation File Upload
Primary Contact: First Name
Nancy
Primary Contact: Last Name
Nazario
Primary Contact: Email
nan25@humboldt.edu
Primary Contact: I am a
Undergraduate Student
Primary Contact: Phone Number
7147603639
Indicate File Dimensions
4'x3'