80,000 sq. ft., multiplex movie theatre (4,000 seats and 20 screens)
1,540 - space parking structure
71 shops and restaurants
Major Tenants
The Cheesecake Factory, Barnes & Noble, Cost Plus, REI, Circuit City, Century Theatres, Kohl’s Department Store
Design Features
A $170 million, open-air lifestyle center, Bella Terra was inspired by the picturesque Tuscan village of Italy and uses limestone, tile and other materials in natural colors on building facades. The complex combines buildings in a variety of heights with tower elements, water fountains and cobblestone walkways. Fifteen restaurants encircle an out- door amphitheater with a cascading water display as a backdrop for performances.
Obstacles/Solutions
Southern California’s oldest enclosed mall, the Huntington Shopping Center, built in 1966 on 63 acres, remained mostly shuttered after major tenants left. The Snyder Company extensively renovated, redesigned and renamed the mall. Used concrete and steel were salvaged for recycled use in roads and buildings. Seventy trees planted in 1966 were relocated on site.
Benefits
Next to the 405 Freeway and Beach Boulevard, Bella Terra is a “best case” example of the Southern California trend of converting indoor shopping malls to open-air, retail entertainment districts that take advantage of the mild, year-round climate. Now a vibrant town center and leisure destination, it attracts residents from throughout the region.
