Amidst the urban tapestry of Glendale, California, rises the Glendale Galleria. It’s more than just a shopping mall. It’s a landmark, a community hub, and a testament to architectural evolution. The Glendale Galleria first opened its doors in 1976. It cost a staggering 75 million dollars to build. This wasn’t just another mall. This was a vision brought to life by architect Jon Jerde, inspired by Ray Bradbury’s ideas on revitalizing retail spaces. The Glendale Galleria was designed to be a destination.
Initially, the Galleria sported a windowless brick exterior, typical of malls built in the 60s and 70s. But times change, and so does the Galleria. In 2012, a 57.5-million-dollar renovation transformed the mall. Marble, granite, metal panels, and meshes now adorn the facade, giving it a sleek, modern look. The renovation also improved signage and accessibility. This ensured the mall remained a vibrant, contemporary space.
Inside, the Glendale Galleria boasts over 200 stores, anchored by retail giants like Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, JCPenney, Macy’s, and Bloomingdale’s. It’s the third-largest mall in Los Angeles County, a testament to its enduring popularity. The Galleria has seen many “firsts”. It housed the first three-story Target, the first Panda Express (opened in 1983 with Galleria II), and even one of the first two Apple Stores worldwide, opened in 2001. Some Apple fans still journey to the Glendale Galleria to get a receipt marked “001”, a memento of this historic store.
The Glendale Galleria isn’t just about shopping. It’s woven into the fabric of the community. It has provided a livelihood for many, like Hecop “Jack” Baghdassarian, owner of Massis Kabob. Hecop opened his restaurant in the Galleria in 1976, introducing gourmet Mediterranean food to a public more accustomed to burgers and hot dogs. His story is a testament to the Galleria’s role as a launchpad for entrepreneurs. The mall has also served as a backdrop for pop culture moments. Billie Eilish filmed her “Therefore I Am” music video in the Glendale Galleria in 2020, showcasing its modern aesthetic to a global audience. The Glendale Galleria continues to thrive. It attracts 30 million visitors annually. It stands as a symbol of Glendale’s growth and a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-designed, community-focused shopping experience.