Westfield Knox

Hidden beneath the gleaming facade of Westfield Knox lies a story richer than the latest fashion trends. Westfield Knox isn’t just a shopping destination. It’s a time capsule, a testament to Melbourne’s ever-evolving suburban landscape. Originally known as Knox City Shopping Centre, this retail giant opened its doors on November 9, 1977. Imagine a time when this bustling hub was just a vision, a $30 million project on a former swamp. The Australian Mutual Provident Society (AMP) had ambitious plans. They envisioned a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned shopping centre complete with a cinema, office tower, library and ample parking. The project faced nearly 1000 objections, with concerns about its impact on existing businesses. But the visionaries persevered, and Knox City emerged, a beacon of modernity in what was then a largely rural area. Westfield Knox wasn’t always the sprawling complex we see today. The original design, a blend of Brutalist and Modern architecture, featured 87 stores, including a three-level Myer, a Target, a McEwan’s hardware, and a twin Dendy Cinemas complex. The architects, McIntyre, McIntyre & Partners, prioritized a cohesive aesthetic, a departure from the often-disparate look of other shopping centers of the time. They incorporated innovative elements like trapezoidal skylights to bathe the mall in natural light. These skylights, a testament to the original design, can still be seen near Myer today. The centre even won the IES Meritorious Lighting Award in 1978. Westfield Knox has undergone several transformations. In the late 1980s, it doubled in size, adding a fourth floor to Myer, expanding the car park and introducing new promenade, market, and food court areas. The original cinemas gave way to a 10-screen Village Cinemas complex. Later, Knox O-Zone, an outdoor shopping precinct, was seamlessly integrated into the main complex. Westfield Group acquired the center in 2012, adding it to its impressive portfolio. Even today, Westfield Knox continues to evolve. A multi-million dollar renovation has introduced new anchor tenants, dining options, and a state-of-the-art library. The centre remains a vibrant hub, a meeting place, a reflection of the community it serves. From a swampy wasteland to a retail powerhouse, Westfield Knox’s journey mirrors the dynamic growth of Melbourne’s outer east. So, next time you stroll through its polished halls, take a moment to appreciate the layers of history, the echoes of the past that whisper beneath the surface of this iconic Melbourne landmark.