Luxury and dining district’s set to fill empty anchor space at Westfield UTC

A former Nordstrom site at one of URW’S top-performing sites is getting a complete makeover.

Westfield UTC in San Diego has unwrapped plans to transform the former anchor’s space into a luxury shopping and dining district. Also planned in the renovation are enhanced amenities, sustainability features, community gathering places, and green spaces. Tenants have not yet been announced.

“Westfield UTC is a one-of-a-kind lifestyle destination that continues to build on its longstanding legacy to deliver one of the best customer experiences in California,” said URW’s senior VP of development Kim Brewer. “This project presents an exciting opportunity to unlock the full potential of the former Nordstrom space, adding something completely fresh for our guests and ensuring its continued positive impact in the community.”

URW has signed designer boutiques and two globally inspired restaurants to headline the district, which will feature valet service. Beginning some 10 years ago, the company began repositioning Westfield UTC to adjust to upwardly ranging demographics in the La Jolla community, in which it is located. Average household income tops $197,000 in La Jolla, which contains 37,000 residents.

“This expansion will elevate the already exceptional experience at Westfield UTC, and reflects our continued commitment to creating extraordinary, sustainable places where people can connect,” said the property’s senior general manager Ryan Perry.

Construction on the new district began recently and a phased opening is expected to commence in 2026.

In February, URW announced what a major renovation of its Westfield Old Orchard mall in the Chicago suburb of Skokie. It 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.