Simon plans upgrades at The Galleria
Real estate firm Simon Property Group is reinvesting in one of its most premiere properties.
The firm plans to bring interior and exterior revitalization to The Galleria in Houston, Texas’ largest shopping center. Multimillion-dollar upgrades will begin this summer and are expected to be complete by early 2025.
A significant portion of the remodeling project will focus on “elevating the aesthetics” of the northward and eastward facing valet entrances, from Nordstrom through the Westheimer entrance. Many of The Galleria's interior and exterior entrances will be renovated to include sleek entryways, contemporary LED lighting and ceiling enhancements. The revitalization also includes 155,000 sq. ft. of modern new flooring throughout the center.
The last major redevelopment in the property concluded in 2017 when The Galleria's luxury wing underwent extensive upgrades and added new retailers, and a fully reimagined, more than 200,000 sq.-ft. Saks Fifth Avenue. Simon’s planned upgrades to The Galleria come a month after the firm announced new changes coming to its Woodbury Common Premium Outlets property in Central Valley, N.Y., including a VIP suite and new luxury tenants.
"The Galleria is an iconic Houston institution and an international destination that has drawn the world's most discerning shoppers for decades," said Mark Silvestri, president of development at Simon. "Simon is investing in The Galleria once again to ensure the center continues to raise the bar and set the industry standard for premier centers across the world. These modern improvements and fresh facades will further elevate the experience for our discerning patrons and complement the world's most sought-after brands that call The Galleria home.
Inspired by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, Italy, The Galleria opened in 1970 and features more than 400 stores, more than 60 eateries ranging from fine dining to fast casual, two high-rise Westin hotels, three office towers, co-working space, and a variety of other amenities.
In the past five years, several of The Galleria’s key luxury brands have expanded and enhanced their boutiques including Gucci, which is currently expanding to a two-story concept, Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Saint Laurent. Fendi and Saint Laurent doubled their footprints, and their renovated boutiques showcase new design prototypes in their respective retail spaces. In the same period, The Galleria also welcomed Dolce & Gabbana, Amiri, Maria Tash, Prada, Dior and Alo Yoga, with more new, high-end retailers expected to open soon, including Etro and Frette.
"Simon is reinvesting in this classic, beloved property to further cement The Galleria as a global leader in the luxury retail space," said Velda Turan, senior VP of luxury leasing at Simon. "We are literally and figuratively lifting luxury to the next level and expanding this offering to level two to meet the strong demand from these brands."