Santa Monica Place Earns LEED Gold

Santa Monica Place, the open-air shopping destination located in downtown Santa Monica, has earned LEED gold certification in the core and shell category, from the U.S. Green Building Council (Washington, D.C.).

During the renovation, Santa Monica Place was turned from an indoor mall into an outdoor center. The project reduced energy consumption and, during construction, diverted more than 90 percent of construction, totaling 68,519,409 pounds, from landfills. The center also incorporates water-efficient landscaping, a green roof element and many other sustainable property features.

“We have long said that the most sustainable building is one that already exists, and our decision to reuse and redesign the existing structure into what you see today – a three-level, open-air property with views, fresh air and plenty of sunshine – was an essential step toward LEED certification,” says Art Coppola, chairman and ceo, Macerich, the owner/developer/operator of the project. “We are pleased that the building and also the ongoing operations of Santa Monica Place reflect the environmental values of our shoppers and our company.”

The shopping center features approximately 550,000 square feet on three levels, including a rooftop dining deck and market, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom department stores and more than 85 specialty stores and dining options.