In 2005, WBA was awarded the commission for Phase One and Two of St. Johns Town Center, a unique mixed use development in Jacksonville, Florida. Working hand in hand with Simon Property Group, Wakefield Beasley created a fine architectural backdrop where locals and tourists can experience excellent stores, delicious restaurants and live music. It is a place that showcases the beauty of the region in a relaxing, fun way drawing people back year after year. In fact, the center is so well received that it continues to expand and attract major national retailers.
So how was this open-air mixed-use project so successful, even in the economic downturn? At first glance it hits all the normal must-haves: gorgeous Florida weather, beach town location and upscale shopping but at second glance it’s more than just this. We at WBA believe that the architectural design is a large reason for its success, making St. Johns Town Center much more than just a shopping center. One unique feature of this 1,000,000+/- sf. town center is the difference in architectural styles between the northern portion (“Jacksonville District”) and the southern portion (“St. Augustine District”). The developers wanted to create a shopping experience that would not only attract shoppers but also be a reflection of the various cultural influences found throughout the immediate region. The northern portion focuses on architectural styles seen throughout the city of Jacksonville, while the southern portion captures the beauty of Old Florida Spanish architecture common to St. Augustine.
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