France's first custom-built shopping centre has been a tremendous success. Now, after 45 years in business and a change of ownership in 2010, it's to be extended and revamped.
"We're being hugely ambitious but it's justified," states Alain Taravella, founder and chairman of Altarea Cogedim, which now owns Cap 3000. "This mall generates the best turnover per square metre in France for small and medium-
sized shops. But it desperately needed upgrading because it was built 45 years ago using the technology of the day." The rehabilitation is being driven too by its resident brands. "There's a very strong demand from retailers. The brands already here want bigger shops and those not here are hoping to move in, the attraction being the seafront setting, a booming local market and large numbers of tourists. Those were the reasons too that gained us permission to extend from 85,000m2 to 135,000m2.
Bigger and lighter
First there has to be some major restructuring, including removing the roofs so as to let daylight in. The decoration by the Jouin Manku agency will be spruced up from floor to ceiling and the sky will be visibl above the new central atrium. Two new sections are to be added: a premium wing to the west and a space above Lafayette Gourmet, also premium. But the centre's positioning won't change, still targeting families and a (reasonably) upmarket clientele. The architecture will "blend in [to the setting] by using gentle flowing shapes and sustainable design," explains Mark Wilson, the project's designer and architect. "We've imagined a new Cap 3000 of undulating forms looking out to sea but linked to the town by a landscaped promenade." Completion in 2018.
The project in detail
Easier access. A green walkway on the west side will take shoppers to the future tramway, and the road system will be improved to ensure the traffic flows.
Connected shopping. Interactive screens will allow people to share their experiences on social media. The website and app will have a product search engine so customers can check availability and reserve items (click and collect).
Custom services. VIP services – personal shopper, concierge service, Premium parking etc. – will be developed in addition to the mall's personalised loyalty scheme and targeted special offers.
Protecting nature. Every year some 220 species of birds visit this Natura 2000-classified zone. The renovation will disturb them as little as possible.
Preserving the environment. The extension is part of an urban
development programme classed as of national interest (OIN) and will aim for BREEAM international certification (excellent grade) for reduced energy consumption, impact on biodiversity and carbon emissions.
Surface : 135 000 m2 au lieu de 85 000 m2
Magasins : 300 au lieu de 140
Parking : 4 800 places au lieu de 2 800
Emplois : 3 830 au lieu de 2 800
Visiteurs : 14 millions par an estimés au lieu de 10.
By Lise Irlandes-Guilbault
Côteweb 2021, création de site Internet sur Nice