When Arizona Center opened in 1990 at 3rd and Van Buren Streets in Downtown Phoenix, expectations were high for the new shopping center. Results were middling, though, and the mall’s top level was converted into office space by 2003. A lack of multi-family housing in the immediate region was said to be a contributing factor.

Parallel Capital Partners and Angelo, Gordon & Co. acquired the complex in 2015 and it seems they’ve figured out how to revitalize the center. They’ve just begun construction on a $25 million makeover of Arizona Center that they hope will remake the one million-square-foot, mixed-use development into what it was orignally expected to be.

Rendering via Gensler

The most notable part of the renovation is the addition of a boutique hotel and multi-family housing. Combined with several upcoming condo projects and a nearby 30-story hotel, a steady base of consumers who weren’t previously in the area should be part of the picture now.

Other elements that will be transformed or upgraded include site furnishings, shade structures, landscape, lighting, wayfinding, and signage features. The parking garage at 5th Avenue and Fillmore Street will be upgraded and include valet parking.

Skanska USA will handle construction management for the project and Gensler is the architect of record.