What if we Try? Speculative Design of the Mall.

An exhibition of works by 3rd year Environmental Design students from the Institute of Creativity and Innovation (ICI) at Xiamen University's Zhangzhou Campus. Curated by Niloofar Amini.

"Kim Dovey describes malls as 'a city inverted', recreating urban public life within private spaces. Since the mid of 20th Century, shopping malls have become global phenomena, with Asia now home to the largest examples. Officially defined as retail complexes with interconnected walkways, malls have also unofficiall become communal hubs and pseudo-public spaces where diverse populations converge.

However, malls are at a pivotal point of transformation. Shifts in demographics and urbanization have increased the demand for accessible public spaces. Smaller urban living spaces necessitate areas where people can gather, socialize, and engage beyond shopping. Sustainability and the preference for mixed-use developments encourage integration of living, working and leisure within walkwable distances. Furthermore, e-commerce and digital technologies are reshaping consumer expectations, turning malls into entertainment destinations rather than solely shopping venues.

These global trends challenge mall operators to reimagine their properties. Moving beyond retail, they must explore innovative strategies to integrate diverse functions while addressing environmental, economic and social needs. Our 'Environment and Market 02' studio examines these evolving dynamics, reflecting on the past, present and future of malls to design adaptable spaces that respond to market and community demands".

- Niloofar Amini, Lecturer in Environmental Design

Teaching team: Niloofar Amini, Jordi Ma Lu, ZHENG Na and GUAN Yifei.