Saks Fifth Avenue Restoration and Multi-Block Development Project takes flight with Marmol Radziner

Beverly Hills, a global icon of luxury and style, is witnessing a significant evolution along its famed Wilshire Boulevard. At the heart of this revitalization is a transformative mixed-use development centered around the historic Saks Fifth Avenue property, a project that redefines high-end retail, office, and residential living in one of the world's most exclusive destinations.

This ambitious endeavor, led by HBC Properties and Investments, aims to breathe new life into a 3.4-acre stretch of Wilshire Boulevard, bridging the gap between Bedford Drive and Camden Drive. The vision is clear: to reignite the vibrant retail and commercial excitement that once characterized this legendary thoroughfare, bringing back the allure that drew discerning patrons for decades.

A Blend of Heritage and Modernity: The Design Vision

The core of this extensive redevelopment lies in the careful rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the historic 1938 Saks Fifth Avenue Women's building at 9600 Wilshire Boulevard. Originally designed by Parkinson & Parkinson with interiors by Paul R. Williams, this landmark structure is being meticulously restored. The façade will be cleaned, its elegant limestone returned to its original luster, and windows reinstated, honoring its rich architectural legacy.

Complementing this historic preservation, the project introduces significant new construction, thoughtfully integrated into the urban fabric. The plan includes:

• Four New Buildings: Two Class A office buildings, strategically placed to complete the mid-rise street wall along Wilshire Boulevard, and two mixed-use residential buildings on existing surface parking lots behind the main Saks and former Barneys buildings, offering exclusive luxury residential units.

• Enhanced Retail and Dining: New, publicly accessible retail and dining spaces, from high-end restaurants to charming cafes, are being developed to create a dynamic street-level experience.

• Public Open Spaces: The development incorporates new public outdoor areas, enhancing pedestrian comfort and interaction.

• New Underground Parking: A state-of-the-art underground parking structure will support the increased activity across the entire development.

As part of the strategic re-orchestration of the retail footprint, the Saks Women's store will gracefully relocate into the vacant structure that previously housed Barneys New York, consolidating its presence within the revitalized district. Notably, the Saks Men's store in the historic I. Magnin building remains in its current, iconic location.

The Art of Integration: Design Philosophy

Marmol Radziner, serving as the Executive Architect for the 9600 Wilshire project, has articulated a design philosophy that deeply respects the past while embracing the future. The firm’s approach aims to "celebrate the legacy and glamor of Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills." The design of both the new and historic structures seeks to create spaces that are "luxurious and embrace nature, becoming a vibrant part of the existing neighborhood." The goal is to infuse high art and architecture into every detail, ultimately bringing back the "glittering pearl on the summit" that Wilshire Boulevard once was.

Navigating Complexity: Bringing a Grand Vision to Life

Managing a project of this scale and ambition in a high-profile urban environment like Beverly Hills presents unique challenges. The intricate task of integrating new construction seamlessly with historic preservation requires meticulous planning and execution. Coordination with city planning departments, addressing community feedback, and navigating complex phasing to ensure minimal disruption are all critical components of successfully bringing such a grand vision to fruition.

This project is more than just a redevelopment; it's a testament to the power of thoughtful design and strategic planning in revitalizing urban spaces. By blending respectful historic adaptive reuse with contemporary architecture and expanded amenities, the Saks Fifth Avenue project is poised to redefine luxury retail and living, contributing significantly to the enduring allure of Beverly Hills.