326111 external_news 1410957179 1475893637 There are approximately 1,030 enclosed malls in the United States today according to a recent report by Green Street Advisors, a real estate research firm. They estimate that 15 percent of mall stock will close or be repurposed within the next ten years, with the greatest risk among low-end venues.  It is unsurprising that malls would fail if the surrounding market can no longer support them, according to Ellen Dunham-Jones, professor of architecture and urban design at Georgia Tech. Rising population in urban areas have increased the popularity of mixed-used real estate developments that combine residential housing, retailers, and businesses into a single, easy-to-navigate edifice.  Dunham-Jones says that despite the negative press, mega malls aren’t doomed and goes on to identify several examples of success stories in a mall-challenged country, including Dadeland Mall, outside of Miami in Kendall, Florida. To succeed, malls must provide a combination of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences that consumers can’t get elsewhere.

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