This is an important question for anyone looking to visit the Edgewater E center. The answer depends on how you define “inside” and “outside”. From a technical perspective, the Edgewater E center is located outside, as it is not fully enclosed within a larger structure. However, parts of the center feel like indoor spaces, while other parts are outdoors. Ultimately, the Edgewater E center blends indoor and outdoor spaces to create a unique shopping experience.
The Edgewater E Center Layout
The Edgewater E center has a unique open-air layout that combines indoor and outdoor spaces. The main sections of the center are outdoors, with trees, landscaping, and open areas exposed to the elements. Shops line the edges of the center in long buildings with storefronts facing the sidewalks. Other standalone stores and restaurants have their own separate structures. The outdoor sections have parking lots, fountains, seating areas, and pedestrian walkways connecting everything together. Parts of the outdoor area are covered by canopies to provide shade and shelter.
Indoor spaces are interspersed throughout the outdoor sections. Two large anchor department stores are fully enclosed indoor buildings. Additionally, there is an indoor food court area with restaurants and seating. Other indoor spaces include access corridors to reach shops in the long buildings lining the edge of the center. There are also indoor restrooms, elevators, stairs, and hallways connecting the different buildings.
Outdoor Sections
The majority of the Edgewater E center’s square footage is outdoors. The central courtyard areas with the parking lots, fountains, landscaping, and walkways account for most of the space. Shoppers park in the lots and explore the area on foot. The courtyard has benches, shade structures, and places to gather. Special events like concerts and holiday activities take place in the courtyard.
Surrounding the courtyard on all sides are sidewalks fronting the long buildings containing shops and restaurants. These outdoor sidewalks are covered by overhead canopies for shade and shelter from rain or snow. The storefronts all face the sidewalks with doors and large windows. The outdoor sidewalks allow shoppers to walk around the center stopping in stores along the way.
In addition to the central courtyards and perimeter sidewalks, there are outdoor seating areas for the restaurants. These patio dining spaces have tables and chairs outside. Trees and plants surround the outdoor dining patios. The outdoor seating is only used when the weather permits it.
Advantages of Outdoor Sections
- Natural lighting
- Fresh air circulation
- Landscaping and greenspaces
- Accommodate events and gatherings
- Promote walking between stores
- Restful outdoor seating areas
Disadvantages of Outdoor Sections
- Exposed to weather – rain, snow, heat, etc.
- Harder to control climate
- Less private than indoor spaces
- Noise and parking lot views
- Need canopies, heaters, fans based on weather
- Outdoor dining not always available
Indoor Sections
While the majority of the Edgewater E center is outdoors, there are significant indoor sections interspersed throughout the property. The two anchor department stores are fully enclosed, climate-controlled buildings with the look and feel of typical mall stores. The indoor food court area provides a place to eat with a variety of restaurant options. You can access many stores through indoor corridors and hallways, protected from the elements.
The indoor sections all have heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and lighting systems to control the interior environment. Windows and doors separate the indoor spaces from the outdoor areas. The indoor parts create a more private, quieter environment away from the hustle and bustle of outdoor crowds. Indoor spaces allow for comfortable shopping year-round, protected from weather conditions outside.
Advantages of Indoor Sections
- Climate controlled environment
- Quieter and more private
- Available year-round
- Easier to keep clean
- Carpeting and furnishings
- Feels like a traditional mall
Disadvantages of Indoor Sections
- Less natural light
- Can feel more enclosed
- Less access to fresh air
- Higher energy costs for HVAC
- Less ability to accommodate large events
- Need to go outside to access some stores
Unique Hybrid Experience
The combination of indoor and outdoor areas is what makes the Edgewater E center layout unique. The open-air courtyard and sidewalks promote leisurely strolling and browsing among the shops and restaurants. Open spaces allow for hosting events and provide greenspace and natural elements. The indoor sections provide climate protection and a more traditional shopping experience. Patrons can choose to spend time either outdoors or indoors depending on weather, the stores they want to visit, and their preferences that day.
The design provides flexibility to accommodate nice weather outdoor shopping as well as poor weather indoor options. The layout draws people in to wander and explore different zones. Anchor stores and the food court ensure there are major indoor destinations. Even on rainy days there are plentiful indoor spaces to peruse. The hybrid model balances access to nature and urban conveniences. The mix of uses and spaces makes the Edgewater E center a unique shopping destination.
Conclusion
The Edgewater E center blends indoor and outdoor spaces to create a distinctive hybrid shopping center. While the majority of the center is outdoors in open-air courtyards and sidewalks, there are also significant indoor sections. The two anchor department stores and the food court provide enclosed, climate controlled areas. Additional stores connect via indoor access corridors. The combination allows for flexible use based on weather. Shoppers can enjoy nature and events in the outdoor spaces or privacy and climate control indoors. The layout promotes exploration between the indoor and outdoor sections. Ultimately the Edgewater E center provides the best of both worlds with its innovative hybrid model.