Yorkdale announces yet another make-over

Yorkdale announces yet another make-over

Yorkdale's swank new food court (Image: JPRA Architects)

Yorkdale, the mall version of Bloor Street, is taking a cue from the ladies-who-lunch crowd and getting a facelift. It was announced today that the shopping centre will be undergoing a $220-million renovation, scheduled to be completed by late 2012. This is far from its first reno—in 2005, the complex underwent $110 million in changes, paving the way for a boom in such high end brands as Burberry and Michael Kors, and Toronto’s first Victoria’s Secret moving into the space. Here’s what you can expect when the construction is finished:

  • 145,000 square feet of new space for 40 more stores
  • A massive new food court in the former Eaton’s space, doubling the available seating
  • Reusable cutlery and dishes in the food court, planned to reduce waste by 85 per cent
  • An outdoor patio dining area for summer
  • A 65,000-square-foot green roof designed to reduce atmospheric heating
  • Nicer landscaping
  • A contribution to the Yorkdale Community Arts Centre
  • 800 more parking spaces with a new valet parking area

We’re already bracing for the effect of those new parking spots on traffic at Dufferin and the 401.