Malls Are People Spaces

I was at a local church flea market, where I had rented a table. Business was very slow that day. Someone commented that many of the flea markets are not as busy as they use be. I started wondering the fate of public markets like flea markets and shopping malls?

Back in the 60's malls were being built all across the country. It seemed wherever there was farm land open, a mall was constructed.

Now it seems many of the malls are struggling and even closing. Some had to change the use of their space from retail to business and offices. A few have been even torn down completely.

I was thinking what of the remaining malls? The land is still there with this large building on it. It could be turned into business space, indoor gardening space, recreational space, alternative commerce space like flea markets, and even manufacturing space.

Malls are people spaces. They are places for people to gather. The use does not matter. The country side already has been altered by the building or the mall. Why tear it down, use if for other purposes.

Many malls already have skylights that allow vegetation, why not grow food. Use it as an indoor farm and park. Many people already use it for exercise. Small manufacturing enterprises, with factory outlets could be created. The same is true for any vacant building even in urban areas.

Houses can be more than residential dwellings. They can be arts and culture places, They can be business offices, manufacturing, even small agricultural spaces.

Us humans decided what our spaces will be used for. It is the human activity that defines the space we inhabit. A dining room is a space defined by four walls where we dine. It is nothing special.

Waiting For Electric Cars

I am still waiting for electric cars. GM should not be given one more cent until they bring back their EV1. Electric is Green for the environment and the economy. If you build it, they will buy and drive it.