Giant Shopping Center Getting Gianter

If you thought Southcenter was a massive blight of consumption run wild (chill out, commie) at 1,326,218 square feet you ain't seen nothing yet. From Abercrombie and Fitch (regular and kids) to Zales Jewelry, there are 193 flavors all told so if it's mass produced and it's for sale, you'll find it there. Heeemongus sometimes isn't big enough, though. Southcenter (actually Westfield Southcenter, now) is adding $200 million worth of new stores and restaurants.

That's 70 new stores, for those keeping track. The original 193 retail outlets will be joined by 70 newcomers, although we can't imagine what possible chains are so far down the retail ladder that they can't get into a mall with nearly 200 stores. There will be room for all, though! 223 stores accessible via a touchscreen directory!

The expansion will come in the form of a three-level atrium type thing between Sears and JC Penney. "Oh no, the food court!" you might say. The food court's being moved to the second floor of the new atrium and will no longer be called a "food court." We believe you are referring to the "dining terrace."

From the King County Journal:

The cafe-style "dining terrace" will include a 90-foot glass facade offering views of Mount Rainier from all three levels of the atrium, as well as fireside seating, according to a description issued by Southcenter officials. The first floor of the atrium will include six "signature" restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating.

Two new parking garages, a concierge center, a family lounge and expanded WiFi are also coming, as well as, Westfield is hoping, an additional 4 million shoppers a year. With south King County now officially one of the last best places to afford a house, the area is seeing an increase of residents and more residents need more Southcenter. Simple as that.