Q_01_web-singlepage_Jun15

Andy Traynor
General Manager:
CF Sherway Gardens
When did expansion plans for CF Sherway Gardens begin?
You could easily say that the shopping centre has been in some
form of expansion since we opened up 45 years ago, in the
sense that we are constantly looking to meet our customers’
needs and wants while adapting with the times. The big name
stores of that time were Simpson’s and Eaton’s and the property
was shaped as a figure ‘S’ for Sherway. The popularity of the
mall, compelled us to continue growth, and so the mall then
became a figure ‘8’.
The vision for what you see here today began about five
years ago. In short, running out of retail space prompted this
expansion. The demand is high. We needed to find a way to get
all interested parties on board to join in on our growing success.
We began with a compelling vision, presented it to the board
and the next thing we knew, the construction hats were on, and
the demolition trucks were on site.
This new modern layout, with a price tag of $550 million
is incidentally one of the largest investments that Cadillac
Fairview has ever made in an existing property.
What is the sense of community at CF Sherway Gardens
and how does it impact the surrounding neighborhood?
We are very proud of our roots in the city’s west end. CF Sherway
Gardens is owned by the Ontario Teacher’s Pension Plan, which
just goes to show how much they believe in the vision and
sense of community this property brings to the neighborhood.
CF Sherway Gardens is a central place, which serves so many
purposes for so many people. It’s a complete shopping and
dining experience that the property is shaping for Toronto’s
West end in a very dynamic and positive way.
Has CF Sherway Gardens’ success grown since the expansion?
CF Sherway Gardens has always been a great, fully leased
successful mall, but with the expansion our success rate has
grown to a historical high. People from the surrounding areas
come to shop at the property because of our on-trend retail
partners. The mall is in one of the best locations and it draws
tourists and locals alike.
What firm is behind the new design?
Gervais Harding and Dialogue were the architects we worked
with. The vision stems from our internal committee, going
back to at least 2008, when it was just the beginnings of an idea.
We envisioned incorporating many artistic elements and we
wanted to make the most out of the space.
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