99% Invisible Meet Us by the Fountain
Jun 14, 2022
Alexandra Lange, author of 'Meet Me by the Fountain,' explores the nostalgic roots of American malls and their cultural impact. She reflects on her experiences in 80s malls as vibrant social hubs where teenagers gathered. Lange discusses how malls evolved from community centers to profit-driven spaces, facing challenges in today's economy. She also highlights innovative transformations, turning old malls into community assets. This conversation invites listeners to rethink the role of malls in modern society and their potential for revival.
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Roman Mars' Mall Job
- Roman Mars worked at a mall as a teenager and observed its daily rhythm.
- He witnessed different groups using the mall at various times, from seniors in the morning to teens in the evening.
Malls as Social Spaces
- Alexandra Lange argues that malls were created because suburbs lacked social spaces.
- People are social creatures who need places to gather, which malls provided.
Mall vs. Shopping Center
- Shopping centers are outdoors, while malls are enclosed indoor spaces.
- Early malls were simple, I-shaped designs with department stores at each end.
