Westfield Horton Plaza
Westfield Horton Plaza was one of San Diego’s most fascinating architectural wonders. It featured five levels of shops. And it opened in 1985 then came to its end in 2020.
Getting Lost at Westfield Horton Plaza
Westfield Horton Plaza resembled an MC Escher print. It featured staircases to nowhere. The architect himself became disoriented within the maze-like structure. Visitors, including myself and my friends, often got lost while exploring the Plaza.
Remembering the parking spot and its proximity to shops was crucial. Navigating the complex was time-consuming, making it unsuitable for those with limited time. However, if you had a few hours to spare, the puzzle-like ramps and stairs offered an enjoyable experience of ups, downs, and twists.
As noted in Wikipedia:
Westfield Horton Plaza is the first example of architect Jon Jerde‘s so-called “experience architecture”. When it opened in August 1985, it was a risky and radical departure from the standard paradigm of mall design. Its mismatched levels, long one-way ramps, sudden dropoffs, dramatic parapets, shadowy colonnades, cul-de-sacs, and brightly painted facades create an architectural experience in dramatic contrast to the conventional wisdom of mall management. Conventional malls are designed to reduce ambient sources of psychological arousal, so the customers’ attention is directed towards merchandise. By making the mall an attraction in itself, Jerde stood this model on its head.
DP Mark Schulze collects footage inside Godiva Chocolatier[/caption]
Renowned for its vibrant, Mexico-influenced colors, Westfield Horton Plaza boasted over 120 stores and restaurants during its prime.
To capture the essence of this bustling shopping center, the Crystal Pyramid Productions video crew embarked on a location shoot for Westfield Horton Plaza’s promotional video.
They explored a diverse range of shops, such as Hello Kitty, Godiva Chocolatier and UA Cinemas immersing themselves in the mall’s unique ambiance.
Downtown San Diego’s Horton Plaza is now a figment of our past. We’ve heard that it will be replaced by some high-rise apartments. Just one more change among many changes we have seen in our beautiful city.
Jessop’s Clock
In 2004, we created a Promotional Video for Westfield that showcases various highlights, including the iconic Jessop’s Clock. Commissioned by renowned jeweler Joseph Jessop in 1905, this outdoor pendulum clock mesmerized visitors with its intricate design and timeless charm. Joseph Jessop‘s dedication to precision and artistry is evident in this landmark, symbolizing the mall’s rich history and architectural beauty. While the mall may no longer exist, Joseph Jessop’s remarkable creation lives on, evoking memories of the artistic splendor that graced downtown San Diego.
In conclusion, Westfield Horton Plaza may have disappeared, but its vibrant legacy endures. Our video captures the essence of the mall, which once brought immense joy to countless visitors.
