Producing Consumption Space

This chapter examines the physical and symbolic environments of shopping malls, theme parks, and urban entertainment districts (UEDs). It looks at the evolution of consumption and the broader landscapes in which they are constituent parts in response to consumer demand for goods, services, and experiences. It also discusses the processes of rationalization and reenchantment in order to explore the history, development, and principles of shopping mall, theme park, and UED design. The chapter reviews the underlying design principles of consumption spaces, which offer highly rationalized and varied consumption opportunities within environments rich with meaningful symbolic elements. It provides essential context to understand the spatial practices and conceptions of mallparks.