HOUSTON—The Galleria has long been a shopping mecca. Now, Indianapolis-based Simon Property Group wants to ensure it will be for years to come. Earlier this month, the company announced that it intends to invest some $250 million in updates and add 35 more retailers to the 2.4 million-square-foot property, just outside the loop. GlobeSt.com's Anna Caplan recently caught up with the mall's general manager, Greg Noble, to get the shopping scoop.

GlobeSt.com: Tell us about why the Galleria decided to expand.
Greg Noble: Simon is investing $250 million to further elevate the shopping experience and ensure that The Galleria remains the destination of choice for shoppers and retailers alike. David Simon put it best: 'The Galleria is one of the top retail assets in the country, if not the world. In a center like this, you can never stay still.' We are always looking to make what we have better, regardless of competition.

GlobeSt.com: As far as new tenants, are any new to the market? Who will be the biggest draws, in your estimation? 

Noble: Yes, four new luxury tenants will join a list of more than 80 retailers that can only be found at The Galleria. In 2015, The Webster, La Perla and Tod's will open, with Céline opening a store in 2016. The Webster's store at The Galleria will mark the brand's first location outside of Florida when it opens in the luxury building, a free-standing, high-concept space fronting Westheimer Road. Each of these high-profile brands will make an impactful statement amongst the Houston market.  

GlobeSt.com: How will this project change the Galleria in terms of "shoppability"?
Noble: Texas, and Houston specifically, remain top priorities for Simon as evidenced by Simon's investment in The Galleria to continue its leadership as the Houston destination for luxury retail. Given our history in the market, The Galleria confidently maintains a deep understanding of what Houstonians desire and what will best resonate with our shoppers. This redevelopment project will enhance the unprecedented luxury shopping experience at The Galleria with the addition of these high-profile brands and first-rate amenities.
The addition of the luxury building will increase the 'shoppability' of The Galleria, as well. Spanning 14,000 square feet along Westheimer Road, The Galleria's sole free-standing retail structure is a unique location that will provide easy access to surrounding streets and the shopping center, as it will be connected to the property via a covered walkway. The luxury building will house The Webster and a high-end, international restaurant concept opening in 2016.

GlobeSt.com: How will parking, ingress/egress change in this new wing?
Noble: We don't anticipate an impact on shopper navigation to the center. With six valet parking stations and 13,900 parking spaces in seven garages, we are well equipped to accommodate our shoppers.

GlobeSt.com: When was the last time the Galleria underwent an expansion/renovation like this, if ever? 

Noble: In 2003, The Galleria completed a major renovation, spending $25 million on aesthetic and structural improvements, adding new carpets and floorings, soft leather couches and chairs for relaxation, a three-story glass elevator and glass guardrails. The expansion added 700,000 square feet of space for Houston's first Nordstrom and 70 new stores, including L'Occitane, Club Monaco and lululemon athletica. With this expansion, The Galleria ranked as the nation's fourth-largest shopping center.

GlobeSt.com: What does the Galleria offer patrons that other Houston retail venues don't?
Noble: Spanning 2.4 million square feet of space, housing 400 fine stores and restaurants, two high-rise hotels and three office towers, The Galleria is Houston's most popular retail and tourist destination, meeting every budget, style preference and taste. A plethora of amenities, including a full-size ice rink for recreational and figure skating, a state-of-the-art children's play area, two swimming pools, three full-service national and international banks, two tailor shops, 12 beauty salons and a post office, continually serve a wide range of age groups and demographics…The Galleria prides itself on offering a one-stop shop to all guests – they can visit the center to shop, dine and entertain without ever leaving the property.