Spokane, Wash. – River Park Square, this city’s downtown shopping, dining and entertainment center, has been recognized as one of the best-designed retail projects in the world by an international industry association.    

River Park Square and the design firm of Callison Architecture, Inc. received a Certificate of Merit for Innovative Design and Construction of a New Center by the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC).  The award was presented to the project team at the ICSC International Design and Development convention last month in Las Vegas. 

“It’s a real honor to be recognized by our peers in the industry,”  said Bob Robideaux, project director for River Park Square.  “Callison and all the project’s partners worked together to achieve a shared vision that is not only magnificent but has helped create a resurgence in downtown Spokane.”  

Callison, based in Seattle, Wash., is recognized as one of the world’s leading retail architectural firms.  The goal in designing the 380,000 sq. ft. River Park Square project was to create an inviting neighborhood environment that encourages people to slow down, explore, shop and enjoy Spokane, according to Callison President Bob Tindall.    

“We wanted the brick and steel retail complex to have the feel of an engaging streetscape with individual storefronts, arched windows and other interesting architectural features unique to Spokane,” said Tindall.  “Tenants are encouraged to express their own identity in ways that enhance the neighborhood’s character, quality and scale. “  

River Park Square’s unique design--which features a vaulted glass atrium and community plaza -- and great tenants have been key factors in drawing Spokane residents and visitors downtown according to Robideaux.

“River Park Square has assembled a dynamic group of one-of-a-kind specialty retailers and is doing well,” he said.  

River Park Square and surrounding downtown businesses serve a regional market of more than 1.7 million people.  The new retail center has generated more than $5.4 million in tax and fee revenues for the City of Spokane, has created and retained more than 1100 jobs, and has served as a catalyst for downtown revitalization.  Since River Park Square opened, new downtown construction projects of nearly $350 million have been announced or moved forward.