Fashion Outlets "Broke Rules That Needed to be Broken"

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As the clock on the Fashion Outlets of Chicago continues to click down to opening day on Thursday, August 1st, the structure's developer is speaking to the press about the mall's unconventional nature.

"The rules that this center broke were rules that needed to be broken. They were begging to be broken," said Arthur Weiner. So, just what's bonkers about the place? "It's fully enclosed, two levels -- never been done before. It is next to the third largest airport in the world, never been done before anywhere in the world."

"It's wrapped around a seven-deck, structured parking garage, never been done before," he continued. "It is never more than 75 feet from the entrance to a shop, never been done before. You go to an outlying outlet center, you're walking 700 yards after you park your car."

That's not to mention the mall-specific art installations, the airport-to-outlet concierge service and the baggage storage area for shoppers flying out right after their mall visit. "If your flight's at 4:00 pm, bring your bags, drop them off. Your baggage will be shipped straight through and you can pick up your boarding pass," said Weiner. "And we'll let you know what time you catch your shuttle back to the airport to make your flight." Now that's really nuts.
· Fashion Outlets of Chicago [Chicago Tonight]
· The Fashion Outlets of Chicago Demand Global Attention With Art [Racked]
· L'Occitane Opening First Midwest Outlet in August [Racked]
· Prepare to Have Your Butt Flattered this August [Racked]
· All Fashion Outlets of Chicago News [Racked]