Glendale Galleria to get makeover

Gone will be the mall's windowless, brick exterior. In its place, reports the Glendale News-Press, will be white marble, black granite and metal panels that resemble more contemporary malls. The Galleria's owner, General Growth Properties has tried to update the property, but financial woes have prevented any major overhaul. The makeover is expected to take two years.

Perhaps the most dramatic feature will be an expansion of the mall's plaza leading to the main entrance on Central Avenue, across from the Americana at Brand. The crosswalk connecting the two retail behemoths is the busiest in Glendale, city officials said. Water will play a large role in the new plaza, with two fountains and a reflecting pool welcoming shoppers. Eleven-foot-high letters will jut out of the pool to spell "Galleria," while the word "Glendale" will be spelled with 3.5 foot-tall letters on top of the pool wall. Outdoor seating and upgraded landscaping are also part of the plans.