SCA Architecture completes transformation of former shopping center

San Diego — SCA Architecture (formerly known as Smith Consulting Architects), a San Diego-based architectural firm, completed the planning, design, construction documents and construction administration for the newly revamped Gateway Marketplace, located at Fourth Avenue and C Street in Chula Vista, Calif.

Brixton Capital is the developer of the $9.25 million remodeling project, with Vice President of Leasing Eric Li providing oversight for the firm.

Situated on an 8.8-acre lot, the project transformed an abandoned Target building in an existing neighborhood into an attractive community amenity that serves as a gateway into the city.  The former Target store was divided into three unique tenant spaces. The front of the building was set back 10 feet to allow for new, distinct tenant entries. Quick-serve grocery store and restaurant spaces were added to the center as well.

Contemporary architecture and a modern color scheme were used to update the center’s look.  The existing site was enhanced with new landscaping, lighting, pedestrian walkways and a new gateway plaza, flanked by the new retail stores and restaurant buildings.

“The City of Chula Vista was so cooperative in helping to move this project along,” said Scott Cairns, principal-in-charge for SCA Architecture.  “They were great to work with, and seemed pleased with how the center turned out.  To their credit, they now have a great community asset that will serve their residents very nicely.”

New tenants of the center include Party City, Smart & Final, Hobby Lobby and grocer Aldi.  AT&T, Little Caesar’s Pizza, Pho Hung Cali, iNails & Spa and other tenants are slated to open this year.

Scott Cairns served as principal-in-charge for SCA Architecture, with Norman Barrett as project designer and Dennis Seguban serving as project manager.

Consultants included GSSI Structural Engineers as structural engineer; K&S Engineering as civil engineer; Electrical Design, Inc., as electrical engineer; Abbott Engineering, Inc., as mechanical engineer; Geocon, Inc., as geotechnical engineer; and De Alcala Studio as landscape architect.  Dempsey Construction served as the general contractor, with Merion Corporation acting as construction manager.