By the early 1980s, FASHION ISLAND was being usurped by more trendy shopping hubs in its trade area. It was decided that a major renovation, adding several upscale tenants, was in order. The mall's middle-market J.C. Penney was shuttered in April 1982 and rebuilt a the 3-level Atrium Court. It opened -in 1985- as the first phase of the mall's "Renaissance" redevelopment.

The 115 million dollar mall renovation was completed in October 1989. FASHION ISLAND was rebuilt in a Mediterranean motif. There were now cobblestone paths, covered arbors, al fresco dining and several new water features. Here, we see the Iris Fountain, with its fifty-foot-high towers of water. The Island Terrace Food Court overlooks the area.
Photo from https://www.jerde.com / The Jerde Partnership

An in-mall theatrical venue was also installed during the mall's metamorphosis. The Edwards Island 7 Cinemas made its debut in October 1989.

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