Inside SoNo Collection: Reinventing the Modern Mall
The SoNo Collection emerged at a time when many traditional malls were struggling, positioning itself as a modern response to shifting retail habits. Announced in 2017 by General Growth Properties, the project quickly moved from planning to construction, with a groundbreaking that same year. After Brookfield Property Partners acquired GGP in 2018, development continued under its direction, reflecting confidence in the project despite widespread concerns about the future of brick-and-mortar retail.
When the mall opened on October 11, 2019, it introduced a carefully staged rollout rather than unveiling all stores at once. Located near major highways, it was designed to draw shoppers from across southwestern Connecticut. Its anchor tenants—Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s—set it apart, as each represented a unique presence within the region and state.
Rather than following a traditional mall formula, the SoNo Collection emphasized experience alongside shopping. The three-level complex incorporated art displays, open gathering areas, and flexible workspaces, while avoiding a standard food court in favor of more varied dining and social options. Its developers tailored the retail mix to local preferences, focusing on categories like home goods in response to regional demand.
Since opening, the mall has continued to evolve. Store openings and closures, including the departure of some retailers and the arrival of new ones, reflect ongoing changes in the retail landscape. Through these adjustments, the SoNo Collection illustrates how newer malls aim to remain relevant by blending commerce, community, and adaptability in an uncertain era for physical retail.
Currently, the SoNo Collection presents an upscale and modern reimagining of the indoor mall. As one of the last indoor malls opened in the United States (along with American Dream in Rutherford, NJ and Hudson Yards in New York City), it caters to more affluent and design-conscious shoppers. With a unique fusion of art and architecture, the building is interesting just to walk around and admire – although the supremely Instagram-friendly aesthetic seems a bit at odds with the “no photography” policy we were informed of during our visit after taking these pictures. Why the management wouldn’t want photos is beyond me, as the sleek and clean interior is an advertisement for checking it out. Regardless, it seems like it would be a great place to shop or to bring your laptop and get some remote work done.
Our only other complaint was the fee for parking in the garage, which wasn’t outlandish but still was a somewhat confusing process and a slight discouragement from taking your time to explore the shops. For most patrons, I’m sure neither of these points will be issues, and they will just be happy to feel like they’re shopping in luxury.
Matthew Christopher Mar 26, 2026 Norwalk CT Malls Places to Visit Retail Stores
Mar 26, 2026
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