History

History of UTC

In 1972, renowned architect William Pereira, designer of the San Francisco Transamerica Pyramid, conceived of a "distinctively urban" shopping center offering housing, hotels and open green spaces. His concept became University Town Center (UTC).

Construction began in 1976 and UTC opened a year later with 126 boutiques, restaurants and several community services.

In the following years, UTC expanded its commitment to the community. The center hosted a Palo Alto pre-school and family health center, as well as a fitness center.

In 1984, UTC welcomed Nordstrom as part of a major revitalization that included the addition of a new mezzanine level and two convenient parking structures.

Acquired by Westfield in 1998, the center unveiled a 57-foot clock tower and three new fountains in the marketplace. The fountains paid tribute to the “Mother of Balboa Park” Kate Sessions, philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps and humane animal care activist Helen Woodward.

A flagship Crate & Barrel joined the center in 2007 adding to Westfield UTC’s offerings of premier brands.

Westfield UTC began as a uniquely modern, open-air shopping center designed to fulfill the needs and aspirations of the local University City community. Today, the center totals over 1 million square feet and serves more than 8 million guests annually as San Diego’s premier shopping destination.