New mixed-use Prairiefire development in Overland Park, Kansas, combines a museum with retail, entertainment, and housing space to respond to strong demographics in an increasingly-competitive environment.
As densities increase and retail trends continue to evolve, developers are searching for new ways to provide valuable space for increasingly-innovative tenants and consumers. Developer Merrill Companies identified solid demographics in suburban Overland Park, Kansas, and responded with an entrepreneurial spirit.
The new Prairiefire mixed-use center leverages the region's rich paleontological history by partnering with the American Museum of Natural History. Guests can explore the museum's exhibits—many focused on dinosaurs—before visiting Prairiefire's retail and restaurant offerings. Destinations include REI, Fresh Market, and a number of entertainment concepts such as bocce & bowling bistro Pinstripes, restaurant-theater Cinetopia, and music-themed beer garden Rock & Brew. Prairiefire offers several housing options including both multifamily and single unit housing. "The Threshing Bee," a fashion incubator, rounds out the center's attractions.
The property is performing well and demonstrates that including educational space and other innovative tenants alongside more typical mixed-use offerings has the potential to increase project success.
Read the full story: Prairiefire: A Mixed-Use Center Meets T. Rex
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