FAMILY WAY

Local mall developers, aware that children control the family purse, are doing everything they can think of to keep the mini-consumer happy--including installing family restrooms. “It’s real cute,” says John Lyda, development director for May Centers Inc., creators of the high-concept lavatories to be unveiled at Topanga Plaza in Canoga Park in November. The main area is equipped with changing tables, a nursing bench and a small sofa, plus two stalls, complete with sinks, toilets and mirrored vanities. One is for mom or dad and the other is a pint-sized version for kids. May Centers installed its first family restroom last year in Maryland, where kid-sized amenities are such a hit that plans for Topanga Plaza include a “munch bunch” food area with miniature tables and chairs.

This is not a suburban phenomenon. “We will probably put family bathrooms in the food court,” says Ken Raffensberger, general manager of Westside Pavilion. “It’s a dilemma when you’re shopping with a 4-year-old daughter. I can’t take her into the men’s room with me and she doesn’t want to go into the ladies’ room alone. Refocusing on families is the way to go in the ‘90s,” he adds. “This mall did $8 million in children’s business last year.” But will the kids get their own credit department?