New Shopping Center Is Anything but Common

Thousands of anxious residents converged on the Commons at Calabasas on Thursday for the shopping center’s much-anticipated grand opening.

Fashioned after a European-style village, the Commons is home to more than two dozen upscale shops and restaurants, each decorated with an elaborate facade. Shoppers can munch on a muffin from the Corner Bakery, pick up a new pair of Italian sandals at David’s shoes or treat themselves to a new Rolex at Polacheck’s Jewelers.

Stores include Barnes & Noble Booksellers, an upscale Ralphs Grocery Company, Mi Piace Italian Kitchen & Bakery and Marmalade Cafe. An Edwards Theatres multiplex is not yet completed.

The Commons is the latest showcase for developer Rick Caruso, whose ornate shopping centers have been been winning praises from homeowners in Encino and Westlake.

For Calabasas residents, the Commons is more than a mere shopping center. Rather, it is the much-needed gathering spot their city has been lacking for years.

Now that the Commons has opened at the Calabasas Park Centre, a business-class hotel, an office complex and Civic Center are next.