Redstone at Kimball Junction
Photography: Douglas Burke
Adjacent to the Swaner Nature Preserve, within sight of the Winter Sports Park across Highway 224, and easily accessible from Park City’s “Old Town,” Park City or those traveling from Salt Lake City, the compact shopping and business complex known as Redstone at Kimball Junction is pure Park City. Thank goodness.
Unlike the ubiquitous “Anywhere USA” malls that dot our country’s landscape, Redstone has personality—by design and by virtue of the fact that the majority of its occupants run independent, local businesses. As a result, tenants of the attractive shopping, office and condo complex which opened in late 2003 have created a sense of community—among themselves and their customers. You might even call it a modern village—a local hub where people plan to meet, and merchants share space as well as resources. That might mean anything from sharing a fax machine to catching up on local goings-on and supporting one another’s businesses.
For instance, John Allen, who owns the charming J.W. Allen Toys & Candy, often provides items for Jean Canestrini at Rocky Mountain Baskets & Gifts to include in her custom gift baskets. And, unlike most “big box” stores, J.W. Allen is happy to provide free gift wrapping for everything from Briar Horses and Ugly Dolls to Allen’s awesome selection of retro candy (think Abba Zabba and scrolls of candy buttons). Splendor, the ultimate girly lotion, potion and makeup shop owned by Delilah Gerrais, has become the go-to place for polishing, pampering and private parties. “Locals come in all the time just to hang out and chat,” she says. “I love being here in the middle of it all.”
Redstone merchants also support local artists. Among other wonderfully indulgent items such as very cool lime green shoes and hip furnishings, the Paisley Pomegranate offers a dazzling selection of locally and regionally designed and crafted jewelry. And, there’s a lot more than shopping at Redstone. At the independently owned Spotted Frog Bookstore, customers might be lounging by the fireplace, perusing the latest novels, writing in their just-purchased journals, or meeting for coffee while their kids revel in the store’s custom-size kids’ section. And how many bookstores offer wine education events? Employee “Zev” holds evening wine courses in the Spotted Frog’s café. The lively classes now require reservations they’re so popular. Zev has even recommended babysitters or kids’ activities to clientele interested in attending the classes.
Redstone’s three restaurants are a major draw, too. Again—all local. Al Viny, floor manager at Ghidotti’s, next to the Redstone 8 Cinemas, has been on the Park City scene for years. He knows most of Ghidotti’s local customers on a first-name basis. In fact, he probably sees most of them on the ski hill during his off hours.
This doesn’t mean that Redstone is all provincial. National brands such as Wild Oats, Bed Bath & Beyond and Petco cater to Park City’s need for all things culinary, comfortable and pet-oriented. A University of Utah medical clinic and several service businesses, such as Inwest Title, help complete the mix.
As for design, Redstone is architecturally inviting and open. Its welcoming archway leads to a main street lined with natural red rock, landscaping, a splashing fountain and views all around. It is also pedestrian friendly. As most visitors arrive by car, the project accommodates them with nearly 880 parking stalls.
“Overall,” says Scott Verhaarn, partner of the Boyer Company (developers and owners of Redstone), “Redstone was developed specifically to foster a sense of community. The three restaurants on the east end of the project, Red Rock, Ghidotti’s and Hapa Grill, as well as the Wild Oats Deli offer outdoor dining during warm weather. Last summer, the merchants held a sidewalk sale and activity day.” This summer’s plans are in discussion among merchants and the Boyer Company, but Verhaarn promises Redstone will play host to several community events.
As the Redstone shopping area has developed, it has truly filled its potential. Along with Main Street, the NOMA district and the Factory Outlets, Redstone has become a welcome addition to the already stellar array of Park City shopping neighborhoods.
Virginia Rainey is a frequent contributor to Park City Magazine.
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