 Victor Gruen , the center 's architect , designed the mall to challenge the " car @-@ centric " America that was rising in the 1950s . Since its opening in 1956 , Southdale has suffered through high vacancy rates and several store closures , but has been able to recover in recent years . Several additions have been performed on the building , including a 2011 renovation which involved the construction of a brand new food court . Southdale Center continues to use much of its original structure despite these renovations , and has been the host of several charity and community events throughout the years . 
