Empty commercial spaces get creative uses

The Galleria, the best known mall in East Fort Lauderdale, is ready for a star turn. It recently struck a short-term deal with the Fort Lauderdale Children’s Theatre, one of many atypical tenancies commercial landlords in the region have embraced. Retailers Circuit City, Linens ‘N Things and Sound Advice no longer exist and surviving chains have stopped expanding. That leaves malls and shopping centers looking for revenue. That means medical clinics, doctor’s offices, schools, day care centers, kids’ play gyms and office space. The Boynton Beach Mall is even adding a museum, all in the name of survival.