A Fresh Look for a Wilmette Classic: Plaza del Lago’s New Renovations

Not far from my home is the iconic Spanish‑style shopping center with its red‑tiled roofs, white stucco walls, and the tall clock tower you can spot from a block away. As one of the oldest outdoor shopping centers in the entire country, dating back to the 1920s, it has long been a defining landmark in our community. For decades, the plaza has been a blend of nostalgia and neighborhood pride—a place to grab coffee after school, meet friends for dinner, or stop on the way to Gillson Beach. However, over the years many of the stores and shops became somewhat odd collection of retailers, etc. that didn't necessarily live up to the location, history and architecture.

Recently, Plaza del Lago underwent a major renovation, and the transformation is genuinely impressive. The refreshed plaza feels like the same beloved spot we’ve always known, just brighter, cleaner, and noticeably more vibrant. It’s a thoughtful update that preserves the charm of the original architecture while giving the entire space a renewed sense of energy and life.

The renovation project focused on refreshing Plaza del Lago without erasing the history that makes it so iconic. The most noticeable change is simply how clean and revitalized the entire space feels—new brickwork, repaved walkways, and updated lighting that gives the plaza a warm glow in the evenings. The landscaping has been completely reimagined as well. Clusters of green planters, softer trees, and small seating areas now break up the space, making it feel more open, walkable, and inviting. Even the fountain area has been restored and surrounded with benches, turning it into an easy spot to relax on a sunny afternoon. It’s clear the redesign was done with respect for the original architecture. The arches, courtyards, and Mediterranean character are still front and center, but the updates make the plaza feel more aligned with how people actually use it today.

Shops, Dining, and Community Spaces Revitalized

The shops and restaurants have seen upgrades too, helping tie the entire plaza together. A few new cafés and boutiques have opened—with more on the way—adding fresh energy and variety. Longtime favorites like Convito Café & Market blend seamlessly with the updated look, keeping that sense of familiarity locals love.

Outdoor dining areas look especially inviting now. New furniture, string lights, and a cleaner layout make the plaza feel more social and lively. Even the practical details have been improved: better parking flow, new bike racks near the main entrance, and clearer pedestrian paths. Small touches like these show how much thought went into making the plaza enjoyable not just for shoppers, but for anyone who wants to stroll, meet friends, or spend time outside.

Balancing Old and New

What stands out most is how well the renovation balances preservation with modernization. Plaza del Lago could easily have been turned into something generic or overly contemporary, but it still feels unmistakably like Wilmette. The Spanish Revival architecture remains the heart of the plaza—you see it in the restored tiles, the detailed stucco work, and the warm color palette. The charm that’s been there for decades hasn’t been replaced; it’s been polished.

And the community has responded. On weekends, more families, students, and neighbors walk through the plaza, sit by the fountain, or grab lunch at the outdoor tables. The renovation didn’t just improve the space—it brought new life to it.

A Landmark Ready for the Future

In the end, Plaza del Lago’s renovation is about more than new landscaping or fresh paint. It’s about preserving a piece of Wilmette’s history while preparing it for the next generation. The plaza has always been one of those places that connects people across time—grandparents remember it from decades ago, and now students like us get to enjoy it in a renewed, vibrant way. The updated Plaza del Lago feels both familiar and new, a landmark that honors its past while embracing its future.

Whether you’re there to get food, shop, or just take pictures by the tower after school, the new Plaza del Lago is proof that even the oldest landmarks can evolve without losing what makes them special. It’s a reminder that history and modern life don’t have to compete — they can actually work together to make something even better.