Dealership The dealership ended up working best on two 4.5m high levels , with easy access off Ncondo Place to the showroom on the upper level . The bottom level is divided into a used car showroom and workshop with 18 service bays . The two levels are joined by a glazed double volume space on the sea-facing corner where a sculptural stair is suspended alongside a suspended feature car .
Offices The 5 levels of AAA-grade offices have been shaped into a curved wing acknowledging the prime corner positioning of the site . This is further accentuated by the wing being pierced with an opening from which the name Umhlanga Arch was later derived .
High Street The high street is on top of the podium on the 3rd floor above Ncondo place . The internal parking circulation has been positioned on the street edge to activate and allow easy flow to the public square .
The centre of the high street is designed like a park with a lawned area for sitting or playing lined with trees and benches . This park is surrounded by shops and restaurants . All visitors to the residences , hotel and offices access via this area .
Hilton Garden Inn The first Hilton Garden Inn in South Africa , the hotel is positioned adjacent to the access street and has 203 rooms located over 14 levels . The windows are vertically staggered to contrast against those of the residences .
Materials Used There was an honest approach to the materials used , with off-shutter concrete , high performance double glazing and steel structures with timber and aluminium screens and louvers . The use of plaster and paint was minimised where possible . Face brick was used on the High Street to create texture and warmth . The colours that were selected for the façade were toned down , complimenting warm greys .
Umhlanga Arch 25