Boardwalk Mall
REFURBISHMENT AWARD
Boardwalk Mall precinct takes pride of place as a prominent landmark just a few metres from the Blue Flag-awarded Hobie Beach in Gqeberha .
The first phase of the 24,000m 2 Boardwalk Mall opened in March 2022 with a variety of entertainment options and several tenants , who traded while the second phase was being completed . Boardwalk Mall is an important part of the overall vision for the precinct , linking with the Sun International Boardwalk Casino and the Boardwalk Hotel .
The owners of the Boardwalk precinct are Emfuleni Resorts ( a subsidiary of Sun International ) and Flanagan & Gerard - combining experienced leisure operators with developers who have a proven track record in retail development and management . Anthony Leeming , CEO of Sun International , pointed out that the mall ’ s journey began eight years ago , well before its development commenced . “ We had a dream to redevelop the mall and
were very fortunate to eventually find the right partners in Flanagan & Gerard . Sun International is invested in the Eastern Cape , committed to Gqeberha and proud to be partners in Boardwalk Mall – it is an amazing mall befitting the friendly city .”
Significant infrastructure and road upgrades formed part of the development and the Boardwalk has been a catalyst for upgrades elsewhere in the Summerstrand area .
The design is cognisant of integrating into the existing architecture and creating a streetscape that has developed over time . There are several pedestrian access points to the building and to the rest of the new offerings which serve to integrate the precinct into the urban landscape . The contemporary interpretation was achieved with elements like the shape of the roofs and an aesthetic of a refurbished dockside building . The mall is curved , evoking waves and encouraging further exploration beyond what is immediately visible to the eye . The parking area was redeveloped and now offers over 1,000 parking bays , as well as a dedicated taxi drop-off and pick-up zone .
Industrial chic elements include exposed structural details and tactile materials in the interior . Sculptural elements were introduced to celebrate the ocean , including boat-shaped origami elements which were used as light fittings . The promotional court features a ceiling pattern reminiscent of a giant compass . All these elements combine with metal work , fabric and illumination to both welcome and entice visitors to explore Boardwalk Mall .
One of the unique attractions of the development is the multi-functional Sunpark arena at the heart of the precinct . The 2,500m 2 open arena includes a large screen , a landscaped children ’ s play area and access for the transportation of equipment for large events . Activities spill off the edges of the Sunpark , with a number of restaurants overlooking the beach and enjoying access to the open arena . The work of local artists is featured at Boardwalk Mall in the public passages and offices , including street art murals with distinctly recognisable elements typical of the region .
Boardwalk Mall looks set to continue having a positive impact on local education and art , as well as creating safe and welcoming connections for everyone who lives , works , plays and learns in its immediate surroundings .
Client : Flanagan & Gerard Property Group ; Sun International Architect : MDS Architecture Quantity Surveyor : Aequim Quantity Surveyors Civil & Structural Engineer : L & S Consulting Mechanical Engineer : Graeme Page Consulting Engineers Electrical Engineer : RWP Consulting Engineers Wet Services : Wills Franklin Pretorius Fire Consultant : Specialised Fire Technology Landscape Architect : Bertha Wium Landscape Development Main Contractor : WBHO Construction
72 SAPOA Awards