Brief
The basic intent was a high end retail and restaurant
offering with areas for a gym, hotel and offices.
There was also a focus on public space and the
requirement for the parking to be hidden under the
buildings wherever possible. Underground parking
means that the environment is uncluttered, and
the flat cityscape is perfect for pedestrians. The
space is enhanced further by the presence of art
and sculptures in the main piazza and surrounding
parks. Henk said, “We’ve embraced public arts,
which are a common occurrence in other major
cities around the world, but also perf ormance arts.
Central Square
In our piazza we have activities every weekend,
so we tend to do a lot of events on our premises
that activates the precinct”.
According to Francois Bredenkamp of Boogert-
man + Partners Architects the client was always
intent on establishing an urban, integrated lifestyle
centre, not just a shopping mall. The scheme
needed to fit within the larger plans for Menlyn
Maine. Not just for the buildings that have already
been built but also for future development. As the
bulk can be adjusted over the other sites, the bulk
required was to respond to the design rather than
the design to maximise the allowed bulk.
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