eye-catching feature façade provides a striking point of orientation and imparts the central identity of the centre.
Spatial Approach Groot Phesantekraal View seeks to balance convenience retail with social public space. The centre is arranged around two central piazzas with green spaces and restaurants that spill out and activate them. These areas were positioned and oriented so that they were sheltered from prevailing winds, creating hospitable gathering spaces. The fluid architectural lines of the building draw pedestrians naturally into these open spaces. Outdoor furniture provides comfort, encourages social interaction and enhances the aesthetic appeal of public spaces.
The piazzas also serve to break up stretches of shop frontage- which otherwise might have stetches up to 300m- into manageable, pedestrian-friendly sections, providing variations in pace and experience, and creating opportunities for visitors to pause and linger as they circulate.
Shaded landscapes within the piazzas and areas for children to contribute to a relaxed and inviting environment. In one piazza, bronze editions from renowned sculptor Anton Momberg’ s‘ Freedom Statues’, originally commissioned by the Department of Human Settlement and the Eastern Cape Government, have become place-makers, animating and enriching the space.
The canopy is designed to offer continuous walkable shelter for shoppers while portals frame additional pause areas incorporating seating and landscaping. The open design of the canopy and façade eliminates unnecessary physical barriers, so that shoppers can engage with the landscaped areas. Columns create visual interest and rhythm, while modulating the length of the canopied areas. The patterning of the paving bands additionally shortens perceived walking distances.
72 Groot Phesantekraal View