including oversized pendant lights which evoke beehive huts. Signage was carefully considered. The visual impact of the tiling pattern is significant and was formed by creating triangles that look like birds scattering.
Bespoke, oversized linear light fittings draw the eye upwards and reference the local vernacular architecture while aligning with the lines of a contemporary building. Simple vertical details were introduced to break the extent of light and dark bulkheads and frames around the windows.
It is evident that a lot of consideration went into the detailing at the mall was due to the dedication and involvement of Moolman Group’ s team, who produced workbooks to consider every detail of design and develop fixtures and fittings from paper to reality.
Shopfitting was given careful thought. Benches, wastebins and other standard fittings were interrogated and designed to work individually or in clusters. Colours complement the colour palette for the shopping centre and angles of all furniture and fittings were evaluated for long-term suitability.
Stimulating the local economy is always a consideration for the Moolman Group. In this case, the project resulted in over R50m being ploughed into the local economy during construction. In addition, several initiatives were put in place to ensure locals are prioritised for employment at the mall’ s various retailers and for the mall’ s ongoing operations.
Princess Mkabayi Mall ultimately stands as a landmark development for Vryheid- one that honours local heritage while providing modern, accessible retail and social spaces. With its cultural references, careful detailing and commitment to local upliftment, the mall has become both a gathering place and a catalyst for regional growth.
Clients: Moolman Group; Twin City; JB Holdings; Green Giraffe Development Manager: Moolman Group Architect: MDS Architecture Quantity Surveyor: Matla QS Tenant Co-ordinator: Orion Project Managers Civil & Structural Engineer: Streng Consult Electrical Engineer: Watson Mattheus Mechanical & Fire Engineer: Ingplan Wet Services: Wat-Sol Design Technology Health & Safety: Cairnmead Industrial Consultants Main Contractor: Ikotwe Construction
SAPOA Awards 103