Architect and Builder Retail Retrospective | Page 219

Conclusion A state-of-the-art shopping complex with all the modern conveniences for a modern lifestyle has been established in the heart of the region , but visitors will still be able to enjoy the tranquility of the environment , the hospitality of the people and the convenience to which they are accustomed .
ARCHITECT ’ S REPORT Bentel Associates International ( BAI ), the architects responsible for designing the recently completed R500-million Loch Logan Waterfront development in Bloemfontein , say that their strength lies in their ability to effectively consider the entire user and tenant experience in shopping centre design . They consistently create aesthetically pleasing but functional retail design that connects with consumers in new and innovative ways .
Good design improves the way people live and a visit to Loch Logan makes even the most everyday purchase an uncommon and pleasurable experience . The development is rapidly becoming an integral part of the lifestyle of the residents of Bloemfontein . Bloemfontein has grown considerably in recent years and has become a thriving metropolis with a good quality of life . It is a judicial capital and the cultural , tertiary educational and shopping hub of the Free State province . building operation with its own equipment and construction teams . “ The sheer size and scope of Loch Logan required the full commitment , co-operation and co-ordination of all of the six zone construction teams to keep on track and on schedule .
“ Loch Logan has been a very exciting project . The developers wanted an externalised waterfront development combined with a multi-level internalised mall and a multi-storey parkade . Our challenge was to develop their brief into sound workable solutions to maximise the available space and make full use of the position and attractiveness of the site while maintaining their original design intent . Phase 3 is now complete and Loch Logan is a full regional shopping centre .
“ We have designed the structural elements of the three phases to facilitate good articulation and to create movement and a feeling
Place Within the City The Loch Logan project is now the largest shopping centre in the Free State and northern Cape area . The development , situated at the corner of Kingsway and Hendry Streets , is adjacent to the city ’ s three rugby and cricket stadiums and diagonally opposite the State Theatre .
“ The Loch Logan developers , the Georgiou Group , have effectively capitalised on the picturesque and conveniently situated site ,” says BAI Architects . “ They accurately identified a need for a regional shopping centre with stateof-the-art finishes and a comprehensive range of facilities . The picturesque Loch Logan site is perfectly positioned in the heart of Bloemfontein . The proximity of sporting and cultural facilities was also an important factor in the decision to further develop the site . This retail development has helped to make Bloemfontein a desirable tourist , investment and residential destination . Property prices are maintaining an impressive upward growth ,” stated the architects .
Construction and Design Constructed by Murray and Roberts and managed by SIP Project Managers in six construction zones and three phases , each zone was a separate
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