crane . These fill in the concrete structural shell as infill walls . The entire southern elevation is shopfronts and walkways , so the panel design was very intricate . The external finishes echo the natural colours of the area with vibrant colours adding depth to the elevations .
Fast-track Triumph Constructed in just ten months , between January 7 and October 30 2008 , the mall owes its speedy completion largely to the excellent co-operation between the professional team and the main contractor ,” says Project Manager Bill McClatchey , of W T McClatchey Associates . “ As this is the first of such developments in the area , there is no doubt that it will be a trendsetter in shopping / community centre design , both locally and beyond .”
Conclusion This development has proven to very interesting in the way in which the community has used the Centre . Much effort was employed to make the public spaces with seating and trees etc . comfortable and appealing .
The Centre also appears to face the wrong way as it backs onto the main arterial road but the architects felt it was more relevant to relate to the local foot and taxi traffic than the predominantly non-local , industrial traffic on the main road . The secondary trade that has sprung up on the residential entrance is amazing – a new open wing to the Mall offering all the extras like haircuts , veggies , and cell phones .
Since opening , Phumulani Mall has not only proved successful from a profitability point of view but also as a community social hub . The shaded walkways , outside seating , internal air conditioned mall benches and courts provide welcome gathering spots after or before shopping for the local residents .
The focal point of the mall is a naturally lit central promotion court , flanked by Shoprite and fast food outlets . Products such as cars and larger appliances are displayed and can be enjoyed by pedestrian visitors who would ordinarily travel far from their homes .
The two main entrances to the mall are roofed by higher butterfly winged roofs and bright red columns . These help orientate visitors as the mall is very long and narrow , as dictated by the site .
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