Many of the restaurants are on two-levels , with balconies looking over the streetscape as well as externally to take advantage of the expansive view . The area features full-height Ficus Benjamina trees and low hedging in other sections . Shaded outdoor play areas formed part of the design of the area , which also includes a fountain .
In an abstract reference to trees , a bulkhead in the restaurant area features shades of green on the upper level , with shades of brown on the lower level in the demising piers and shopfronts . LED shafts of light make a dramatic statement and call to mind images of fairy lights . At night , patrons can enjoy the view of the moon and stars through the curved glass roof .
Shoppers who are accustomed to finding cinema complexes in the basements of closed shopping centres will be pleasantly surprised to find that the cinemas have an urban high street feel and spill out into the street space .
Location is a key factor in the indirect carbon emissions resulting from the centre . Situated on a main arterial road with close proximity to public transport nodes , the carbon footprint created by shoppers travelling to the centre will be dramatically decreased .
Local labour and materials were used wherever possible during the construction phase . Borehole water was used for building purposes , and soil erosion was prevented during the construction of the parking lot by sand-sealing the layer works .
Mall of the North ’ s design has incorporated insulation , white roofing , cavity walls and energy efficient glass to help thermally regulate the building . On the western side of the building , which receives the harshest rays of sun during
Green Elements “ I have always believed that many of the measures that are labelled as “ green ” really boil down to good design practise . The design of Mall of the North has incorporated green measures and these have been boosted by the developers ’ commitment to sustainability ,” says Lahaye .
Before construction could begin , an archeological survey was conducted on the site , portions of which were a heritage burial site . Intense interrogation was undertaken to ensure that all interested and affected parties were properly dealt with .
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