constructed circular village layouts with circular domed huts as their unit . Sotho communities were known for their metalworking , and early Voortrekkers in the 1800 ’ s are remembered for their timberwork and curved steel wagons .
This amalgamation of cultures gave the designers the elements of Matlosana ’ s architectural language . Matlosana Mall has created a modern interpretation of ancestral buildings in the form of a timber slated ‘ basket ’ icon that provides shade from the northern sun , and acts as a landmark for the development , drawing visitors towards the food court piazza and providing a welcoming flow into the main entrance atrium .
References to the mining history of the North West Province are also noticeable on the stone cladding at the main entrance wall . The materials were carefully considered in order to contrast in texture but harmonise with the context .
Design Concept In order to achieve the brief , the SVA International team , headed by Paul Symondson with his more than 30 years of retail experience , came up with a planning proposal of a longitudinal building parallel to the highway . The project contemplated two major anchors , one at each end of the mall . The layout resembled a building opening its ‘ arms ’ to the public by means of
438 Matlosana Mall