the existing footprint , we honed in on areas that were dating the centre ,” says Pearce .
Certain walkways were widened , natural light was maximised and the existing square was enhanced by re-orientating the views from the square to celebrate the outdoors .
The existing roof , including its dated skylight , was removed . In its place , a new floating roof was added to create a distinctive feature . The main wall , facing Bryanston Drive , beneath the floating roof is utilised for elegant , monochromatic and eye-catching signage .
“ The floating roof was mindfully not enclosed to ensure that maximum natural light permeates the walkway underneath it . As a result , sunlight illuminates the walkway during the day . This is further enhanced by a new floor treatment of tiles in a lighter colour palette and texture creates additional interest ,” explains Pearce .
Destination stores have been relocated upstairs in Riverside and a vibrant open square has been created by removing a portion of the previous parking area . “ The harshness of the parking area was softened
and , in its place , we now have a pleasant , private and open space with a lovely ambience for restaurants ,” explains Pearce .
Exterior Parts of the original facebrick building were bagwashed in places to maintain the village feel . It also boasts a contemporary exterior cladding to create a more modern aesthetic while concealing previous inconsistencies and unsightly infrastructure .
“ The exterior cladding is a fibre cement board applied to a lightweight steel screen . It simplified the alteration and had a massive impact on modernising the centre ,” explains Pearce .
The square is now a vibrant space , complete with an animated and illuminated clockface on the wall facing the square . The clock feature can change in colour , which creates interest in the square .
Stonework on the square and at the entrances to Riverside helps to evoke feelings of village squares and adds to the all-important textural aspect of the refurbishment . Landscaping provides much needed
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