greenery and softens the area around the square and the perimeter of the shopping centre . Signage at Riverside has been kept monochromatic for an elegant and understated look .
Construction Challenges The design challenge centred on finding ways to retain what customers loved about the building while creating a contemporary new look . “ It can be quite a balancing act to make changes without going too far and losing the essence of the space , all the while keeping an eye on the developer ’ s budget .”
Refurbishing a trading shopping centre will always have its trials and there are bound to be some surprises on an existing building . There were some disruptions for the tenants and shoppers during the construction phase . Woolworths suspended trading for a time to complete its refurbishment and extension – only the second time it has done so in South Africa .
A New Classic The wider walkway in the existing centre , coupled with white bulkheads , LED cove lights and elegant signage have created a new feel at Riverside . The existing shopfronts feature more glazing . “ By pulling the bulkheads back and introducing cutouts to the upper level , the existing shopfronts were modernised . The main walkway was widened by pulling back the line of the shopfront bulkheads , thus giving the appearance of more space and light . The original shopfronts have been transformed into boxes which protrude into the walkway . We have maximised light , which always feels luxurious ,” explains Pearce .
Since the revamped Riverside shopping centre was completed late in 2015 , it continues to enjoy great support from local shoppers . Its tenant mix features national stores such as Woolworths and passionate owner-run businesses , from the Fruit & Veg store to the Riverside Bistro . Certain key tenants were located to the upper level to create a destination of similar offerings . The stores include a hair salon , make-up studio and laser therapy . The upper ground floor has been designated as the health and beauty section of the centre .
Many of the existing tenants used the opportunity to create new looks for their stores to take advantage of the ambience of the square . In addition , shoppers are taking advantage of the larger revamped Woolworths store with its composite timber deck , which relates beautifully to the square in the Riverside shopping centre .
The Moolman Group made the decision to install a 126KWP solar PV Installation to the rooftop of the centre . The installation was completed in Feb 2016 and supplements the Johannesburg City Power supply with green energy .
Conclusion The new-look Riverside shopping centre is a true case of the ugly duckling becoming a swan and has managed to achieve the precise balance between contemporary design and a cosy , village feel .
Riverside Shopping Centre 499