Bringing Two Structures Together Pearce says that bringing the two buildings together posed quite a design challenge . “ This was solved by giving the existing centre a facelift and viewing it as a themed area that attaches itself to the new building ,” he says .
Ballito Junction ’ s existing and well-loved piazza area with Mediterranean flair was retained and a second piazza was added to the new building . Five levels of parking lead straight into the three malls and the centre features a truck tunnel right at the bottom of the building so that no deliveries take place in a public interface but instead through a series of lifts and staircases concealed from the general public .
The old and new are brought together through the top level mall , creating a physical pedestrian link . Parking levels between the two buildings are connected at the upper and middle level malls , which assists with the accessibility and efficiency of the design .
Seaside Aesthetic One of Ballito ’ s most appealing features is its outdoor lifestyle on account of its great climate and beachfront . Inspired by the ocean and seaside living , the design of the mall gives a nod to the area and lifestyle .
Entrances at Ballito Junction are prominent and modern , featuring massive off-shutter concrete walls that are panelled to look like weathered timber and lead visitors to one of the three entrances . Illuminated walkways are lined with screens of bouganvilleas . Glass-roofed car dropoff areas provide cover from the elements while wave roofs appear to float above the white building . Ocean blue glass has been used on the stairwells .
Various aesthetic elements combine to evoke memories of a seaside holiday , including a colour palette which includes beach sand and ocean colours . Sunny , windswept days are also conjured through references to water , timber boardwalks and decking .
Each of the building ’ s three levels represents an aspect of the ocean . The upper mall level is an all-white theme depicting the rolling white waves of the ocean . Glass balustrades are used throughout the mall to create clean lines and this level offers entertainment , youth retail and niche fashion stores .
The middle level is the prime fashion level and is inspired by water . Blue feature lighting
546 Ballito Junction