Brief The basic intent was a high end retail and restaurant offering with areas for a gym , hotel and offices . There was also a focus on public space and the requirement for the parking to be hidden under the buildings wherever possible . Underground parking means that the environment is uncluttered , and the flat cityscape is perfect for pedestrians . The space is enhanced further by the presence of art and sculptures in the main piazza and surrounding parks . Henk said , “ We ’ ve embraced public arts , which are a common occurrence in other major cities around the world , but also performance arts .
In our piazza we have activities every weekend , so we tend to do a lot of events on our premises that activates the precinct ”.
According to Francois Bredenkamp of Boogertman + Partners Architects the client was always intent on establishing an urban , integrated lifestyle centre , not just a shopping mall . The scheme needed to fit within the larger plans for Menlyn Maine . Not just for the buildings that have already been built but also for future development . As the bulk can be adjusted over the other sites , the bulk required was to respond to the design rather than the design to maximise the allowed bulk .
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