RACA Journal July 2023 | Page 19

Business

SUPPORTING LOCAL TALENT AND RESPECTING THE ENVIRONMENT The work of local artists is featured at Boardwalk Mall in the public passages and offices , including street art murals with distinctly recognisable elements typical of the region .

Says Lahaye , “ The inclusion of local artists is a great way to ensure that the building has context and to build its reputation as a place by the people of Gqeberha for the people of Gqeberha .”

In addition , good environmental principles have been deployed with a view to continuously building up to carbonneutral developments . Landscaping from the original scheme has been reclaimed , with trees being replanted which had been growing for over a year before the grand opening .

A NEW NODE FOR FLEXIBLE GATHERING Flexibility is an important design consideration , one which Lahaye says has become more pronounced since the pandemic . “ Designed spaces need to be adaptable so that if plans or circumstances change , the design allows for multiple uses and some agility ,” he says .

The Boardwalk Mall precinct is serving as somewhat of a new town centre for the area . With a direct link to the Nelson Mandela university campus , Summerstrand ’ s student population has easy pedestrian access to entertainment and shopping .

Boardwalk Mall looks set to continue having a positive impact on local education and art , as well as creating safe and welcoming connections for everyone who lives , works , plays and learns in its immediate surroundings . RACA

“ One of the unique attractions of the development is the multifunctional Sunpark arena at the heart of the precinct ..”

An exterior view : the square at the site .