PROJECT MDS Architecture and Boogertman + Partners
A new model for urban development
Despite its sophisticated design, Westown Square remains deeply rooted in its local context. The architectural team carefully studied the characteristics of the Shongweni area, incorporating design elements that reflect the region ' s natural beauty and cultural heritage.“ References include the rolling hills, sugar cane fields, and, as we mentioned before, traditional farmstead buildings,” says Richards.
By challenging traditional retail design concepts, the design team has created a space that feels less like a shopping centre and more like a lively, dynamic urban neighbourhood.
" This is about creating a destination," McGillivray concludes, " not just a place to shop, but a place to experience, to connect, and to belong."
The outcome is a retail environment that combines a globally inspired design elegance with a distinctly local character. Retailers like Pick n Pay and Checkers Hyper have adapted their store layouts to fit the architectural vision, creating a unified and harmonious space.
There is a diverse mix of retail tenants at Westown Square, including Checkers Hyper, Pick n Pay, Panda, Total Ninja, Edgars, Mr Price, Foschini, Total Sports, Sportscene, Exact, Milady’ s, Studio 88, Ackermans, Pep, Incredible Connection, Dischem, and Clicks.
This is complemented by a large bespoke food and beverage selection, featuring Kalamata, Joops, Joitas, Tigers Milk, Robsons Brewery, Elephant & Co, as well as Mugg & Bean, Milky Lane, and Wimpy.
Westown Square exceeds a typical retail development and can serve as a model for future urban spaces emphasising human experience, environmental sustainability, and community bonds.
Professional team Client: Fundamentum Property Group Project manager: Orion Project Management Architects: MDS Architecture and Boogertman + Partners Quantity surveyors: MLC Group Civil & structural engineers: LS Consulting Mechanical engineers: Graeme Page Consulting Engineers Electrical engineers: RWP KZN Consulting Engineers Fire engineers: Lotter Consulting Wet services engineers: Vertex Engineering Consultants Landscape architects: Uys & White Main contractor: Stefanutti Stocks
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