PROJECT MDS Architecture
Pierre Lahaye, MDS Architecture’ s partner heading the project, says the shopping centre has been repositioned to create a lifestyle destination. The tenant mix and location aim to increase traffic flow and create a more vibrant atmosphere for tenants. The entrances have been reconfigured to make them more inviting to shoppers. The external façades have been upgraded to create a sense of place at this prominent intersection.
Evolution and a family gathering space
“ From a design point of view, the centre’ s fresh lease of life was achieved by eliminating any crossover between service and public entrances, reconfiguring the parking and ensuring better views to develop a contemporary shopping centre with energy and vibrancy,” says Lahaye.
The parking garage was added to provide ample, convenient parking facilities for over 600 cars, as well as improved lighting and convenience for shoppers who now have direct access to restaurants and lifestyle offerings. With Mica moving from its previous location and another tenant vacating the west wing of the centre, the developers managed to secure several restaurants upstairs such as Blueberry Beacon, a children-friendly restaurant with a play area and covered seating deck, and South Africa’ s indoor golf entertainment venue, The Golden Tee, which has culminated in the creation of a unique offering that buzzes on weekends, replete with an adventure area, health and fitness offerings, padel courts, and a culinary market called The Foodies Feast.
Exterior presence
Crisp white translucent cladding and clean lines draw patrons in towards the two covered entrances at Morning Glen, which provide a sense of arrival and welcoming greenery. The signature curve of the building at the entrance to Food Lover’ s Market is emphasised by the signage that wraps around the corner using individual letters in the name Morning Glen.
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