Architect and Builder October 2016 | Page 30

The existing design was pared down to showcase the essential classical elements. In keeping with modern design trends, shop front heights were raised and are now seamless glass sheets reflecting a more contemporary aesthetic. Retail Mall The development consists of two levels of retail and acts as an integral link between a number of buildings within the Sandton City node. 28 The introduction of a high profile new anchor tenant, Forever 21, necessitated the addition of a newly constructed court at the end of the bridge over 5th Street. A large floor slab was cut out and the entire façade was opened up. Glazing was extended over two floors, allowing natural light to penetrate and opening the space up to the Square. This addition resulted in the retail component being less ‘inward facing’ and now integrating more closely with the pedestrian and Nelson Mandela Square