Commercial Property News South Africa

Nelson Mandela Square refurbishment nears completion

Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton is nearing the completion of its refurbishment in which it will feature new tenants, offering a fresh range of restaurants including a Tashas Café, The Big Mouth and Remo's. These restaurants will complement new local and international fashion brands such as Luminance, La Martini, Thomas Pink and Forever 21, which opened for trading in October.
The Big Mouth
The Big Mouth

As part of the refurbishment, the centre recently introduced a revamped brand identity that includes a new contemporary logo showcased by striking new signage behind the 6m statue of Nelson Mandela and above the well-known Square steps.

Alex Phakathi, Liberty Property Portfolio Fund Manager, Stanlib Direct Property Investment, asset managers for the Liberty Group's property portfolio said: "We want Nelson Mandela Square to become the lifestyle and dining destination of choice for both locals and tourists visiting Johannesburg. This significant re-branding project has resulted in a contemporary new identity for Nelson Mandela Square, which captures the sophistication, vibrancy and overall experience of one of Africa's premier shopping destinations. Our ultimate goal in undertaking this redevelopment is to provide the right mix of restaurants and fashion tenants in order to draw more locals to the Square as well as attracting the tourists that visit the Square."

Retaining its character

Nelson Mandela Square's contemporary refurbishment follows on from Sandton City Shopping Centre's recent modern makeover and will ensure that the Square's tenant mix and aesthetics align to the mall without losing the character of the Square.

Upon completion of the redevelopment, shoppers will enter the new Centre Court from the high cross-vaulted ceilings of the bridge linking Sandton City to Nelson Mandela Square, with double-volume glass facades set behind the existing arches of the main building. Shoppers can look forward to a number of exciting new features at Nelson Mandela Square, including skylights, energy efficient lighting, marble flooring, remodelled escalators and bathrooms.

The stylish new logo sees the familiar tile icon replaced with a jewel, in line with the Square's new positioning as The Jewel of Africa. The latest tagline, Discover. Experience. Indulge, paints a picture of the delights to be found within the mall and the feelings inspired by a luxurious retail experience. Prominent purple was the first choice for the new brand identity as the colour relates to the imagination, promotes harmony of mind and is representative of the future and dreams. The perfect fit for Nelson Mandela Square as it realises its own dream for the future brand with a new sense of achievement, relevance and pride.

Let's do Biz