Sandton City officially launches new extension

"The centre now features a more wide-ranging line-up of the best of the retail world," says Julie Hillary, GM Sandton Region at Liberty Properties. "For our extension, a dynamic retail mix has been achieved which complements and enhances its established retailers."

The extension is set under a 24-metre high steel roof structure inspired by the South African national flower, the protea. It is an innovative African-first application of a new, two-micron-thick eco-friendly, 100%-recyclable, transparent material - tipped as the second lowest energy co-efficient material in the world - offering full protection from the elements while welcoming light from both sun and moon alike.

The roof of the Sandton City Protea is not the only 'green' ingredient to be added to Sandton City through this innovative project.

"Green principles were used at all stages, from donating material salvaged from demolition to worthy causes or recycling; to green building design and materials, energy efficiencies and even retrofitting the existing mall where viable," says Hillary.

Carrying this feeling throughout, the centre has undergone refurbishment with abundant natural light and modern finishes bringing it into the future of shopping. The new design combines international standards with contemporary architectural expressions, which reflect South African heritage, using space, light, colour, form and materials.

While visually inspiring, the internal refurbishment serves more than an aesthetic function. It improves customer flow by connecting the entire mall, by means of a 'loop' - which will link Edgars and Woolworths, through the new Protea Court.

New entrance

Its new entrance, pinpointed at Sandton's ultimate position - the corner of Rivonia Road and Sandton Drive - creates a welcoming connection point for the increasing street-level interaction in the area, especially with the Gautrain Sandton Station being on the adjacent city block, which has enlarged the centre's reach.

Reflecting the spirit and urban vibrancy of the node, a new open-air piazza will be positioned at this entrance, featuring alfresco dining for the cafe society at JB's Corner and Doppio Zero.

Sandton City's interconnectedness also streamlines movements between its upper and lower levels, access, vehicle flow has been improved and the complex will be further integrated by creating easier access with the Sandton Convention Centre, Nelson Mandela Square and the broader Sandton precinct.