Pam Golding on Main to boost Kenilworth area

Owned and developed by the Pam Golding Property group and designed by Paolo Viotti of Vivid Architects, 'Pam Golding on Main', the building faces onto Main Road, with the corner of the new building designed to form a landmark focal point which will create an appealing node at the intersection of the two roads.

Peter Golding, who is project managing the redevelopment on behalf of the group, comments, "This property is strategically situated within a key hub in Kenilworth, ideally positioned to kick-start a hive of activity and regeneration along Main Road. The ground floor shops and restaurants will open up to the pavement and street, adding vitality and energy to the space, as well as 'connecting' with the local community. The modern building will be relevant in the current area, maintaining classical proportions while being sensitive to the historic aesthetics of the area and its 'village' ambience."

He says Kenilworth is an interesting node, incorporating an upmarket residential area as well as being in close proximity to the upmarket residential areas of Bishopscourt and Upper Claremont.

"However, Kenilworth is also something of a contradiction, with its Main Road strip between Wynberg and Claremont providing significant social challenges for property and business owners, as well as local residents. We believe that this building will help lead the way for the renewal and revival of this area not only through its fresh design but also by providing increased positive activity as well as security. This modern design building with quality finishes aims to create a quality place to shop, socialise and work in a vibrant environment. It is also situated close to the train station, with bus and taxi routes operating along Main Road."

Village history

From the 1950s to the 70s, Kenilworth was very much a village and even today, much of this village culture remains. On the site being redeveloped was the post office and LJ Taylor Electrical, then an SA Perm agency and Glenda's Pet Foods. Noyes Chemist has been located across the road for as long as one can recall, as has Kenilworth Supermeat and the clothing shop Teales.

Much of the development of Kenilworth was undertaken by the Luntz family in the 1930s and 40s and they still own strategic property sites in Main Road. In the late 1970s, the first office of Pam Golding Properties opened a few doors down from Noyes Chemist. As the business grew and required additional space, space across the road became available as the post office decided to relocate up the road - and so the company took up the space.

Over the years, the company continued to expand and occupy space being vacated by other tenants. However Noyes and Kenilworth Supermeat remained and other businesses soon became institutions, such as Oakhurst Farmstall and Barusso's Restaurant. In the early 1990s, the Luntz family decided to sell the property on the corner of Summerley Road and Main Road and the group purchased the property.

Environmentally friendly

The new development will incorporate ground floor retail space of almost 1000 sqm, with the balance of 3100 sqm on the three floors above comprising offices. The central core with entry, lobby spaces and services is accessed from Main Road, with a landscaped courtyard with parking behind.

The building incorporates a mix of glass, face brick, steel and timber sliding shutters to minimise the impact of the sun in summer while softening the facade with natural materials. Open walkways face onto the courtyard behind, while the third floor is set back to provide balconies along the Main Road edge, adding to the activity and life on the street edge.

"The building will be environmentally aware, with steps taken to minimise energy consumption. The basements will be naturally ventilated, while rainwater will be recycled for irrigation of the landscaped area. Internal heat build-up will be minimised via timber sunscreens, concrete overhangs and balconies shading the west facade, while still allowing ample natural light to enter the building."

With commencement of demolition of the existing building on site scheduled for mid-July 2012, completion of the project is anticipated at the end of 2013.