The final construction phase of the new Gqeberha Boardwalk Mall is nearing completion and is poised to open on September 22.

This follows the opening of the mall’s first phase in March, which involved the upgrading and reconfiguration of the existing stores and cinema of the prior Boardwalk Mall, explains MDS Architecture, which designed the mall.

“Our design is cognisant of integrating into the existing architecture in a contemporary way and creating a streetscape that has developed over time. It is a contemporary interpretation of the current style, which was achieved with elements like the shape of the roofs and an aesthetic of a refurbished dockside building,” explains MDS Architecture partner Pierre Lahaye.

He adds that the mall links well with the Sun International Boardwalk Casino and the Boardwalk Hotel, and altogether forms the Boardwalk Precinct.

The owners of the precinct, Sun International and Flanagan & Gerard, are also building a 2 500 m2 open area, comprising space for large events, a large screen, a landscaped children’s play area and access to transportation of equipment for large events.

“There are several pedestrian access points to the building and to the rest of the new offerings being built, integrating the precinct into the urban landscape. It is quite something to be able to step out onto the beautiful beachfront promenade directly from the shopping centre,” notes Lahaye.

He adds that the work of local artists will be featured at the mall and events arena, and the existing festival lawns area will be activated for outdoor activities.

The Boardwalk Precinct development has included significant infrastructure and road upgrades in the area, which serves as a catalyst for upgrades elsewhere in the Summerstand area of Gqeberha as well.

Lahaye concludes that flexibility was a key consideration in the design of the Gqeberha Boardwalk Mall, as was good environmental principles, with a view to continuously build towards carbon neutrality and effortlessly link with the surrounding city and its beaches.