LoL me too , im more BK

actually on closer inspection, not bad, I see references to the famous Sandton neo classical style with a mix of boere aztec, sits well in Umhlanga perhaps a bit of cape dutch might be needed though, .. or even a bit of dubai mirror glass, now that would nice

^^ lol you a funny ou, always pipping up every few months and disliking everything! take it that architecture is not your forte and that everything and anything is fake something. lets build them out of mud and make it look "african" then. Cos if you use glass then you trying to be dubai, if you use classic designs you are being faux and if you do contemporary ones then you just trying too hard.

I personally love the design feel of the area

Well put, except your conclusion about the fricanisation bit.
The scale, the build-to, streetscape urban design controls developed by Erky Wood
are great and will make the place. Its just that George seems to be one of of only a handful of architects doing reasonable stuff, the rest are just weak.

Well put, except your conclusion about the fricanisation bit.
The scale, the build-to, streetscape urban design controls developed by Erky Wood
are great and will make the place. Its just that George seems to be one of of only a handful of architects doing reasonable stuff, the rest are just weak.


Hay quarter pounder why dont you put up some photos of your house please ??!!

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/umhlangaridgeside1.jpg

if you look carefully at the above image you will see the completed roads for the new section of the NTC (parkside). this area is currently a flurry of activity as piling is underway for many developments

http://www.stefanutti.co.za/assets/content_images/Image/homeimages/05-Building.jpg

This is from the west side of gateway, showing the growing density of this portion of the NTC. This pic is a good 8 months old, as all these buildings are now complete, but gives a sense of the density

This end is great but I still prefer the East end. Hopefully new developments on this end will be integrated (linked courtyards etc) like the East end.

The area behind Gateway alwasy for some reason is hidden away from it all, as Roman said, it needs more intergrated courtyards, vibey cafe's etc.. to liven the place up.

yeah i agree, this area was never going ot be in the same league as the east side, it the number of car dealers has kinda given it the car tag zone. the cafes have also been slower to open in this area due mainly to the constant construction. Dont forget 35 buildings have gone up in this area, compared to only 11 on the dense side palm precinct. Being more vast and construction starting at different times has lead to constant building, which is not conducive to opening stores. HOWEVER things are changin as the construction moves north now towards umhlanga boulevard and parkside.

Sorry for rather crappy pics, but driving and shootin is eish hard.

this one rose without us giving it a thread and its a damn nice glass facade structure. Its the new Netcare Umhlanga medical centre and research facility. Its right next umhlanga hospital and has helped by moving all doc's rooms out the hospital to free extra space there for wards and OR's.

Architects were Basil Vogas. Will take some better ones in due course. it has a full height internal atrium which really is great!

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0460.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0461.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0462.jpg

.....posted this one Nov 29th, 2007.....

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x31/Upington/P1010300.jpg

that was the old mercedes showroom site?

^^ yes it was

It looks great! though I see the atrium glass has those blinds on it, why??? you got the full length glass, dont block the darn thing :bash:

How big could Umhlanga town centre get with the current transport infrastructure? What will max out first requiring major new development? Could it get Sandton CBD sized?

It has access to the N2 which is a pretty big freeway, but that highway running along the coast seems pretty busy already and not ideal for further expansion. Light rail? seems a long way off.

Possibly more likely it would spawn off further sattelite CBDs up the coast and inland rather than get too big?

Well just to put all in perspective. The new umhlanga - durban transport lines open early next year, as do the expanded umhlanga bus services that connect village, ridge and rocks. Another interchange is being built on the N2 500m north of the current umhlanga interchange. The n2 is increasing to 5 lanes each way. The M4/M41 interchange is being totally redone and the highways are both gaining 2 additional lanes.

Next onto size. Ridgeside has rights for 150 000m2 of office space, 200 000m2 of mixed use use space, 80 000m2 for the marriot resort complex and 3500 residential units.

The NTC has rights for a further 6000 residential units, 175 000m2 commerical space.

Cornubia across the highway is planned to house 50 000units, 1,25m m2 commercial space, 400 000m2 industrial space and 120 000m2 of retail.

The density of the umhlanga village is under srutiny with the new node study which aims to triple the allowed bulk density of sites within the village area of old umhlanga nearing final approval.

So all in all, there is more available growth than Sandton, maybe not in the level of commercial space, but on a bulk development level.

And yes Ballito is already developing its own business district as the area grows more into durban and becomes another suburb. They are also getting a 120 000m2 shopping centre (just smaller than gateway).

Thanks for the update - going to be busy. Wow cant believe Ballito getting such a big mall, but I guess the large scale growth and densification in that general region makes a lot of sense.

Where is the M4/M41 interchange? Is the M4 the coast highway Uml-Dbn (sorry I am from inland suburbs!)?

Is there any chance of highrises on Umhlanga ridge, or just over the ridge? Some slender glassy buildings would look pretty cool from the sea...

Thanks for the update - going to be busy. Wow cant believe Ballito getting such a big mall, but I guess the large scale growth and densification in that general region makes a lot of sense.

Where is the M4/M41 interchange? Is the M4 the coast highway Uml-Dbn (sorry I am from inland suburbs!)?

Is there any chance of highrises on Umhlanga ridge, or just over the ridge? Some slender glassy buildings would look pretty cool from the sea...


The M4 is the coastal highway running from Durban through Umhlanga to Ballito. The M41 is the highway that veers off the M4 before Umhlanga and heads up to Gateway (under the millenium bridge), over the N2 and towards Phoenix. This interchange is being totally redesigned with flyovers and new connection points.

There are three sites in Ridgeside allocated for highrises. These have been taken up by the Marriot Hotel, The Westin and a landmark commercial tower. In the NTC (near the sharks board area) there are 8 sites that will be able to go up to 15F, and they are on the very crest of the ridge. In the NTC itself height limits are generally capped at 9F.

Just another update on some more new developments:

The Liberty group have commenced construction of their 11000m2 regional head office in the NTC in the parkside area. The building (cant find a render anywhere) is right opposite the new town gardens and will house Liberty's, Liberty Life and Stanlib divisions.

Neighbouring this building, another commercial development of 8000m2 is uc. The main tennant is First Rand

Mike a lot of financial services seem to moving into NTC, Does Kingsmead office park not compete in some way for these blue chip clients?

^^ to be honest why would it? Yes Kingsmead houses:

Standard bank
Marriot
KPMG
TKZN Invest
Albaraka Bank
And a few other companies

However as always Umhlanga has the bigger drawcard in most areas. Having said that, Std and Albaraka are both new builds in the area, so it must have some claim to fame.

NTC on the otherhand has:

Sanlam
Standard Bank Equities
Discovery Invest
Nedbank Private clients
PKF
And soon Liberty and First Rand Group.

While Ridgeside is getting Investec and another large ABSA division. SA Home loans is also looking to consolodate there HQ from the 7 buildings they occupy in Armstrong avenue to either the NTC or Ridgeside, which would mean a building in the range of 12 000m2 for them.

wy would it?

firstly closer to the core of the city and hense its geographical centre for staff and customers. In a Financial/Legal precinct (was due to get salmon grove to move close to courts plus Investec/NBS HQ and now Standard Bank)showing confidence in the cities of SA not being part of suburban flight al la sandton like Nedbank did etc.

I would also bet developmnet rates are much more attractive in Kingsmead than the ridge which makes me think its competing for the same type of blue chip client tennat

We currently renovating Salmon Grove chambers, still full up with lawyers.

Ok boys and girls its time for an Umhlanga update. I went walkies before work the other day and managed to snap these up.

North approach to the piazza from Aurora drive

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0467.jpg

The Piazza with clock tower. Builind directly ahead is Royal Palm hotel

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0468.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0470.jpg

Full view of the piazza

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0471.jpg

Looking down the north end of the piazza to the Premier Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge and its piazza

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0472.jpg

The Champangile clock tower

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0474.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0475.jpg

AL63 great modern italian

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0476.jpg

Out onto Palm boulevard through one of the passages that lead from the square piazza. The building is African Palms. Frigata is an AMAZING deli in this building.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0478.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0479.jpg

MAX fashion intstitute. Great clothes, bar and cafe. Great fashion show parties each weekend on the instore runway, plus home to a model agency so many model parties too.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0480.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0481.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0482.jpg

Get to IMAX to see Grand Canyon!!

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0483.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0484.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0486.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0488.jpg

Premier Protea Umhlanga Ridge from the boulevard.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0489.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0490.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0492.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0493.jpg

Now heading back to the square from palm boulevard. These are all public areas that anyone can walk through, with no doors. This is passage through the Royal Palm

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0494.jpg

Internal courtyard of the Protea

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0497.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0499.jpg

Looking back from Protea to main piazza

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0501.jpg

Outside seating of D!sh restaurant, great place in the royal palm.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0502.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0503.jpg

Tapas on the block, kinda of a local for brilliant selection of wine by the glass, potent sangria and great authentic tapas menu.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0504.jpg

Walking past Tapas you get into the neighbouring courtyard of 7 on Palm. This building is home to art galleries, plaka greek, Forbidden (great for True Religion and G-Star) and soon a new moroccan bar.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0505.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0507.jpg

Neighbouring this courtyard is the City Lodge courtyard

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0508.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0509.jpg

Looking back from City Lodge courtyard to the main piazza

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0510.jpg

Back onto aurora drive

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0511.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0513.jpg

Walking off Aurora back to the piazza

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0514.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0516.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0518.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0519.jpg

And finally the Ducati Cafe and Aprilla stores on Aurora.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0521.jpg


There are another few places about to open on the square, including an indian, portuaguese and thai restaurants. 2 bars, one being a typical pubby place. The Bellagio lounge is opening on the boulevard in the Royal Palm dev and a live music/stand up comedy place is opening on the upper level of the piazza.

Further down in the Protea courtyard at least 4 restaurant cafes are opening, plus a bar and a selection of stores.

All in all the piazza's are slowly coming alive as the construction moves onward to other areas of the NTC.

Thanks for posting, M. These pics are amazing. I personally believe the place looks even better at night with the strategically placed lighting everywhere. It will really rock when all the new bars and restaurants open. Can't wait.

Awesome pics Mike, Umhlanga has so much going for it now, they need to market this area more in the media, people should know that theres more than Gateway ;)

WOW, thanks for the oics Mike.

it has such an aussie innercity new urbanism feel about it, its great and will only improve once the landscaping matures

Fantastic update!!! All that's needed now is more people! Went to Dish the other night and was amazed at how many new restaurants have opened up. There's already stacks at Gateway but the new ones seem quite a bit "classier".

Very nice, it could have done with more glass and palm trees but otherwise it is gr8. I especially love the plaza in the 3rd pic and I am sure that it will become a very vibrant area.

Yeah i hear what you saying. However they have concentrated the palms on the boulevard and have rather stuck with other indigenious plants, shrubs and lillies in the piazza and lane areas.

The main piazza is currently home to:

D!sh - Fine dining, very intimate venue with amazing bar
AL63 - Modern italian restaurant and bar. Italian owned and run by two guys that have recently moved to Durbs from italy
Tapa's on the block - Spanish run suthentic tapas spot with awesome selction of wines by the glass featuring spanish wine prominently
Plaka - modern greek
Frigata is open behind AL63 and is an awesome deli/bakery and has a great cafe with views of the boulevard from the 1st floor.

New arrivals include:

Indian, Portuguese and Seafood restaurants.
A McGinty's pub
Belagio Lounge - top end fine dining restaurant, jazz lounge and cigar bar.
There is an additional fine dining restaurant opening in the Protea "the palms" development as well as 2 other mid range places, a cafe and bar.
Hooters are opening on the Palm boulevard.


So things are progressing well and the ends are being tied up nicely.

Go is imminent on the 50 room extention to the City Lodge with an additional floor. The Road lodge is also to commence in the coming months on an adjacent site that is currently Gateway parking.

Yeah i hear what you saying. However they have concentrated the palms on the boulevard and have rather stuck with other indigenious plants, shrubs and lillies in the piazza and lane areas.

The main piazza is currently home to:

D!sh - Fine dining, very intimate venue with amazing bar
AL63 - Modern italian restaurant and bar. Italian owned and run by two guys that have recently moved to Durbs from italy
Tapa's on the block - Spanish run suthentic tapas spot with awesome selction of wines by the glass featuring spanish wine prominently
Plaka - modern greek
Frigata is open behind AL63 and is an awesome deli/bakery and has a great cafe with views of the boulevard from the 1st floor.

New arrivals include:

Indian, Portuguese and Seafood restaurants.
A McGinty's pub
Belagio Lounge - top end fine dining restaurant, jazz lounge and cigar bar.
There is an additional fine dining restaurant opening in the Protea "the palms" development as well as 2 other mid range places, a cafe and bar.
Hooters are opening on the Palm boulevard.


So things are progressing well and the ends are being tied up nicely.

Go is imminent on the 50 room extention to the City Lodge with an additional floor. The Road lodge is also to commence in the coming months on an adjacent site that is currently Gateway parking.

So what you are saying is that it is a bit of a palm tree over-kill ;) it is just that when I think of Durban, I think of palm trees :nuts: ... it all sounds very exciting. Thanks again for all the info.

I love new urbanism and this is right up there with the best of them.

yeah, too many palms and u will feel that you are in disneyworld. i'm all for a good mix, and i think the trees in the piazza will be great when they have settled in a few years.

If that's Aussie inner-city then you must mean the poorer parts... Here in Syd that looks like what we call the "slums of 2moro" in Victoria Park built by Meriton. Very cookie cutter architecture. And I don't wonder why it show's no signs of life.. TOO STERILE. Where's the character gone???

Really nice pics Mikey! The NTC is really coming along very nicely! I wasn't so keen on the internal piazza photos, thought it looked a little sterile and a bit like a Sunninghill Office Park, but Aurora Drive and the Boulevard look REALLY fantastic!

lol fancy you all dislike the piazza when it is my favourite part. yes it is devoid of people, but the pics were taken at 730am on a wed. nothing is open and the piazza was only opened to the public a like 3 months back, hardly any places are open yet...give it time to settle folks.

As for the comment on "slum"...hmmm me thinks thats rather nasty mate

Re: Pictures previous page - wow! pretty cool.

The Piazza: I am glad they had a go at this ,but doesnt quite work somehow - it seems too narrow for the height of the buildings and the ground doesnt seem inviting enough for people. That said, Piazzas with these proportions are far more common than the wider types in Italian cities, and will probably provide a shady escape on a hot day. The ergonomics are sound. Just doesnt quite work visually.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0471.jpg

Makoppa - I have lived in Aussie inner city suburbs (in a new build apartment) and that looks of a similar design and quality as most current construction there to me.

The difference would be in Aus you would occassionally get some fairly "cookie cutter" attempt at being deconstructivist with a big shard of asymetrical something hanging off somewhere, or a big hole somewhere attempting to show its "honest core" or some bollocks :lol: (at least certainly in Melbourne).

I havent been inside these Umhlanga apartments but I would imagine the build quality is somewhat better than Aus average (as Umhlanga is an elite suburb) - most new build Aussie apartments in the $400-$600 range I have seen (and I have been inside plenty) look flash initially but things start falling off pretty quick. And if you bump a wall with some furniture it will make a big hole.

It lacks colour, people and glass ... other than that I think that it is a good attempt ... the next one will be better .... P.S. Clive is right, bump the walls and it leaves a big hole - we have had a few of those :lol:

http://www.pbase.com/enigma35/image/91210017.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/enigma35/image/73774271.jpg

^^ i do like that square.

i'm sure the colour will come with the umbrellas and signs of the places when more open, and obviously the people will follow then

wow SYDNEY that square is great - you hit the nail on the head. Where is that? And what is the big merry-go-round?

I am glad they are starting to do this in Durban - its got the climate that this should be a winner.

The best one I have seen in SA to date is in De Waterkant in CTN. Had dinner at a restaurant called the Nose or something similar. Absolutely buzzing place on a summer evening. Was really world class.

Just thought i'd show some more of the Royal Palm, D!sh restaurant and AL63

Royal Palm

http://www.royal-palm.co.za/assets/images/Gallery-logo.gif

http://threecities.propdata.co.za/resize/400/uploads/gallery/2007/09/1_lg.jpg

http://threecities.propdata.co.za/resize/400/uploads/gallery/2007/09/6_lg.jpg

http://threecities.propdata.co.za/resize/400/uploads/gallery/2007/09/12_lg.jpg

http://threecities.propdata.co.za/resize/400/uploads/gallery/2007/09/5_lg.jpg

D!sh

http://threecities.propdata.co.za/resize/400/uploads/gallery/2007/09/11_lg.jpg

http://bp2.blogger.com/_mLacmowDXJA/RrhAwgyeWmI/AAAAAAAAACE/ZXkXKph-IAs/s1600/08.jpg

AL63 - www.al63.co.za

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/al63-5.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/al63-1.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/al63-2.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/al63-3.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/al63-4.jpg

wow SYDNEY that square is great - you hit the nail on the head. Where is that? And what is the big merry-go-round?

I am glad they are starting to do this in Durban - its got the climate that this should be a winner.

The best one I have seen in SA to date is in De Waterkant in CTN. Had dinner at a restaurant called the Nose or something similar. Absolutely buzzing place on a summer evening. Was really world class.

Thanks Clive and Dysan. It is The Chancery, Auckland - in the fashion district (just off Freyburg Square and High Street ..... opposite Metropolis) - hope it helps ;)

Are you talking about Cape Quarter ? .... we used to go there everyday and we loved it. We saw Jean-Claude van Damme there and he shat himself when he saw Craigy with his big camera - he thought that we were the paparazzi :lol: it was so funny. I miss De Waterkant :(

^^
http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/23851026.jpg

Re the restaurant - I like the table with the Louis Ghost chairs ... Philippe Starck at his best.

The best one I have seen in SA to date is in De Waterkant in CTN. Had dinner at a restaurant called the Nose or something similar. Absolutely buzzing place on a summer evening. Was really world class.


This would be it.....

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/23851275.jpg

Cape Quarter in 05

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/27088235.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/25042287.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/25040221.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/25040210.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/25040220.jpg

ah..tank and the cape quarter. memories.

Thanks Clive and Dysan. It is The Chancery, Auckland - in the fashion district (just off Freyburg Square and High Street ..... opposite Metropolis) - hope it helps ;)

:(

Next to Boss:banana:

can anyone get their hands on the images for the following upcoming developments:

Liberty Life Regional HQ on the park in parkside.
Stannic regional on park
Westin Durban
Central Park - 5 star retirement development and hotel in parkside

Help appreciated

It lacks colour, people and glass ... other than that I think that it is a good attempt ... the next one will be better .... P.S. Clive is right, bump the walls and it leaves a big hole - we have had a few of those


Yep that's very well put. I really love the Chancery!

As for the Piazza, I think in particular the use of that particular type of brick, as well as the visible use of concrete in the fountain and the tree 'pots' make the piazza look especially bland. It needs a lot more colour. But perhaps, as you say Mike, it'll change once there is more life in and around the square.

Just out of interest Mike, with all these "niche" type restuarants/ cafe's in the Piazza area, they attract alot of high end clients, what you think the restaurant owners would think of a outlet like Hooters opening up near them?

^^ well hooters will not be too near the piazza as it is facing onto the palm boulevard on the very northern end from what i gather. The piazza does seem to be catering to a more sophisticated palate, there will however be a McGinty's there...

So i dont think hooters will bother them in the slightest

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/212/456921578_5a8bf4f51d_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/179/466412044_ab190f1b28_b.jpg

Excellent photos Mike, I mostly like the first one.

Where'd you get the pic's from?

Took a visitor from UK to the Piazza area in the Umhlanga, he was very impressed, he also visited Melrose Arch and feels this one is much better, Im sure once everything is up & running it will be a must visit place, we had a drink at that bar & went along for a walk, didnt carry a camera though :(

^^ i did mothers day at Dish yesterday and was most thoroughly impressed. the place was packed, food fantastic and ambience on the piazza was great. The indian restaurant looks like it is nearing opening and we were informed of an "international coffee chain" opening next door shortly. hmmmm i doubt its another Gloria Jeans, so prob a UK chain.

Could be Coffee Republic as well ?

might be, i reckon if they want to enter the SA market they need to do it on a big scale and try one or two stores slowly like gloria jeans did, or the embattled subway which seem to have stalled in their SA efforts.

New style for the Cafe Nescafe concept following the success of their wow new 2 story store in Essenwood road, Durban.

I personally like the lines. This one is opening opposite gateway in late June.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0538.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSCN0540.jpg

thats nice, love the new modern design, could have done better chair patterns, but what ever floats their boat

New style for the Cafe Nescafe concept following the success of their wow new 2 story store in Essenwood road, Durban.

I personally like the lines. This one is opening opposite gateway in late June.


Wow ye really nice! Are those photos from the Essenwood store?

Is Essenwood in the CBD?

That does look really good! Looks like those pics are from an Asian airport (judging by the staff and the plane in the background :))

Didn't konw there was one in Essenwood Rd. Pule Essenwood is in Morningside overlooking the CBD.

Thanks Greg.

I still think Nescafe cafe is a bit silly. Its an instant coffee brand.

these are just the renders for the style cues the store will be following. i think it is real refreshing. Also so the design plan and rollout scheme for coffee republic. Seems they are focussing strongly on Durban initially with a 4 store roll out and then moving onto Gauteng.

The Cafe Nescafe in Essenwood is where Mykonos used to be before it moved to La Lucia

Here's a whole bunch of images taken of the NTC over the past 6 months or so by a variety of people.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/181/470203058_14affcb943_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/219/465266777_3df6fe4d14_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/204/484143439_015c63c789_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/186/472643656_a8f50d3d1c_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/196/470188924_00345aec1c_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/204/471579980_9565e9b03f_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/183/457912797_dd998db194_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/228/490076068_655173fc0f_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/162/422237242_c3a4ac5502.jpg?v=0

http://l.yimg.com/www.flickr.com/images/spaceball.gif

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/214/457299739_9ca8dfb6ea.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2013/2240260365_6f5d97bc99_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2075/1647714853_87683c1e7d.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/200/455675098_54982b745f.jpg?v=0

Oh and just for lovers of the sandwhich....the now open Subway store in gateway when it was UC a few weeks back.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2181/2403207210_b501a3a2f1.jpg?v=1207826191

Nice pics Mike.

holy crap, how did I miss that subway? I was there last weekend.

Anyway those pics are great Mike, esp love the one infront of Ridgeton, makes it look smart.

holy crap, how did I miss that subway? I was there last weekend.

Anyway those pics are great Mike, esp love the one infront of Ridgeton, makes it look smart.

lol it only opened 2 weeks back.

and yeh ridgeton has turned out rather well imo. got mates living there and they love it

Some new development updates

Porsche Umhlanga

Work is well advanced on the new R50m showroom which will open later this year.

Aston Martin Umhlanga

The new Aston Martin dealership to be housed in upmarket Parkside is due to commence construction in September. It is to occupy a prime position adjacent to the Chris Saunders park in a new AAA commercial building of steel glass and sandstone.

Umhlanga Country Club

The new relocated Umhlanga country club which has been in the village for the past 40 years is to relocate to the new town centre. The site will house the club house with conference facilities, fine dining private restaurant, a boutique hotel, 4 tennis courts, 4 squash courts. The facility will abut Prestondale and construction is planned to begin before year end.

The Palms Protea Hotel

This hotel which is rather delayed will finally open in August with 190 rooms and a further 30 suites. 4 restaurants will be found on the developments piazza which also links through to the central clocktower piazza.

Awesome, I can get my Aston from Umhlanga now.

Just a quick question. Does the Ridge have its own bus service or are municipal buses used?

the Durban bus service covers umhlanga and links it with the inner city. The special umhlanga internal service has yet to commence operations even though the route has been fully planned and the stops built. I thik the hold up is in terms of who will have the licence to operate it, who will pay for the buses and the like, with the city and tongaat having different views on the matter.

Why don't they just extend People Mover's route to Umhlanga?

it is part of the long term plans for it, the next phase includes the berea, florida road and the like. i'm sure something 2010 related will include umhlanga

Spoke to civil engineer over the weekend, he told me he saw plans for a massive tower thats going up in Umhlanga, its going to be the tallest in Durban & the design is similar to that of Burj Al Arab, yes I know height restrictions wont permit for such a high building in the area, but take note that most skyscrapers world wide exceed the city's height limits by quite abit for eg. SWFC height is almost 500m where by the city's height limit is 350-400m. The person told me this building is almost confirmed certain to be built, either in UNTC or the ridge, could this be the Westin Grand design??? only person in this forum to see the design is psbSA?

it prob is, for that is supposed to very iconic... looking forward to seeing it!!

In view of the pace, magnitude and the splendour of developments in and around Durban i am sure Cape Town limelight will be short lived in few years time.What a wonderful place Umhlanga ridge is becoming! I am currently working in England and very much interested in knowing about residential properties being sold in Umhlanga ridge area. My aim is to buy and let properties in that area. My permanent rsidedence is in Pretoria.

Good to hear bashuple

Spoke to civil engineer over the weekend, he told me he saw plans for a massive tower thats going up in Umhlanga, its going to be the tallest in Durban & the design is similar to that of Burj Al Arab, yes I know height restrictions wont permit for such a high building in the area, but take note that most skyscrapers world wide exceed the city's height limits by quite abit for eg. SWFC height is almost 500m where by the city's height limit is 350-400m. The person told me this building is almost confirmed certain to be built, either in UNTC or the ridge, could this be the Westin Grand design??? only person in this forum to see the design is psbSA?

any more info boys, u tease us then no more...tut tut

any more info boys, u tease us then no more...tut tut
NO luck yet on the Westin render boys, but it may well be the one mentioned above...

maybe one building is the hotel and the other the office tower...

All I can say is that Durbsboi's 3D Gateway Tower design is uncannily similar to the Westin design I saw... - but the one I saw looked even more iconic...

http://i38.tinypic.com/11bntvo.jpg

You want more info on what I saw Dysan... well here you go ... since I have no luck with the renders yet...

See that bridge type structure between the two buildings in Durbsboi's design... Well the Westin design I saw has 2 or 3 like that liking the two buildings... but its not to move from on building to the other....

Remember I said Powerful design in the Durban Westin thread... It was in bold to subtly tease you guys...

Thats because this will be one of the most revolutionary 'new-age' hotel designs in the world...

New-age meaning the age of green building...

So those 2/3 links I saw between the buildings that form part of the Westin development - .....


THEY WILL HAVE GIANT WIND TURBINES (OR FANS) THAT WILL BE USED TO GENERATE ELECTRICITY FOR THE BUILDING...

THE Westin Grand Durban is going to be a powerful icon in more ways than one!

You seemed to have described this almost exactly......its the Bahrain world trade center?

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/935_6_1000%20Bahrain%206.jpg

I don't mean to be pretentious...but is this what you saw?

lol, it will be funny if it was a carbon copy of that. Designed by local architect too, Giles ol Pal

It was designed by a South African architect and built by Group 5 or Murray & Roberts.....so it a lot more Saffa than perhaps people think......

Lol i will laugh if that is what P2bsa saw...cos no offence, but that sounds a little over the top for that spot. Maybe its just me but i not expecting that at all.

Lol i will laugh if that is what P2bsa saw...cos no offence, but that sounds a little over the top for that spot. Maybe its just me but i not expecting that at all.

NO, but very similar concept... The one I saw is not as space age...
If the one I saw goes ahead as is ... it will still stick out in the current Umhalnga setup... but remember things are changing down there with the Pearls ... & who know's maybe even Durbsboi's Gateway idea will even oneday come to life....

This will be quite radical for the area but Umhlanga already resembles "Future City" with it's gleaming office parks and new complexes. This could inspire other bold designs and if so, I am all for it. Not sure about the windmills though. I don't think there's enough wind up there to blow the windmills and generate electricity. Will be striking though.

This will be quite radical for the area but Umhlanga already resembles "Future City" with it's gleaming office parks and new complexes. This could inspire other bold designs and if so, I am all for it. Not sure about the windmills though. I don't think there's enough wind up there to blow the windmills and generate electricity. Will be striking though.

Trust me i live in Ridgeton Towers, there's more than enough wind up there...

Ah I satisfied customer...:shifty: I hope, how is life in Ridgeton?

& yes Roman, not sure if you've been to umhlanga in the afternoons, it gets flippin windy, even at Gateway.

This will be quite radical for the area but Umhlanga already resembles "Future City" with it's gleaming office parks and new complexes. This could inspire other bold designs and if so, I am all for it. Not sure about the windmills though. I don't think there's enough wind up there to blow the windmills and generate electricity. Will be striking though.

yeh the ridge has alot of wind!

:bash: satistied... hmmmm depends.... lol.... The parking in ridgeton was done lopsidedly, the magnets on the doors by the lift exists break easily, and when it rains the water from the floors above hit my bathroom window... exactly....

other than that great, hehehe

lol, phew, sounds like problems for Grinaker, though the lifts on the other hand needs a good shouting to Melco, they were such a headache to order.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f51/JGHanekom/Gateway.jpg

Map of Gateway i thought might be of interest, still trying to find all the names of the 2nd phase that is being built now.

cool map

I was thinking, opposit Ridgeton Towers (towards the sea) is an open ground that would be ideal for the "windmill" testing for some of the previous comments in the thread discussing the tall buildings.

Yes, its a nice open space, also the Ridge has good potential, prob some developments can have a few windmills on top of them.

^^ those open sites in front of Ridgeton have construction commencing shortly. two 8F blocks will be going up there with a large piazza area. Additionally that new building next to the Umhlanga hospital on the northern side is rising well, looks about 8F capping point, but no idea on tenant. has groundfloor retail.

There are at least 15 developments u/c on the parkside side around the park and beyond, the roads are open to the public at some points, take a drive if you can.

And thanx for the map Deon, good stuff...have you been to the intro thread yet to tell us about yourself?

8Floors!!!! that cant be, council only allowed us 5F when we approached to buy the properties!! thats why we took the plots on Aurora's!!!

the new umhlanga zoning scheme is changing everything... FAR's have increased drastically and the city is actively pushing for a denser environment

^^ those open sites in front of Ridgeton have construction commencing shortly. two 8F blocks will be going up there with a large piazza area.

I'm an realtor,can you see my eyes lighting up lol....

^^ There are at least 15 developments u/c on the parkside side around the park and beyond, the roads are open to the public at some points, take a drive if you can.

I have driven through the public parts myself, a few are looking good, i'm particularly intrested in The Cube & Westminster buildings, good locations, near the sanders park as well. I'm just waiting for access to some of the phase 2 area's as they are not open to the public, nor any infrastructure. The cluster houses nearer to Prestondale and such.

^^ And thanx for the map Deon, good stuff...have you been to the intro thread yet to tell us about yourself?


Intro thread? Haven't noticed one. :)

yeah in the shebeen section...

Cluster homes? from what the guys at THDv say this section has been cut back drastically and further apartment developments will go ahead in that area instead, but more 3F, not 5/6

Wow, this is easily one of the best New Urbanist developments I've ever seen. I seriously applaud whoever was behind this project. Also, great pics Dysan1! :applause:

thanks crash

New Ferrari Dealership for Umhlanga

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/ferrariumhlanga.jpg

A new Ferrari dealer is to open as part of a mixed use development in Umhlanga. Work is underway and is expected to be completed by September 2009

New 125 room Road Lodge for Umhlanga Ridge

A new 125 room Road Lodge is to open in the new town centre in July 2009. At 125 rooms it will be the largest hotel in the Road Lodge chain.

The existing City Lodge Umhlanga expansion is also imminenet with a November 2009 completion. The expansion will add 65 rooms to the existing hotel by adding 2 floors

Does anyone have images of the Porsche centre under construction in Umhlanga?

Wow, this is easily one of the best New Urbanist developments I've ever seen. I seriously applaud whoever was behind this project. Also, great pics Dysan1! :applause:

Thanx mate. its getting better by the day

Just a few snaps

The palm boulevard is nearly complete, with the imminent opening of the last development on the strip - Protea Umhlanga Ridge **** and its commercial/retail component.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/Picture8.jpg

The 13 parkside developments are all going up around the Belagio development in the below image

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/Picture9.jpg

Also here are some new images of the CJ Saunders park which is well under construction. Contrary to how some of you feel, i think its great and the cafe next to the lake will become a regular haunt of mine.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/Picture1.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/Picture2.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/Picture8.jpg


Any idea on whats planned, or who owns that piece of land next to Ridgeton?

^^ been trying for ages to find that one out. Its a large site relative to all the others in the area and must have a sizable bulk allowance. i dunno how to find out more about it tho

ask the company that runs the car park area, they'll know who the owners are.

--------------------------

I'm stuck myself with a question, the management association is "asking nicely" read demanding that an aluminium screen be placed on a aluminium aircon at one of my clients properties in gateway that sticks up 12 cm above the balcony wall. Does anybody know companies that do that type of screening? pls email me at deonh@wakefields.co.za with the company name/number, i would really appreciate it.

Does anyone have images of the Porsche centre under construction in Umhlanga?

i'll see when i get a chance to go take some pics of it.

^^ great thanx!...but i would love the render of what the final thing will look like :)

Layout plan of the parkside area.

This image does not cover the area where the following developments are taking place (to the right of the image):

Porsche Centre
The Cube
The Aspect
Quartz
The Centenary
Westminster place
Cordon place

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/Umrntcparksidelayout.jpg

^^ looking very good and very promising. thanks dysan for that layout.

Developments underway


HI Express next door to this is u/c, up to ground level now.

Lincoln on Lake (diagonally across road) is also at ground level.

The Radisson has completed piling.it will be 200 rooms

Central Park (the 5 star retirement hotel) has piling underway

Clearing of the site for Elements is underway.

The Southern Sun hotel is working on the basement levels now. it will be 220 rooms

The new University campus is in the final planning and design stages

Quartz is up to 4F, as is the Cube next

Work has started on The Aspect with site clearing.

The Porsche centre is starting to put the steel roofing on.

The Belagio Grand and the Belagio are clearing the sites at present.

Road lodge is underway on basement levels

The edgars (3500m2) and stuttafords (4000m2) extensions are underway at Gateway. Additionally they are expanding for a large format homestore and additional retailors at the far end of the southern mall with a new piazza there for a few outdoor dining spots.

Gateway is also in the process of signing a new boutique hotel for part of their site, facing the new piazza and the new Netcare medical centre.

Abutting parkade G (the new south mall side), they are going to be developing 2 office buildings of 8F on existing open parking.

There is a new private hospital to be about to start construction behind the Liberty development, to compliment the existing Netcare hospital.

The Centenary office development is reaching level 4 on its massive site.

The new interchange (cornubia) and the links between it and the current interchange (umhlanga/mt edgecombe) will start in Feb. This will involve the construction of many new fly overs (the design looks quite complex!

The M41 road widening to 6 lanes is underway as are the links between it and the umhlanga rocks drive interchange, again rather complex.

Ridgeside drive (linked to the above dev) is also underway.

Unilever are expanding their building and are building a multi-story parkade. (well underway)

Deneys Reitz Attornies are building their large new offices with earth works underway.

Derivco (the international durban based gambling software developer) are undertaking massive expansions to their already large building, by adding an additional 7000m2 and parkade. Eartworks have commenced.

The Ridgeside office park has commenced construction (first development to start in this new node). The first tennants are expected to move in in Q1 2010. Investec are still developing their new regional HQ here and will leave their current building in 2010 when it is complete.

Mercedes Benz are expanding their flagship showroom. Additionally they have built a monster parkade to store new vehicles.

These are all the one's off the top of my head...so yes DB..lots on the go. i'll pop this in the Umhlanga thread too

From the motor district by Crazy...

A few pics from behind Gateway... hope this is the right thread. Where was the thread with all the building layouts of the area???

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/stevehanauer/Umhlanga/27112008.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/stevehanauer/Umhlanga/27112008006.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/stevehanauer/Umhlanga/27112008005.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/stevehanauer/Umhlanga/27112008004.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/stevehanauer/Umhlanga/27112008001.jpg

Friend also bought a flat behind Gateway, his in "the Zone" I think...

This is the view of the common courtyard parking area for the 4 blocks.

http://i36.tinypic.com/11jaf5y.jpg

http://i35.tinypic.com/28cf4hx.jpg

http://i33.tinypic.com/2qi5vmq.jpg

Just some news updates:

Ftv are opening next to the City Lodge on the gateway circle in the same building as plaka, nedbank private clients and PKF.

Col'Cacchio are opening a store on the piazza next to the Ed Hardy store which opened a few weeks back.

Work is finishing up on the 205 room Protea Hotel and it will have its own piazza. So far lined up are two restaurants, a cafe and a bar. Unfortunately dont have anymore details on these yet. Opening is April.

Cuba Lounge is open in the old News Cafe premises, with News Cafe relocating to a new store along the boulevard by mid year.

Great news Mikey, I still have to have lunch or dinner at Plaka.

you know we have our own plaka here in Illovo Pules?

great updates! it's a bit like Sim City really. just build build build. :)

you know we have our own plaka here in Illovo Pules?

great updates! it's a bit like Sim City really. just build build build. :)

Yip, the one at Trupps center and I pass it every week day as I bus to and from work and I always tell myself that I have to go the but failed everytime :(

Another Plaka opened at Atholl Square in december 2008.

Col'Cacchio are opening a store on the piazza next to the Ed Hardy store which opened a few weeks back.


Col'Cacchio pizza's :drool:

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/11012009191.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/11012009192.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/11012009193.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/11012009194.jpg

Went to Gateway afterwards, had lunch at Adega's, and I must say for franchised protuguese, it aint bad! but not as good as Julio's or Gabbi's.

Love the IBV's "client car"
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/11012009196.jpg

^^ the other "client cars" they have parked there some times are an awesome Bently Continetal GT Cabrio, A ferrari F430 and a Lambo. Clearly the clients and owners arent poor

Col'Cacchio pizza's :drool:

totally agree with you there!!

if you guys had a choice of where to locate your offices would you chose the New town or Ridgeside office park environment? It seems most companies are still opting for the office park type environment. Investec and Vodacom are going that route in Ridgeside. The only firm opening its office building in the New town is Liberty Life and Stanlib at this point. Yes there are loads of other companies, but the big companies seeking large space needs, seem to prefer the office park environment still...

Office Park is just a bore, New Town would be a great move.

^^ the other "client cars" they have parked there some times are an awesome Bently Continetal GT Cabrio, A ferrari F430 and a Lambo. Clearly the clients and owners arent poor

lol, the F430 & the lambo are the mangers car's, The Rolls is used to pick up high profiled clients to come in and their thing. It belongs to IBV

if you guys had a choice of where to locate your offices would you chose the New town or Ridgeside office park environment? It seems most companies are still opting for the office park type environment. Investec and Vodacom are going that route in Ridgeside. The only firm opening its office building in the New town is Liberty Life and Stanlib at this point. Yes there are loads of other companies, but the big companies seeking large space needs, seem to prefer the office park environment still...

Ridgeside

Ridgeside, hands down.

^^ but the Ridgeside new town urban style? not the office parks there

^^ oh now I get you Mike, I'm up for urban style not the actual office parks.

Just some shots of the work in the parkside area. building on the left is lincoln on the lake and right is liberty life

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00053.jpg

more of the liberty development

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00055.jpg

looking from lincoln on the lake across the work on the park to the new protea hotel at the end of the palm boulevard

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00054.jpg

looking across undevelopment land in parkside across to the completed developments along palm boulevard

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00056.jpg

slow moving, but looking good

sorry should have said i took these over a month ago :)

lol, makes sense now

Some new hotels, some confused hotels...

HI Express Hotel

I have previously stated that the new HI Express hotel was next to the Liberty Life development opposite the CJ Saunders Park. Today i found out that this is wrong and that it is in fact in Ridgeside and u/c there.

Hotel next to Liberty Life

That leaves us with a hotel that is going up next to the Liberty development that none of us no who is going to opperate it, how big it is going to be or anything...someone needs to help me with the digging here!

Hotel next to the square

The open parking at The Square on La Lucia ridge is currently being excavated for a new hotel development. There are no boards up but all the tenants have been told that a hotel is going up there...can anyone help find more info?

Relais hotel Gateway

As part of the never ending expansion of Gateway, the centre will be developing a piazza development in the wavehouse precinct. This will include a 173 room 4 star Relais hotel. The hotel will have street frontage on centenary drive and open onto the piazza by the wavehouse which will expand the retail/cafe offering in this part of gateway. Work is to start in May for completion in May 2010

Other Gateway news...


The Stuttafords store is now undercontruction and will have a new location in the centre. They will be taking over under cover parking space and be replacing the @home store for their entrance. The store will be 4400m2. The @home store will be moving to another part of the centre.

Work on the Road lodge is progressing well and is well on track for its November completion, rising to 1st floor level, having completed the two basement levels and ground floor.

Two astro soccer pitches are to be built on the roof of the multi-story car park behind the cinemas on the roof facing the current go carting track. There are also plans for an action cricket/volleyball centre in this area.

The new international wing is on track with work starting mid year.

Checkers are expanding by 1500m2, Spar by 750m2, Mr Price by 1200m2 and McDonalds are doubling in size.

Other Gateway news...


The Stuttafords store is now undercontruction and will have a new location in the centre. They will be taking over under cover parking space and be replacing the @home store for their entrance. The store will be 4400m2. The @home store will be moving to another part of the centre.

Work on the Road lodge is progressing well and is well on track for its November completion, rising to 1st floor level, having completed the two basement levels and ground floor.

Two astro soccer pitches are to be built on the roof of the multi-story car park behind the cinemas on the roof facing the current go carting track. There are also plans for an action cricket/volleyball centre in this area.

The new international wing is on track with work starting mid year.

Checkers are expanding by 1500m2, Spar by 750m2, Mr Price by 1200m2 and McDonalds are doubling in size.

Spit, that's impressive growth!! I think Gateway will maintain its status as largest mall in Africa and Southern Hemisphere for a long time to come.

Gateway isn't the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. A mall in Brazil is I think 240 000m2. Plus, if Zonk'Izizwe is built it will be 200 000m2. Excellent Gateway is expanding though.

It's quite funny how we don't conventially factor Brazil into the Southern Hemisphere equation. We simply think Oz vs SA. So do the Aussies.

Mike, do you know what Gateway's stats / projected stats are re: gross letable area and gross size?

That mall in Brazil is the Shopping Aricanduva , but in fact it is formed of three shopping units [ Shopping Leste Aricanduva, Interlar Aricanduva (specialized in furniture) and Auto Shopping Aricanduva, specialized in cars, motobikes and boats.

< https://cid-fa30e885a9a46cf7.skydrive.live.com/self.aspx/South%20Africa/cca%7C_r17%7C_c1.jpg >

Gateway I think will stay with 163 500m2

they extending again, Edgars adding more space, and its about time. The current shop size is small.

Edgars is nearly complete, hence why i didnt mention it, but that expansion is 3000m2

The Brazil one is hard to compare to due to the fact that it includes motor/bike showrooms which are always large in space and workshop facilities and has a rather different make up to traditional shopping centres.

It's quite funny how we don't conventially factor Brazil into the Southern Hemisphere equation. We simply think Oz vs SA. So do the Aussies.

Mike, do you know what Gateway's stats / projected stats are re: gross letable area and gross size?

Gateway is adding:

4400m2 Stuttafords
3000m2 Edgars
1500m2 Checkers
1200m2 Mr Price
750m2 Spar

Hotels
20000m2 Relais
16000m2 Road lodge

Proposed and likely but not 100%
2000m2 Retail piazza at wavehouse
9000m2 International wing

If we add the definates - Gateway rises from 166,000m2 to 176,850m2

If we add the likely's - Gateway rises to 187,850m2

If we add the hotels (not sure if these count as part of the space? doubt as not leasable) - Gateway rises to 223,850m2

The Brazil one is hard to compare to due to the fact that it includes motor/bike showrooms which are always large in space and workshop facilities and has a rather different make up to traditional shopping centres.

That isn't the only mall in Brazil bigger than Gateway, though, so I think they trump us in that regard.

No its just that 1 mate, & I wouldnt call that one a mall myself

I guess the list I saw was incorrect then. I'm trying to find it again, but alas...

It's quite funny how we don't conventially factor Brazil into the Southern Hemisphere equation. We simply think Oz vs SA. So do the Aussies.


In my experience the Aussies think it's them, New Zealand and some islands in the Pacific. Most had no idea we even had actual cities, shopping malls, skyscrapers etc. But as you say, we're like this about Brazil!

Funny how that works!

Porsche Centre Umhlanga

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/UMHLANGA/umhlanga_header.jpg

Construction

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic2_img.jpg

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic3_img.jpg

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic10_img.jpg

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic11_img.jpg

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic13_img.jpg

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic14_img.jpg

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic16_img.jpg

http://www.porschejohannesburg.com/aboutus/imgs/umhlanga_gallery/pic17_img.jpg

The highly anticipated Porsche Centre Umhlanga is well underway to completion with the opening scheduled for April 2009. At 4224 sq m, this new facility which is situated in Umhlanga Ridge, Kwa-Zulu Natal, will include a beautiful showroom with the capacity to display 35 new and pre-owned Porsches, a service centre comprising of a 20 bay workshop, Porsche Design Driver's Selection Shop as well as a coffee shop where customers can relax and enjoy the Porsches on display. For further information, please contact Christo Kruger at Porsche Centre Johannesburg - 011 540 5000.



Porsche Centre Umhlanga

49 Meridian Drive
Umhlanga Ridge Town Centre,
Umhlanga Ridge,
4319

Looks good. Thanks for posting. I hope people still big money to ensure its sustainability.

That's a sleek building.

Looks good. Thanks for posting. I hope people still big money to ensure its sustainability.

the rich never stop spending. If you look at last months car stats while everything else is plummetting they stil sold 19 Ferraris, 4 Maseratis, 6 Bentleys and a Lambo...dunno the porsche stats

Same design as the one in fourways, looks nice.

the rich never stop spending. If you look at last months car stats while everything else is plummetting they stil sold 19 Ferraris, 4 Maseratis, 6 Bentleys and a Lambo...dunno the porsche stats

yeh I keep an eye on imports from NAMSA monthly reports and the exotics imports are quite something.

Same design as the one in fourways, looks nice.

yip that was the start of the global porsche new look roll out

Little old but on that slipped through cracks...as many are in Umhlanga

Umhlanga gets blue-chip development
2009/01/15

A new blue-chip commercial development has been launched in the heart of Umhlanga Rocks.

HQ on Zenith sits directly off the new Cornubia Interchange that is currently being constructed off the N2 freeway, alongside Prestondale. This interchange will service the Gateway Precinct and link up with the northern side of Umhlanga Rocks Drive.

The precinct itself will house the likes of Porsche's new showroom, a new Southern Sun hotel a Radisson hotel as well Liberty Life's new Head Office and a host of other high profile corporates.

It offers 2,000sq m of office space and 300sq m of ground floor retail space with delivery pegged for first quarter 2010.

Does gateway have its own thread? When I was down couple months ago it was u/c, just wanted to check in on how things turned out. Even though gateway is one of the larger malls, it really needs more than that to attract people, most of the shops are tiny, it wouldn't hurt extending even further, maybe a hotel?

^^ If you read up higher in this thread there is a Road lodge u/c and a relais hotel and piazza next to the wavehouse proposed.

The retail element is also expanding greatly. I am a little confused by your statement:

Even though gateway is one of the larger malls, it really needs more than that to attract people, most of the shops are tiny, it wouldn't hurt extending even further, maybe a hotel?

How are the shops tiny? yes there are smaller stores, but all malls have that. The Woolworths is 3rd largest in country and most profitable. The Edgars is expanding to 9100m2 to make it one of the largest (The largest currently being the one at the Pavillion).

The only stores that i believe need more space are Mr Price and Mr Price Home (both popping at the seams currently)

^^ If you read up higher in this thread there is a Road lodge u/c and a relais hotel and piazza next to the wavehouse proposed.

The retail element is also expanding greatly. I am a little confused by your statement:

Even though gateway is one of the larger malls, it really needs more than that to attract people, most of the shops are tiny, it wouldn't hurt extending even further, maybe a hotel?

How are the shops tiny? yes there are smaller stores, but all malls have that. The Woolworths is 3rd largest in country and most profitable. The Edgars is expanding to 9100m2 to make it one of the largest (The largest currently being the one at the Pavillion).

The only stores that i believe need more space are Mr Price and Mr Price Home (both popping at the seams currently)

Well maybe they don't need to expand those stores, or most stores, but they do need something extraordinary, apart from wavehouse etc. I can see an ice rink doing well, I for one would go there instead of the one at the beach, mainly because I'd have other things to do after falling over on the ice :P (talking about during the night now, we all know how the nightlife at the beach has changed over the years)

Ice Rink is planned for Pav's. Beach nigt life is changing, you should go down there on a Wed night for dinner and walk along the beach. Nice crowd there. Also Ice Rink is under new management, and is being renovated.

New Office on the Block

(New Developments) UMHLANGA (March 21) - Amidst the hustle and bustle of KZN’s Umhlanga Town Centre, one of the area’s biggest office blocks has emerged. The Centenary office development which spans 15 500m² has taken its first occupants in quadrant one and tenants and investors of the second quadrant will move in towards the end of March.

Unlike many of the area’s office blocks, the Centenary has no residential units. Office suites are spacious and airy with large windows providing an abundance of natural light. Offices open onto balconies with gardens and uninterrupted views of the Town Centre and sugar cane fields to the west of the N2.

Positioned on the corner of Centenary Boulevard and Meridian Drive, The Centenary can be easily accessed from the N2 and is well placed near the new interchange being built north of the Umhlanga / Mount Edgecombe off ramp. The interchange will link up with a new arterial road Umhlanga Boulevard which will run parallel to Centenary Boulevard. “This means that tenants and owners will bypass the Gateway traffic and have quick access to the building off the N2,” said Murray Archibald, a spokesperson for the Centenary Development Company. The new N2 interchange is expected to be completed in early 2010.

The development which was launched in September 2007 had a very good uptake with buyers looking to invest as well as rental queries. There is now very little space left with 800m² available from a total of 11800m² which has been built in the first 3 quadrants.

Units are selling at between R15 000 and R17 500 per square metre. Rentals start at R130 per square metre.

The final quadrant comprising 4000m² will become available in December 2009.


Submitted: 21 Mar 2009

In my experience the Aussies think it's them, New Zealand and some islands in the Pacific. Most had no idea we even had actual cities, shopping malls, skyscrapers etc. But as you say, we're like this about Brazil!

I would tend to disagree - the Australians I have met are for the most part sophisticated and worldly people and realise that there are cities and malls in other parts of the hemisphere. Also - they do not spend too much time considering New Zealand or the Pacific Islands.

Went past here yesterday, most of the developments moving along nicely, Porsche looks finished, just needs the car's now :D

but its sitting very lonely down there, hope to see more coming up around it.

Also anyone tried that "3 Chefs Bistro" thats just near the cresent. looks pretty fancy.

Cant find the thread for Ridgeside, but Investec is coming up nicely & BDO Spencer have started foundation work.

Anyone know whats the crane for on the top??? please tell me Marriot :D

^^ Investec and Vodacom developments are right next to each other...where is BDO Spencer rising? first i have heard on that...

The one on the top of the hill has Murray Roberts boards up...could that be HI Express? or Westin? (ok thats me being very wishful thinking)

Three Chefs is a great restaurant, but the health cafe on the floor below is great from Breaki!

^^ Investec and Vodacom developments are right next to each other...where is BDO Spencer rising? first i have heard on that...

The one on the top of the hill has Murray Roberts boards up...could that be HI Express? or Westin? (ok thats me being very wishful thinking)

Three Chefs is a great restaurant, but the health cafe on the floor below is great from Breaki!

Heard that the site infront of Investec is BDO

didnt see that health cafe, need to walk around that area instead of drive.

Yeh I hope that site on top is either Marriot or Westin :D

The one with the WBHO cranes is the Investec development.

The one behind with JT Ross is Vodacom.

Is there another in front i am not seeing?

well when I say infront I mean as you driving down the road going to join the M4

^^ ya thats the way i was explaining it. Not seen any work on a dev in front of the investec one...dig DB dig

This is what I know, and you say Vodacom is behind Investec

http://i44.tinypic.com/2eo8zuw.jpg

How do you manage to copy the google map to here? For I'd like to do the same to post a google map on the Johannesburg thread.

"PrtScn" +
http://i39.tinypic.com/28i48kp.jpg

This is what I know, and you say Vodacom is behind Investec

http://i44.tinypic.com/2eo8zuw.jpg

ah ok... the Vodacom office is behind Investec and is already a few floors up, looks to be a MUCH larger development than Investec (which is 15,000m2).

Didnt know about the BDO one, but not surprised, as ALL the land in the office park component of Ridgeside has been sold

"PrtScn" +
http://i39.tinypic.com/28i48kp.jpg

Thanks. I had already tried pressing prtscr, but it seemed that nothing ever happened. When it was so simple, just needed to paste on any file.:banana:

lol, paint althought a very boring program, can do alot of things :)

Paint in Windows 7 is legend :P

lol, paint althought a very boring program, can do alot of things :)

i paste directly into powerpoint and work from there

amateurs :)..

i Paste directly into photoshop then make the pictures LIE! :D

Nice to see that area finally getting developed...

^^ some of us are far from photo fundies

Neither am i :).. i just bugger around until it looks good..

Was up at the top of Ridgeside today, I'll go back and get a decent shot of the Investec development (I think it is) its progressing VERY nicely.

the one progressing the most is the Vodacom dev, Investec is coming along though.

Then it must have been the VC dev that I was seeing... either way its nice to see the area being developed.

Is the bridge still being constructed?

yip, its part of ridgeside drive, which is currently u/c. However as the entire site is totally inaccessible at the moment to the public, and the bridge is about 1km from existing roads, sadly we will not be able to go out and take our own photo's of it.

Is the whole site fenced off?... or is just far from everything?...

If I had a bearing I would gladly mission off to find the bridge since I work very near the site.

its not fenced off, but you will be "recommended" not to be there

Hmmmm bugger... that sucks..

Wonder if I can put my Commando skills to use :tongue2: Sneak in, get the photos and leg it out of there :)

That's great news dysan1 :) That bridge is really beautiful! Do you know when it will be completed?

yip, its part of ridgeside drive, which is currently u/c. However as the entire site is totally inaccessible at the moment to the public, and the bridge is about 1km from existing roads, sadly we will not be able to go out and take our own photo's of it.

Excuses, excuses!! TUNNEL if you need to!

guys i got some great shots from the walk about i had in my hood the other day, will work through them on post over the long weekend. The park is coming along well and all in all i counted 15 cranes in the gateway/ridgeside area

Cant wait for the pics Mike.

Well here they start.

CJ Saunders Park


The park is coming along well. There is a racked amphitheatre in the one corner, with a stage that will almost be surrounded by one of the lakes. Great for concerts in the park and the racked setup will alleviate some of the viewing problems on experiences at the Botanic gardens

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00795.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00799.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00811.jpg

The building you can see in the next two pics is Lincoln on the Lake, commercial development by Growthpoint.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00812.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00814.jpg

This is the building for the cafe in the park, right next to the lake and across from the Radisson development

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00793.jpg

Across the park you can see 3 developments. On the left is Lincoln on the Lake, the one in the middle is Liberty and Standard Chartered new offices and the site to the very right is the new Southern Sun hotel development. its a huge site so i dont think the whole building will be a hotel or else you are looking at 400 odd rooms

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00791.jpg

Thought i'd give you a walk to the Parkside area. This runs from Millenium Boulevard to the Palm Boulevard

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00784.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00785.jpg

The parkside developments in the distance (Lincoln on the lake, Liberty, Standard Chartered and the Hotel) Gateway's Wavehouse is int he middle of the pic

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00786.jpg

Tree'd walkways like this run the length of Centenary Boulevard

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00788.jpg

With alot of birds and creatures, keeping nature in this new cbd

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00789.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00798.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00801.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00802.jpg

The basement levels of the hotel next to Liberty and opposite the new Protea Hotel

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00813.jpg

Just off the park is Palm Boulevard that runs along the edge of Gateway.

The 205 room/40 suite Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge is nearly ready for opening (yes this one has taken forever!) It is kitted out with Jewellers, a bar, cafe's, two restaurants around another courtyard

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00816.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00819.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00820.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00821.jpg

The 125 room Road Lodge development is coming along well and is due to open in 4th Quarter 2009

Render

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/roadlodgeumhlanga.jpg

Now

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00823.jpg

There is this big development going on Umhlanga rocks drive right in front of Ridgeton Towers. No boards up so no clue what it is, but those supports look rather big imo, any ideas from our construction friends?

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00824.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00826.jpg

This is the site of the HI Express Hotel - great sea views from there. It is opposite the previous development i showed on Umhlanga Rocks Drive within Ridgeside. Murray and Roberts are doing the dev.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00825.jpg

Some street scenes, developments that have been completed at the back of gateway

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00829.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00830.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00837.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00838.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00841.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00842.jpg

The new Porsche dealership is open in Umhlanga

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00831.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00833.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00836.jpg

Oh and i know we have forumers that have bought into The Quartz, Cube and The Aspect. All 3 are i this pic. Quartz on the left and the others in the middle, all opposite Porsche

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00832.jpg

Really cool developements happening in Umhlanga Ridge. Dysan1, I suppose that is your limousine waiting for you on this photo.:lol::cheers1:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00841.jpg

Thanks for the interesting tour, the area is a huge construction site.

You're the best, Mike. Thanks for going throught the trouble of taking all these pics and posting them. That area is looking amazing.

The site where the Holiday Inn Express is coming up is now a hive of activity. Seems as if roads are being cut, joining the road that connects Umhlanga Ridge to Umhlanga Rocks (forgot the name). It's a pity it's just a regular HI Express as that's a prime site. Should be an iconic highrise beauty.

Aw, I can't see a single one of those photos.

Really cool developements happening in Umhlanga Ridge. Dysan1, I suppose that is your limousine waiting for you on this photo.:lol::cheers1:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00841.jpg

haha thats outside Gagasi radio station, i live a block away from here

You're the best, Mike. Thanks for going throught the trouble of taking all these pics and posting them. That area is looking amazing.

The site where the Holiday Inn Express is coming up is now a hive of activity. Seems as if roads are being cut, joining the road that connects Umhlanga Ridge to Umhlanga Rocks (forgot the name). It's a pity it's just a regular HI Express as that's a prime site. Should be an iconic highrise beauty.

lol the road is called Umhlanga rocks drive still...

Its one of 5 hotels for the site, you need a mix hey

Exellent update Mike,

not sure whats going on infront of Ridgestone but will try and find out. I know the some one requested that the height restriction for the site to be revised, last I heard it was zoned for a 4F building hence Ridgeton has 4 F parking garage and then the units start but if these guys got their wish then its gona get nasty, lol.

looking at the size of those collumns i would think that dev is more than 4F high. Was told by someone it could even be over 10F

Umhlanga Light house
http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp297/tuksmedic/Umhlangabeachb.jpg

There is this big development going on Umhlanga rocks drive right in front of Ridgeton Towers. No boards up so no clue what it is, but those supports look rather big imo, any ideas from our construction friends?

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00824.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC00826.jpg

Would love to know what dev. this is???:banana:

A tower crane is now up on site

the lincoln on the lake (left) and liberty (right) developments are progressing well

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01120.jpg

The place is looking dense as anything.

hmm that Virgin dont look all that big from this angle

Make way for greener offices
17 Jun 2009 - I-Net Bridge -

Intro

Intent on being the first Green Star SA-rated office building in KwaZulu Natal, the 6700m² Lincoln on the Lake mixed-use development in Durban’s Parkside precinct.

INTENT on being the first Green Star SA-rated office building in KwaZulu Natal, the 6700m² Lincoln on the Lake mixed-use development in Durban’s Parkside precinct of Umhlanga Ridge New Town Centre is poised to raise the bar on environmental standards for commercial projects in SA.

The project is being jointly developed by JSE-listed property company Growthpoint Properties, The Louis Group and Key Developments.

The building is designed by Torbjorn Hanssen of THA Architecture & Design and sustainability consultants WSP Green by Design, among others. Lincoln on the Lake will be owned by Growthpoint on completion.

The core principles underpinning the design and construction of Lincoln on the Lake include environmental consciousness and sustainability.

“We made it a priority to identify ways to ensure efficiency,” says Greg de Klerk, who heads Growthpoint’s Durban office. “Our corporate philosophy is to give preference to working with professionals who are dedicated to green building practices.”

When it comes to energy and its monitoring at Lincoln on the Lake, the lighting is controlled by an individually addressable lighting control system with motion and daylight sensing switches to monitor movement and light levels respectively. Sub-metering is provided for all substantive energy users in the building.

Air-cooled variable refrigerant volume systems provide an efficient means of air-conditioning the internal spaces. Ensuring the highest indoor environment quality, fresh air supply is 150% that of the minimum permissible ventilation rate legislated in the national building standard SANS 10400-O.

Alana Shuttleworth, sustainability consultant at WSP, says the aim is to counteract the build-up of pollutants.

High levels of carbon dioxide (CO²) are an indication of inadequate ventilation which can have a negative effect on the quality of breathable air. At Lincoln on the Lake, CO² sensors are located at all return points to air-conditioning systems to monitor levels. “This ensures delivery of optimum quantities of outside air,” Shuttleworth says.

Further ensuring that Lincoln on the Lake’s environmental emissions are contained, only paints with low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels have been selected. VOCs are organic compounds that produce vapours at room temperature. Exposure to high concentrations of vapours is a concern because the health implications are consistent with the effects of “sick building syndrome”.

Water efficiency is another aspect of the green design. Rain water and air cooled equipment is used to reduce the demand for potable water. The design also encourages the use of alternative forms of transport as parts of the parking lot are dedicated to alternative fuel vehicles, motorbikes, mopeds, scooters and bicycles.

Committed to the environment on every level, the contractor has aimed to reuse or recycle 30% of all construction waste in order to reduce the amount of waste from going to landfill.

Source: Business Day

http://www.eprop.co.za/news/article.aspx?idArticle=11477

The place is looking dense as anything.

and getting more dense all the time...

11 developments u/c at present in the NTC

Very good.

Gateway update... Stuttaford's is well underway on their new store. In preparation for their move to make way for stuttaford's, @home living space is being built at the very southern end at 4500m2. So yet another expansion to the centre! will it ever end? the hotel to b built down by the wavehouse is in the final plannin and design stages.

Apparently the Stuttafords at Musgrave is 'relocating' to Gateway. The Gateway store should be larger than the Sandton one. So Edgars will probably move into the space vacated by Stuttafords Musgrave. Does anyone know if Musgave is still being refurbished? Will there be an @homelivingspace in addition to an @home @ Gateway?

^^ the @home at gateway is going (as this will be the entrance to Stuttafords). The @homelivingspace will be on the very southern end of the mall past incredible connection and dion wired, facing the McDonald's on umhlanga rocks drive.

Stuttafords La Lucia is closing, i was not aware of Musgrave closing. Stuttafords will be closing 6 stores and enlargening their strong stores. Musgrave has no room to expand so could be on the cull list

Here's the article on the musgrave store closing and moving to gateway...maybe i got wrong info on the la lucia store?

Reviving a grande dame

By Sasha Planting

Marco Cicoria, CEO of Stuttafords, is one patient man. As a director of Stuttafords since 2000, he's been involved in two leveraged buyouts of the retailer, watched two CEOs come and go and seen the strategy for the grande dame of department stores come full circle.

He's been in charge for a year now and believes that after a decade of false starts, Stuttafords' turnaround strategy is finally on track.


The drive to reposition Stuttafords as an international brand showcase gained traction about 10 months ago, with the refurbishment of the Sandton store. Another nine stores will get the same treatment over a three-year period. Smaller stores will be closed or relocated to super regional malls. First will be the Stuttafords in Durban's Musgrave Centre, which will be relocated to the booming Gateway complex. Renovations have begun on the store in Cape Town's Canal Walk.


The first two makeovers will be funded by shareholders. The rest, says Cicoria, will be funded from retained earnings. Sandton alone cost about R25m.


"We are not reinventing a retail concept," says Cicoria. "We are taking Stuttafords back to what it was - a destination shopping experience." This, he says, is epitomised by department stores such as Selfridges in London and Bloomingdale's in New York.


Marco Cicoria - Able at last to implement vision
This was the vision he bought into when he invested in the buyout of the company by a consortium led by Bruce Rubenstein's Vestacor with Retail Ventures and the Ellerine brothers two years ago. They acquired the heavily indebted company from former CEO Charles Fox, AMB Private Equity and Nedbank. Prior to that it was owned by Pepkor, where it sat uneasily among the low-cost apparel stores and mass-market grocers.


The new vision means big stores, 4 000 m² in the case of Sandton, that will stock the full range of a particular brand of clothing or cosmetics. You were right jimmiali - the gateway store will be bigger than Sandton as it is 4500m2


It also means bringing in brands that have a certain cachet in SA. "Banana Republic, Gap, and French Connection are desirable brands that are exclusive to Stuttafords," Cicoria says.


As a retailer with a patchy track record, landing these big brands was easier said than done.


"The brand owners were not sure they wanted to invest until the look and feel of the stores was correct. We wore out the soles of our shoes persuading them that our vision dovetailed with their brand strategy," says Vestacor's Bruce Rubenstein.


Vestacor has a track record in the retail sector that may have counted. It holds interests in Look & Listen and WM Spilhaus, and has historically held interests in Sportsman's Warehouse, Outdoor Warehouse, Dunns, Burgers, and Morkels.


Stuttafords will continue to stock brands such as Jeep and Billabong, as well as its own label, Oaktree. But it is the exclusive relationships that Cicoria believes will make the difference. "I can't be an Edgars, Woolworths or Truworths. I don't have the volumes, IT systems, or the people. I am not in the volume game," he says, "I'm in the margin game."


With a chain of just 13 stores, what Stuttafords can afford to have is service.


Along with the reintroduction of the classic department store model, Cicoria plans to re-introduce old-fashioned service. Tailors, corsetiers and a personal dresser are waiting in the wings.


Recession aside, it seems there is a portion of the population prepared to pay for such service and exclusive brands: the store in Sandton is growing turnover 25% month on month - though off a small base.


Others are noticing too. Big landlords are now phoning Cicoria. Once it was the other way around.

Does anyone know if Musgave is still being refurbished?

Plans are in place, but management hasnt said anything as yet.

Thanks Mike and Durbsboi for all the info. It is a pity about the closures - but this may be the catalyst for the Musgrave renovation. The Gateway stores should be nice - Stuttafords and @homelivingspace.

stuttafords is SAs version of David Jones and Grace Bros in Oz, Gallaries Lafayett in France, Harvey Nicks in UK,bloomies and Macys and maybe neiman marcus in States. It needs to have better brands through as when I was in SA last it had crappy Surf brands that one can get in surf store and not too much quality brands. good to see BR and Gap but this means they wont enter SA as stand alone brands?
Just spend 2 weeks states and canada side and SA is seriously behind the times when it comes to international brands and its a pity there is not enough of the premium brands with current stock.

^^ the problem is that alot of international brands come in at ridiculous prices, hence they dont sell. That is an area that needs to be tackled. But i do agree that we are lacking in the brand front...will people pay, the designer international wing at the V&A has been hit hard...

Stuttafords has the following brands on book and are aiming for 5 other big brands in the coming months:

Animale
Ashbury
Banana Republic
Ben Sherman
Billabong
Calvin Klein
Caterpillar
Carducci
Caviar
Define
Dockers
EllesseExcursion
Falke
French Connection
Gap
Gant
Guess
Haviana's
Hip Hop
Hush puppies
Jeep
Kenneth Cole
K Swiss
Levi's
Lyle and Scott
Nine West
Oaktree
O'Neil
Oscar Jacobson
Puma
Pepe Jeans
Pringle
Quicksilver
Roxy
Skechers
Sissy Boy
Soviet
Tommy Hilfiger
Yarra Trail

I know they are crazy prices and in most cases are un sold crappy items that couldent shift internationally. I have noticed that the BOSS stores in Sa carry the worst items and they are so out of date and not current ranges (winter or summer) that are carried internatinally. I am in an internatioal airport almost every week somewhere and see BOSS stores all over, most have simmilar trends, colurs and styles but the SA stores have nothing like these stores.

On the premium brands (Armani,D&G, Gucci, LV, etc) I have noticed again that what is in SA is not what is in stores internationally. Also the conversion (against exchange rate) taking into acount that all of these sell in London, NY etc at a sell price that included customs duty, tax and mark up etc are so much cheaper than in SA. I have just bought a LV bag for my wife in NY and it cost $1000 which is AED 3600 in Dubai (it was cheaper in NY) and when I see it in LV in Sa for R 19 000 , It makes me wonder are there realy people in SA stupid enough to pay that when its nearly half price overseas.

For Sa to compete for the big spending tourist buck, it needs to be relative to places like Sing/ Honkers /Dubai etc where people have holidays but also buy things as they should be cheaper than their own countries (due to a variety of reasons ) but its not.

stuttafords is SAs version of David Jones and Grace Bros in Oz, Gallaries Lafayett in France, Harvey Nicks in UK,bloomies and Macys and maybe neiman marcus in States. It needs to have better brands through as when I was in SA last it had crappy Surf brands that one can get in surf store and not too much quality brands. good to see BR and Gap but this means they wont enter SA as stand alone brands?
Just spend 2 weeks states and canada side and SA is seriously behind the times when it comes to international brands and its a pity there is not enough of the premium brands with current stock.

David Jones is an excellent and very upmarket store. Grace Bros was more downmarket -more like Edgars - but the name no longer exists and it is now called Myer - which I always thought slightly more upmarket and a nicer store than GB.

The refurbished Stuttafords in Sandton is really a nice store and can compare pretty well to the upmarket ones you have listed, albeit on a smaller scale than something like Macy NY - that being said, the downtown Miami Macy is hideous - kinda like the Hub. It is a pity that Macy rebranded iconic stores like Marshall Field in Chicago - I think they suffered some backlash from loyal customers in their move downmarket.

I know they are crazy prices and in most cases are un sold crappy items that couldent shift internationally. I have noticed that the BOSS stores in Sa carry the worst items and they are so out of date and not current ranges (winter or summer) that are carried internatinally. I am in an internatioal airport almost every week somewhere and see BOSS stores all over, most have simmilar trends, colurs and styles but the SA stores have nothing like these stores.

On the premium brands (Armani,D&G, Gucci, LV, etc) I have noticed again that what is in SA is not what is in stores internationally. Also the conversion (against exchange rate) taking into acount that all of these sell in London, NY etc at a sell price that included customs duty, tax and mark up etc are so much cheaper than in SA. I have just bought a LV bag for my wife in NY and it cost $1000 which is AED 3600 in Dubai (it was cheaper in NY) and when I see it in LV in Sa for R 19 000 , It makes me wonder are there realy people in SA stupid enough to pay that when its nearly half price overseas.

For Sa to compete for the big spending tourist buck, it needs to be relative to places like Sing/ Honkers /Dubai etc where people have holidays but also buy things as they should be cheaper than their own countries (due to a variety of reasons ) but its not.

Im not so sure, my dad's friend is the chief importer of Ralph Lauren & his brothers deal with with BOSS, Amarni & Lacoste, they own QDOS in Gateway, those guys are almost never in SA because they forever flying around the world looking at the new collections & are constantly bringing down new items. Things in their stores change every week. Im not entirely sure if BOSS stores also do what they do as but they always up to date. Hence the prices in their shops are so expensive & from what I see people dont mind paying that price, esp if they just visited the website and went to the store and see that shirt lying on the shelf marked R2500

prices are still way over priced imo

Ya well you got make a profit some where :D........ but I get discount ;)

here's an update on the park and surrounds

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01257.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01258.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01259.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01261.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01262.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01263.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01264.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01265.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01266.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01267.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01268.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01270.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01271.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01272.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC01276.jpg

When will that park be completed?

By september

Thanks mike.

Look awesome, Liberty taking shape nicely and the lake looks cool. Thanks a mill for the updates Mike!

Great update, Mike. Thanks for the pics.

Ya the area around this park is coming along well, has a very good feeling to it. The cafes and squares surrounding the park will have a great buzz. Still need more details on the hotel next to liberty though. Someone must have a render and info on it! come on

Mike are there any Librarys , Public pools or sporst facilities or social areas for people or is it all private developmnets with no communial facilities?

Im sure I heard there's a library in one of the buildings either planned or to be built. The area is very pedestrian friendly, but interms of communial pools, sports grounds fetc,, I doubt there is any.

Mike are there any Librarys , Public pools or sporst facilities or social areas for people or is it all private developmnets with no communial facilities?

These are all part of the future phases. The Umhlanga library, clinic and municipal offices which are in the village have sites for their relocation to the NTC (around the Fire station that has already been built). They well move when development starts on their site in the village.

The same applies to the Umhlanga country club - land is provided for bowling greens, 25m pool, 4 tennis courts, 3 squash courts and a central clubhouse. Again when development on their land is finalised the move will commence.

It is being built as a complete community town. A new intermodal transport facility has been designed and will link regional buses, airport shuttle, umhlanga bus service, taxis and cabs.

The park is open to the public and anyone can use it. Other smaller savanna parks are to built in the future development phases. It is by no means a closed development

Does anybody have a more up to date map of phase 1 and 2 gateway roads and complex's? Or atleast able to help me update this one?

http://dc140.4shared.com/img/118484021/5d69363e/UNTC_Phase_2.bmp (http://www.4shared.com/file/118484021/5d69363e/UNTC_Phase_2.html)

a bigger version can be downloaded follow the link through the picture

http://i32.tinypic.com/2ut484k.jpg

http://i30.tinypic.com/2e6a82h.jpg

http://i32.tinypic.com/2ewgtab.jpg

Very nice collage. Thanks for posting.