Looking good, great updates Mike.

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.

And house of fraser in the UK.

They need to compile a guide on all the shops and restaurants in the area.

^^ i will make an attempt at it

I said they, but if you want to then go ahead :D

here some great new town centre images from Flickr by JimmyCMYK

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2490/4031920118_53d203c9e2.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2682/4031933524_831b31056d.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2764/4031922154_ed50042e99.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2633/4031171643_2d3a3698fa.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2435/4031930816_03fbe7034f.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2521/4031176441_041f3b999c.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2710/4031174663_cd22a53a82.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2521/4031152325_25aa6d77c3.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2525/4031907312_ab3e5d5123.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2461/4031916216_cccc47d776.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2550/4031912190_74335c396b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3499/4031165403_ea190c8470.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2553/4031903360_30b6453d04.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2636/4031891270_cf22514f01.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2511/4031145633_ea5a9dd1d5.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2626/4031134413_678dea4f5c.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2429/3989750658_79a04f6ebf.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3240/3842558974_5fcb8797ba.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3446/3842558976_06335b4f86.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2423/3762239578_2bd822af27.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2551/3762240782_265d0caeac.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2427/3762240424_06f16f88ce.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3478/3761418607_75e6f3e141.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3527/3762224672_9a8cb5ae36.jpg

Those are some of the best pics we've ever had posted of this precinct. Profiles the area brilliantly. Thanks for sharing.

^^ I agree, the first 14 pic's you could easily mistake it for being an oversea's city! amazing!

Hi Dysan1, some great pictures of the ridge. No doubt that this area looks more like a european city, than Durban. Medium density blocks with retail and commercial is the way to go. Just a couple of simple questions, first, are there any public schools in the vacinity?
Apart from the privately owned park which is spectacular, are there any sports fields for a guy to practice some football or other sport?
And my final question, arent there no pedestrians on the streets, surely with a great town centre like this the foot traffic should actually be high, or is it normal that nobody walks, for security reasons, or for being lasy as hell...
Thanks
Marco

Hey. I only noticed now, by looking back at those pics that you are right, very few people to be seen. I can assure you however that people do walk the area alot. I live around here and walk the streets all the time. It is a very safe area and there are alot of outdoor cafes, street level retail and the like. I'll make sure to go out during the middle of the day and take some shots when people are about. There are about 2500 residential units in the new town centre and loads of office space.

There are no schools in the new town centre currently, but there is land set aside for one when the area reaches critical mass. There are schools within a 5min drive in the more established parts of Umhlanga and La Lucia.

There are no sports fields in the town centre, but there are at the other schools that border it. Again land has been set aside for the relocation of the Umhlanga country club to the area, which will include tennis/squash courts, bowling greens and a field. Because the area is rather dense, sports facilities have been developed on the roofs of parking structures like the new Tiger Turf Arena sports facility. Link (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=981332)

http://tigerturfarena.co.za/images/stories/gateway%20roof%20location.jpg

http://tigerturfarena.co.za/index.php?option=com_joomgallery&func=watermark&id=14&catid=3&orig=1&no_html=1&Itemid=49

Hope that was helpful, any other questions?

Thanks Dysan, that was very informative!!!
The U.R.T.C. is one of the best examples of good architecture combined with a good urban frame work, really world class!!!
Just another question... sorry:)
I recall a couple of months ago a render of the new Design Quarter for Durban-Umhlanga, which was absolutely fabulous!!! Is it still on the cards??
And if possible a list of the future developments in and around the town centre for us to have an idea of the activity.
Thanks in advance
Marco

Sure thing, I'll whip a list together. There are at least 16 developments underway in the new town and another 8 in the new ridgeside precinct, with amazing coastal and city views. There's a thread for that in here as well. The design quarter has been put on the back burner for now with the state of retail in sa and worldwide. The design and concept has changed somewhat. The retail component is less, but they have added substantial office 35000M2 and two hotels to the development site. The holiday inn and hq for boe underconstruction at the moment form part of this development. They all fall onto a central open air piazza which houses all the design stores.

I think the design quarter retail part was not all that well thought out. They had a big Woolworths included - even though Gateway has a flagship Woolworths etc. - now the @homelivingspace has also gone to Gateway. I think Wetherleys has also opened somewhere else - so I am a bit unsure as to the justification for duplicate stores.

^^ The Woolworths was a Woolworths home and food store, like the on in the Fourways design quarter, no clothing.

@homelivingspace and wetherlys opened elsewhere as they needed an Umhlanga presence and the design quarter was taking too long.

The new "design quarter" is smaller and is basically retail at the bottom of buildings opening onto a piazza with mainly cafes and some key higher end stores. Bakos brothers, Kluk, Twiice and the like

Oh ok - so does this mean that Woolworths will no longer open a store there? Was there also going to be an Edgars - and has this also gone to God? Sounds like there will not really be any anchors?

@ Dysan. How big are the pavements because from my screen the look a bit smaller than what I had hoped for a new development. Thanks for the pics though very interesting development for NUR.

Anyone been to the new Stuttafords in Gateway? havent been there myself but heard its something out of the norm for SA.......let alone Durbs

Oh ok - so does this mean that Woolworths will no longer open a store there? Was there also going to be an Edgars - and has this also gone to God? Sounds like there will not really be any anchors?

it was never going to have edgars. Its was never aimed to compete with gateway. I have no idea who the final tenant list is but the majors in the traditional sense are not in it bar woolworths, and they never were even asked to be in it

What do you mean? the pavements are more than wide enough

Anyone been to the new Stuttafords in Gateway? havent been there myself but heard its something out of the norm for SA.......let alone Durbs

My folks went this weekend, and were very impressed, thought it was fantastic.
Sounds pretty much like the a similar concept as a lot of the department stores here in UK & US, with 'mini stores' within a store. Mentioned the likes of Polo Ralph Lauren, Mango, Banana Reublic, Gap, etc etc all have sections in it.

Sounds awesome will try and go there this weekend. Sounds like they did something similar to what they have in Sandton but the person who was telling me about it said its better than Sandtons.

Yup its very nice :) has a very good feel to it and has def taken the brand to a new level

What do you mean? the pavements are more than wide enough

I was wondering if they are the size of Jozi or Cape Town innercities pavements because I find those a bit small for my preference or by Nelspruit/Mbombela reference.

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/Pearls/DSC08672Medium.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/Pearls/DSC08675Medium.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/Pearls/DSC08676Medium.jpg

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http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/Pearls/DSC08683Medium.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g160/amgosai/Pearls/DSC08757Medium.jpg

Umhlanga is like crane-ville at the moment. Thanks for the pics, DB.

Just to add, Col Cacchio's wont be opening in the Piazza, I see they going to be occupying the spot M&A had in Gateway.

yup they open tomorrow

so soon! damn havent even been down to Hooters as yet aswell!

That is good news - they do a good pizza! Does anyone know if bread basket is opening in Durban at all?

Nope. Its basically like bread ahead

No worries - thanks anyhow!

Work has finally started on the new 220 room hotel development next to the wavehouse and skate park at gateway. This new expansion to gateway will include the hotel and 1800m2 of retail. No mention of operator yet

ANOTHER 1800m2 of retail? Will the extensions never end? Shows lots of confidence in the center.

Great news about the hotel. There's going to be a whole lot of hotel density in this area in the years ahead. Hope this one is finished by June 2011, in time for IOC Congress in July 2011.

ah ok its at gateway

ANOTHER 1800m2 of retail? Will the extensions never end? Shows lots of confidence in the center.

Great news about the hotel. There's going to be a whole lot of hotel density in this area in the years ahead. Hope this one is finished by June 2011, in time for IOC Congress in July 2011.

ya, new concept stores for stores in the Skate/Surf industry (2 storey Quiksilver store) and a number of restaurants. Plus a new entertainment attraction which i have not found details of either

sounds awesome, wonder how much more land OM property have to play with for Gateway

^^ loads. current plans include another hotel development, more space for the 1-on-1 convention centre, more retail and 8000m2 of commercial office space

Wow - all that retail - did the IKEA idea bite the dust? Gloria Jeans seems to be closing so many locations - do they still exist under the stairs at Gateway?

^^ they have 3 locations in gateway.

Ikea i have no idea about, that came from giles

my mate involived in it moved to Oz so no idea if it died or not. Not the ideal time globally to be launching a consumer driven type of product into an emerging market

work on the new wavehouse hotel at gateway... they have also closed of sections of the multistory parkade under Virgin and have a new temporary entrance to it from the ground floor level. Clearly this development will be connected to the parkade and the mall

Will get better groundclearing shots soon

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03715.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03716.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03717.jpg

did a walk around my hood today before the beach. looking good as always, spotlessly clean and getting more dense by the day, with more and more street cafes.

The Road lodge has added to the density and is a big upgrade on the look of the traditional Road Lodge. You can see the Coastlands Gatemax tower sticking above it to the right.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03732.jpg

And more prominent here
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03733.jpg

Ftv is quiter during the day, but there was still R8 outside
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03735.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03737.jpg

The rest of the cafes and bars were busy

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03736.jpg

The palm boulevard is a great green lung that runs between the mall and the eastern side apartments and offices. At the end it reaches a traffic circle where the CJ Saunders park is located. A number of hotels line this strip (City Lodge, Royal Palm and Protea Umhlanga Ridge)

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03738.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03739.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03740.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03741.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03742.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03743.jpg

Looking back from the same spot as the pic before

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03744.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03745.jpg

The median in the middle of centenary boulevard continues the lush vegetation of the palm boulevard and the park. Its a great area to walk and you honestly do not feel you are in a massively built up area. Plus it is great natural vegetation with butterflies and numerous small animals.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03747.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03748.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03749.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03750.jpg

The above was all right across from the wavehouse. And the below pic is of the new hotel development right next to the wavehouse complex

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03751.jpg

The Tiger turf arena has become a very popular spot and is busy every night. Great to have "open fields" in such a built up area for kids to play. Gateway has a massive array of entertainment options:

The wavehouse (skate park, flowrider, tube rides)
The world's highest indoor climbing wall
IMAX
18 feature cinema's
5 Arthouse cinemas
3D cinema
new 4D cinema
Funtables fantastic funland - a new indoor theme park for kids with stomach wrenching rides
Fantasy forest - arcade games, ten pin bowling, bumper cars
Go-carting
Foofee slide

Hard to beat as an entertainment option for kids

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03752.jpg

The entire setting

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03753.jpg

The developments around gateway

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03754.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03755.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03759.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03761.jpg

and the surrounding La Lucia ridge

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03763.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03764.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03765.jpg

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http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC03774.jpg

Hey Dysan, great stuff man!!
Really loved your photo tour:cheers:
Best example of medium density in SA, combined with good urban planning, what a winner!!!
For it to be truely spectacular, the only thing missing now would be a mini cbd with 3 or 4 30/40Flr towers.
How many m2 does Gateway have now?

anything higher than 12f is not permitted in the town centre. the area next to umhlanga rocks drive can go up to 16f. there will be 3 25+ towers in ridgeside though.

Great pics, Mike.

Awesome pics Mike! love the pics you took from high up, really gives a new perspective to the Gateway area.

^^ they have 3 locations in gateway.

Ikea i have no idea about, that came from giles

Thanks Mike - seems like more branches in Gateway than the rest of the country - I think most closed down in Gauteng.

my mate involived in it moved to Oz so no idea if it died or not. Not the ideal time globally to be launching a consumer driven type of product into an emerging market

Thanks Giles - it is a pity - I think it would have worked well at Gateway.

Quality office completed on Umhlanga Ridge
25 Feb 2010 - eProp - JTR

Intro

Extreme deadlines and tight budgets are a familiar combination in today’s construction and property development market

The most recent office building completed by J.T. Ross for blue chip client Adapt I.T. was no different with a time frame of nine months from start to completion. The distinction of the building rests however, in the build quality, unique design and multi functionality of this two storey building situated within Rydal Vale Office Park on La Lucia Ridge.

The 2 400 square metre commercial project, developed to meet the tenant’s requirements of an A-grade corporate office environment, enjoys extensive panoramic views stretching from Durban’s harbour through to Umhlanga.

Three primary factors, namely the incredible views, prevailing local weather conditions and the need for an active outside social space, inspired the unique design of the building. Shaped in a V configuration, the outside timber deck area is protected from the prevailing wind conditions, allowing the office occupants to make full use of this outside space as an active recreational area. A large tree is centrally positioned on the deck, reaching through from the floor of a unique basement parking area below.

On site parking is plentiful and has been accommodated beneath the decking. This has allowed natural lighting to penetrate the basement area, keeping the tone of the space to be that of light, open and user friendly. The use of landscaping has ensured a natural, indigenous feel to the design.

Protection from the prevailing sun conditions, whilst preserving the extensive view, was adopted as a challenge to the professional team. The solar effects on the glass elevations were successfully overcome through the use of fins on the elevations and deciduous planting on the Northern façade, which assists in controlling temperatures and in turn reduces the need for energy required for air-conditioning.

The internal design of the building has resulted in a light and attractive working environment, flowing through to a relaxing and vibrant external deck space in which staff and visitors can thrive. There is also an entertainment deck at roof level which is a showcase of the spectacular coastline, a key feature of this building.

The new tenants, Adapt I.T. have successfully occupied the building and have noted their satisfaction to the design and construct methodology utilised by JT Ross in the execution of the project.


http://www.eprop.co.za/news/article.aspx?idArticle=12243

Thanks Mike - seems like more branches in Gateway than the rest of the country - I think most closed down in Gauteng.

They do have alot. Are opening another one down in the village and at King Shaka airport...they clearly have taken root in Durban...maybe due to the very small Vida presence here

Saw this one in the papers yesteday "One on Hernwood" or something like that, looks like a 13F'er

http://i39.tinypic.com/dgjbdy.jpg

which paper?? looks rather big and impressive for the NTC. Must be in the crest area near the Sharks Board. They can go up to 15F there in a long strip

think its next to the Sharks board, isnt that where Herrwood drive starts?

my bad, it wasnt yesterday it was Sundays Tribune Property

Do you know the agents? Will probably be One on Herrwood then... Looks real good... the residential developments are starting to launch again...

I'm also very intrigued by this one... its a nice location, and somewhere I'd want to live...

I expect it to be fairly expensive though.

it will fall as part of the Parkside residential precinct. If memory is correct there will be 7 of these 12-15F towers lining the crest, tapering down to 3F on the edge of Prestondale.

They do have alot. Are opening another one down in the village and at King Shaka airport...they clearly have taken root in Durban...maybe due to the very small Vida presence here

Shows that Durbanites appreciate a good coffee - great news that they are opening at KSIA too as well as the village - just need Seattle now! Are Vida still opening at KSIA? Good that one can choose from these two and W Cafe while waiting for that connecting flight! :)

^^ and a Fego, Mugg and Bean and News Cafe...

Not a Seattle fan and they have not opened a new store in years. Dont think Vida are opening at KSIA

Work on the bew hotel and restaurant node by the wavehouse is speeding along

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC04035.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DSC04036.jpg

Wow! That is speeding along. I hadn't realised how advanced this was.

I see the area around the fire station being cleaned up? Funny after years..

and the park is now finally open!!!! yay

road works a pain around this lot ..again i thought fifa had a embargo.. very strange design here as well, those embankments look like they will crumble on the first heavy storm soon.:bash:

PD : Can you ever be positive about ANYTHING?

try looking at the matter before unfactual posting, mate.

^^ are you talking about the M41 roadworks? clearly you know more than the engineers that specialise in roads? hmmm?

^^
as a user yes clearly...the people that count... some recall the mud slides in toti when the mall was put up down there blocking the highway... do you????

^^
as a user yes clearly...the people that count... some recall the mud slides in toti when the mall was put up down there blocking the highway... do you????


I love the signature although you could change it to:

"We are all born the same but some of us become more annoying every day..."

^^
as a user yes clearly...the people that count... some recall the mud slides in toti when the mall was put up down there blocking the highway... do you????

you just answered that for me thanks...not an expert

PD I'd be lying if I said reading your comments gave me a boner.

PD I'd be lying if I said reading your comments gave me a boner.

Sies julle! :lol:

:carrot::carrot::carrot:

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv8/projectdirector1/WC-1078.jpg



:lurker:

A FINE VIEW.

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv8/projectdirector1/WC-1072.jpg

A KAK VIEW.

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv8/projectdirector1/WC-1075.jpg

A ZERO VIEW DUE TO A SHEER 90 DEGREE CONCRETE FACE.

http://i664.photobucket.com/albums/vv8/projectdirector1/WC-1076.jpg
not the clearest shot but we used to drive down there with a view down into durban harbour comparable to driving over suikerbosch, in my opinion.:ohno:

doing some touring I see PD

I love the signature although you could change it to:

"We are all born the same but some of us become more annoying every day..."

:lol: :lol:

Oasis bug in the SA thread.

......some of our photos from the world cup stay in Durban with my hubby.......
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Nice pictures. This town looks like Morocco or Algeria.

Lovely pics mogaesho.

Super pics! Can't wait for Cornubia CBD and Ridgeside-proper to get off the ground next, it will really make the whole area explode! :cheers:

Lovely pics mogaesho.

.....ke itumetse.....ke solofela fa o tsogile.....

Nice pictures. This town looks like Morocco or Algeria.

How so?

And Upington... Great pics.. see you spent some time walking around my hood. Thoughts, feelings?

Looks good, wonder what was happening at the park?

that's the most bizarre looking town I've ever seen-it's so surreal. And yes some parts do look like algeria or tel aviv especially those modernist white buildings with the blue trimmings

Umhlanga office project underway
26 Jul 2010


The first phase of an office development in Umhlanga Rocks at Ridgeside is scheduled for completion at the end of 2010.
This new development, which is being developed by Zenprop, consists of approximately 31,500sqm office space and parking facilities and has been designed by dhk Architects.

Banking group Nedbank will occupy the first building within the development, taking up some 6,500sqm office space.

Given its prominent location, the objective was to design a modern, urban office building that complies fully with the Green Building Council of South Africa’s 5 Star Rating Accreditation System and in eventually meeting these requirements, the building will become one of the first office developments in South Africa to be fully accredited under these design specifications.

http://www.property24.com/articles/umhlanga-office-project-underway/12029

http://media2.z2.zoopy.com/media/2010/07/28/70211/223872/original.jpg

all that empty land just waiting to have cranes on them!

I get a feeling this town's roads are too narrow for its own good. And wow, can't believe there're that much patches of open spaces. Yet the town is sprawling more and more with Res Estates.

Nice overview pic. I suspect that in 10 years all or most of that vacant land will have been developed. Think about this area just 8-10 years ago. The entire Gateway precinct was sugarcane. I think we must always bear that in mind when think of Umhlanga Ridge and the Gateway precinct. It's come an amazingly and impressively long way in just the last decade to the point where we now see vacant pieces of land as surprising. That's a good sign as it shows how much we've come to accept the area as established, and what our expectations are.

Umhlanga is not a town guys. Its a suburb of Durban

Nice overview pic. I suspect that in 10 years all or most of that vacant land will have been developed. Think about this area just 8-10 years ago. The entire Gateway precinct was sugarcane. I think we must always bear that in mind when think of Umhlanga Ridge and the Gateway precinct. It's come an amazingly and impressively long way in just the last decade to the point where we now see vacant pieces of land as surprising. That's a good sign as it shows how much we've come to accept the area as established, and what our expectations are.

I remember it 15 years ago when my company had the civil yard there and gateway was a city rubbish dump. I also remeber springfield park as a city tip

Springfield was Tin Town, river banks were much wider back then.

Umhlanga is like the Sandton of Joburg now

and its just going to keep growing with all that land around it. estimates on the population of the immediate Umhlanga area growing 70,000 in the next 5-8 years

man, i miss durban and moses mabhida stadium.

Come again, you dont need a WC to do that ;)

In the Northglen News today, on the front page they are talking about finally upgrading the bridge into the Umhlanaga village to 6 lanes.

much needed!! it was always part of the contract that the Pearls developers won. They were then responsible to widen the entry roads into the village to get extra bulk on site.

Cant find the Legacy's thread, but this is the atrium

http://i865.photobucket.com/albums/ab219/Durbsboi/Durban/Group2-DSC09839_DSC09840-2images.jpg

its the protea now...

yeah I know but still couldnt find the thread

Snoopy @Flickr.com

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4890597668_93f3ed0477.jpg

Um, come again? It's a new Umhlanga
September 07 2010
By ANÉL LEWIS

Umhlanga, the grand old dame of holiday spots, has been getting a facelift. Cranes crisscross her weathered face with the promise of a lift and a tuck, a rejuvenation for this seaside icon.

Not that the beautiful coastal area is by any means tired or worn. But as any woman with a few years behind her will attest, a bit of a polish here and there is always welcome.

New hotels are popping up all over the place.

One of them is the Southern Sun's new Garden Court Umhlanga, which opened in May.

The hotel is situated conveniently close to the Gateway Theatre of Shopping complex, but one can still catch a glimpse of the sea from the windows of rooms on the upper floors.

This is the ideal stopover for business tourists and families wanting to be close to the amenities Umhlanga has to offer. The massive shopping complex is within walking distance.

The Garden Court has been designed to reflect the literal translation of Umhlanga - which means place of reeds in IsiZulu.

So the reed motif is prevalent throughout the hotel. A beautiful, wooden cut-out of reeds stands in the lobby as a visual welcome. The soothing green of the reed's stem is evident in the fabrics and artworks used to decorate the hotel.

Despite the slightly nippy weather when we arrived, we were warmly greeted by all the staff. Our room was tastefully decorated, with walnut timber and crisp white furniture. We loved the large shower with its conveniently placed mirror on the shower wall - perfect for hubby who likes a close-up shave.

It not being quite swimming weather just yet, we had to skip a dip in the pool. But it looked very appealing, with its deck chairs and play ledge for younger guests.

The lounge and dining area look on to the pool and courtyard. We enjoyed a delicious supper in this lounge, opting for the buffet instead of the à la carte menu.

Breakfast is also served in this area, and again there was a buffet to choose from.

The hotel also boasts a lobby bar, which is ideal for business guests wanting to meet with clients.

We left the hotel feeling refreshed and soothed, as if fanned by one of the lush reeds that gave Umhlanga its name.

Next stop was the Protea Umhlanga Ridge Hotel, located a spear's throw from the Gateway shopping centre on Palm Boulevard. Although there are no sea views, a taxi ride will get you to the beach in less than 10 minutes. And there is always a taxi nearby. The front desk will also order one if needed.

We arrived as a conference delegation checked in, but the staff adeptly handled all the new guests gathered in the small lobby.

The hotel is a popular conference venue and can accommodate up to 300 conference guests in seven different venues. It is located in the so-called New Town Centre where construction abounds, making this part of Durban feel like Dubai did a few years ago.

The aim is to create a pedestrian-friendly business and residential hub with plenty of public spaces. We could see the Chris Saunders park, a popular spot for wedding photographs, from our room's balcony on the seventh floor.

But we could also survey all the development taking place in the area. Many of KwaZulu-Natal's larger firms, such as Liberty Life and Discovery Health, have moved their premises to this new precinct.

The Umhlanga Ridge Hotel is suitable for families who want to enjoy Gateway's recreational facilities, such as the climbing wall and Wavehouse.

I, however, opted for more genteel forms of recreation, including a short and safe stroll to the nearby spa for a pamper session. The hotel also boasts a stunning roof-top swimming pool with 360-degree views. Guests can sit outside on the downstairs deck if weather permits.

There is a convenient shop at the hotel entrance, where you can buy snacks, magazines and mementoes of your trip and a hair salon that appeared to be open all weekend.

Our suite, which felt more like a loft apartment, was luxurious. It has a separate bedroom and dining room and two bathrooms. We especially enjoyed the large bath in the bedroom's en-suite bathroom.

The work desk in the lounge was a great feature, especially for those unfortunate enough to be in Umhlanga on business. As we were there for pleasure and not work, we made full use of the wall-mounted LCD televisions in the lounge and our bedroom.

The room's decor was light and serene, perfect for Durban's climate, where humidity can sometimes make sleeping uncomfortable.

We ate only breakfast at the hotel's restaurant, but lunch and dinner were also available. The breakfast buffet was a smorgasbord of treats, but I would go back just to have another omelette made by Kyle, one of the hotel's able chefs. His omelettes were light, fluffy and not too filling.

Nothing was too much for the staff. We had bubbly brought to our rooms, at our request, and they happily organised a taxi for us when we headed to the beach for the day.

The Umhlanga Ridge Hotel reflects the vision of the New Town Centre development by providing a relaxing sanctuary in this booming part of the city.


For more info, see www.southernsun.com and www.proteahotels.com

http://www.ioltravel.co.za/article/view/5636322

A new Sandton for KZN

30 Mar 2011


An artist’s impression of Bahia Club in Ilala Ridge were 60% of the 33 units have been sold for R23-m.

Residential development in Umhlanga in KwaZulu-Natal have retained a ‘village’ atmosphere even though a number of major multinational companies have moved their head offices to the borough where numerous extensive new shopping centres have opened.

On Umhlanga Ridge, the skyline is taking on a ‘Sandton-like’ look with modern offices and shopping centres estimated to be worth about R10-billion in investment terms,” says Elwyn Schenk, area principal of Pam Golding Properties (PGP).

“Ridgeside is an extension of Umhlanga Ridge Town Centre (which includes Gateway shopping centre and La Lucia Ridge office park) and is divided into several precincts for mixed use, commercial and retail developments, residential only and offices,” says Schenk.

“There are five office blocks already occupied there and another ten under construction. Umhlanga has become a financial hub with banks and large corporate migrating from Durban to Umhlanga,” says Schenk.

To complement the office development, a number of new residential developments have also got underway.

“There are starter apartments comprising studios of between 40 and 60 sqm selling for between R630k and R785k and then 53 slightly larger apartments priced from R990k,” he says.

Referring to the KZN property market, Schenk says that sales are progressing steadily albeit at a slower pace than in other parts of the country but the Umhlanga market has proved to be remarkably resilient when compared with other parts of the province.

“We are finding that the quality of life in Umhlanga has a wide appeal for Gauteng business executives who can commute to their Johannesburg offices because Durban is just an hour’s flight away,” Schenk says.
http://www.property24.com/articles/a-new-sandton-for-kzn/13342

Article about the new Ferrari and Maseratti dealership in Joburg, but at the end announces the upcoming showroom to be built in Umhlanga

New stable for Italian stallions
Apr 14, 2011 8:22 PM | By By PHUTI MPYANE

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The sole distributors of Ferrari and Maserati brands in South Africa, Viglietti Motors, recently held an opening ceremony and hosted a shindig for high flyers to celebrate the official opening of the company's new outlet in the heart of Bryanston.
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LITTLE ITALY: Two views of the new Johannesburg outlet for luxury brands Ferrari and Maserati
Situated on Hobart Street, the flamboyant new premises has been designed to reflect both the brands that stand on its floors and to act as a collage of the history and passion of both of these Italian marques.

With separate floors and section for both Ferrari and Maserati, it's a celebration of all that is Italian with everything, including the fabrics, building materials and even the ties, fixed to the staff originating from the motherland. Mervyn Eagles, who heads Viglietti Motors, speaks proudly of the company's newest building, which is also credited with being the first in the world to carry Ferrari and Maserati's new corporate identity which will be rolled out worldwide.

This new look is made up of glass, chrome and composite materials which interestingly, also act as the core in engineering the cars.

For each brand, studios have been built where clients can sit comfortably while personalising their cars.

A CGI interface running off a massive wall-mounted screen, is used for clients to study a super-imposed, digital image of their dream steed.

This allows for mixing and matching of every interchangeable detail on the cars, including the colour of the brake-callipers.

The new building accommodates plenty of office space, studios and a massive workshop where trained engineers will look into any problems encountered by the clientele.

On hand to answer the flurry of journalists' questions, were a handful of bigwigs who included Umberto Cini who heads up Maserati Middle East. Cini revealed that Maserati was planning to explore even more niches.

Who knows, and since Maserati is the four-door specialist of the Italian luxury group, perhaps an SUV is in order.

Also in attendance was Enrico Galliera, the commercial marketing vice-president for Ferrari S.p.A.

He confirmed the arrival of the company's new exotic - the four-wheel drive, four-seater, FF, on SA soil in only a few weeks' time.

The new Viglietti Motors branch is also earmarked as a space where owners can meet and enjoy activities such as Formula One races.

It is to be used as a Ferrari club but the jury is out on whether mere Tifosi will be allowed in.

Eagles says the Cape Town branch, which acts as headquarters for the company, will also be refurbished in line with the Joburg building.

He also mentioned that KwaZulu-Natal fanatics' thirst for the Cavallino Rampante will be quenched in the near future as a dealership is earmarked for Umhlanga.

http://www.timeslive.co.za/lifestyle/motoring/article1019372.ece/New-stable-for-Italian-stallions

The park is looking good now and a nice new health cafe has opened across the road from it

Yes, the park and surrounding areas are looking fantastic, and as more and more developments reach completion, it will become even better. I waited for a quiet day and took out some pics of the park and its immediate surrounds...

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awesome shots...i'm going to pop these in the parks thread

Would be nice to see if Photobucket wasn't blocked at work... Mental note to pop by this thread later at home.

Awesome pics Jerome! I see you becoming a master with that SLR *jealous*

Anyone went for the Goldfish concert a few weeks back? heard it was a sellout.

Also havent heard much about the Viglietti Motors dealership yet.

^^ from what i have heard, it is likely to form a new motor complex opposite Mercedes (next to Hirsch) that is Ferrari, Maseratti and some bike brand.

Awesome pics Jerome! I see you becoming a master with that SLR *jealous*

Thanks. Now why are you so scarce on the boards these days? You should be contributing more and posting some pics too!

Thanks RomanSA. Your pics are always awesome. Really gives me a good perspective of the area. Keep up the great work.:)

here is a map showing the location of many of the upcoming developments in the parkside portion of the NTC.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/urntcplans1.jpg

South Africa's Umhlanga Rocks may attract investors

August 23, 2011 9:24 AM HKT

Investors intending to plough some money into South African real estate may want to consider the Umhlanga Rocks area after one local expert pointed out the advantages of owning property in this region.
Speaking to SAcommercialpropNews, Pam Golding Properties area principal Elwyn Schenk explained that a lack of supply in the market has helped prices to rise.

He said that housing on the Umhlanga beachfront "continues to be highly sought after, with little new stock available".

Mr Schenk told the publication that there are some new projects planned for the district, but that these have timelines of between three and five years.

However, he stressed that these developments are likely to benefit the area's real estate sector, commenting: "Existing stock should, even with modest growth, start to see a strong uplift in prices."

Umhlanga may also appeal to investors due to its proximity to Durban and the good transport links that it enjoys.

A casino, shopping centre, numerous golf courses and Isimangaliso Wetland Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site - are just some of the attractions that the coastal region boasts.

http://hken.ibtimes.com/articles/202124/20110823/south-africas-umhlanga-rocks-may-attract-investors.htm