Nelson mandela square - mixed use

Co-Arc International, collaborating with GAPP, created the urban framework for the Sandton CBD. Nelson Mandela Square, as an urban design development, had to become a magnet for activity. It had to create a sense of place and facilitated the future growth in Sandton and act as a retail anchor and center for the community.

Transforming an urban design into a commercially viable mixed-use development relied heavily on the success of the urban design, the important civic functions around the square and the careful consideration and understanding of the retail mix. As Sandton architects and urban designers in sandton and Johannesburg, Co-Arc was well placed to capitalise on the opportunities that Sandton offered.

The collaborating urban designers thoroughly researched the urban scale of public spaces and pedestrian cities, distilling these requirements for civic and commercial success. Ultimately, the client’s requirement of a Renaissance theme was understood in the context of Johannesburg and Sandton in 1995, producing a place, and Sandton architecture that still resonates with the South African context.

The library, art gallery, other civic facilities including the council chamber and theatre, as well as the considerable residential bulk, retail and offices all work together to encourage 24-hour activity within the square and reinforces the careful design of the retail mix.

The result is a development that maximises the client’s investment, ensuring Nelson Mandela Square is a significant node within the city that is recognisable and active, and encourages future development because of a thriving retail function that works alongside all the urban design drivers that are implemented in the project.

Before it was known as Nelson Mandela Square, Co arc was happy to be known for the design of Sandton Square, however it is a privilege to be associated as Mandela Square architects. The Square is a focal point not only for Sandton, but Johannesburg as a whole, and creating such a space, in collaboration with international architects and engineers brings enormous satisfaction. In addition the way in which Nelson Mandela Square has reshaped the urban fabric of Sandton, is the proof of well crafted and vision-bearing urban design.