Gateway Theatre of Shopping’s multi-million-rand revamp is progressing, says Old Mutual Property.
Phase one of the renovation, which began two years ago, included introducing triple-volume faceted glass facades around the main lifts, a new geometric tiling design, and curved organic ceiling bulkheads as well as the transformation of the Great Hall around Gateway’s entrance axis.
The focus with the current phase of renovations is largely aesthetic, removing dated colours and details, and on completion, shoppers will experience a sophisticated setting featuring clean lines, luxurious finishes, and a predominantly white palette that maximizes natural light and visibility throughout the mall.
The remodelling of the north wing and entrance 7 node will continue into 2025 including an overhaul of some of the restrooms.
The water fountain in the atrium is getting a technology-based upgrade in addition to featuring energy-efficient lighting with a broader colour spectrum, the fountain will boast choreographed water displays and motion, synchronized with music.
The shopping centre’s energy-efficient upgrades include low-energy LED lighting and performance glass for better insulation, designed to reduce reliance on air conditioning.
In line with the improved shopping environment, Gateway will feature numerous new standalone retailers including Bennett Read, Calvin Klein, True Religion, and United Colours of Benetton – all making their KwaZulu-Natal debuts as well as Beauty on Tapp and Jo Malone.
Management says that while most of the ‘disruptive’ construction work takes place outside of trading hours, it has planned a ‘pause’ in the refurbishment during the festive season to ensure uninterrupted shopping during peak times.
