When Goldfields Mall opens on 28 October, it will bid customers a hearty welcome to a modern, one-stop shopping destination designed to offer a pleasing, sophisticated and contemporary environment.

The development consortium is Retail Africa in partnership with Shoprite Checkers and RPP Developments.

Top architectural firm Boogertman + Partners were instructed to plan the 36 000 m² centre to embrace a comprehensive range of shops in architectural surroundings that are cutting-edge and up-to-date while at the same time acknowledging the city’s rich history.

Architecturally, the mall is also seamlessly integrated with the Goldfields Casino, making it the definitive destination for the region in terms of retail and entertainment.

Luxury finishes have been used in spaces that are light and bright, thanks to high ceilings and ample natural light. Clerestory windows - a strip of windows just beneath ceiling height - allow a flood of sunlight into the mall areas.

The tiling is special too. Barcoded designs in the tiles and gold chip inlays are featured in the flooring. These touches ensure that the shopper is constantly aware that the environment is unique to Welkom and its gold mining heritage. Custom designed mall furniture will create places of rest for shoppers wishing to take a break from exploring the vast number of shops in the mall.  

The emphasis on the needs of people is seen in the provision of 3-metre high shop fronts; large, inviting entrances (with covered drive-through drop-off facilities similar to those at private hospitals) and an outside piazza with restaurants, sculptures and fountains. This kind of fun shopping environment has proven itself to be a winner in terms of entertainment for children or parents who’d like to enjoy a meal or cup of coffee while keeping an eye on the children.

More than 1 400 parking bays are provided with access from Stateway and Buiten Street. These are supported by a carwash and taxi drop-off zones as well as a KFC Drive-thru. Due to its unique location on the fringe of the Welkom CBD, Goldfields Mall is also easily accessible to pedestrians.

The trees that had to be uprooted to accommodate the development were temporarily placed in storage and have now been replanted on the site. Over 6 000 plants and trees are being planted around the mall.