Archive 2003

Leasing at the Brightwater Commons

Construction is in full swing for an innovative remodelling of one of Gautengs landmark centres. Draining of the original lake at the Randburg Waterfront commenced on the 7th January this year, and marks the beginning of a massive R80 million refurbishment which will include the complete restructure of the internal area previously occupied by the lake.

Marriott Retail have been appointed as leasing brokers for the scheme, to be re-launched as The Brightwater Commons. The vast expanse of water will be replaced by a smaller, softer, body of water - which tumbles into a bubbling brook and pool. The central area will now host market stalls and make use of extensive landscaping - demarcating common lawn areas, promotional courts, sport related activity zones, and play areas. In addition the retail component will be significantly changed to balance and elevate the tenant mix, and to supplement it with a diverse blend of tenants from exotic and unique entrepreneurs to trend setting national stores.

The need for 'Active Retail' and an inside/outside shopping experience have influenced the design of the redevelopment which is around a common lawn area and promotional court. Adjacent to the promotional court, the common lawn area is designed to host family entertainment, outdoor exhibitions and traditional village activities. Walkways that provide for a leisurely stroll around the waterside or a brisk trot to retail pleasure will link the rest of the development to the heart of this new Urban Neighborhood, designed specifically for families in the immediate catchment area.

The Brightwater Commons will comprise the following retail components.

The existing and highly successful convenience node anchored by Pick 'n Pay will be expanded and enriched. Pick 'n Pay are broadening their current customer offer in this expansion, scheduled for completion at the end of October 2003. Several other tenants are in the process of expanding or relocating, with Mr. Price and Sheet Street opening their new stores by the end of April and other specialist stores complementing this area.

Branded high fashion stores and leisurewear will be located adjacent to an entertainment node. A proposed interactive sports and outdoor area will be created alongside a proposed 'beach' where active-wear brands can be showcased. The collective vibrant energy that a market creates has always been attractive to customers who want to meet and shop in an informal environment. The existing market will be entirely re-invented and moved into the centre of The Brightwater Commons. Led by the owners and professional team, carefully chosen informal retailers, will be sourced to provide a controlled complimentary mix of tenants, and will embrace new categories such as craft, art, antiques and collectibles.

To round off the tenant mix a new retail node will anchor the southeastern section of the development. A key area of focus to complement the current tenant mix and capitalize on 'nesting' trends will comprise homeware tenants, interior decorating, household linen and gift shops or shops selling related merchandise.

Chris Lawrence Marriott Retail Executive Director says "The Brightwater Commons recognizes that lifestyle trends, together with traditional shopping patterns, need to be incorporated within the retail marketplace as it moves forward in an endeavor to meet the changing needs of its consumers. In Johannesburg we have seen the success of informal markets, of the street scene and are watching a new café society emerge in other developments. Brightwater moves a step further forward, to position itself ahead of its competitors by bringing together the latest thinking and innovation in retail development. Confident that the proposed redevelopment of the centre will completely transform its presence, we at Marriott's are as passionate about the future possibilities of this unique shopping venue as are their owners Allan Gray Properties."

Phase one, including the completion of the central core as well as the treatment of facades is scheduled for completion by the end of October 2003, with the final phase scheduled for completion by Easter 2004. By its very nature, The Brightwater Commons is able to use the space that is at its disposal, to combine its retail component with active shopping, exhibitions, promotional displays, within an environment which will bring a whole new dimension to the shopping experience.

In addition, it has the benefit of a location within a highly dense and concentrated residential area currently serviced by Randburg shops in the east and the Cresta/Blackheath catchment area to the west. Because of its unique qualities, The Brightwater Commons can be expected to draw substantial custom, not only from this densely populated area, but also from far beyond.

Interested parties are invited to contact Hildergarde Riphagen at Marriott's JHB on +2711 537 3800

[!] Post your comments

© The Brightwater Commons | Printed from www.brightwatercommons.co.za/archive/03_leasing.html