The design of the centre uses the available space to its maximum benefit, integrating two levels of shopping with an underground parking garage for 45 cars. A coffee counter has also been set up for the enjoyment of those who d rather wait while the shopping is taken care of by their partners. A further 30 stores, with a strong lifestyle component, complete the centre. It is Theo s hope that the Lion s Square will add to the aesthetic, and even tourism, appeal of Somerset West with its African design elements. Walls are being finished off with typically African brickwork, similar to that featured at the Lost City.
Many centres are only cold and impersonal walls and aluminium windows.
We want to bring an earthly feel back, he says. The African theme will roam wild in the second phase of the development, a market-place situated on the lower level. Named the Lion s Den, it will feature a stuffed lion in a cage at the centre of the staircase leading down to it. The stores in this second phase will not have any storefronts, but will open directly onto the lobby. This phase will open at the end of May next year.