Construction World March 2017

PROPERTY

Within walking distance from the University of Pretoria’s main campus, the new development offers a mixed-use precinct that will include state-of-the-art student residences, retail and leisure facilities, specifically designed for Pretoria’s large student community from various campuses. “Our committed construction team worked around the clock to ensure that the student residence was ready for occupation at the start of the academic year, to provide students with the purpose- designed environment that they need to support their academic careers in what is often a first move away from home,” says Craig McMurray, CEO Respublica. The Hatfield Square development is vastly different to any other student accommodation offering, with its various room configurations and premium facilities such as unlimited Wi-Fi, gym, multiple recreation rooms, outdoor courtyards, communal pause areas on each floor, laundry facilities, study rooms, computer labs and a swimming pool. With varied price points, the precinct offers options ranging from four-sleeper apartments that share a communal kitchen to single studios with an en suite bathroom and kitchenette, as well as more affordable bedrooms that have modern shared ablutions and kitchens. “We believe that this variety of amenities makes it possible for students with diverse resources to have access to the kind of environment they need to excel in their academic endeavours, and enjoy the social benefits of residence life,” adds McMurray The residential component of the first phase of the Hatfield development opened on 1 February, and the retail component will open in March 2017. The development has secured top retailers including Rhapsody’s, Studio 88, and Cross Trainer. Phase 1 will be completed for the 2017 academic year, with Phase 2 expected to be complete for the 2018 academic year. Another Respublica residence in the area is Eastwood Village, which opened in 2016. Located a mere 2,8 kms away from Hatfield Square redevelopment officially opened its doors on 1 February 2017. The first phase of the two-phase project is operational and ready for occupation for all students eager to kick-off the 2017 academic year. → Growthpoint Properties, says: “This partnership combines and amplifies Growthpoint’s and OPEN’s shared passion for nurturing and growing business in South Africa with innovative and sustainable property solutions. It creates incubator spaces for thriving businesses and tomorrow’s office users.” Hatfield Square officially opens Respublica is excited to announce that the new Hatfield

Square, it provides a free shuttle throughout the day to and from the University of Pretoria. Eastwood Village, which offers all amenities that are standard across the Respublica residences, recently saw its shared bedrooms transformed into techno-pods, with screens installed above each bed for ultimate convenience, and a gaming room has been set- up for students who love spending their down-time in a world of uninterrupted LAN-gaming. A professional in-door action cricket facility was also built in the basement.  Paul Keursten, co-founder of OPEN, comments: “Growthpoint is the leader in commercial property. It operates with integrity and has the matching values we believe are crucial for a successful joint venture. We look forward to growing by tapping in to the expertise and experience, portfolio and financing power of Growthpoint.” Mark Seftel, co-founder of OPEN, says: “What was a novel idea five years ago is now becoming mainstream. Even at 1% of the office property pie there is significant growth opportunity in South Africa. We are focused on creating spaces where people can thrive via a unique combination of design, technology and customer care, while ensuring that we take care of the environment. We feel truly honoured to be able to do this together with Growthpoint as the ideal partner with shared vision and values. The eight – or more if demand is robust – new co-working locations planned for the next three years will each have a coffee bar with public access, meeting and seminar facilities, member areas with hot desking, dedicated desk and team spaces, and dedicated serviced offices. 

Co-owners of OPEN (from left) Paul Keursten, Mark Seftel and Westleigh Wilkinson.

16

CONSTRUCTION WORLD MARCH 2017