Estimated Reading Time: 10 minutes

Key Takeaways

  • Mixed-use property development is driving urban transformation and investment in major South African metros.
  • Atterbury’s flagship projects like Richmond Park and Old East Precinct highlight integrated, sustainable growth.
  • South African property development companies are reimagining precincts for combined work, lifestyle, and leisure.
  • Flexible, multi-phase rollouts ensure enduring community relevance and investor appeal.

Introduction

South Africa’s cities are embracing mixed-use precincts as a cornerstone of urban living and property development. By integrating commercial, residential, leisure, and retail spaces within single developments, property development companies in South Africa offer residents and businesses unmatched convenience, infrastructure, and modern amenities. As market needs evolve, Atterbury emerges as a leading property development company, pioneering projects that reflect this new era of adaptable, future-ready precincts.

Atterbury’s Mixed-Use Developments in Action

Richmond Park, Cape Town

Atterbury’s Richmond Park stands as a multi-billion rand mixed-use precinct, ideally positioned on the N7 in Milnerton. The development connects businesses seamlessly to Cape Town’s port, CBD, and airport, featuring extensive commercial, retail, and office space, modern fibre connectivity, and efficient power supply. Richmond Corner’s retail offering includes major brands like Pick n Pay and Woolworths Food, as well as family eateries. This mix creates a vibrant ecosystem, enhancing value for the surrounding community and tenants alike.

Old East Precinct, Pretoria

Village Walk, a R52 million pedestrian-friendly business and retail initiative links the bustling Village leisure hub to The Club precinct, boosting connectivity and elevating design appeal in Pretoria’s urban core. With eateries, retail spaces, structured parking, and a unique walkable atmosphere, the mixed-use offering strengthens the destination’s value and safety while maintaining its distinctive sense of place. This approach by Atterbury exemplifies why property development companies in South Africa are investing in mixed-use properties that foster both economic and social growth.

Castle Gate, Pretoria

Castle Gate stands as Atterbury’s largest mixed-use project to date, co-developed in partnership with Twin City Property and the Carl Erasmus Trust, the precinct received strong city support.  Castle Gate Precinct is a vibrant hub in Pretoria East offering a unique blend of retail, leisure, and residential opportunities. Phase 1 launched in 2020 with the Castle Gate Shopping Centre, anchored by Woolworths, Checkers, Dischem, and Builders Warehouse. This was followed by the addition of offices and a Planet Fitness gym in 2022.

In May 2024, Castle Gate Lifestyle opened, expanding the retail offering with flagship stores like Expert Kloppers, Food Lovers Market, and Weylandts.

The precinct also incorporates a residential component, Castle Gate Residential, that is currently being developed by associates Central Developments. By designing for cycling, walkability, medical services, and destination retail, Atterbury’s property development company is building a future-proof environment for Pretoria’s residents.

The Impact and Value of Mixed-Use Developments

Mixed-use precincts diversify revenue by blending residential, retail, leisure, and commercial rental streams, minimising risk and increasing sustainability. Major projects like Waterfall City and Melrose Arch have shown that well-managed mixed-use precincts amplify investment returns and tenant satisfaction, thanks to premium locations, bespoke amenities, and resilient property development strategies.

These developments also respond to challenges in municipal service delivery, managed precincts offer improved safety, infrastructure, and community integration, addressing core urban needs. The complexity of executing such multifaceted projects requires specialised property development expertise that spans from initial land acquisition through to final occupation, ensuring every element works harmoniously. For South Africans seeking vibrant living, working, and recreational balance, mixed-use property development is now the gold standard.

Responsive Planning for Market Change

Atterbury’s agility as a property development company enables its projects to shift focus according to real market demand. For instance, Castle Gate’s phased planning allows retail and lifestyle offerings to precede office and tourism developments, demonstrating responsive, evidence-based decision-making. Barlow Park in Sandton has pivoted from an office-centric vision to a community-focused, flexible mixed-use precinct. This approach ensures that property development companies in South Africa deliver enduring value, prevalent through market uncertainties and evolving urban trends.

FAQ

Q1: What is a mixed-use development in South Africa?
 Mixed-use developments integrate residential, business, retail, and recreational services within a single, managed precinct, maximising convenience and liveability.

Q2: Why are property development companies investing in mixed-use precincts?
 These developments diversify income, are more resilient to market shifts, enhance community outcomes, and typically result in superior sustainability and tenant retention.

Q3: Which property development companies are leaders in mixed-use design?
 Atterbury is an industry frontrunner, with highlights such as Richmond Park (Cape Town), Old East Precinct (Pretoria), and Castle Gate among South Africa’s top mixed-use developments.

Conclusion

Mixed-use development is laying the foundation for sustainable, people-focused cities in South Africa. By expertly combining infrastructure, green design, and market resilience, property development companies such as Atterbury exemplify how urban precincts can thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Whether you’re exploring opportunities for your business, considering a strategic property partnership, or seeking a development partner who understands the complexities of creating integrated urban environments, Atterbury’s three decades of experience deliver results that exceed expectations. Discover how Atterbury’s end-to-end property development services can transform your vision into a thriving reality, from initial concept through to successful occupation.