A tired 1980s shopping centre was transformed into a light-filled, modern public space with distinctive canopy architecture and renewed civic presence.
A tired 1980s shopping centre was transformed into a light-filled, modern public space with distinctive canopy architecture and renewed civic presence.
Client: Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council
Value: £6.5m
Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire
Architect: Saunders Architects
The project involved refurbishing The Malls Shopping Centre in Basingstoke, originally built in the early 1980s and having suffered decline over decades. As part of a drive to regenerate the town centre and improve the shopping environment, the client commissioned a refurbishment to revitalise The Malls, update its appearance, and re-establish it as a quality retail and public-realm destination.
At AWA, we were responsible for the structural design enabling the refurbishment — notably a new exposed steelwork over-roof. We worked closely with specialist fabric façade providers and the project architect to deliver a lightweight steel-framed roof supporting a transparent ETFE cushion canopy, with a requirement to consider loading on the existing structures. This replaced the heavy, overbearing concrete canopies of the past, allowing natural daylight to flood the public spaces and improving ventilation, while providing weather protection.
The refurbishment delivered a clean, contemporary aesthetic and a dramatically improved shopper experience. The new aerofoil-shaped canopy created a landmark gateway at the entrance. Internally, the sense of space, light and accessibility was transformed — lifts were added for better access, and sustainable features were introduced. The result reinstated The Malls as a modern, inviting shopping and public realm in Basingstoke, fulfilling the client’s aim of reinvigoration and long-term viability.
AWA Consulting Engineers is a structural, civil, and marine engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.
Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.
AWA has technical teams in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients typically across the South, South East and South West.
Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.
To find out more about how AWA Consulting Engineers can help with your project, get in touch today. Email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team.
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