The Highlands residential and commercial corridor has seen a significant aesthetic and functional upgrade with the completion of the Ridgeway North Development. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Pearce McComish Tarabuku Architects, the project serves as a masterclass in modern, multi-use urban planning, seamlessly integrating retail, dining, and essential services into a cohesive, high-end environment.
A Modern Urban Hub
The development stands out for its sophisticated “industrial-chic” aesthetic, characterized by exposed face brick, dark steel frameworks, and expansive glass frontage. This architectural language creates a professional yet inviting atmosphere that departs from the traditional, enclosed mall format. Instead, the Ridgeway North Development utilizes an open-plan layout that encourages pedestrian movement and outdoor engagement.
At the heart of the lifestyle offering is The Ridge Cafe, a striking multi-level structure that features cantilevered balconies and stylish canvas sail shades. The design allows diners to enjoy Harare’s favourable climate while overlooking the bustling activity of the centre. The attention to detail extends to the landscaping, where a modern stone water feature with synchronized fountains provides a cooling, tranquil focal point in the central parking court.
Diverse Tenant Mix
Pearce McComish Tarabuku Architects have successfully created a space that attracts a diverse and premium tenant mix. The development is anchored by a flagship Nando’s Drive-Thru, which maintains the centre’s upscale feel with its signature African-inspired architectural accents and clean lines.
The retail wings are home to a variety of specialized businesses, including:
- Goldtech Electronics: Providing high-end tech solutions.
- The Sunglass Shack: Offering premium eyewear in a boutique setting.
- Mel’s Rush: A trendy footwear and accessories outlet.
- Just Property: Showcasing the area’s demand for professional real estate services.
- Apple Centre: Further cementing the development’s status as a tech and lifestyle destination.
Integrated Essential Services
Beyond leisure and retail, the development is engineered for maximum convenience. The site incorporates a TotalEnergies service station, which features a streamlined “Ridgeway” canopy that mirrors the sleek lines of the main buildings. Complementing this is the KwikWash facility, tucked neatly into the perimeter, offering professional vehicle detailing that allows customers to run errands or dine at the cafe while their cars are serviced.
Sustainable and Scalable Infrastructure
True to the forward-thinking nature of Pearce McComish Tarabuku Architects, the development hints at a commitment to long-term sustainability. The clean, organized rooftops of the complex provide ample space for future solar integration, a design trend seen in other major industrial projects across the country.
The Ridgeway North Development is more than just a shopping centre; it is a community landmark that reflects the evolving tastes of Harare’s residents. By prioritizing high-quality finishes, natural flow, and a mix of “anchorless” boutique tenants, the architects have set a new standard for neighbourhood commercial hubs in Zimbabwe. As Highlands continues to grow, this development will undoubtedly remain the gold standard for integrated urban design.
Image: Pearce McComish Tarabuku Architects Facebook page
