The retail and commercial landscape in Harare is on an impressive growth trajectory as the highly anticipated Cardinals Corner Mall, developed by real estate investment giant Terrace Africa, has reached a key milestone with the completion of its construction phase. The new shopping centre, located at the strategic intersection of Harare Drive and ED Mnangagwa Road in Chisipite, has already proved its investment worth as a vibrant hub for several of Harare’s key northern suburbs.
The project, which has been a prominent fixture on the Chisipite skyline for months, represents a landmark development for the area. Situated at a crucial crossroads, Cardinals Corner Mall is perfectly positioned to serve the high-demand residential and commercial zones of Highlands, The Grange, Glen Lorne, Umwinsidale, and Shawasha Hills. Its strategic placement will provide residents with a convenient, modern, and comprehensive shopping destination right on their doorstep, eliminating the need to travel long distances for essential goods and services.
Terrace Africa’s commitment to architectural excellence is evident in the mall’s design. The building showcases a multi-level structure with a sophisticated, modern aesthetic. The exterior features a striking combination of white plaster walls and a light-colored wooden facade, which contrasts elegantly with a dark-coloured canopy and supporting columns that define the main entrance.
The mall’s roof is a distinctive feature, a two-part corrugated metal roof in varying shades of grey, indicating a thoughtful and functional approach to design.Throughout the construction process, a dedicated team of workers, easily identifiable in their blue overalls and yellow hard hats, worked tirelessly to bring the architectural vision to life. In one of Harare’s biggest retail and commercial projects, aerial photographs captured the meticulous progress, from the initial installation of parallel metal beams and the structural framework to the final placement of the “CARDINALS CORNER” signage in large, white, dimensional letters.
The use of scaffolding was a constant reminder of the intense work being done to perfect every detail, from the exterior slatted cladding to the roofline.The internal layout of the mall is designed for a seamless shopping experience. While the construction phase revealed the raw beauty of the unfinished interior, with its exposed brick and concrete walls, the final design has transformed these spaces into a welcoming environment. The ceiling, with its metal framework and corrugated metal sheeting, has been integrated with modern elements like exposed wooden slats arranged in a
triangular pattern, creating a unique and contemporary look in the covered walkways.
The successful completion of the Cardinals Corner Mall was a collaborative effort involving several key suppliers and partners. BD Stodart was responsible for the crucial earthworks, laying the groundwork for the entire project. The beautiful paved areas were made possible by Cement City, who supplied the necessary pavers.
The elegant garden décor, decking, and front facets were expertly handled by Fusion Flooring, while Agri-Structures provided the roofing, contributing to the mall’s distinctive exterior. Cardinals Corner Mall is set to host a diverse array of local and international tenants that will significantly elevate its appeal. The anchor tenants, Electrosales, Spar Supermarket, a CFAO Toyota Showroom, and RK Fuels Service Station, provide a strong foundation for the centre’s offerings.
The presence of a major local grocery chain like Spar ensures that residents will have access to a wide variety of fresh produce and household essentials. Meanwhile, international brands like Spur Corporation’s new Doppio Zero restaurant, mark the first introduction of the brand to Zimbabwe. The CFAO Toyota Showroom adds a premium automotive retail component, making the mall a multi-purpose destination for both everyday needs and major purchases. The site also includes several other retail stores, promising a comprehensive mix of fashion, food, and specialty services.
The thoughtful inclusion of a drive-thru lane further underscores the focus on customer convenience, catering to the fast-paced modern lifestyle. Beyond its retail function, Cardinals Corner Mall exemplifies the growth and development of Harare’s urban infrastructure – rapid, upmarket and intentional. The project has not only created numerous jobs during its construction but will also provide long-term employment opportunities for the local community through its retail outlets and services.
The transformation of a raw construction site—once dominated by scattered pipes, materials, and large cylindrical tanks—into a world class commercial centre highlights the positive impact of strategic investment in the city. It also highlights Terrace Africa’s leadership in the provision of convenient retail shopping. The paved parking lot and newly landscaped areas around the building mark a complete transition from a construction zone to a finished, functional, and visually appealing space.
As the final touches were being applied, including the installation of interior HVAC units and the completion of the landscaping, Cardinals Corner Mall commanded a strong presence as a new landmark for Chisipite. More than just a shopping centre; it is a thoughtfully planned and executed project that promises to become a cornerstone of the community. With its modern design, strategic location, and carefully curated mix of tenants, it is ready to fully open its doors and redefine the retail experience for the residents of Harare’s northern suburbs.
