Written by Betsie Loock-Van der Merwe
Pretoria’s multi-billion, mixed-use precinct development called Menlyn Maine has hit the mark in becoming the city’s new hot spot to chill out. Its state-of-the-art entertainment complex including Pretoria’s first casino and the 8,000-seater Sun Arena, as well as several classy restaurants, pubs, a refined selection of boutique shops, luxury hotels, a spa and a well-known gym, draw interest from all over Gauteng.
Menlyn Maine is also rapidly becoming a sought-after corporate address and home to many professional businesses, retailers, car dealerships, banks, financial institutions and many more.
The first phase of the residential component will soon be completed and everything its occupants will need, are right there on their doorsteps and within walkable distance from their apartments. To enhance the village-feel and promote a healthy lifestyle, the development will include green spaces and parks.
Another attraction is Menlyn Maine’s unequalled location in the middle of the well-established suburb of Menlyn directly east of the N1 highway, close to the N4 and connected to the main roads of Atterbury Road and Garsfontein Road. The area has three bus stations linking to the Gautrain station in Hatfield as well as the Bus Rapid Transit system running between the suburb and the Pretoria CBD.
Property
Menlyn Maine comprises 315,000m2 of mixed-use lettable area with the biggest portion allocated to commercial office space; followed by an upmarket residential apartment development; retail, entertainment and luxury hotel space. All buildings will aim to achieve at least a four-star green rating from the Green Buildings Council of South Africa. Except for one office building offering sectional-title ownership, the rest of the office and commercial space are rentable floor space.
The residential component includes the development of three high-rise apartment buildings as well as a lower penthouse apartment building. These are being developed in two phases and in the end will ultimately deliver an estimated 550 apartments ranging from studio and one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments to lavish penthouses.
The first phase of the development called The Trilogy Collection is set to be handed over to their owners in 2019, and sales for the second phase has recently been opened. According to Pam Golding Properties most buyers up to now include investors, parents seeking student accommodation for their children, young professionals, executive commuters etc.The Trilogy Collection will be overlooking a scenic park and other amenities include concierge reception, secure parking and children’s day-care facilities.
Schooling
Several schooling options are available for people working and living in or near Menlyn Maine. Glenstantia Primary School is situated 1,8km from Menlyn Maine. The school’s motto – “Strive joyfully” – is put into practice through its commitment to excellent academic results and creating a happy environment for its learners.
Laerskool Garsfontein is equally close to Menlyn Maine. The school has on numerous occasions won the readers’ choice award for best Afrikaans-medium primary school in Pretoria East. This award programme is presented by a local newspaper.
The Glen High School, next to the development, has a proud history of outstanding education, and its walkable distance from the residential area is mostly convenient.
Hoërskool Garsfontein is reckoned as one of the top high schools in the Jacaranda City, and excels in academics, sport and culture. This school is approximately 4km east from Menlyn.
There is a high presence of further training facilities and colleges in the area, and the University of Pretoria is about 7km away. Colleges include Varsity College, Capsicum Culinary School, Beautiko, Oakfields College, International Hotel School, The Design School of Southern Africa, Vega School, Damelin and several others.
Explore
Menlyn Maine offers a wealth of entertainment possibilities and a rich night life. On the other hand, the precinct is centrally located to quite a few nature parks and attractions. The Struben Dam Bird Sanctuary is a green area in the adjoining suburb of Lynnwood Glen offering abundant birdlife and limited fishing spots on the banks of the Struben Dam. Faerie Glen Nature Reserve, only a five-minute drive away, forms part of the Bronberg Conservation Area and is considered a prime hiking and birding destination. Small mammals and wildlife are also present. The hiking trails offer stunning views over Pretoria East. Guided walks can be booked, picnicking is allowed, as well as dogs on leashes.
Nature loving residents of Menlyn Maine will also enjoy the proximity of the wheelchair-friendly Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve (5km), while Pretoria’s lovely National Botanical Gardens (9km) offers stunning opportunities to unwind in a beautiful serene environment.
I’m crazy about Menlyn Maine. It’s a trendy spot and the presence of all the banks is convenient for doing business as well. There’s a lovely sociable vibe and all the necessary supermarkets are there. The Superspar is really something else and stocks a diverse range of local and important products.
Lesley Hawley, resident
Shop:
- Menlyn Main Central Square: high-end boutique shopping centre
- Menlyn Park Shopping Centre: one of the biggest shopping malls in Africa
- Waterglen Shopping Centre: local convenience
- Menlyn Retail Park: easily accessible for that quick stop
- Menlyn Motor City: home to a myriad of car dealerships and related vehicle services
Eat:
- Old Town Italy: when Italian is your favourite kind of food, ambience, decor
- Forti Grill and Bar: classy, multi-cuisine fine-dining restaurant
- Mythos, Menlyn Maine: as Greek as it gets
- Tashas Menlyn Maine: Trendy food in a comfy venue
- Something’s Cooking by J: something creative and delectably tasteful
Do
- Enjoy Sun Time Square Casino’s nightlife
- See your favourite concert at Sun Arena
- Get pampered at Spa De La Veille
- Bar-hopping in style: The Brew Monkey, The Globe Bar, Bar Time …
- Enjoy spectacular views of the Jacaranda city and sip on fine champagne at Altitude rooftop supper club
