In 2016, a joint venture between Tristan Capital and Lotus Group acquired two underperforming outlet centres in Northern Ireland — Junction One and The Outlet. Following our successful work with Tristan Capital at Fort Dunlop and The Cube in Birmingham, we were invited to pitch for the reimagining of both schemes. Our strategic and design approach secured the appointment.

 

For The Outlet, now known as The Boulevard, Banbridge, the key challenge was protecting the central mall from Northern Ireland’s inclement weather. Previous attempts to introduce a roof had been constrained by stringent fire safety requirements

 

Drawing on our experience delivering an award-winning redevelopment incorporating ETFE courtyard structures, we developed a lightweight canopy that connected directly to the existing superstructure while meeting the required fire regulations. The result transformed the central boulevard into a sheltered, year-round environment while retaining natural daylight and the character of an outdoor space.

 

Integrated colour-changing lighting gives the canopy a distinctive presence after dark, becoming a signature feature of the centre and reinforcing its new identity. The wider redevelopment helped reposition The Boulevard as a contemporary shopping and leisure destination, with reported growth of 27% and a 25% increase in turnover following completion.