Plizio Visual Lab

Eastgate Centre

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
—°7
Eastgate Centre (Zimbabwe)

Weather…

The Eastgate Centre in Harare is a world-renowned example of sustainable architecture and biomimicry. Opened in 1996, this shopping and office complex was designed by architect Mick Pearce in collaboration with Arup engineers. The revolutionary concept is modeled after the structure of termite mounds, which maintain a constant internal temperature through a sophisticated natural ventilation system. Instead of energy-intensive air conditioning, the Eastgate Centre utilizes the building's thermal mass and natural air currents to regulate daytime heat. This results in energy savings of approximately 90% compared to conventional buildings of a similar size. The architecture combines concrete, glass, and steel with decorative elements inspired by local Zimbabwean traditions. The building has received numerous international awards for innovation and environmental design. It stands as a powerful demonstration of how modern urban planning can employ ecological principles to cut costs and minimize the ecological footprint.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212120191614141620222322
Rain mm18013394317319252594195

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The Eastgate Centre is a shopping and office building open to the public. Its interiors can be explored during business hours, and entry is free.
🕒
Typical hours
Shops and offices are typically open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, with shorter hours on Sundays. It's advisable to check individual store times beforehand.
📷
Photography
Photography is allowed in public areas, but not inside shops without permission. The termite-mound-inspired ventilation channels are a popular photo subject.
⏱️
Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes to an hour to explore the building and its distinctive architectural features. For shopping, plan extra time.
Combine with
Eastgate Centre is located in central Harare, near Africa Unity Square and the National Gallery of Zimbabwe. A city walk can easily connect several sights.
🧭
Getting there
The building is within walking distance from central Harare, or reachable by taxi. A bus stop nearby is served by several routes.
💡
Insider tip
Visit Eastgate Centre in the late morning when the natural ventilation is most effective and the courtyards are pleasantly cool. Ask at the information desk about guided tours of the ecological features.

Geography

Coordinates
-17.83060, 31.05310

Facts

  • The building consists of two separate blocks linked by an open atrium.
  • Ventilation is facilitated by 48 chimneys located on the roof.
  • It saves tenants significant amounts in annual electricity costs.
  • Mick Pearce drew inspiration from studies of African termite mounds.
  • The project was awarded the Prince Claus Prize in 1996 for innovation.
  • The facade uses stone fins to provide natural shading for the windows.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Eastgate Centre (7)

National Gallery of Zimbabwe🏛 museum

Museum in Harare. Zimbabwe's leading art gallery with rotating exhibitions.

🕒 Tu-Su 09:00-17:00

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

Church in Harare, Zimbabwe. Catholic cathedral, seat of the Archbishop of Harare.

🕒 Su 07:00-07:45, 08:00-09:45, 10:00-11:15, 11:30-13:00,17:30-

AIRFORCE

Attraction in Harare. Aviation-related site, possibly a museum or exhibition space.

Toys Town

Attraction in Harare. Amusement park with rides and play areas for children.

Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences🏛 museum

Museum in Harare. Exhibits on human evolution, archaeology and anthropology in Zimbabwe.

Castle Corner

Viewpoint in Harare. Spot with a panoramic view over the city.

City View Point

Attraction in Harare. Viewpoint offering a panorama of the city and surroundings.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Eastgate Centre?
A shopping and office complex known for its natural cooling.
Is it publicly accessible?
Yes, the shopping areas are open to visitors.
Why is it architecturally famous?
It is based on the design of termite mounds.
Are there many shops there?
Yes, it provides a variety of shops and services.
Is the building interesting for tourists?
Definitely, especially for architecture and environment enthusiasts.
Eastgate Centre: where is it located?
Eastgate Centre is located in Zimbabwe.
Eastgate Centre: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, AIRFORCE.
Eastgate Centre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.
Eastgate Centre: why is it worth visiting?
The Eastgate Centre in Harare is a world-renowned example of sustainable architecture and biomimicry.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
More places in Zimbabwe →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

Nature

More places