African Design Magazine February 2017 | Page 48

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harvesting system used in Phase 1 , the new project exploited its access to treated effluent water from the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works . The effluent water is processed within the building to an acceptable level that completely eliminates the demand on potable water for toilet flushing .
How did the environment influence your design ? The site has beautiful northern views over the adjacent canal and the entire Intaka Wetlands Conservancy ( central to Century City , and a haven for birds , indigenous fish and wildlife ). The building was oriented with terraces and rooftop pergola taking full advantage of this . To the south ( street entry side ) there are glimpses of Table Mountain and easy pedestrian access to Canal Walk Shopping Mall .
Adjacent to the canal ( freely made use of by keen canoeists ) is an accessible pedestrian / jogging / cycling path which everyone makes use of . The building has cyclist facilities for storage of bicycles , change rooms , lockers and showers for both occupants and visitors .
How would you describe the style of the project ? A modern vernacular / sustainable modern regionalist design . The style was originally set by Aurecon East ( which MaC designed in 2010-2012 ), being lowmaintenance off-shutter concrete and heat / glare-reducing glazing , highlighted