Architect and Builder August/September 2019 | Page 86

Witklipfontein Eco Lodge, Free State
INNOVATIVE AWARD
The lodge is designed to blend and disappear into
the surrounding nature. The ground carpet of the hill
has just been lifted a little to slip the house under it.
The architecture is a unique combination of traditional
vernacular building techniques with modern minimalistic
design. Overlooking the plains, panoramic views blur the
boundaries between the interior and the surrounding
nature allowing for a unique bush living experience. The
climate in the Free State region with its large thermal daily
variance of 20º lends itself to the use of the principle of
Thermal Mass instead of mechanical air-conditioning. The
thermal mass flattens the temperatures throughout the
year by using thick stone walls, earth walls (rammed earth,
adobe and sandbag) and the green roof. Other innovations
and unique features include:
• Almost full cement-free construction
• Shutter system regulating heat
• Recycled granite off-cut floors
• Subterranean Dome
• Natural pools
• Waste water treatment plant
• Solar Water Heating & Photovoltaic electrical production
• Homemade “Swedish” paint
• Scaffolding planks floors
• Earth and straw plaster
The result is a unique home that breathes the
surrounding nature and blends into it.
The aim was to rethink the concept of house/lodge
afresh by returning to the use of vernacular building
techniques that are more respectful of the environment
while re-interpreting them in a modern way. Many of
these techniques have been lost to easy and fast cement-
based building techniques. The main innovation is the
combination of large openable glazing, protective shutters
and the heavy thermal mass walls, floors and roof. Other
sustainable innovations were used and are described in
other sections. The raw use of materials brings a warm
feeling to the house and re-connects its occupants to
nature and the essentials of life.
Witklipfontein Lodge aims to embody modern
sustainability and is packed with simple and forgotten
basic design and building techniques making it a showcase
project in the field of green building. The house disappears
into and is in full harmony with the surrounding nature,
fauna and flora. - Innovation aplenty and showcased to
spread these sound sustainable principles.
Developer & Quantity Surveyor:
Xavier Huyberechts
Architects: GLH Architects
Project Manager and Main Contractor:
Damien Huyberechts
Structural Engineers: Pure Consulting
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SAPOA Awards