Brief
The need to expand the existing hospital arose
from a growing demand for various specialist
services by the community. The option to expand
the existing hospital was not viable and would
have had a major impact on the patient and staff
experience as well as the residential area in which
it is located. The brief came from Mediclinic to
build a modern, sustainable hospital that will
inspire wellness in the growing community.
Location & Site Restrictions
The site is located at No. 1 Elsie du Toit Drive,
situated on the R44 (Strand Road) between Stellen-
bosch and Somerset West, next to the Brandwacht
River. The site was selected after an extensive
search, which evaluated 11 potential sites over a
period of 4 years. After careful consideration, a
decision was made that this site was suitable for
Mediclinic
future expansion, was easily accessible and the
orientation of the site would enable a north-south
building orientation that optimises natural sunlight.
Further advantages that the site offers include
the natural east-west slope over the site, which
allows for the accommodation of a naturally
ventilated semi basement. The site additionally
affords the opportunity for an optimum location for
an independent access to the co-located day clinic
facility and the hospitals operational services. The
natural watercourse, which runs along the length
of the site, introduced structural challenges due
to the soil conditions close to its riverbank. The
R44 Provincial road dictated a substantial set back
distance on the western boundary.
Along the southern boundary of the site a
45m green zone was kept clear of development
to ensure that Brandwacht Manor House remained
visible from the R44.
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