WILLOW CREEK , ROODEPOORT
Willow Creek is a new 111-unit residential complex that sits at the base of the Little Falls Koppie amid a rapidly developing suburban fabric . One of Craft Homes ’ latest developments , it includes amenities such as a clubhouse and pool with braai facilities and children ’ s playground . One of the biggest attractions that sets this development apart from others , is the private park space , which encourages outdoor activity through walking and cycling tracks as well as outdoor gym equipment .
Urban Habitat Architects approached the design of these units with a fresh perspective , and a sincere , empathetic understanding of the future occupants . The north orientation of each unit was a key concern for the architects and the layout was critically developed according to the site and context in order to achieve this . The units are practical and compact with every corner thought out in terms of movement through the spaces as well as making the most of storage opportunities . The living space is extended towards the private gardens , which allows a seamless inside / outside living experience .
From the exterior , the height of the units has been cleverly separated by a simple plaster band and contemporary paint choices . The clubhouse has a more playful aspect with an abstract angled roof that floats over the public spaces . The breeze block aesthetic adds interest and light to an otherwise solid wall .
SEW EURODRIVE , AEROTON BUSINESS PARK
The new flagship warehouse for SEW Eurodrive will be constructed for RPP developments in the Aeroton Business Park , South-West of Johannesburg . The new facility will be completed by October 2021 to celebrate SEW Eurodrive ’ s 90th anniversary .
Aeroton Business Park is located just off the confluence of the N1 , N12 and M1 highways . This is an ideal location for large distribution centres and industrial facilities . The elevated position of the park allows for the building to receive excellent exposure from both the N1 highway as well as the N12 .
The brief to DBM Architects required a 22,000m 2 warehouse , 4,000m 2 office space and staff facilities for 200 employees . The architecture makes the most of the building ’ s prominent position with striking angled lines and a bold monochromatic pallet . The juxtaposition of charcoal , white and translucent polycarbonate side sheeting creates dynamic warehouse façades .
Although all the SEW buildings worldwide are different in design , they all represent a similar aesthetic that reflects SEW ’ s heritage of modern precision and innovation . Key to the aesthetics of all their buildings is the pop of bright red that references the bold red SEW logo .
The striking red colour was incorporated into both the office and warehouse components . The need for sun control on the office ’ s western façade gave the architects the opportunity to include large vertical red louvres that make a strong statement as well as being key to the building ’ s energy efficiency .
For the office component , the monochromatic pallet is continued . Angular shapes that were created on the warehouse façades are replicated in the angular shapes of the office windows . Grey aluminum cladding and extruded glass boxes contribute to create a clean highly-modern office aesthetic . The office footprint angles forward with 30 º to the western façade . This change in direction prevents the office façade from becoming monotonous and adds a much needed dynamic element to the long façade .
The architecture has been successful in representing the company ’ s internationally known brand . Both the office block and warehouse present a cohesive design aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of industrial architecture .
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