Architect and Builder June 2016 | Page 63

This Page: Matrix significant beacon and focal point of the entrance to the precinct when approaching from the Energy lane, a very important pedestrian walkway link that connects back to the Century City across Century City Boulevard. The architectural aesthetic of the Annex is one of understated classic elegance with its articulated light face brick façade punctured by long vertical view windows or sheer glass focal corners that work in unison with the adjacent hotel design to form an L-shaped building to enclose the square. Matrix The Matrix concept is based on the narrative that every city has a mix of old and new buildings that happily and seamlessly co-exist side by side. Old offsets the new. The Matrix has been conceived as that old warehouse building that was already there. In line with the adjacent new contemporary buildings that form Century City Square, it has been ref urbished and given a new landmark life. Apex The Apex sits proudly as the “suit + tie” or urban “high rise” building as the landmark in the square. The bold elliptical form is dressed with two sheer skins of patterned flush glazed glass that form a dynamic exciting façade. The user enjoys 360º views of Century City and greater Cape Town. The 8-storey Apex boasts an elegant timeless glass façade that will offset the more natural façade materials of the adjoining buildings. The front door address is directly off the urban square and is flanked either side by the hub and vibe of the ground floor restaurant offerings. The Apex is orientated north south and is focused directly onto the entrance into the Bridgeways precinct. This narrow elegant feature is celebrated with full height glass shop fronts that open out onto private balconies that are shaded by sun control louvers to give depth and animation to this important façade. An elegant timber restaurant deck floats over the canal greeting visitors on their approach to the square that immediately sets the theme and an atmosphere conducive to meet and socialise. Century City Square 61