PROJECTVIEW
SOMERLIFE SQUARE CONVENIENCE CENTRE , SOMERSET WEST
As part of a larger mixed-use development , the Somerlife Square Convenience Centre acts as the main landmark for this new precinct in Somerset West . With prominent frontage onto the N2 and adjacent transportation routes , the intervention has to offer a unique and grounded identity for the area whilst allowing for convenient pedestrian and vehicular access . Importance is placed on offering a convenient open-air shopping experience with ample greenery and considered natural finishes to lend an inviting setting for the restaurants and retail stores .
The design was informed by the traditional architecture of the Somerset West region . Inspiration was taken from the local vernacular in the selection of materials , textures and forms whilst reinterpreting these elements in a contemporary manner to create a sculptural and modern identity . Unique structural columns , in reference to the arched forms typical of the region , are used to support the walkway canopy and this same sculptural language is further extended into the forms of the shopping centre volumes and the detail of the roof canopy edges . These sculptural exterior elements sit in contrast to the orthogonal interior spaces to frame and showcase the retail and restaurant offerings .
Green planted screens and landscaping are used throughout the design to soften the development and add additional layering to the centre ’ s façade . The greenery is also taken into the seating area of the restaurant spaces to blur the line between the interior and exterior . This idea is further strengthened by fully enclosing or exposing the space with a sliding-folding shopfront .
Developer : Dalmar Architect : Theunissen Jankowitz Architects Pretoria
FACULTY OF LAW , NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY
Muse Architects were appointed by the Nelson Mandela University for the design of a new building for the Faculty of Law . The new building , although free standing , is linked to the existing faculty housed in the adjacent Embizweni Building and will become the face of the Faculty . The design process was informed by two main aspects : how does the building relate to its urban context , its response to a large public square and the adjacent postmodern ( Embizweni ) building and secondly , how does the Faculty function over two buildings . The existing architecture of the campus is rooted in modernist architecture and expressed as concrete art forms set in a nature reserve . Recent additions to the campus have incorporated red face brickwork . The new building relates to the original aesthetic through form and mass expressed through the use of red face brick . The design process was further informed by the current walkways around the public square . The result is a building that is juxtaposed with the adjacent building lining up with walkways and thereby strengthening the public square and walkways . Hard and soft landscaping has been used as a means to encourage interaction between students through the creation of pause areas . The space between the new and adjacent building creates a private landscaped courtyard for faculty students and staff and allows for an easy transition setting up the juxtaposition .
Project Watch 13