Old Cape Quarter
HERITAGE AWARD
The brief was to transform the bulk of the existing Cape Quarter centre in Cape Town ’ s historic De Waterkant into a vibrant mixed-use development by adding a unique contemporary component to the building , while responding positively to the surrounding heritage context . Zoning allowed the addition of four residential levels onto the reconfigured parking , retail and office levels .
Rather than demolish and rebuild , the existing structure , street façades and parking were retained , with new architectural interventions respectfully contrasting the heritage buildings . The aim was to reuse as much of the existing structure as possible – in particular the basement parking and retail levels ( albeit significantly strengthened ). The scale and character of the historic De Waterkant is referenced rather than mimicked as pastiche . What sets this design apart is the incorporation and complex strengthening of the existing structure , the clear distinction between existing and new façades , sensitivity towards the neighbouring context , and the incorporation of heritage features .
Activation of street and courtyard frontages was a priority and the character of the historic context was maintained by fragmenting the building mass into distinct plastered masonry forms respectfully set back from the existing street frontages . The sensitive heritage contact required a measured approach , and in response the smaller scaled and fragmented character of the historic De Waterkant context was acknowledged . Setting back the new parts of building to retain the scale of the existing street edge with a much larger building behind it allowed it to have minimal impact on the street scale . The façades on Hudson , Waterkant and Dixon Streets were also all incorporated into the design . With three significant heritage buildings on the site itself – 68 , 70 and 72 Waterkant Street ( now consolidated into the main site ) – the façades and internal heritage masonry walls needed to be retained .
This complex adaption of structure and detail throughout happened in consultation with the De Waterkant Civic and Heritage Western Cape . The originality of the design lies in its integration into all scales of surrounding developments and the creation of a multi-floor , co-working environment above a public courtyard that contributes to the vibrancy and safety of the area .
Generosity towards the public realm in the form of multiple access points into the courtyard allows for a quality common area . The courtyard is open to the eastern common boundary edge from the 1st floor upwards to minimise the impact on this neighbouring building . By maintaining an open east-facing courtyard edge towards the neighbouring offices , the design enhances the mixed-use character of the development as well as maximising light and views for both .
An oasis-like effect was achieved with extensive larch timber lining the balcony reveals and courtyard façade screens , and significant planting on the courtyard , 1st ,
2nd and 5th floor terraces , softening the design . Planted terraces and the extensive use of timber ( screening , pergolas and cladding ) soften the architecture . Permeability through the block , via multiple entrances , creates an inviting and accessible effect .
Owner : RDC Architect : dhk Architects Project Manager : Igual Project Managers Quantity Surveyor : Smith & Co Structural & Civil Engineer : Sutherland Electrical Engineer : Sutherland Mechanical Engineer : Sutherland Heritage Consultant : Bridget O ’ Donoghue Town Planner : Tommy Brümmer & Associates Green Consultant : Imbue Sustainability Health & Safety Consultant : Safetycon Main Contractor : GVK-Siya Zama
SAPOA Awards 71