32 on Kloof , Cape Town
REFURBISHMENT CATEGORY | HERITAGE AWARD
32 on Kloof , a heritage building situated along popular Kloof Street in Cape Town , recently underwent a metamorphosis . The building was originally constructed in 1922 by prominent architecture firm Parker & Forsyth for United Tobacco Companies Limited ( UTC ). Transformed by dhk Architects , 32 on Kloof ’ s rich history has been respected via a contemporary aesthetic that references , rather than replicates , its existing heritage .
UTC was founded in 1904 . Shortly thereafter , the company began to acquire portions of what had been the Nooitgedacht farm on the doorstep of the historic Company ’ s Gardens in order to establish premises for manufacturing tobacco products . Several buildings were erected in phases between 1900 and 1922 , consisting of a
warehouse , factory and staff facilities . The collection of red and white masonry buildings still occupy the 112-year-old precinct and have been recognised as protected buildings .
Developed by Growthpoint Properties , the primarily landlocked site flanked by Kloof Street represents a R550 million investment in the city . Once complete the revitalised precinct , now named Longkloof , will invigorate the area , providing new commercial and retail spaces , and a 150-key Canopy by Hilton hotel .
The client brief was to establish additional premium rentable space by adding two floors to the existing building , maximising the floorplates and reinventing the windowless basement . Ultimately , the client ’ s vision was for 32 on Kloof to serve as the attractive ‘ front face ’ of the Longkloof precinct concealed from Kloof Street . dhk ’ s response was to respect the buildings ’ heritage and intentionally contrast its existing order and rhythm with a new contemporary addition . This concept allows for an honest dialogue between heritage and contemporary elements , forming a hybrid of architecture that politely enhances the building ’ s street presence .
To increase the building height and provide additional commercial space , the existing hipped red-tiled roof ( originally added in the 1990s ) was removed to allow for a two-storey orthogonal addition atop the heritage masonry building . The two distinct levels provide a clear distinction between old and new – referencing , not replicating , the building ’ s heritage . Deep expressed aluminium-clad fins articulate the façade , while acting as a stitching device integrating the old with the new .
Owner / Developer : Growthpoint Properties Architect : dhk Architects Project Manager : MDSA Project & Construction Management Quantity Surveyor : MLC Structural & Civil Engineer : LH Consulting Engineers Electrical & Mechanical Engineer : WSP Group Africa Heritage Consultant : Aikman Associates Town Planning : MLH Architects & Planners Fire Consultant : WSP Group Africa Main Contractor : GVK-Siya Zuma
72 SAPOA Awards