Right:
Before and After
Below:
Keerom Street
Elevation
Design Concept
Whilst commercial parameters are often
regarded as being at odds with avant-garde
design, Tuynhuys uses innovative design to
surgically insert high-density apartments onto
a constricted site encumbered with numerous
heritage constraints. Views were maximised by
cleverly sculpting the façade towards limited view
angles, whilst simultaneously deferring to the
immediate Victorian neighbour.
British Fire Code, together with sophisticated
sprinkler and fire detection systems,
enabled a space-saving single fire escape
solution. Historic ‘common passages’ that
straddle both sides of the narrow site allowed
side-facing light and ventilation. Solid balustrades
and waist-to-ceiling windows direct the eye
up to mountain views, whilst screening out
the streets and rooftops below. Sculptural
windows curve in both plan and elevation to
frame views, whilst handsomely compensating
apartments without views, framing even the most
mundane aspect as if it were a precious piece of
abstract minimalism.
Overall Impact
Tuynhuys squares the circle of achieving both
high design and high returns. Although wary of
new developments, Capetonians (including design
mavens Lucie de Moyencourt, Michael Chandler
& VISI Magazine) have lauded Tuynhuys as the
future of residential development.
40 Tuynhuys