Plumbing Africa March 2021 | Page 38

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PROJECT

Hatfield Square student accommodation

ByRory Macnamara
Located directly outside the University of Pretoria , Hatfield Square is in a prime position to succeed as a mixed-use student accommodation development . Phase One of Respublica Hatfield Square was completed at the end of 2016 with 641 beds , with 2 331 beds available for the 2019 academic year once all phases were built . The developers are Respublica Developments for Respublica Student Living and Redefine Properties .
Plumbing Africa spoke to Wynand Fourie , Director of Respublica .
Pretoria ’ s Hatfield precinct is a mixed-use district that offers residential and retail components , and provides the perfect backdrop for the live , work and play theme that echoes across all Respublica residences in Pretoria , Midrand , Johannesburg , Bloemfontein , and Cape Town .
Hatfield was originally home to a variety of commercial and retail stores which evolved over time to be a less-than-desirable-socialhotspot , with the area suffering from overcrowding and disinterested landlords . However , Respublica and Redefine rejuvenated the area , appointing Paragon Architects to create a new living space and lifestyle for students at the University of Pretoria and other tertiary institutions in the area – and Respublica Hatfield Square emerged .
The four phases of Hatfield Square began with excavation to provide four levels of underground parking – a commodity always in short supply at student accommodation . With construction of the four phases taking just four years , the tallest phases rise 16 stories and stands proud as a landmark in the Hatfield precinct .
The ‘ engine ’ room showing the pumps .
All images : © Plumbing Africa – Rory Macnamara
Respublica designs its student accommodation to respond to students ’ needs , including the need for public spaces for social interaction , private residence spaces , and quiet environments for studying . A variety of options is available across the company ’ s characteristic apartment approach , including modern studios , shared apartments , and other bedroom types . Students have access to all communal facilities , regardless of what type of sleeping accommodation they choose .
Hatfield Square – like all Respublica residences – offers free Wi-Fi , laundry , parking , and bedroom cleaning services , with the intention
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