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For De Villiers the favourite part about studying architecture at NMMU would be the open communication between all students of different years , and also being able to learn from each other ’ s mistakes , the support of students in tough times and the fun late nights working at varsity .
General design-styles .
The aim of De Villier ’ s project , named Pecus Astruo – Creating Space in a World of Densification , was to investigate , conceptualise and develop a residential design model , aimed at middle income households , to help facilitate their housing programme . The concept was to use a series of solid and void forms in clusters . “ This system makes expansion possible as families grow without claiming new ground . The solid forms are used for the residential units and are flexible as spaces are created by light partitioning walls while courtyards are created for social interaction and safety . A Journey is created by primary and secondary circulation routes through compacted spaces and the primary pedestrian walkways connecting to the public street creates engaging street front and thresholds ,” says De Villiers .
Timber iQ asked De Villiers how she met the brief and what about her entry she thinks the judges most appreciated . “ To understand every aspect of the brief , I divided it into smaller parts , writing down key words that I would incorporate into the design . I think the main goal was to create a building that houses expanding families without creating a skyscraper building , something that adds value to the everyday lives of the occupants . A space to enjoy ,” she explains .
“ Do research , understand what it ' s all about , work hard and believe in yourself .”
De Villiers says she was disappointed that the trip to Milan was cancelled because of Covid-19 . PG Bison decided to award a cash prize instead , given the uncertainty of travel . “ It has definitely been disappointing to cancel all the plans and not being able to use the money for planning my own trip , but I have come to understand that it could be used for more important purposes . For now , I am busy investing the money into a house that will be rented out . This way the investment grows faster , and I will then , at a later stage , be able to use the money in a better place . Maybe someday , starting my own firm or travelling with the profits , even having a down payment on a house . I ' ll see what the future holds ,” she says .
De Villiers has advice for young people considering studying architecture : “ Do research , understand what it ' s all about , work hard and believe in yourself ,” she says . “ Furthermore , I would like to say good luck to this year ' s entries . Just enjoy the ride . Whatever happens , happens for a reason . You might not have gotten as far as you have hoped but you have gained a whole lot of experience . Also , a great thanks to the PG Bison team with the planning of the event and helping with all the admin – you are great !”
22 DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 // www . timberiq . co . za