ON THE COVERCover Feature

3-in-1: Anchored by Elite Interiors

WINDMILL LANE CLUSTERS

MODERN, LIGHT AND BRIGHT

Architectural firm Architectural and Planning Studio (APS) was commissioned by Old Mutual Properties Zimbabwe in 2018 to modernize the house prototype for an already existing cluster housing site which consisted of 15 vacant stands which were already serviced at a prime land area in Borrowdale. The site already had substantial infrastructure

in place such as roads, water and electricity and also the stands on the site had already been demarcated.

The client, Old Mutual Properties Zimbabwe, asked APS to develop a more contemporary house type - the original show unit was designed in 2004 by the Architect Norman Hillis - whilst still working within the existing infrastructural framework. The new design requested by the client was not only to be modern, light and bright but would also have to be adaptable to the various different site shapes and orientations on the site.

In order to meet the client’s request APS came

up with a type plan that is extremely flexible and that was suitable for use from multiple orientations on the site (mirrored or rotated footprint) and to make the most of the sunlight gain to create a comfortable and energy efficient home. With a design concept that makes reference to the typology of semienclosed courtyards and distinct separate zones for accommodation, service and living. Communal spaces of the house were intentionally designed with high ceilings, clerestory windows and double-sided windows for maximum light ventilation and volume.

Large concertina doors lead up to a covered verandah which is located on the most prime location of each site, surrounded by a lush garden and the potential for a swimming pool. Each house unit will be on 310 square meters. Great care has been taken in the positioning of the houses to retain as many of the existing trees on the site, which adds to the overall mature

feel of the development.

The house design even allows for incremental growth of the building as the family expands or contracts. This is possible because of the simple double pitched roofs and gable end walls, which can be added onto to provide extensions to bedrooms, verandahs or carports as the occupants needs and budget allow. There is also an ensuite bedroom available which can be easily adapted for use either as an extra bedroom or as independent accommodation for a mature child, elderly relative, guest lodger or domestic worker.

The late addition of the TV room/ guest bedroom was deemed a necessary appeal to large families.

Architects: Architectural and Planning Studio (APS) - Graham Cochrane, Hazvinei Sakupwanya, Geoff Fox Project Managers: Old Mutual Properties Zimbabwe Quantity Surveyors: Turner and Townsend Zimbabwe Structural Engineers: Dickie and Kunaka Mechanical and Electrical Engineers: BCHOD Interior Design: APS with Colleen Olsen of Design House Contractors: Rio Douro Construction Electrical Sub-Contractors: Anstock Plumbing Sub-Contractors: Lesop Plumbing Kitchen Sub-contractors: Tusilago and Boardworx Painting Sub-contractors: Star Painters Aluminum Sub-contractors: Sela Aluminium Metalwork: Neves Ironcraft