Pienaar

Morne PIENAAR

The design of a hydrophilic potable water treatment water treatment plant with a multi-functional landscape n Stjwetla, Alexxandra, City of Johannesburg

Supervisor Co-supervisor Prof J Laubscher, PhD (Arch) Ms M Bolt, BArch

Abstract

This mini-dissertation focuses on the Stjwetla informal community next to the Jukskei River in Alexandra, Johannesburg. The relationship between community and river forms the central theme. The study explores the modern-day use of rivers in urban areas. Other themes include community development and the possible benefits of rivers in an urban environment. An urban framework focusing on sustainability guided the design decisions.

The design proposal investigates how hydrophilic architecture can enhance the connection between communities, architecture, and rivers. Furthermore, the design explores the idea of reclaiming ground in the landscape by reviving the remains of post-industrial architecture in the landscape.

The constant growth and expansion of urban areas are mostly caused by rising population numbers, leading to increased demand for clean and sustainable water sources. Existing natural water sources are negatively affected by water pollution, floods, and communities living next to rivers. The refurbishment, conservation, cleaning, and sustainable use of rivers are critical for South Africa. To enhance the connection between communities, architecture, and rivers with the idea of improving access to sustainable water sources and reclaiming ground in the landscape by reviving post-industrial architecture to potable water treatment and harvesting plant that is socially inclusive and water sensitive.

Hydrophilic architecture, Thermochromic, constructed wetlands, multi-purpose riverscapes

This dissertation documents an architectural response to the research topic and investigation and should read as such. The hydrophilic potable water treatment plant with a multi-functional landscape in Stjwetla is a conceptual model for improving water scarcity and water filtering. The project provides guidelines, design development and possibly the concept of reclaiming ground in the landscape with the help of some principles in ecological architecture. It gives a realistic approach to making people aware of this problem. This dissertation eagerly anticipates further research, exploration, and resolution.