4 minute read
HOUSING COMPANY TSHWANE
PIONEERING URBAN TRANSFORMATION...
CEO, OBAKENG NYUNDU, SPEAKS TO MUNICIPAL FOCUS ON HCT’S VISION FOR INNOVATIVE, SUSTAINABLE, AND INCLUSIVE HOUSING IN TSHWANE
Housing Company Tshwane (HCT)
Housing Company Tshwane (HCT) is at the forefront of transforming Tshwane’s urban landscape, offering dynamic and innovative housing solutions that go beyond affordability. With a mission to create vibrant, sustainable communities, HCT integrates modern design with green technologies, creating spaces where people can truly thrive.
From energy-efficient developments to smart, digitally connected neighborhoods, HCT redefines urban living for diverse income groups. Through strategic partnerships and a bold vision for the future, HCT is not just building homes but uplifting lives and revitalising the city.
Can you share any upcoming plans for innovative designs in housing projects that will improve the quality of life for residents while promoting community integration?
Housing Company Tshwane (HCT) is actively developing housing projects that incorporate innovative designs aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and fostering community integration. These plans include creating mixed-use developments that combine residential spaces with commercial and recreational amenities, promoting a live-workplay environment. Additionally, HCT is committed to designing homes that encourage social interaction through communal spaces, green areas, and pedestrian-friendly layouts. The incorporation of universal design principles ensures that these spaces are accessible to all residents, thereby promoting inclusivity and a sense of belonging.
How do you plan to design future housing solutions to manage population growth and urban density in Tshwane while still maintaining a high standard of living for residents?
To manage population growth and urban density in Tshwane, HCT is focusing on developing high-density, mixed-use housing solutions by maximising land use efficiency without compromising the quality of living. By adopting walk up and high-rise buildings and compact urban designs, we aim to create sustainable communities that can accommodate a growing population while maintaining ample green spaces and recreational facilities. HCT also plans to integrate efficient public transport links and smart infrastructure to ensure that residents have easy access to essential services and amenities, thus enhancing their standard of living.
With the global shift toward sustainable living, how does HCT plan to integrate green building technologies and eco-friendly designs into future developments?
HCT is committed to incorporating green building technologies and eco-friendly designs in all future developments. This includes the use of energy-efficient materials, renewable energy sources such as solar panels, and water-saving technologies like rainwater harvesting systems. Our designs will also focus on maximising natural light and ventilation, reducing the carbon footprint of our buildings. Additionally, HCT is exploring the integration of green roofs and urban gardens to promote biodiversity and improve air quality within our developments. These initiatives align such as modular housing, and by securing funding through public-private partnerships.
Additionally, the need for sustainable infrastructure presents a challenge, which we plan to overcome by integrating green technologies and working closely with the city to ensure that developments are wellserviced by public utilities.
Can you share details on where HCT plans to develop new housing projects? What factors are considered when selecting these locations to ensure that the communities needs are met?
HCT has three projects in the pipeline for development:
Chantelle Social Housing [1], with 1098 units, is situated in Akasia, north of Pretoria. The project is closer to Wonderpark Shopping Centre, which is a transport node for commuters travelling between Pretoria CBD and northern townships like Soshanguve, Mabopane and Ga-Rankuwa, there’s a train station, taxi rank and bus terminals. The project will incorporate efficient green spaces, recreational amenities and cutting-edge security with 24-hour manned guards and access control.
Two projects, Timberland [2] and Sunnyside [3] are in the inner-city, which will contribute to the revitalisation of the city.
What is your long-term vision for HCT in terms of addressing the growing demand for affordable housing in urban areas?
HCT’s long-term vision is to transform urban spaces into vibrant, secure, and inclusive living spaces elevating the quality of life for the residents of Tshwane. We aim to achieve this by continuously innovating in housing design, leveraging new technologies, and expanding our portfolio of affordable rental and ownership options. Our vision includes creating diverse, inclusive communities that cater to a range of income levels and promote social cohesion. By working closely with the City of Tshwane and other stakeholders, we aspire to make a significant impact on the housing landscape, ensuring that all residents have access to safe, affordable, and dignified living conditions.
