Pro Landscaper Africa November 2019 by paperplanepublications

Concept to Delivery

November 2019

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LEADER

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

Welcome to our November edition of Pro Landscaper Africa. We have excellent feature writers in store for this edition and a thought-provoking agenda section, aimed at tackling the topic of plastic use within the industry. This month we look at furniture trends for residential and commercial spaces and catch up with OKHA’s Creative Director to hear all about furnishing trends for the coming season.

We have a very exciting Coffee Table Edition in the works, due out just in time for your Christmas break. If you are a member of the green industry then this special year end edition is just for you, featuring the best developments of 2019.

e have had a rather busy few months, but we wouldn’t have it any other way!

From attending the ILASA awards of Excellence, to hosting our annual FutureScape Africa Trade Show at the CTICC, not to mention our showstopper Coffee Table Edition that is in the works…. We are ready for the exciting few months ahead and are looking forward to all the exciting content to come.

Enjoy the November issue and see you all next month. Cover Image by Franz Rabie @ProLandscaperAfrica

This month you can browse our summaries and reports for the before mentioned events, as well as visit our excellent portfolios, featuring some of the biggest developments in South Africa. Pro Landscapes July 2019.pdf

CMY

2019/06/25

Download our app to read the issues for free. Search "Pro Landscaper" in the app store. 1:17 PM

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CONTENTS

29 PORTFOLIOS

Corobrik-ILASA Awards of Excellence Event report on the awards under the theme of water sensitive design

Futurescape Africa Event Report

Agenda: Trashing Plastic With the overwhelming plastic use showing no signs of slowing down, we chat to industry professionals to offer their opinion on plastic use

Stellenbosch Municipality Heritage Inventory and Conservation Management Plan By Liana Jansen, winner of the ILASA Presidential Award at the 2019 Awards of Excellence

The Peace Bench Snøhetta’s “The Best Weapon” at the UN Headquarters: A Symbol of Diplomacy and Dialogue

The Central Role of Landscape Architects in Promoting Green Stormwater Infrastructure in South Africa By Neil Armitage, presented at the Corobrik-ILASA Awards of Excellence

Let’s Take it Outdoors We catch up with the creative director of OKHA design & interiors, Adam Court to hear all about trends for the coming season

Company Profile: Talborne Urban Organics Pro Landscaper catches up with Talborne Urban Organics to find out about their offerings to the trade

Furniture Summer selections for commercial and residential spaces

Profiled Company: Parchaus Where indoors meet outdoors

Book Club The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland Reviewed by Carrie Latimer

Why I Love Horticulture Thembi Machatha

FNB Bankcity REVITALISING JOBURG’S INNER CITY by Boogertman + Partners and Seamless Flooring Systems

Botha’s Halte Primary School Square One Landscape Architects

Applegarth Estate TERRA+ Landscape Architects and Interplant

INSPIRE

F E AT U R E

THE COROBRIK ILASA AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE 2019 T

he Corobrik ILASA Awards of Excellence 2019 were held this year at the Lord Charles Hotel, Western Cape, to recognise Excellence in the practice of Landscape Architecture. Hosted together with ILASA’s valued sponsor, Corobrik, the event theme saw the exploration that "Water Sensitive Design" is particularly apt considering the drought and water restrictions that the City of Cape Town has endured over the past few years. The ILASA Merit Awards of Excellence aims to exemplify best practice examples that are clear in its intent and relevant to its specific context. In the face of global trends such as climate change, habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss, it is on the landscape that these pressures become tangible. The measure of excellence must extend beyond great design. Those projects that have taken the opportunity to 'heal' the landscape while transforming it, certainly deserve a special acknowledgement.

Worcester Estate – Square One Landscape Architects

Future Africa Innovation Campus – Insite Landscape Architects

Gilfillan Park, Jeppestown Johannesburg – kwpCREATE

Baobab tree, Izinga Parks – Uys & White Landscape Architects, KZN

The Commons Muckleneuk – Graham Young Landscape Architects

Tokai Estate – TERRA+

Uthando Legacy Centre Playscape for Afrika Tikkun – Cottontree

West Coast Fossil Park OvP

Renowned comedian, Rob Van Vuuren, MC’d the event and kept the audience on their toes throughout the evening. Future Water’s, Neil Armitage, also presented a thought-provoking talk that has been edited to be published in this issue. Of the 23 projects entered into this year’s awards, eight received special commendations. The commendations were awarded for the following projects...

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Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

F E AT U R E

MERIT AWARDS WERE PRESENTED FOR THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS AND PUBLICATIONS:

Stellenbosch Municipality Heritage Inventory and Conservation Management Plan – Liana Jansen The project team set out to provide two key deliverables – a Tangible Heritage Resources Inventory and a Heritage Resources Management Plan. The project team had to develop a framework for defining what is meant by a cultural landscape and criteria for evaluating it. They did so based through a review of international concepts and best practice, followed by the application to the South African context that included pre-colonial and postcolonial paradigms.

Category 1: Publications

Clottesloe Gas Works, Johannesburg – University of Pretoria and Heloise Pieterse

Category 1: Publications

The concept re-imagines the site in such a way that the traces of the original form are visible and establish meaning for the tangible and intangible elements on a post-industrial site. The thesis focuses on creating awareness of the associated social exploitation and environmental contamination through the landscape experience, demonstrating that new meanings can be applied to spaces that once presented a cultural limitation.

Category 2 A and B: Planning and Design were awarded to...

Southernmost Tip of Africa Icon Project - Bernard Oberholzer Landscape Architect

Bosjes Chapel – cndv landscape architects

This landmark project aims to establish the southernmost point as a sustainable icon attraction in the Cape Agulhas region by embracing its physical and spiritual attributes. The aim is to create a memorable destination point with a unique sense of place. The design elements include low stone walls that surround the circular paved area encompassing a sculpted relief Africa map, with a vertical “blades” signalling gateway and the compass points.

The Bosjes farm was transformed from a run-down farm to an instantly recognisable, international destination by the construction of an eyecatching chapel and landscape. The chapel garden is comprised of interconnected and distinctive landscape “rooms”, each evoking particular emotion in the user. The design elements and their soft landscaping are subtly inspired by biblical references, with a strong representation of water throughout the landscape.

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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F E AT U R E

TROPHY AWARDS: The Just Trees Award: Awarded to Bosjes Chapel – cndv landscape architects. The team at cndv landscape architects also walked away with the Tshala Environmental Sensitivity Award trophy for outstanding work on the Bosjes Chapel project.

PRESIDENT’S AWARD, SPONSORED BY PRIME TREES: The President's award was awarded by Eamonn O’Rourke to Liana Jansen for Stellenbosch Municipality Heritage Inventory and Conservation Management Plan. (featured in this issue)

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Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

F E AT U R E

LIFETIME AWARD: This year, the Life Time Award was presented to Dr van Den Berg, who hails from a horticultural background and has enriched the profession through instilling a passion for indigenous landscapes with a great number of students, and is currently practicing landscape architecture in an era when 'exotics' is the given scenario. She is a prime example of how landscape architects with other relevant study backgrounds can be successful and bring about change in the thinking and approach within an entire profession. Dr van Den Berg also played a cardinal role in the revival of ILASA during the mid 90s. ILASA has struggled to sustain its momentum to the extent where it had basically died down, with little to no activity or upholding of its constitution. Dr van Den Berg managed to involve young graduates and professionals to revise the constitution,

come up with a restructured management model allowing for regional branches, and improve the sustainability of ILASA overall, through implementing various alterations to the previous dispensation. This prepared ILASA for the new era of the institute’s very important role as a VA on the verge of BOCLASA being transformed into SACLAP. This exercise also allowed for the tracking of ILASA’s donated funds and honouring its obligations to those who entrusted funds to be managed by ILASA. The revival of the Merit Awards that are celebrated biennially, was an outcome of this process. Dr van Den Berg has demonstrated through her career how knowledge of plant material can be applied in the skillful hands of a landscape architect to achieve designs that

surpass the performance of exotic and mixed plant material designs – setting the trend and demonstrating to the profession the versatility of their indigenous plant bank. Dr van Den Berg is currently appropriately retired on the Garden Route, where she is an avid promoter of and practicing “indigenous gardener”. She has had a major impact on ILASA and the profession of Landscape Architecture, and has been described as passionate, dedicated and loving. Landscape Architects who were lectured by her can deem themselves fortunate. Dr van Den Berg receives the Lifetime Award for her selfless commitment to reviving ILASA, preparing students and young landscape architects for a future in the profession and leading by example.

HIGHLIGHTS:

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY ILASA. Contact Eamonn O’Rourke or Eileen Bailey for more information on the awards. www.ilasa.co.za

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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image by cndv landscape architects

FUTURESCAPE

FUTURESCAPE AFRICA 2019

A huge success

FutureScape Africa 2019, hosted on 25 October at the CTICC, was an overwhelming success, which was mostly down to the high quality of presentations, a host of brilliant new technologies on display, the inclusive nature of the trade show and backing from incredible industry associations. The seminar programme catered for different built environment sectors, and a strong percentage of key-decision makers attended the trade show as delegates. We hosted 627 delegates over the course of the day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a significant increase from 2018. The level of engagement by all who attended was exceptional â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the opening of the doors to the breakdown of stands, and finally at the after-party! We are certain this year's event served as a keen indicator of where we are going next with this incredible show!

SPEA KER S

HI GHL I G H TS

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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627

DELEGATES

FUTURESCAPE It was wonderful to unite a diverse group of professionals to explore the future of the industry and take on the common goal of the progression of this industry. Delegates were encouraged to network and share ideas across a day chock-full of seminars, hosted by influential industry leaders at the top of their game. One highlight was the handing out of certificates to our Faces of the Future Class of 2019 winners, and of course the many great giveaways facilitated throughout the course of the day. We thank our brilliant stand judges, Derick Henstra and Guy Briggs, directors of dhk Architects, for the seamless manner in which they judged our exhibition stands on the day, selecting their favourites across the different categories laid out.

Of course, a big congratulations goes to the Best Stand, presented this year to PlaySafe. Well done to runners-up Bera, and a special mention goes to Induli, who won the best Wholesale Stand and walked away with some brilliant Felco Pruning Saws to take back to their nursery! We are certain that FutureScape 2020 will host a plethora of new and exciting products, will tackle topics relevant to the industry and will present itself as the absolute must-attend green industry event of the year! We are working on an exciting new floorplan with outstanding branding and sponsorship opportunities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; see you there!

28% GAUTENG

8% KZN 59% WESTERN CAPE

2% INTERNATIONAL 3% OTHER PROVINCES

9% CONTRACTORS (BUILD AND LANDSCAPE)

4% MUNICIPALITY 3% DEVELOPERS 3% ACADEMIA

19% LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS

29% ARCHITECTS 33% LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

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P L AST I C Plastic use is a complex issue and most people don’t know what to do about the problem or where to start. Since the Durban incident where tons of plastic spilt into the ocean, I personally think that my way of thinking has changed drastically.

PLASTIC USE IS A COMPLEX ISSUE AND MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE PROBLEM OR WHERE TO START. Over the past three years, I have observed a trend towards the use of natural materials. I mean, it makes sense, but it all depends on the context – most clients prefer more plastic products due to "budget constraints". I think the use of plastic products in the industry should be something that we can move towards. Especially when it comes to drainage and water sensitive design, they are very good suppliers of products that allow for effective infiltration, soil stabilization and erosion control. I also think suppliers should be working hand in hand with landscape architects towards robust play elements over “pretty”. All in all, I think that the industry is very well aware of their plastic usage, as well as who are the best suppliers of the most effective plastic products.

Carl Pretorius Managing director at Just Trees I think there is a huge opportunity for material developers to develop a compostable material that can be used to replace the plastic and woven polypropylene that tree growing bags are made of. The material will need to withstand the elements and conditions during growing and then start composting when in the ground – no easy task. In the meantime, the only option is to use plastic and woven polypropylene and then wash it after use as the recyclers are not able to handle the dirty plastic growing bags as they come off the trees. Just Trees is yet to receive requests for more sustainable packaging options. However, the company does feel that they should start looking for a more sustainable alternative so long.

MORE THAN

8 MILLION TONS OF PLASTIC ENTERS OCEANS EVERY YEAR

ONLY

Anele Ndawule Landscape technologist and intern at Square One Landscape Architects

WITH THE FIGHT AGAINST THE UNNECESSARY USE OF PLASTIC SHOWING NO SIGNS OF S L O W I N G D O W N , W E C H AT T O S O M E O F OUR INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS AND SPECIFIERS T O F I N D O U T W H AT T H E Y A R E D O I N G T O REDUCE THEIR OWN PLASTIC USE, AND IF THEIR CLIENTS ARE DEMANDING A BETTER PA C K A G E D I T E M F O R U S E I N B U I L D

14%

OF PLASTIC PA C K A G I N G W A S T E IS COLLECTED FOR RECYCLING

Herman de Lange Director at cndv landscape architects We live in a global community that is more environmentally aware than ever before. The rise of, for instance, the recent Extinction Rebellion is point in case. The use of environmentally unfriendly or unsuitable materials is a major contributor to our environmental wrong doings, with the words “plastic” and “single-use plastic” increasingly becoming swear words not only in South Africa, but in this growing environmentally conscious world at large.

8.3

BILLION

TONS

TRASHING

OF PLASTIC HAVE BEEN PRODUCED SINCE 1950

HALF OF THIS WAS M A N U FA C T U R E D W I T H I N T H E PA S T 15 YEARS AND 6 . 3 B N T O N S H AV E B E E N T H R O W N A W AY

170 COUNTRIES

PLEDGED TO REDUCE THEIR PLASTIC USAGE BY 2 0 3 0 AT T H E U N E N V I R O N M E N TA L A S S E M B LY

Changing packaging to more environmentally friendly materials or even making use of recycled or re-usable plastic materials, thereby reducing or minimising plastic waste in the building industry as a whole, is paramount from a sustainability point of view. Taking the current state of the global environment into consideration, a possible minor increase in pricing is a small price to pay.

WE HAVE RUN OUT OF EXCUSES AND WE ARE RUNNING OUT OF TIME. Taking a step back from this, there is firstly the need for education around the required change to allow understanding and acceptance of possibly a more expensive product (due to increased plastic materials cost, etc). Changing and improving the packaging will not happen overnight without buy in from the entire industry including clients and end users.

Mark Mac Hattie Landscape designer, Contours Design Studio We tend to find that there is very little reduction in plastic usage. We as designers try and always source our soil additives in cubic meterage as this reduces the amount of plastic and cost.

I have not come across a supplier that utilizes re-usable or recycled planting containers. While the biodegradable containers that are available are great for annuals and veggies that sprout quickly, I do not think the ecofriendly options are there yet when it comes to growing perennials for larger projects. Perhaps a hemp product could be developed, or a reusable bamboo bag? The biggest problem with recycling plastic containers for plants is the fact that cleaning these containers require a lot of water and time, which arguably makes it more expensive ecologically to actually re-use them on a large scale.

On a broader scale, awareness of plastic usage has increased. However, as there is little plastic used on construction sites, usage amongst architects is neither increasing nor declining.

I would love to see less plastic coming from our industry so we can truly call ourselves the ‘green industry’. I was told by a longtime friend who is an owner of a retail nursery that, back in the day, before plastic containers, plants were grown in all kind of containers to re-sell. This ranged from cardboard boxes, newspaper containers, glass bottles and cans – one could even buy plants open ground from nurseries.

As a landscape architect, standing firmly alongside the sustainable agenda is at the heart of my profession. However, more often than not, we shrug off the impact that plastic has within our built environments.

Perhaps with larger growers, we can look at growing certain plants on mass open ground, and we as designers and installers can normalize the practice of using these plants. This will reduce the amount of plastic and the cost of said plants, hopefully.

Peter Stokes Partner, dhk Architects On a global scale, plastic usage is a major issue and needs to be critically discussed. In my personal capacity, I have avoided products that are packaged in plastics, recycle and make ecobricks out of leftover plastic for use at home. Besides packaging, there is relatively little use of plastic in the construction industry. I would estimate that plastic usage tends to mostly occur in the services infrastructure in a building and certain applied finishes. However, options exist that use fewer petrochemical ingredients, and these are gaining traction in the marketplace. Specification of plastic windows, for example, is uncommon in South Africa as the UV rays tend to damage them far quicker than abroad. In terms of site works and main contractors, plastics are separated if a responsible recycling option is required on a building site as part of Green Star requirements. While clients are generally aware of the need for sustainable initiatives and green buildings are becoming the norm, more needs to be done by architects to be thought leaders in this area and purposely drive the agenda.

I would recommend taking a look at the trailer for award-winning documentary Plastic Oceans, directed by journalist Craig Leeson. It gives one a true sense of the severity of the problem – the full movie can also be viewed on Netflix.

Rhuben Jacobs Landscape architect, Yes And Studio

Plastic use causes adverse environmental effects, contaminating our rich soils and oceans with its frightening 1,000 year decomposition time frame. Governmental institutions must implement more stringent policies and regulations to limit single-use plastic within the built environment. Beyond this, we, as practitioners, should look at ways to minimise the amount of plastic discarded during construction projects. How this is achieved presents an exciting design challenge, and perhaps the greatest positive impacts could come from the smallest of places. The landscape industry is well poised to make some changes to mitigate plastic use. Perhaps rethinking the way plants are packaged when delivered to site is a good place to start – plastic plant bags and plant trays are currently discarded after use. To minimise waste, nurseries could investigate applying strategies whereby used plant bags/trays could be returned and re-used. A step beyond this would be the introduction of fabric, or even biodegradable plant containers that could either be returned for reuse by the supplier or kept in-situ to biodegrade naturally. This is, of course, just a snapshot of a small change, and similar methods could perhaps be applied elsewhere to cut out the need for single-use plastic completely. By implementing these small adjustments, massive change within our industry could be achieved.

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F E AT U R E

STELLENBOSCH MUNICIPALITY HERITAGE INVENTORY AND CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT PLAN

WINNER of the ILASA President's Award 2019

Winner of the ILASA Presidential Award at the 2019 Awards of Excellence

Introduction Stellenbosch’s cultural landscape is almost as unique as the diverse cultural groups who call this area their home. Due to this project being a ‘continuing’ living heritage, there was a demand for a more holistic approach to management, which necessitated entire landscapes to be included into its Heritage Inventory. Planning authorities have a responsibility to compile a heritage inventory within their jurisdiction, and to designate and protect “areas of environmental or cultural value” as heritage areas (NHRA Section 30(5) & 31). In practice, this responsibility has not been adhered to by any municipality in South Africa, until now. The Stellenbosch Municipality Heritage Inventory is a pioneer in adopting the concept of cultural landscapes, while interrogating existing policy and management frameworks.

different pattern of settlement, with townships on the edge of the town, suburban development with popular ‘gated’ communities, malls, and over-scaled private dwellings eroding away at the integrity of the cultural landscape.

Brief background Stellenbosch was founded in 1679, and the municipal area, which is also a Cape Floristic World Heritage Area covers 831km². The town is the second oldest ‘colonial’ town after Cape Town, and the colonial venture of Europe to Africa is often visible. It is a predominantly vinicultural landscape, and there are various types of settlements, including the Cape Dutch homes, ‘mission villages,’ and ‘cottage clusters.’ Development from the 1930s now reflects a

Both natural and cultural features such as mountains, rolling hills and settlement patterns were considered a part of the typology of Stellenbosch. With each typology, a series of 'threats' were recorded. General guidelines were then developed as a response to each typology. The character of the landscape was analysed according to Landscape Character Units (CWPPA, 2018, p.30-37). Five value lines were established to apply to each Landscape Character Unit, these being: ecologic, aesthetic,

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

The cultural landscape framework A transdisciplinary team (consisting of landscape architects, urban designers, architects, archaeologists and GIS specialists) and a landscape-scale approach to understanding heritage proved successful in producing guidelines for decision-making for the landscape of Stellenbosch. The team produced a list of typologies that made up the layers of the landscape and produced a set of criteria that guided decision-making for the Conservation Management Plan (CMP) (CWPPA 2019, p. 18).

social, historic, and economic (Roos, 2007). Guidelines are thus transparent, clear and place specific (CWPPA, 2019, Appendix 7). Several documents made up the criteria, including the vision statement, the Burra Charter (1998), Historic Urban Landscape approach (HUL) (CWPPA 2019, p.18), and a set of conservation systems developed for the Stellenbosch Municipality (CWPPA 2019, p.12). Any development proposal needs to satisfy this ‘minimum’ criteria, which is stated upfront on an online platform, to ensure that heritage significance is protected before development. The policy and legal framework An understanding of the policy and legal framework that underscores heritage conservation in South Africa was necessary to ensure that the CMP criteria for decision-making is enforced and adhered to by the Municipality, developers, landowners and other users of the landscape. The following legal framework specifies how the landscape is to be managed, and by whom (CWPPA 2019, Appendix 1): 1. 2. 3.

National Heritage Resources Act (No.25 of 1999) Western Cape Land Use Planning Act (LUPA) Provincial Spatial Development Framework

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F E AT U R E

to general heritage principles and criteria at a spatial level. Any SDF amendment and annual Integrated Development Plan (IDP) reviews must take the Heritage Inventory and CMP into full consideration. The Landscape Units, Scenic Routes and Heritage Sites have all been graded according to the HWC Grading guideline (CWPPA 2019, Appendix 1). This grade carries legal responsibilities, management implications and guidelines for development. The Department of Spatial Planning, Heritage and Environment of the Directorate Planning and Economic Development of Stellenbosch Municipality are responsible for the overarching administration and implementation of the CMP. Conclusion By following the above-mentioned legal framework, the CMP ensures that the diversity of Stellenbosch heritage is developed in response to the different typologies that characterise the Stellenbosch cultural landscape. The strength of the project lies in online accessibility of the Heritage Inventory, CMP and map to the public. The municipality is held accountable by providing the public transparency into the significance of the landscape. The vision is that the public become co-stewards of heritage, ensuring that the cultural significance of townscapes and landscapes are considered in decision-making from the earliest stages of development. Start to finish dates of the design or study April 2016 to January 2019 Role of the landscape architects • Direct and manage the entire project and all sub-consultants

4. 5. 6.

(PSDF); the Policy framework for Heritage and Scenic Resources (2014) Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) Heritage Western Cape (HWC) Policies and Guidelines Municipal Policy and Planning Context with Zoning Schemes under the Land Use Planning Ordinance (LUPO) and Heritage Protection or Special Overlay Zones, and HWC recommendations for municipal zoning scheme by-laws.

Practical issues need to be considered for appropriate protection and management of heritage landscapes and scenic routes. Especially where these cut across municipal boundaries, cover an expansive area and/or involve different

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components and levels of significance. Although Section 31 of the NHRA provides Heritage Areas, it was proposed that the Landscape Units identified as having heritage significance in the Stellenbosch Municipal Heritage Inventory (i.e. graded II, IIIa) be managed through the provisions of the Stellenbosch Spatial Development Framework and Integrated Zoning Scheme through Special Overlay Zones. This ensures that the Stellenbosch Municipality will guarantee compliance. Heritage input into the preparation of Spatial Development Frameworks (SDFs) ensures effective integration of heritage management and planning issues within significant contexts. The scope of heritage input at SDF level must include the Heritage Inventory and should refer

•

To conceptualise the methodology and approach to the heritage inventory using a combined methodology using the outline of the Burra Charter and elements of the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) Approach and J. Roos’s value lines (Phase 2 to 4)

•

To conduct a desktop study to identify the layers of cultural importance, a sequence of maps in the Phase 2 Report

•

To conduct a Landscape Character Assessment of the cultural landscape

•

The placement of the Stellenbosch cultural landscape in its global context based on the typology found within the vinicultural landscape (Phase 4, Appendix 2)

•

Desktop review establishing areas of uniform character based on the defined methodology

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F E AT U R E

•

The fieldwork of the entire municipal area and the verification of the proposed character areas, and units

•

Photographic documentation of the entire study area and the development of a statement of significance for each landscape unit (Phase 3, Appendix 5)

•

The scoring or grading of each landscape unit according to a criterion developed using the analytical hierarchy process as a pairwise comparison (Phase 3 Report)

•

The establishment of development criteria for each landscape unit based on its statement of significance (Phase 4, Appendix 7)

•

The analysing of the commissioned visual as part of the scenic route analysis

•

The documentation of deviated land use in the cultural landscape, and the assessment of the condition thereof in the field

•

Contribute to the actual heritage inventory that consisted in the identification of significant tangible heritage components (built structures and landscape components) in the field using software developed for this project

•

A collaborative effort in the writing of all four reports

•

The development of conservation systems on a municipal scale based on the data revealed with the analysis of all landscape units and their character

•

A thorough understanding of existing policies and the legal framework in which the graded landscape units will fit into and the effect thereof (Phase 4, Appendix 1).

•

Ongoing commentary on proposed development applications, assisting in the use of the development criteria as part of the training process

•

Commentary on proposed developments and the impact thereof. The proposed western bypass (Phase 3, Appendix 7), the proposed SDF and the adjustment of the urban edge around the Stellenbosch municipality urban nodes (Phase 3, Appendix 6)

•

Facilitating of all public workshops throughout the entire process, the documenting of comments received during these workshops, and the way they influenced the development criteria (social layer on the online map)

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

•

To report back project progress, and present back to the municipality

•

Administrative role in the payment of team members and the management of the allocated budget

•

Facilitation of the compilation of the online map.

Project team The landscape architect (Liana Jansen) tendered with the architect (Fabio Todeschini) for the project under Cape Winelands Professional Practices in Association. Fabio sadly passed away at the end of Phase 3 of this project and left Liana to steer the project (and the multidisciplinary team) to its completion. Sub-contracted team members Marike Franklin (landscape architect) Claire Abrahamse (urban designer and architect) Dr Antonia Malan (historical archaeologist) Jenna Lavin and Nicholas Wiltshire of Cedar Tower Services (GIS) Tracey Randle (historian) Shawn Johnston of Sustainable Futures ZA (public participation) Reference: Burra Charter (1998). Available online: www.environment.sa.gov.au/our-places/Heritage/ Conserving_our_heritage/Burra_Charter Cape Winelands Professional Practices in Association (2018). 'Draft Conservation Management Plan for the Tangible Heritage Resources in the Stellenbosch Municipality: Phase 3 Report 1'. Unpublished document.

Stellenbosch Municipality. Available online: www.stellenboschheritage.co.za/phase-3 Cape Winelands Professional Practices in Association (2019). 'Draft Conservation Management Plan for the Tangible Heritage Resources in the Stellenbosch Municipality: Phase 4 Report 1'. Unpublished document. Stellenbosch Municipality. Available online: www.stellenboschheritage.co.za/phase-4 Howard, P., Thompson, I. and Waterton, E. (2013). 'The Routledge Companion to Landscape Studies'. London and New York: Routledge Taylor and Francis Group ICOMOS (2014). 'The Florence Declaration on Heritage and Landscape as Human Values: Declaration of the principles and recommendations on the value of cultural heritage and landscapes for promoting peaceful and democratic societies'. 18th General Assembly of the International Council on Monuments and Sites, 9-14 November 2014, Florence, Italy Roos, J. (2007). ‘Discovering the assignment, Redevelopment in practice’, The Netherlands CA Delft: VSSD Swanwick, C. (2002). 'Landscape Character Assessment - Guidance for England and Scotland'. Available online: www.nature.scot/ landscape-character-assessment-guidanceengland-and-scotland UNESCO (2013). 'The Historic Urban Landscape Approach Explained'. Available online: whc. unesco.org/en/news/1026/

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THE CENTRAL ROLE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS IN PROMOTING GREEN STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE IN SOUTH AFRICA Written by: Prof Neil Armitage, PrEng, PhD

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

To understand the central role of landscape architects in promoting green stormwater infrastructure in South Africa, it is important to understand how stormwater systems have been conventionally designed in this country. Following early British practice (developed in the Victorian era), drainage systems in South Africa are typically designed to minimise inconvenience and reduce flood risk by removing rainwater to the nearest receiving water – i.e. a river, lake or sea – as rapidly and efficiently as possible, often with the use of concrete pipes and channels. Unfortunately, they also raise flood peaks, increase flood volume, pollute receiving waters, and destroy amenity and biodiversity. Flood peaks are increased in two ways. Firstly, they are raised through the increased ‘hardening’ of the catchment area as natural surfaces are covered with buildings, parking areas or roads. This increases the percentage of rain running overland from 10 to 20% in a typical forest to around 40 or 50% in a typical residential area, reaching figures of 90 to 100% in a typical CBD. Secondly, flood peaks are raised through the ‘short-circuiting’ of the flow via stormwater catchpits (the ‘slots’ at the side of the road) and pipes directly to streams and rivers. These, in

turn, often have to be transformed into concrete canals to cope with the increased flow, which exacerbates the problem by further speeding up the flow – the increased efficiency with which stormwater is moved from source to waterbody turns out to be undesirable! Ordinarily, most rainwater temporarily puddles on the surface before gradually soaking into the ground to replenish the groundwater. The rapid, unimpeded, removal of rainfall from urban surfaces has another downside: it sweeps pollution directly into the watercourses. The most obvious sign of this is the trash that can be observed in our streams, rivers, lakes and beaches. However, a far less obvious impact results from invisible pollutants such as pathogens, nutrients and heavy metals. Meanwhile, seemingly ‘clean’ surfaces can discharge unacceptably high levels of pollutants. Recent research on the runoff from the brandnew R300 highway joining national routes N1 and N2 in Cape Town revealed unacceptably high levels of aluminium (mean runoff concentration of around 9500 μg/L versus the Department of Water & Sanitation’ guideline for acute effect of 100 μg/L), copper (143 μg/L versus 4.6 μg/L), lead (80 μg/L versus 7 μg/L), nitrogen (19 μg/L

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versus 10 μg/L), phosphorus (2660 μg/L versus 250 μg/L), and zinc (700 μg/L versus 36 μg/L). The sources are unknown, but probably include a combination of: vehicles (exhaust fumes, tyre wear, brake linings), neighbouring properties (fertilizers) and industrial areas (all sorts of contaminants carried by wind-blown dust). The high levels of zinc are of concern; it is highly likely that this comes from galvanised steel which is widely used – uncoated – in many places, most notably informal settlements. An alternative way of managing stormwater has emerged since 1990. Variously termed ‘Sustainable Drainage Systems' (SuDS – Europe and South Africa), ‘Low Impact Development' (LID – USA), ‘Green Stormwater Infrastructure' (GSI – USA), ‘Water Sensitive Urban Design' (WSUD – Australia), this approach attempts to mimic the pre-development situation by treating the stormwater as close to its source as possible, and using a ‘treatment train’ to successively treat

Filter strips (USA)

potential increased post-development pollution and flow rates. It requires engineers to strive for a type of inefficiency – avoiding the use concrete conduits as far as possible. Instead of the single objective of ‘minimising inconvenience’, SuDS have four key objectives, namely: the management of runoff quantity (including the option of rainwater/stormwater harvesting to supplement local water supply); maintaining high runoff water quality; the promotion of amenity (i.e. infrastructure that offers additional benefits to people); and the preservation of biodiversity.

where the rain lands) and ultimately regional areas ensure that the water entering streams, rivers and lakes has approximately the same quantity and quality as pre-development.

These can be conceptualised in the form of a hierarchy – with the priority given to the saving of lives and minimisation of damage to property. A city designed along the lines of SuDS will contain many pervious surfaces to decrease the volume and speed of stormwater runoff. Multiple interventions – from ‘good housekeeping’ (i.e. keeping the environment clean), at the source (where the rain lands), local (close vicinity to

Green roofs involve the covering of a roof with a layer of soils and vegetation. Along with this, it is also possible to have green walls. Clearly, the building must be designed for this. It also does not make sense to design green roofs/walls that need supplementary watering except, perhaps, in the establishment phase. Well-designed green roofs/walls not only help to slow, reduce and clean runoff, they offer several other benefits. They help to stabilise building temperatures – saving on heating and cooling – and reduce the reflected heat from the building. They also help remove dust (with its attached pollutants) out of the atmosphere. In addition to this, they can be made extremely attractive.

Source: Marsh (1983) as cited in the Georgia Stormwater Management Manual, 2016 edition

The SuDS approach to stormwater management is good news for landscape architects as many of the technologies potentially involve them. These include: green roofs, rainwater harvesting, landscaping around buildings, water-wise gardening, filter strips, swales, bioretention cells, detention ponds, retention ponds, and wetlands.

The ‘Day Zero’ crisis in Cape Town emphasised the value of rainwater as an alternative water source. There is hardly a property in the ‘leafy suburbs’ that does not have a rainwater tank now! What is not always appreciated though is the potential benefit of storing rainwater underground for later abstraction by well-point/borehole. This requires careful attention to the landscaping around the buildings – trying wherever possible to provide low-lying zones that promote infiltration. Sometimes, grassing these areas is adequate, however, alternatives are the use of stone or wood chips. Direct flow to the road should be prevented for all except very large flows where there is a serious risk of damage or threat to life.

Contrary to popular misconception, this can even be done in areas of low permeability or where it is dangerous to infiltrate to groundwater e.g. in the sinkhole areas of Gauteng. Under these circumstances, a permeable layer with a filter drain can be placed on top of an impermeable membrane. The water passing into the filter drain will have reduced flow rates of better-quality water that might even be suitable for capture and use (e.g. for garden watering or toilet flushing). Filter strips, swales and bioretention cells all work in similar ways. The water is made to flow over

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Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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Detention pond in Tokai

vegetation in such a manner that pollutants settle out whilst the water is encouraged to infiltrate into the ground. The difference between them depends on their use. Filter strips are the simplest; they constitute any vegetated area that is designed to serve as a barrier between a high runoff zone, e.g. a road or parking lot, and a nearby drain. A swale, however, is a shallow vegetated ditch. A bioretention cell is a vegetated area that is specifically designed to temporarily hold water that is then filtered through a root zone. It is generally provided with an underdrain to remove the treated water, although this can be omitted if the underlying soils are sufficiently permeable. An overflow set at 300mm above the surface of the cell prevents the vegetation from being ‘drowned’ and acts as a ‘safety valve’ for the system in the event of it being overwhelmed by the inflow. Bioretention cells are commonly equipped with ‘forebays’ to remove coarse pollution prior to discharge to the vegetated section. Ponds and wetlands are usually regional controls used to manage stormwater from larger areas. Detention ponds are normally dry, and it is often possible for them to have a dual purpose, such as serving as a sports field or even an amphitheatre in a city centre. Retention ponds always have water – they make great water features. Wetlands are the most effective of the three when it comes to make improvements to water quality, and they can make an attractive addition to a park. The risk to the public from ponds and wetlands needs to be carefully handled. Apart from the obvious risk of drowning (usually the easiest to handle), there is the concern around mosquitoes. This is best handled through biological controls, such as through the provision of an environment that is conducive to mosquito predators, such as dragonflies.

Detention ponds Diagram courtesy of the Integration and Application Network, University of Maryland center for Environmental Science.

In all of this, the key to success is the early cooperation between the landscape architect and an enlightened stormwater engineer. Guidance to the many alternative SuDS options are readily available from many sources on the web; the Water Research Commission of South Africa (WRC) makes simple guidelines with local case studies freely available on its webpage: www.wrc.org.za/mdocuments-library/?_sf_ s=Sustainable%20Drainage%20Systems

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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T H E O R I G I N A L R E TA I N I N G B L O C K S

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When and why was Talborne Urban Organics established? Talborne Urban Organics is a new creation born from the design talent of Grant Gove of GLC Design Studio and the innovative Talborne Organics. These fertiliser products are designed to focus on the exciting future developments in urban design and lifestyles, catering for rapidly urbanising populations in African cities with limited resources. This brings together a combined 40 years of experience in the green industries in South Africa. What differentiates Talborne Urban Organics from Talborne Organics? Talborne Organics is a family-owned South African business, started 20 years ago by Mike and Jenny Slabber. It aims to supply innovative organic growing inputs to all growing sectors, with a firm belief in growing health through the mantra of "healthy soil = healthy plants = healthy people and animals in a healthy environment". The Talborne Organics brand offers a range of reliable organic fertilisers that deliver excellent results across all growing sectors. Talborne Organics will continue to supply certified organic and sustainable growing inputs, technical services and training to the bulk agricultural and growing sectors.

Company Profile:

TALBORNE URBAN ORGANICS 26

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

Talborne Urban Organics will focus on the urban sector and has incorporated GLC Design Studio. This new design division (called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Studioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) offers a landscape design service with a focus on ecological design which includes organic, environmental and sustainable practices in ecodevelopments, legacy projects, residential and commercial landscapes. Talborne Urban Organics supplies certified organic and sustainable growing inputs and offers technical support, training and advisory services to landscape architects, designers, landscape contractors, garden centres, retail chain stores and online stores. Technical support, training and advisory services include soil testing, soil remediation and fertiliser recommendations, as well as training courses and advisory on ecological and organic project implementation. We are passionate about our business and want to educate people as we believe that our business has an important role to play in an ever-changing world. What are the credentials of the owners? And what do they bring to the business? Talborne Urban Organics is owned and managed by Grant and Claire Gove, with the mother company Talborne Organics maintaining an interest in the form of shareholding.

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Claire, who has a background in marketing, business management and sales, is the managing director of Talborne Urban Organics. She brings her project management skills, knowledge, and experience of 12 years of building Talborne Organics into the new company. Her active passion for the organic industry and human health, as well as changing harmful urban lifestyles and environments into healthy ones, inspires her every day. She is often driven to educate people and promote the company as an agent of change by the effects that unsustainable human interventions have had on our soils and water sources and how, ultimately, these practices are having a detrimental effect on human health and the environment at large. Grant is a passionate creative with the mind of an artist. He is the creative and projects director of Talborne Urban Organics, and is a gifted, versatile and experienced landscape designer. His previous business, GLC Design Studio, has been delivering award-winning creations for his clients, including eco/residential estates, property developments and legacy projects for the past 19 years. His creative skill is renowned in the green industry and he has been invited to judge numerous garden design competitions. www.prolandscaper.co.za

His specific interest for detail, how people live in and use exterior spaces, and what spaces can give back to humanity and nature, inspires him to push boundaries. He is presently working on projects that aim to revolutionise design for healthy lifestyles in fast-growing urban cities for the African continent. When combined, Talborne Organics and Talborne Urban Organics offer a skilled and passionate team of people from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, such as soil scientists, consultants, agronomists, management, marketers, designers and a horticulturist, to service our clients. What is the main market you service, and are there any emerging markets that you would like to explore? We supply Talborne Organics' product ranges to our landscaping clients in bulk quantities, and to gardeners through retail and garden centres, as well as online stores. On the design side, we work with property developers, commercial and residential clients, and design for landscape contractors, to deliver on the clients' brief. We are currently collaborating on an innovative concept for projects in the urban and eco-tourism sectors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; watch this space!

In terms of sustainability, where do you see the landscaping sector going in the next five years? Sustainability is a term that has become far more integral and prominent in the landscaping sector and society in general in recent years. We are increasingly aware of the impact we, as humans, are having on our planet and its available resources, as well as the ill-effects it is having on our health and wellness. This awareness is already changing the way we live and the way our landscapes are created, with the mindset shifting to giving back to nature rather than only extracting. This will continue to change the landscape sector over the next five years. What is your best-selling product, and why? The Talborne Organics' Vita Range of certified organic fertilisers are our best-sellers. They work as nature would have it, mimicking natural processes by improving soil health, plant health, nutrition and ultimately human health. What are some key developments you are involved in or working towards in the next few months? â&#x20AC;˘ Soon to be revealed is our new brand design, imaging and the launch of a new pack size on Talborne Organics VITA Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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retail ranges, as well as an innovative new organic fertiliser range which is still in development. •

We have designed and are preparing for the installation of an organic, low-impact, selfsustainable lifestyle farm and food forest in Gauteng.

•

We are working on a redevelopment of a popular outdoor entertainment destination with green, urban retail and landscape components.

•

Design on housing development projects and private homes keeps us busy.

•

Talborne Urban Organics is working on an exciting collaboration in environmental design with a company that installs multifunctional spaces and modular construction systems for off-grid, low impact applications.

What are your proudest moments? There are many, but we are proudest of the impact that our business has as an agent of change in our industry. Our tagline is "plotting the future" – when setting up Talborne Urban Organics, we asked ourselves one question: How will we impact generations to

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

come? We want to create spaces where humans and nature thrive harmoniously. It's important that the health of our soils is considered and respected, because without them, our food sources would cease to exist. This is where our mantra of "healthy soil = healthy plants = healthy animals and people = healthy environment" comes from. We live it every day. Which projects have been the most rewarding? Our dedicated attention to each successful project delivered is our reward and satisfaction. We engage with and teach people about organic principles, and our products have a positive and far-reaching effect on the health of our environment. Along with this, we are also designing and creating multi-purpose outdoor spaces for wellness, work and relaxation. One project that stands out is a water park in Connecticut, USA. This was designed for clients as a memorial to their young daughter who passed away from a heart condition. We love legacy projects, and always strive to create an impact through the products we sell and the projects we design. www.talborne.co.za

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P R O J E C T

O N E

FRASER STREET REVAMP

REVITALISING JOBURGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INNER CITY www.prolandscaper.co.za

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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Size of the floorscape: 3,000mÂ˛ Project value: R72 million Location: Johannesburg CBD Client: Eris Properties and FNB

The Fraser Street Revamp in Johannesburg's CBD, has delivered on brief. By revitalising the area, the client aims to show their commitment to the inner city. Boogertman + Partners were the team tasked with this important project. The client required an upgrade of the old Fraser Street to become an upbeat, more attractive and exciting space that would encourage engagement between the precinct, staff and tenants at street level. This upgrade is the first phase of a R100 million commitment to revitalise the precinct and its buildings. Though the building was built in the late 80s, due to its neoclassical style, the design concept centered around a modern insertion into a 400- year-old building. This was represented in the sleek new shopfronts, minimal light fittings and urban furniture. Existing plant beds, water features and trees in the precinct were kept and included into a cohesive design and mapping of the space, with a surface application of 3,000m2 of an environmentally-friendly rubberised floor. For this, Melos Stone was utilised. The pattern The design of this intricate pattern was the brainchild of Bob van Bebber (project director) and Margeaux Adams, who developed the floor patterns of the Melos Stone product that was later installed by Seamless Flooring Systems. The team wanted to create colourful, rubberised floor patterns that would guide pedestrians through the directional nature of the patterns. The team also wanted patterns that traverse the length of the space, run up and over planters and stairs, that bring colour and life into a mostly monochromatic space. The colours were chosen to represent the companies that sit under the First Rand Group.

same strength and durability had just been released onto the market. The result was a smoother surface, presenting the colours in an even more consistent manner than the larger granules would have done. When installing the rubberised flooring, edges are dealt with by using aluminium trims to get a straight and neat edge. Once dry, the edge is removed and the vertical edge of one colour becomes the interfacing edge of the next colour. With the steps, the trims stay on the step noses to protect the step nose against the abrasiveness of foot traffic. Interesting to note, is that the Melos application is sensitive during the initial few days after it is placed, and damage occurred

onsite by ignorant passers-by who walked over the wet applications. The decision to use a mottled colour allowed for the damaged spots to be mended with minimal to no visual signs of patching. This was also one of the more practical benefits of the product in terms of maintenance. The cleaning of the surface is as easy as hosing it down with medium pressure water. The surface is porous and Boogertman + Partners provided drainage through the edge trims of stormwater grills to accommodate the rain and cleaning water to bleed slowly during the drying process. All in all, a practical surface full of colour and vibrancy was born.

MEET THE TEAM Client: FNB Holdings Development partner: Eris Property Group Project managers: Metrum Project Management Quantity surveyors: Vusela Project Management Civil and structural engineer: WSP Electrical engineer: Amandla Consulting Engineering Wet services: WSP Flooring: Seamless Flooring Systems Project information: Bob van Bebber Photography: Franz Rabie

The product The Melos product used for this flooring is a German EPDM rubber product which is precoloured, and then trowelled in a polyurethane bonding and adhesive bed that provides shear strength, with the colouring being UV stable. The initial size of the granules was 3 - 10mm, but just before the product was shipped, Melos offered a much smaller granule, as a new range with the

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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SUPPLIERS Paint manufacturer: Plascon – 011 951 4500 Street lighting supplier: Regent lighting solutions – 011 474 0171 Wooden decking: Castro wood – 012 460 8216 Mature trees: Ideal Gardening - 083 237 2744 Melos stone flooring: Seamless flooring systems – 086 178 2789

PORTFOLIO The intricate design and the vertical application of the EPDM rubber in this specific project, combined with the repositioning and modernisation for the shop fronts at street level, creates a new, welcoming vibe and meeting space for all in the precinct. The revitalisation of this space has seen some buy-in into the area, with new shop fronts interfacing the streetscape and refreshed urban space, which now includes 34 retail tenants within the BankCity precinct. Homage has been paid to the extensive use of the classic arch on Fraser Street, where insta-street-grammers post images and public selfies. A large 'Instagram frame' also formalises the role of the precinct. Thanks to this upgrade, The space brings fun back into the city and creates an engaging, urban landscape which is open to all residents and visitors of the inner-city.

ABOUT BOOGERTMAN + PARTNERS Established in 1982, Boogertman + Partners now has offices in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Durban and Kenya, allowing them engage in projects throughout Africa. It is driven by a dynamic team of directors who share a vision for contextually responsible and innovative design, with a dedicated approach to the building process from project to inception and execution.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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P R O J E C T

T W O

BOTHA’S HALTE PRIMARY SCHOOL Size: 1,200m² Cost: R3,600,000 Location: Worcester, Bosjes Estate, Breede Valley, Western Cape Botha’s Halte primary school is the brainchild of the Bosjes Trust. With much collaboration between the Bosjes Trust, the Department of Education in the Western Cape (WCED), Stellenbosch University's SUNCEP programme and the governing body of the school, they have successfully created a space which is not just for the benefit of the learners of Botha's Halte Primary, but for the greater community. At the start of 2017, construction of the new Information and Communications Technology (ICT) school building began at Botha Halte Primary – off the R43, near Botha Wine Cellar in Worcester, South Africa. This facility provides tuition in mathematics and Afrikaans to primary school learners up to grade seven. Square One Landscape Architects were members of the professional team involved in the design of this project, which was entered into the ILASA Awards of Excellence in 2019.

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

The design concept: Botha’s Halte incorporated the latest in technological innovation and environmental sustainability initiatives to create a world class educational facility for young learners in the Breede Valley Region. The school is a privately-funded public facility, and the client’s brief included the creation of an innovative architectural design that would generate a stimulating and inspiring environment for learners, while showcasing the latest in environmental innovation and technology. The architectural design (Meyer & Associates) incorporated a number of environmental sustainability mechanisms, including energy savings through passive heating and cooling, energy efficient lighting installations and monitoring systems, water harvesting and water treatment strategies, and wind energy generation. Landscape architectural interventions included the creation of extensive green roof systems, productive vegetable gardens and orchards, an indigenous water-wise and didactic

planting palette, as well as a vegetation rehabilitation component. Outdoor play: An integrated outdoor play environment was created to cater for a variety of ages and capability levels, focusing on tactile and natural play. Rockeries, sand pits and natural materials were incorporated to create an interactive environment to allow natural expression and learning through play. The play environment includes a variety of custom-designed components that complement the architectural design, while providing a variety of opportunities for play and exploration. A structure of heritage significance, the Anna Zaal, located at the site, was protected and retained and became central to the design integration. The Anna Zaal is framed by a forecourt area that incorporates a series of contextually appropriate low seating walls, stormwater swales and rockeries which create a natural and educational play environment at the school’s entrance.

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Initially, the envisioned scope for landscape architecture was restricted to the creation of a generic play environment, and the planting of vegetable gardens and green roofs. The landscape architects, Square One, were appointed in late 2017 for the completion of phase one, with phase two being recently completed. The integration of the design with the historic ‘Anna Zaal’ necessitated earthworks and installations that created an embankment behind the classroom areas and to the south of the site. The new site conditions were embraced by exploring how play can be incorporated on slopes to enhance physical and mental development of the students. All play equipment and hard landscape materials and finishes were carefully designed and chosen by Square One Landscape architects to promote physical and cognitive development for children of various age groups through equipment manufactured by locally available and natural materials. Equipment was developed for easy and quick site installation to assist with time constraints. Various components are positioned throughout the play areas to allow children to develop upper and lower body muscles, as well as social interaction between peers through play. The site is characterised by harsh climatic conditions. South-eastern and north-western winds, as well as hot summers and wet winters had to be considered in tree positioning and placement in play areas, and the orientation and positioning of some play equipment – for example the steel embankment slide. Extreme clay soil conditions were dealt with by carefully selecting tree and plant species, and incorporating subsoil drains where needed to prevent soils from becoming water saturated. By incorporating the best practice principles to produce a resilient project, the landscape was designed to harvest, filter and store all storm water runoff in a retention basin for reuse as irrigation and to create micro climates and habitats throughout the polishing process. Planted roofs cover the building by means of removable fibreglass planters which were planted with a wide range of indigenous species, promoting a sensory learning experience for scholars. A ramp also leads through the green roof area which allows the students to access the roof and interact with the species on the roof in raised planters.

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PORTFOLIO Extensive rehabilitation of the rare Renosterveld ecosystem surrounding the north and western side of the property will minimise the school's environmental footprint and provide an additional learning environment. On the northern side of the school, vegetable gardens where created to allow for learning opportunities and to provide produce for use by the school. Citrus orchards located in the southern courtyard space of the site add to the productive landscape qualities and provide a cool outdoor environment for the older children during recess. Derek Moolman of Afrilandscapes, the landscape construction team that worked onsite, comment that the school itself teaches the students about agriculture and allows them to plant within their own vegetable and herb garden. This, in turn, is used by local up-market restaurants, creating an endless circle. The outlying areas were also completely destroyed by construction, and AfriLandscapes has rehabilitated the area with Hydroseeding. The sloping entrance and drop-off area in front of the Anna Zaal and main entrance into the school had to accommodate a welcoming

environment, pay tribute to the historic Anna Zaal, be easily accessible to visitors, provide access and movement for vehicles and pedestrians, whilst also creating safe waiting areas for children. The objectives included dealing with storm water in an environmentally sensitive and responsive way. With these objectives, terraced bio-filtration basins were created to allow for universal access across the open entrance space, creating interesting pockets of planting and natural boulders (sourced from site) to allow for a softer entrance-way. Simultaneously, this dealt with storm water and also created environments for fauna and flora to establish and thrive, whilst allowing runoff to dissipate. Seating It should be noted that great pains were taken to make the school as environmentally friendly as possible, which included specifying sustainable materials and products, like solar panels, water storage and wind turbines, wherever possible. When retaining walls and steps were specified for the outdoor recess area, Tiaan Meyer, architect and director of Meyer&Associates, suggested using the Terraforce 4 x 4 step block for cost effective and robust seating, and the Terraforce L11 block for plantable and permeable

earth retaining walls on the school grounds. The Terraforce 4 x 4 step blocks were designed specifically to provide efficient and economical steps in conjunction with the L range Terraforce retaining blocks and have, over the last two decades, become popular for practical stair and seating arrangements at leisure amenities and school sports facilities. Tiaan says: “The blocks offer a good looking and neat finish, and Decorton Retaining Systems did a great job installing the blocks. The seating also fits in seamlessly with the rest of the architecture, which showcases modern, clean finishes, fresh colours and sustainable technology.” Tiaan also adds that the project is one that has the potential to have a real change for future generations in the Breede Valley. “This is a love project – to give back and uplift to the local community, while implementing the same technology and applications in a rural environment as are normally seen in an urban environment.” All future learning activities taking place at Botha Halte will be provided by Bosjes Trust, in partnership with the Western Cape Education Department (WCED). This is a wonderful project, full of hope for its community.

ABOUT SQUARE ONE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS Over the past eight years, Square One Landscape Architects has successfully designed and optimised 150 public and private properties. From designing plazas for redefine properties, to detailing urban parks for the City of Cape Town, we are the first-choice professional partner for our clients.

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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PORTFOLIO

MEET THE TEAM Project landscape architects: Square One Landscape Architects Principal agent and design architect: Meyer&Associates Main contractor: JJ Dempers Group Quantity surveyors: 2ii Consulting Landscape contractor: AfriLandscapes Civil and structural engineer: CEGELA Consultants Electrical engineer: BĂźhrmann Consulting Engineers Civil contractor: DKL Planthire and Civils Surfacing installer: SynSport www.prolandscaper.co.za

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

PORTFOLIO

SUPPLIERS

"An integrated outdoor play environment was created to cater for a variety of ages and capability levels, focusing on tactile and natural play."

Retaining walls: Terraforce – 021 465 1907 Installer: Decorton Retaining Systems- 021 875 5155 Flooring (turf and basketball court): Synsport – 087 803 1023 Lighting: Regent Lighting Solutions – 011 474 0171 Irrigation: Controlled irrigation – 011 608 0767 (Various others) Product: Rain Bird (Various others) Playground equipment: Park – 061 427 4987 Mature trees: Just Trees – 021 871 6972 Habitat – 021 885 4400 Shrubs: Nonke Plants – 021 887 6972 (Various others) Compost: Reliance Compost – 086 188 8784 Paint: Plascon – 0860 204 060 Concrete: Afrimat – 021 917 8840 Paving: N1 Paving – 021 988 3102 Water storage: JoJo Tanks – 013 262 7900 Fencing: Clear Vu – 011 593 0400 Solar panels: Sunpower – 021 200 5754

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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CONSISTENCY. IT’S WHAT WE’RE MADE OF.

A range of products built on the foundation of quality and durability

Aggregates

Inspiring growth through consistent delivery of solutions that empower our people and our customers. The Aggregates Division is a key division within Afrimat Limited producing aggregates of a wide variety of sizes and technical specifications, primarily with products including stone, laterite and

Concrete Based Products Industrial Minerals

sand mainly for large-scale civil engineering and infrastructure projects. The Aggregates Division is located in eight of South Africa’s provinces. The Readymix Division supplies concrete primarily to large-scale civil engineering and infrastructure projects through fixed and mobile readymix plants, where concrete is batched on demand and then transported to site by concrete mixer trucks. Concrete Based Products include bricks, blocks and readymix. Close to 90% of the division’s raw material needs (excluding

Contracting International

cement) are sourced from the group’s own quarries. While the mobile concrete batching can be set up in any part of the country, the fixed plants are based in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Mpumalanga.

Commodities

The Aggregates Division and the Concrete Based Products Division are part of Afrimat Limited, a leading black empowered open pit mining company.

www.afrimat.co.za

Tel +27 21 917 8840 Fax +27 21 914 1174

info@afrimat.co.za

P R O J E C T

T H R E E

APPLEGARTH ESTATE Nestled on the slopes of the Hout Bay mountains, Applegarth housing development provides a modern approach to connecting to its beautiful and natural surroundings. This boutique private estate comprises 30 houses on approximately three hectares. Once a small subsistence farm, Applegarth maintains its rural atmosphere with a fertile greenbelt dominating the middle of site and established trees standing throughout. Set on the sunny north-facing slopes above Hout Bay, Applegarth is both accessible and private. It holds all the promise of the enviable rural Hout Bay lifestyle, while meeting the demands of the modern urban family. Applegarth Estate was designed by TERRA + Landscape Architects and was entered into the ILASA Awards of Excellence in 2019.

MEET THE TEAM Landscape architects: TERRA+ (Project information â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ankia Bormans) Landscape contractor: Interplant (Project information â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bruce De Smidt) Paving contractor: Civils 2000 Irrigation contractor: Interplant Stone mason: Stoneage Construction Main contractor: Civils 2000 Architects: COA

Developer: Flagstone Property Developers 40

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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PORTFOLIO Size: 2.8ha Timeline: Design â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015 Landscape construction â&#x20AC;&#x201C; June 2018 Practical completion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 2018 Cost: R2 million (softscaping)

Site Information During the design process, careful consideration was given to the natural patterns of streams and existing trees onsite and incorporating these into the overall design was seen as imperative. The buildings were carefully placed to allow for the minimum disruption of the existing mature trees and the maximum benefit of an internal green space. The Internal Space The internal space, central to the overall design, incorporates the rehabilitation of a wetland and seep area and includes meandering paths allowing total freedom to enjoy the natural surroundings. The use of water was one of the key structuring elements and drivers to the overall concept. All circulation routes and hard-landscaped elements were designed with the clear intention to respond to the natural surroundings and reflect the natural character of Hout Bay without detracting from the modern inflection of the architecture. Natural stone paving and cladding elements were incorporated using the colours and textures of the mountain stone. These were placed as feature elements to create moments of surprise and delight in the development. In addition to this, the plant and tree choices are all in accordance with the intended uses of the areas. Street verges are planted with a variety of plants to give a seasonal quality and the rehabilitated areas, planted with plants suitable to the re-created conditions. All plants needed to be indigenous where possible, with a strong preference to endemic species where available. The intention is that the user experiences the development as integrated with nature, where the pedestrian movement is given precedence and where the overall design of both hard and soft landscaping forms an synergistic whole. The Overall Brief TERRA+ Landscape Architects made up part of the professional team and were responsible in developing the overall soft and hard landscaping for the entire estate.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

PORTFOLIO

From the outset, the direct brief from Flagstone Property Development was to preserve as many of the existing trees and develop the overall concept around the existing trees, as well as make use of the storm-water onsite. The initial layout was conceived together with Bluegreen Environmental and Urban Planners who were instrumental in driving the environmental planning of the rehabilitated water courses onsite. This was then developed as the central â&#x20AC;&#x153;heartâ&#x20AC;? of the open space of the development. The water and existing trees were the structuring elements of the overall design. Materials were matched to suit the surroundings, with the use of clay brick and natural stone in both the roads and walls. Lighting was incorporated in the benches to create soft diffused light and limit light pollution at night. Flagstone Property Development is very conscious of the water scarcity experienced in the Western Cape, and homeowners onsite are encouraged to treat municipal drinking water accordingly. A borehole onsite will be used to water the common landscaped areas, which are planted in indigenous vegetation, and a full reticulation system for borehole water is included within the development to reduce consumption of treated municipal water. All erven will therefore have a separate connection for borehole water, eventually- which is now being used to irrigate gardens, all planted with water-wise indigenous vegetation. The houses do not currently have separate borehole water connection, but the infrastructure could be extended and used by the homeowners for their own use once the landscaping is sufficiently established.

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

Landscape contractors The 9,865m2 uniquely detailed landscape design installed by the Interplant Team came with a fair amount of challenges during its four month installation. The aim of the project from inception to completion, and upon instruction from TERRA+, was to maintain a light footprint onsite, adhering to strict environmental control, minimal to no use of chemical fertilisers to avoid water contamination and to encourage and allow nature to run its course as mirrored by the carefully selected indigenous planting palette chosen for its functional aspects and to suit the local ecology. The bulk of defined landscaping areas were skilfully designed over stormwater reno mattresses, minimising the use of unsightly concrete stormwater management devices. This allowed indigenous vegetation to filter, direct and slow stormwater throughout the site with a precipitous gradient. This resulted in a tricky planting process on clay slopes, picking the gaps for planting between the reno mattress packed rock, and the correct use and installation of soil saver which worked extremely well, allowing plugs the needed time and moisture to secure the slopes with minimal erosion. The installation included a roof top garden to hide the estate entrance from spoiling the sweeping views of the mountain range which included a specialised light-weight soil mix specially ordered from Master Organics, and the installation of deck drain and bidim to assist with drainage from the roof garden. A mix of Osteospermum fruticosum, Elegia tectorum, Helichrysum pandurifolium and

Pelargonium capitatum made for a quick covering shroud which absorbed the estate entrance beautifully into the landscape. Quite possibly the largest dilemma was sourcing some of the unique plants that the design called for, such as Psoralea pinnata, P. repens, Berzelia lanuginosa, Isolepis cernua and a range of Fecinia species. Happily, some local hidden gems such as Good Hope Gardens Nursery and Fynbos Life came to our aid, supplying and growing a few of the elusive species. As part of the initial site clearance, all exotic felled trees were chipped and used as a very effective mulch on completion across the site, which gave the tiny plugs time to establish, trapping moisture and keeping weed competition at bay. This made general maintenance of the site far easier with minimal weeding required in the first three months. The garden areas were also minimally disturbed, while weeding with little use of forks so as to not damage the roots of the planting. All irrigation was installed by our in-house team, and provided adequate moisture through impact sprayers and Hunter MP nozzles. One of our maintenance challenges was good moisture management, as the clay-based soils caused some issues with the Leucadendron and Leucospermum species, and on a whole, the landscape required far less water than normally applied, given the plant selection, soil type, micro climate and water channelling motion of the design. The end result is a uniquely charming, texturallyorientated fynbos garden that urges exploration and discovery through the rustic winding pathways of the central stormwater spine, from the top of the estate to the bottom.

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PORTFOLIO

SUPPLIERS Paving: Inca Concrete – 021 904 1620 Corobrik – 031 560 3111 LED strip lights: Lights by Linea – 021 511 6116 Fencing: Alcape Fencing – 021 797 0880 Timber supplier: African Lumber – 021 931 0565 Irrigation: Interplant – 021 447 1369 Product: Rainbird Stone walls: Stone Age Construction – 021 875 5604 Nurseries: Shadowlands Nursery – 021 903 0050 Nonke Plants – 021 887 6972 Trees: TreeCo – 082 829 5543 TreesSA – 021 842 0003 Veld and Fynbos – 082 877 9838 Fertiliser: Master Organics – 021 396 1066 Reliance Compost – 086 188 8784

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Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

PORTFOLIO

ABOUT TERRA+ LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS TERRA+ was founded in 2012 by Ankia Bormans, a registered Landscape Architect. TERRA+ is a Landscape Architect practice that works independently and in collaboration with other landscape architects and various disciplines to ensure that projects are environmentally responsible, resilient and sustainable. TERRA+ offers the ability to deal with projects ranging from masterplan development, both urban and rural, right down to landscape architectural design. ABOUT INTERPLANT Established in 2008, our management team has a combined experience in the field of landscaping in excess of 30 years, gained with some of South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading firms and on some large and prestigious contracts. We are members of SALI (South African Landscapers Institute) and the Cape Town Green Forum. In the time we have been in business, we have successfully completed landscaping projects throughout the Western Cape.

Cordless Innovation for a Greener Future!!

THE PEACE BENCH Snøhetta’s 'The Best Weapon' at the UN Headquarters – A symbol of diplomacy and dialogue 46

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

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F E AT U R E

The foremost precondition for peace is bringing people together. We believe in using design as a tool to create lasting symbols that foster fruitful communication,” says Snøhetta founder Kjetil Trædal Thorsen. The installation is situated at the main entry to the UN Headquarters Plaza, next to the famous Non-Violence sculpture – an oversized colt revolver cast in bronze, with a knotted barrel and the muzzle pointing upwards. This sculpture, popularly known as “the knotted gun” was created in 1993 by Swedish artist Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd, as a response to the murder of singer-songwriter and peace activist John Lennon. Since then, the knotted gun has become a global symbol of non-violence. Sited in such a prominent location both symbolically and physically, 'The Best Weapon' takes on multiple valences through this dialogue with its neighbor. The six-and-a-half metre-long installation is made from anodized aluminum from Hydro. The aluminum is the world’s greenest, with significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions than the industry average. Snøhetta has designed an installation which is currently showcased the UN Headquarters plaza in New York City, as a symbol of diplomacy and dialogue. Commissioned by the Nobel Peace Center, the piece is named 'The Best Weapon' after Nelson Mandela’s historic quote: “The best weapon is to sit down and talk”. The installation pays tribute to past Nobel Peace Prize laureates and their efforts to bring people together to find effective solutions for peace. 'The Best Weapon' manifests the values of the Nobel Peace Center and pays homage to Nelson Mandela’s humane ideals of compromise, dialogue and compassion. Designed as a partial circle that meets the ground at its lowest point, the gentle arc of the bench pulls those sitting on it closer together, subsequently and subtly encouraging dialogue. 'The Best Weapon' delivers a message of peace and conflict resolution, both as a functional piece that encourages conversation and social intimacy, and as a resilient symbol that anchors the Peace Center’s mission for discourse and peace. www.prolandscaper.co.za

In addition to creating a beautiful surface, the anodized finish of the bench has high corrosion resistance and protection against scratching. The installation is produced by Vestre in a completely carbon-neutral process. Bead-blasted and predistressed, the sturdy material will ensure the bench’s longevity, promoting diplomacy and dialogue for many years to come. About 'The Best Weapon' The installation was commissioned by the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway. Designed by Snøhetta and created in partnership with collaborators Hydro and Vestre, the 'peace bench' or 'The Best Weapon', was first unveiled at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City on Nelson Mandela Day, 18 July. The installation will remain at the Headquarters’ plaza until 15 October, when it will then be transferred to Oslo to its permanent location near the Nobel Peace Center and the Oslo City Hall, where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually.

About the Nobel Peace Center The Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway, is the museum for the Nobel Peace Prize. As one of Norway’s most visited museums, it presents the Nobel Peace Prize laureates and their work, and communicates the story of Alfred Nobel. The Center is also an arena for topical debates and conversations related to war, peace and conflict resolution. www.nobelpeacecenter.org About the collaborative partners: Snøhetta, Hydro and Vestre The installation, 'The Best Weapon', was designed by Snøhetta. Materials were supplied by Hydro, and final construction of the piece was completed by Vestre. The three companies bring to this project a rich history of past collaborations for social design in the public realm, including Snøhetta and Vestre’s collaboration to design the furniture for Snøhetta’s redesign of Times Square, and Snøhetta’s work on re-imagining Hydro’s visual identity. Vestre is a leading manufacturer of sustainable furniture for cities, parks and other outdoor spaces, and the world’s first producer of carbon-neutral outdoor furniture. For more than 70 years, Vestre has helped to create democratic meeting places around the world where people of different social, cultural and financial identities can come together. This includes Times Square in New York, Aker Brygge in Oslo and Kings Cross in London. Hydro (Norsk Hydro ASA) is a fully integrated aluminum company with operations all over the world. Present in all parts of the value chain, from bauxite and alumina, to rolled and extruded products and recycling, Hydro is the only 360-degree company of the global aluminum industry, serving more than 30,000 customers worldwide. Snøhetta is an international integrated architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, product design and graphic design firm. For 30 years, Snøhetta has designed some of the world’s most notable public and cultural projects. In 2018, Snøhetta designed Arch for Arch, a commemorative arch in Cape Town, South Africa, dedicated to the legacy of Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and human rights activist Archbishop Desmond Tutu. www.snohetta.prezly.com

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

F E AT U R E

LET'S TAKE IT OUTDOORS influences interior architecture, which in turn inspires interior design and ultimately how we treat outdoor furniture design. Contemporary architecture has done a lot to create a flow between the indoor and outdoor living areas, creating a seamless interface between the two. This has been achieved largely through reinforced wall-to-wall glass panelling that brings in natural light and views. As a result, outdoor furniture has become an extension of the indoor space." "We now want our outdoor furniture to have as much of a richly developed aesthetic as our indoor furniture does, because the seamless

"Design can revel in

Photographed above: Adam Court Creative director of OKHA Design & Interiors

KHA’s design sensibility and philosophy are about product integrity, where form and function remain as one. This means that outdoor furniture must be able to satisfy the user in terms of comfort, durability, and appearance. Outdoor furniture trends are taking their cue from indoor trends and are largely about using natural materials that have innate character that is sustained over time. Think stones and metals, such as granite, aluminium or steel, which can withstand wind, sun or rain while retaining their character. “Even outdoor timbers can be prone to cracking and advanced weathering,” says OKHA creative director and designer Adam Court. He elaborated: "Aluminium is very useful as a material for designing outdoor seating, both in terms of aesthetics and weathering.” "To go into more detail about the indoor/ outdoor relationship, the largest sphere of influence is the most central one (as with most design movements), which in this case is architecture. Architecture is the framework that

Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

asymmetry where form is unpredictable, non-uniform and beauty a multi-lingual dialogue between natural forms and constructed design."

"When it comes to tables like Mondo, Rational and Irrational, these are tables which are made to last forever, and which would never have the chance of blowing away in the wind. However, for the outdoors, stainless steel and mild steel are still replaced with nautical grade stainless steel or aluminium to adapt not only to time but also to severe weathering. The Planalto dining table is made from marble and steel. Marbles use by OKHA include Nero Marquina, Calacatta, Brown Emperador, Arabescato, Statuarietto, and Verde Alpi are suitable for the outdoors. Another option is granite, which is a wonderful option for Cape Town homes as it echoes the rocky terrain of Table Mountain. Adam noted that: “Tables can benefit from using natural materials like granite to add texture and an organic feel. This material easily provides enough weight to anchor them, which is crucial for use outdoors.” In addition to furniture, accessories are also widely used in the outdoor areas. The Stellar, Lab Series and Mojo candleholders are exemplar expressions of style moderne as they are

transition makes every space into an environment worth designing." OKHA specialises in bespoke and tailored furniture, which means that every piece of furniture is custom to order, with finishes and components being tailored for the client. This means that much of its catalogue can be adapted for outdoor use. Although no wood is ever completely immune from rotting and insect damage, some resist decay much better than others. "When creating items like the Bison dining table and the Bench bed, we substitute oak, ash and walnut for iroko, afromosia, teak and balau, which are dimensionally stable and naturally decay resistant."  The outdoor environment also influences the aesthetics of the materials themselves. The Fragment table has a beaten copper or brass table top, which when left outdoors can naturally oxidise and patinate, changing the way the table looks over time – in other words, nature becomes part of the design evolution.

Planalto dining table

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F E AT U R E

Photo by Neil Vosloo

functional rather than ornamental, yet complete a setting under the stars.

large enough to provide the perfect high tea for two or an intimate dinner setting by night.

OKHA was recently involved with Clifton 301, an apartment in Clifton Terraces with a panoramic ocean view and a full-length balcony wrapping the living area and master bedroom. Adam has used a similar design of circular granite-topped tables with solid steel bases for both the interior and balcony to maintain a strong sense of dialogue between the two. Customizing each table to its environment, the outdoor tables have been scaled up and are

Adam uses unusual angles and irregular forms to create a sense of tension and unexpected harmony reminiscent of natural environments. He explains: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am interested in using design to bring into question aesthetic conformity and a presupposed need for order. Contrary to the norms of balance and symmetry, design can revel in asymmetry where form is unpredictable, non-uniform and beauty a multi-lingual dialogue between natural forms and constructed design.â&#x20AC;? Photo by Neil Vosloo

Stellar candleholders

Clifton 301

Mondo coffee table

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Pro Landscaper Africa | November 2019

F E AT U R E

CASARREDO 1. Product: Kettal Bitta Swing Sofa

Dimensions: 203cm x 85cm x 77cm Price: from R123,000

2. Product: Kettal Mesh 3-seater Sofa & Cala Armchair Dimensions: 267 x 88cm (mesh), Dimensions: 105.2 x 41.4 x 82.5 x 32.4cm Price: POA

3. Product: Boma 4-seater Sofa

Additional pieces can be purchased and added on. Dimensions: 344 x 92 x 79cm Price: from R251,000

www.casarredo.co.za