portfolio architect • urban designer • Strategic Planner RIAAN LOUW | 2015
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LIST OF PROJECTS Piet Louw Architects, Urban Designers & City Planners Cape Town, South Africa [2013 - ongoing]
Master’s Degree in Urbanism & Strategic Planning KU Leuven, Belgium [2011-13]
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Sungate Development - Precinct 1AB, Hosea Kutako International Aiport, Namibia [2013 - ongoing] pg. 8
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‘Contact Spaces’ Anwerp North: Re-visting the Modernist City Antwerp, Belgium [Fall 2011] pg. 24
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Lower Dorp Street Gateway Precinct, Stellenbosch, South Africa [2013 - ongoing] pg. 12
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‘Made in Taihu’ Re-considering the Village in the (Expanding) City Beijing, China [Spring 2012] pg. 26
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Heritage Indicators and Urban Design Concept for the Lighthouse Precinct, Cape Agulhas, South Africa [2013 - ongoing]
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‘Resilient Ecologies’ Kortrijk: Requalifying Infrastructures Kortrijk, Belgium [Fall 2012] pg. 30
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Residential Development, Elisenheim Estate Phase 1, Windhoek, Namibia [2013] pg. 14
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Heritage Indicators and Urban Design Concept for the Foot of Africa (the Southern-most Point), Cape Agulhas South Africa [2014] pg. 16
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‘Counter-balance: Intermediate Landscape Design Strategy for the Culembourg Site’ Individual Thesis Cape Town, South Africa [Spring 2013] pg. 32
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Exploring the Potential of Evelyn Street, Windhoek, Namibia [2013] pg. 18
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Rhodes University Campus Framework, Grahamstown, South Africa [2014 - ongoing]
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Eros Valley Golf Development, Windhoek, Namibia [2014 - ongoing]
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Oude Molen Mix-use Precinct, Stellenbosch, South Africa [2014 - ongoing]
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Barnard Mutua Architects Windhoek, Namibia [2009-11]
Piet Louw Architects, Urban Designers & City Planners Cape Town, South Africa [2007-09]
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Kupferquelle Resort - Tsumeb, Namibia [2009-10] pg. 38
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Quality Public Spaces - Atlantis & Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa [2007-09] pg. 58
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Village Walk & Kalahari Holdings Mix-use Development Windhoek, Namibia [2010] pg. 44
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Paardevlei Development - Somerset West, Cape Town, South Africa [2005 - 2008] pg. 62
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Southern African Customs Union Headquarters Windhoek, Namibia [2009-10] pg. 45
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Watergate Development - Mitchells Plain, Cape Town, South Africa [2007-08] pg. 66
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House Gruttemeyer - Windhoek, Namibia [2009-11] •
Constance La Gaite: Factory & Environs Precinct Mauritius [2008] pg. 67
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Riche-en-Eau Development Framework, Mauritius [2008]
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Transport Strategy and Transport Interchange Study for the town of George, George, South Africa [2008-09]
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Boschendal Wine Estate: Environmental Impact Assessment, Simondium, Western Cape, South Africa [2007-09]
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Sam Nujoma Square - Windhoek, Namibia [2010]
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Dolomite Camp - Etosha National Park, Namibia [2010-11] pg. 46
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Nujoma Offices - Windhoek, Namibia [2010-11] pg. 54
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MVA Fund Extension and Renovations - Windhoek, Namibia [2010-11]
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Nictus Office Headquarters - Windhoek, Namibia [2011]
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APPROACH & ASPIRATIONS
Architecture, and cities are a great passion of mine. My work shows a serious approach and attitude towards promoting better built environments for society to experience. I have a keen interest in settlements, their spatial characteristic and urban structure, and how architecture and buildings contribute and perform in relation to their context to create space. Working at different scales and integrating them together are a strong feature and principle in my approach and work. I have a passionate commitment to quality and the highest possible standard. I am pro-active, efficient, organised and have excellent communication skills. I can adapt very quickly to new circumstances and will always try to deal with issues and constraints in a professional manner in order to find the ideal solution.
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Open Streets Initiative, Bree Street, Cape Town January 2015
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Piet Louw Architects, Urban Designers & City Planners Cape town, south africa [2013-ONGOING]
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Sungate Development - Precinct 1AB, Hosea Kutako International Aiport, Namibia [2013 - ongoing] pg. 8
•
Lower Dorp Street Gateway Precinct, Stellenbosch, South Africa [2013 - ongoing] pg. 12
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Residential Development, Elisenheim Estate, Windhoek, Namibia [2013] pg. 14
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Exploring the Potential of Evelyn Street, Windhoek, Namibia [2013] pg. 16
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The Southern-most Point of Africa, Cape Agulhas, South Africa [2014 - ongoing] pg. 18
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SUNGATE - PRECINCT 1 AB W I N D H O E K , N A MIBIA [ 2 0 1 3 - O N GO I N G]
- IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, DAVE DEWAR & Anton roux -
The site known as Sungate is a large land parcel (409 ha) near the Hosea Kutako Airport, some 40 kilometers east of Windhoek. The intention is to take advantage of the proximity to the airport to create a trade gateway into Namibia. The proposed development is a large mixed-use one accommodating light industry, warehousing, offices, retailing, travel-related accommodation, service industry, housing, necessary social services and public open space.
The site has been designed as a totality. It will, however, be developed as a series of precincts. The purpose of this exercise is to outline design controls and guidelines for the first phase – phase 1AB. These are intended to help architectural designers: they represent the beginning of the architectural brief.
B1
B6
To Gobabis
Hosea Kutako AIrport
The SIte C28
Windhoek
To Swakopmund
C26
To Rehoboth
Location
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The purpose of precinct plans is to ensure the spatial quality of the precinct as a whole and to optimize its contribution to the overall site. Particularly, precinct plans seek to achieve three interconnected objectives: •
•
To define the quality of the public spatial environment;
•
To define the role of, and spatial fixes impacting on, individual land parcels within the precinct;
To define the relationship between private building development and the public spatial environment to which that development contributes, in order to ensure that these interrelate synergistically; KEY Precinct 1AB
Overall Urban Design Framework
FIG. 2 ADOPTED FROM URBAN DESIGN FRAMEWORK, OVERALL SITE
Development of Sungate, Namibia by
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013
Piet Louw • Architects • Urban Designers • City Planners Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner
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The precinct plans contain two different types of components: controls and guidelines. Controls are mandatory. They represent the minimum conditions necessary to ensure the harmonious development of the overall precinct. It is not the intention to restrict unnecessarily the freedom of designers at smaller scales. Accordingly, these controls are kept to a minimum. In terms of public space, controls are expressed as a general set of principles which relate to all public space. More detailed suggestions relating to form are offered as guidelines.
Guidelines relate to intent. They represent the norms of spatial good manners in the spirit of the overall scheme. The guidelines are principle-based and require interpretation before being translated into form. They are based on a belief and trust in the creativity of competent designers to respect the principles and to give individualistic and sympathetic architectural form to the buildings. The project is currently in construction and . Bulk infrastructure is already in place already, the construction of the filling station is almost complete.
PRECINCT 1AB:
PRECINCT 1AB:
KEY cl road
Treed Landscaping Road Reserve Space to Airport Hard Urban Open Space SALT (Special Areas requiring landscape Treatment)
South 91
PRECINCT 1AB:
116 134
90
3,7m
3,7m
2,5m min
5m
Traffic lane
Traffic lane
Varies
Parking
North
1,5m
Road Reserve
Railwa
130 129
108 (P.O.S) 120 73
121
122
126
125
124
123
128
127
Cross-Section of Two-sided Central Spine And Street Space in Industrial Zone
74
139 RE 75 135
76
136
137
barrier kerb
roll over kerb
131
y Reserve
roll over kerb
133 132
Railway Reserve
140 141
138
77 97 109
FIG 12B. IN-PRINCIPLE CROSS-SECTION OF THE EASTERN END OF THE ONE-SIDED CENTRAL EAST/WEST SPINE AND STREET SPACE IN THE INDUSTRIAL ZONE
115
Development of Sungate, Namibia by
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013
cl road
Piet Louw • Architects • Urban Designers • City Planners Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner
FIG 8D. MAIN ORGANIZATIONAL PRINCIPLES: SIGNIFICANT EDGES WITH ZONES OF IMPORTANT STRUCTURAL PLANTING
Main Organizational Principles: Significant Edges with Zones of Important Structural Planting
Development of Sungate, Namibia by
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013
Piet Louw • Architects • Urban Designers • City Planners Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner
South
North
7m 1,5m
5m
4,5m
2,5m
1,45m
Parking
Access
Bicycle and pedestrian surface
Median
20m
PRECINCT 1AB:
3,7m Traffic lane
3,7m
1,45m
2,5m
3,5m
2,5m
Traffic lane
Median
Parking
Access
Parking
1,5m
Road Reserve
Cross-Section of Two-sided Central Spine And Street Space in Industrial Zone
PRECINCT 1AB:
KEY Built-to line definition Landmark/Expression of Gatweay Buildings Corners with first floor baclonies overlooking street spaces
FIG 12A. IN-PRINCIPLE CROSS-SECTION & PLAN OF THE TWO-SIDED CENTRAL EAST/WEST SPINE AND STREET SPACE IN THE INDUSTRIAL ZONE
Development of Sungate, Namibia by
Landscaped Public Square as flexible space accommodating occasional parked vehicles
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013
Piet Louw • Architects • Urban Designers • City Planners Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner
cl road
Stoep Zone Compulsory Ground Floor Covered Collonade with first floor baclonies overlooking street and public paces
91 116 134
90
133 132 131
ve
Railway Reser
130 129
108 (P.O.S) 120 73
121
122
125
124
123
126
127
128
74
139 RE 75 135
76
136
137
138
140 141
77 97 109
115
West
Basement parking
Basement parking
5m
1,8m
2,5m
3,7m
3,7m
2,5m
1,8m
5m
Stoep zone
Sidewalk
Parking
Traffic lane
Traffic lane
Parking
Sidewalk
Stoep zone
East
16m Road Reserve
Critical Performance-Orientated Controls for the Precinct as a Whole FIG 9. CRITICAL PERFORMANCE-ORIENTATED CONTROLS FOR THE PRECINCT AS A WHOLE
Development of Sungate, Namibia by
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013
Piet Louw • Architects • Urban Designers • City Planners Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner
Cross-Section of North-South Activity Street linking the Business/Mixed Use Hub to the Future Station Square
FIG 12C. IN-PRINCIPLE CROSS-SECTION OF THE NORTH-SOUTH ACTIVITY STREET LINKING THE BUSINESS/MIXED USE HUB TO THE FUTURE STATION SQUARE AND HOTEL SITE
Development of Sungate, Namibia by West
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Basement parking
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013
Piet Louw • Architects • Urban Designers • City Planners Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner
Basement parking
East
PORTFOLIO
To Gobabis To Hosea Kutako International Airport
To Windhoek
PRECINCT 1AB:
8,2m • External Lighting: No floodlighting is allowed.
PRECINCT 1AB:
•
cretion of the design review panel.
he surface (place-making) ced heating, particularly through cross-ventilation
tems to reduce costs, and to maximize efficiencies in the
g.
8,2m
Contribution towards ‘Green’ Architecture, the elements of which include: Public Openroofs local water capture from Space maximize orientation on the site the use of green materials • External Lighting: - roof treatment to reduce the albedo (reflection coefficient) affects No floodlighting is allowed. planting to shade buildings Indicative dealing with storm-water run-off on the surface (place-making) • Signage: Building maximizing natural cooling and reduced heating, particularly through cross-ventilation No billboards allowed. Signage is at the discretion of the design review panel. Footprint the use of solar energy • Contribution towards ‘Green’ Architecture, the elements of - which include: the use of modular architectural systems to reduce costs, and to maximize efficiencies in the building system. S H S the optimization of use and recycling. local water capture from roofs
8,2m
(reflection coefficient) affects
PRECINCT 1AB:
Signage: No billboards allowed. Signage is at the discretion of the design review panel.
•
e elements of which include:
• External Lighting: No floodlighting is allowed. •
Signage: No billboards allowed. Signage is at the discretion of the design review panel. Indicative
Building
Contribution towards ‘Green’ Architecture, the elements of which include: Footprint Public Open capture from roofs local water Space maximize orientation on the site the use of green materials - roof treatment to reduce the albedo (reflection coefficient) affects planting to shade buildings dealing with storm-water run-off on the surface (place-making) maximizing natural cooling and reduced heating, particularly through cross-ventilation the use of solar energy SHS - the use of modular architectural systems to reduce costs, and to maximize efficiencies in the building system. the optimization of use and recycling. •
Ind B Fo
5m
maximize orientation on the site the use of green materials - roof treatment to reduce the albedo (reflection coefficient) affects planting to shade buildings dealing 6mwith storm-water run-off on the surface (place-making) maximizing natural cooling and reduced heating, particularly through cross-ventilation the use of solar energy Landscaped - the use of modular architectural systems to reduce costs, and to maximize efficiencies in the Kick-about building system. Space the optimization of use and recycling.
Indicative Building Footprint
45m on ricti restc treline n ding Buil om ce Road fr line ational raded of n owng ld unti
SHS
6m
6m
45m on ricti restc treline n ding Buil om ce Road fr line ational raded of n owng ld unti
Landscaped Kick-about Space
KEY
ar
trian al street
3D-Representation of Precinct 1AB
SHS
Compulsory Stoep Zones Network
Landmark elements promoting legibility
Zones contributing towards safety and human surveillance
Tree-planting
Compulsory Covered Colonnade
0
10m
25m
KEY
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013
Compulsory Covered Colonnade Compulsory Build-to Line
Prefered Vehicular Access Point(s) Indicative Pedestrian dominated internal street
Compulsory Build-to
50m Line
Prefered Vehicular Access Point(s) Indicative Pedestrian
SHS
75mdominated internal street
Landmark elements promoting legibility
Zones contributing towards safety and human surveillance
Tree-planting
Development Namibia Compulsory Stoepof• Sungate, Landmark elements Piet Louw • Architects Urban Designers • City Planners Zones Network promoting legibility by Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner SHS
Zones contributing towards safety and human surveillance
Tree-planting
0
10m
25m
50m
75m
100m
KEY
0
Precinct Plan for Controls & Guidelines for Erf 90 Phase 1AB
Development of Sungate, Namibia by
Compulsory Stoep Zones Network
November 2013
10m
25m
Precinct Plan for Phase 1AB November 2013 50m
Compulsory Covered Colonnade
Prefered Vehicular Access Point(s)
Compulsory Build-to Line 75m
Indicative Pedestrian dominated internal street
Compulsory Stoep • Urban DesignersLandmark elements Piet Louw • Architects • City Planners Zones Network Dave Dewar • City and Regional Plannerpromoting legibility SHS
Zones contributing towards safety and human surveillance
Tree-planting
0
Precinct Plan for Controls & Guidelines for Erf 135 Phase 1AB
Development of Sungate, Namibia Piet Louw • Architects • Urban Designers • City Planners by Dave Dewar • City and Regional Planner
November 2013
11
10m
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L O W E R D O R P S T R E E T G AT E WAY P R E C I N C T S TE L L E n B O S CH , SOUT H A FRICA [ 2 0 1 3 - O N GO I N G]
- IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, DAVE DEWAR & TV3 ARCHITECTS & PLANNERS -
The site is located in the north-west of Stellenbosch, west of the historic core. It is a fairly ‘boxed’ land parcel, being flanked in the north by Lower Dorp Street, in the north-west by the barrier of the R310 mobilty road and to the south by the Eerste River. At present, the site is fairly loosely developed, primarily in the form of office complexes, with the focal point being the Rupert Museum. The brief calls for an urban design concept which unlocks the potential of the site, while enhancing the spatial quality, and thus the dignity, of the precinct as a totality. The existing museum requires respect and should be celebrated, as well as being integrated with the proposed development and its surroundings. Constraints and informants are mainly flood plains, elements of heritage significance, dominant utility infrastructure and movement network, the existing vineyards, the Eerste River, the museum, vegetation of stature and footprints of existing buildings. In essence, new buildings are inserted to create an hierarchical ‘family’ of public and common spaces: the Dorp Street gateway space; the vineyard gateway space, the museum forecourt space, which is connected by a treed avenue leading to a possible river park. The intention is to link the precinct and its internal spaces to the station by a walkway which capitalizes on already significant pedestrian flows through the area. This system integrates with a municipal system of non-motorized transport (NMT) routes which are already being planned, particularly along Dorp Street and along the river.
Locating the Site
The primary urban design directives relate to build-to lines, height, special features and pedestrian priority zones. It is essential, in terms of the quality of the scheme as a whole, that these be respected. The overarching intent of the proposed development is to achieve qualities of ‘capeness’ and ‘ruralness’ in this unique and special context.
Aerial Photo of Lower Dorp Street Precinct
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Ste Tra llen in bos Sta ch tio n
PORTFOLIO
treet
8,75 %
Dorp S
8,75 %
8,75
%
%
8,75 17,49 %
ad
m da
s Ta
Ro
A
rt be m Ru seu u M
R44
te rs r Ee ive R
Precinct Plan
3D-Representation
3D-Representation
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R e s i d e n t i a l D e v e l o p m e n t, E l i s e n h e i m E s tat e P h a s e 1 W I N D H O E K , N A MIBIA [2013]
- IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, DAVE DEWAR AND Gareth nolan -
The brief called for a preliminary architectural sketch proposal for the combination of Erf 307 and 308, Phase 1, Elisenheim Estate, Windhoek. The purpose of the proposal is to test the capacity of the site in terms of the retention of the charactergiving elements of the site, and to optimize on the number of units that can be accommodated within the constraints of the site. The aim is to achieve between 120 and 150 residential units with a varied choice of floor areas, with the majority of the units taking on a two-bedroom type unit.
B
330
329
322
328
323
327 307 324
326
325
308
B
The dominant idea stems from the opportunity to ‘work with the land’, and to respect the constraints and informants. As many trees as possible should be retained, as they are important in providing shade, adding to the amenity and in contributing to a sense of place. The placement of buildings contributes towards the idea of a ‘village’ and the making of streets and social spaces. The overarching design idea anchors the development into a system of green spaces that link to the river corridor as well as the creation of a village ‘heart’ in the form of a square that links the street to the river corridor and veld.
331
309
The development is organized around a ‘family’ of common spaces or courts of different hierarchical order, linked by an internal street system. These spaces are all social spaces: they accommodate the informal activities of the development. While there are four dominant spaces making up the village, all parts of the complex have their own ‘hearts’, creating a spatial gradation from publicness to greater privacy.
Site Design Layout
Section BB
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307
307
308
308
309
Distribution of Height
307
307
308
308
309
Dominant Spatial Linkages
309
Vehicular Circulation
309
Water & Green Structure
3D-Representation
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Heritage Indicators and Urban Design Concept for the Foot of Africa (the Southern-most Point) C a p e Agu l h a s, Sout h A frica [2014]
- IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, AND DAVE DEWA R -
Agulhas National Park is one of the developing parks managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks). The primary attractions of the site are the lighthouse site (second oldest lighthouse in South Africa and one which has a rich history) which is the primary gateway into the park and the point, which is the southern-most tip of Africa. It is internationally recognised as the dividing line between the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
KEY ‘Foot of Isolation zone’
The Town of Agulhas
Agulhas National Park
C o a s t a l Ba y
Lighthouse
Ancient Fish Traps
‘Foot of Isolation Zone’
The site of the Southern-most tip of Africa is spectacularly beautiful, dangerous, desolate, windswept and hard. It is characterized by its needle-like coastline (‘Bay of Needles’) which has resulted in countless shipwrecks over the years. The central heritage issue is maintaining and enhancing the landscape integrity of the site over time. This integrity has been interrupted by man-made intrusions into the zone.
Peninsula
A t lant ic O c ean
Southern-most Point of Africa
In d i a n Oc e a n 0m
100m
200m
HERITAGE INDICATORS AND URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT FOR THE FOOT OF AFRICA (THE SOUTHERN-MOST POINT), CAPE AGULHAS
KEY
300m
400m
500m
Location: The Foot of Isolation Zone
Fig. 1: Location: The Foot of Isolation Zone
PIET LOUW ARCHITECTS • URBAN DESIGNERS • CITY PLANNERS DAVE DEWAR • CITY AND REGIONAL PLANNER
Primary coastal zone
The Foot of Isolation Zone captures best the character of the place. Development within this zone should be kept to an absolute minimum. This zone is identified into the three (primary, secondary and tertiary) domains which define the topographical structure of the site. The iconic dimension of it lies in the integrity of the landscape. Intrusions should not be allowed in the primary coastal zone and any interventions should be as low-key as possible,
Secondary coastal zone Tertiary coastal zone
The Town of Agulhas
High energy waves Low energy waves
A gu l h a s N a ti o n a l P a r k
C o a s t a l Ba y Fynbos Zone
Lighthouse
‘Foot of Isolation Zone’
Peninsula
In concept, the boardwalk is realigned to behind the primary coastal zone where it terminates in a low walled circle, representing a compass (450mm high, creating informal seating). The wall itself is made of local materials. The entrances into the circle represent the primary points of the compass: north, south, east and west. In the center of the circle, the floor is surfaced by a map of Africa, aligned with the compass. The map is made in local stone creating an undulating surface which people can walk around. The pathway leads from the circle to the existing plaque. This almost spiritual walk to the point is an uplifting experience.
1
L ig h th o u se
Visu a l in tru sio n o f th e b o a rd w a lk
Pa rkin g Are a
Mo st So u th e rn p o in t
1
A t lant ic O c ean
Southern-most Point of Africa
In d i a n Oc e a n
Aerial map indic
0m
HERITAGE INDICATORS AND URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT FOR THE FOOT OF AFRICA (THE SOUTHERN-MOST POINT), CAPE AGULHAS
2
100m
200m
300m
400m
500m
Topographical Structure of the Site
Fig. 2: Topographical Structure of the Site
L ig h th o u se
Existin g b o a rd w a lk
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E xi st i ng boardwa lk
Th e sta rkly b e a u tifu l co a st co mp e llin g lo n g vie w s. Th e p rin cip le o f h o rizo n ta lity is
PIET LOUW ARCHITECTS • URBAN DESIGNERS • CITY PLANNERS DAVE DEWAR • CITY AND REGIONAL PLANNER
Pa rkin g Are a
Photographic Interpretation of the Site 3
2
Mo st So u th e rn p o in t
Th e h ig h le ve l o f clu tte r w h Th e co a sta l zo n e sh o u ld re ca rs sh o u ld n o t b e a llo w e d
KEY Higher ground in primary coastal zone
PORTFOLIO
Agulhas National Park
The Town of Agulhas
C o a s ta l B a y
Low walled circle (evoking the idea of a compass) & floor surfaced map of Africa
Li g h th o u s e
Small car park
Peninsula
Indian Ocean
Existing gravel road to be paved
At l ant i c Ocean
Southernmost Point of Africa
Small beach
Re-aligned boardwalk
Existing boardwalk
0m
100m
200m
300m
400m
500m
Longer Term Design Concept
Fig. 7: Longer Term Design Concept HERITAGE INDICATORS AND URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT FOR THE FOOT OF AFRICA (THE SOUTHERN-MOST POINT), CAPE AGULHAS
3d-View of Southern-most Point Landmark Structure
PIET LOUW ARCHITECTS • URBAN DESIGNERS • CITY PLANNERS DAVE DEWAR • CITY AND REGIONAL PLANNER
3d-View of Southern-most Point Landmark Structure
Fig. 12c: Three-dimensional Views of Southern-most Point Landmark Structure
HERITAGE INDICATORS AND URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT FOR THE FOOT OF AFRICA (THE SOUTHERN-MOST POINT), CAPE AGULHAS
PIET LOUW ARCHITECTS • URBAN DESIGNERS • CITY PLANNERS DAVE DEWAR • CITY AND REGIONAL PLANNER
Fig. 12a: Three-dimensional Views of Southern-most Point Landmark Structure HERITAGE INDICATORS AND URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT FOR THE FOOT OF AFRICA (THE SOUTHERN-MOST POINT), CAPE AGULHAS
PIET LOUW ARCHITECTS • URBAN DESIGNERS • CITY PLANNERS DAVE DEWAR • CITY AND REGIONAL PLANNER
Western Elevation
Western Elevation
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E X P L O R I N G T H E P O T E N T I A L O F E V E LY N S T R E E T W I N D H O E K , N A MIBIA [2013]
- for WOrld Habitat day: IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, DAVE DEWAR AND BARNARD MUTUA ARCHITECTS (NAMIBIA) -
Evelyn Street affectively forms the northern head of an emerging urban development corridor in Windhoek linking the centres of Goreangab, Katatura central, the institutional precinct, Windhoek city centre and Maerua Mall. It is also close to the Waterfront development which is planned at the Goreangab Dam and it is the main commercial high street of Katatura. The exiating activities flanking the street are intensely mixed use particularly in terms of housing and commercial activity, and the street itself is intensively used. Despite its importance, however the spatial quality of the street is poor (refer to photos), particularly because of the large unsurfaced road reserve of 8.4 meters on either side of the road surface. It more reflects qualities of ‘road’ than street. The pedestrian experience is particularly poor. Nevertheless, this undeveloped land holds considerable potential for simple but creative interventions. The City of Windhoek is exploring ways of transforming Evelyn Street into one of the great streets of Namibia. The possibilities shown are simply the beginnings of a more extensive investigation into what is possible and they are shown here to start a vigorous dialogue with the residents of Katatura and of Windhoek as a whole. The primary elements of intentions are simple: creating spatial qualities of an African avenue through expensive planting; the use of low walls to define space and to provide seating; improve the pedestrian experience through the provision of paving and shade; creating ‘special places’ at significant points; and the limited provision of market infrastructure, particularly in relation to cooked food, to improve hygiene.
The Site in relation to the Emerging Urban Corridor
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1
5
8
7
2
6
6
5 4 3
3
7
2
1
4
8
Aerial View of Evelyn Street
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Urban Design Framework for Evelyn Street
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Proposed Sections through Various Parts of Evelyn Street
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Beijing Studio Final Review - KU Leuven June 2012
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Master’s Degree in Urbanism & Strategic Planning KU Leuven [2011-13]
•
Contact Spaces Anwerp North: Re-visting the Modernist City Antwerp, Belgium [Fall 2011] pg. 24
•
Made in Taihu Re-considering the Village in the (Expanding) City Beijing, China [Spring 2012] pg. 26
•
Resilient Ecologies Kortrijk: Requalifying Infrastructures Kortrijk, Belgium [Fall 2012] pg. 30
•
Counter-balance: Intermediate Landscape Design Strategy for the Culembourg Site Cape Town, South Africa [Spring 2013] pg. 32
23
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CONTACT SPACEs-
Re-visting the Modernist City
AN TW E R P, B E L G IUM [2 0 1 1 ]
- IN COrporation WITH CALIN LAMBRACHE, HUYEN VU & THOMAS WILLEMSE -
Luchtbal is surrounded by large-scale infrastructure that cuts it off from the city and the neighbouring villages. In this way it becomes an isolated strip with two dead ends to the north and south. In the north the nature reserve ‘Oude Landen’ forms now a part of Ekeren and is hardly connected to Luchtbal and the city centre of Antwerp. But it has the potential to become a park on a city scale, similar to ‘Rivierenhof’ and ‘Middelheimpark’. The canal area in the south is part of an ongoing transformation of former industrial areas towards the north, starting at the new developments in the Eilandje. The canal could become a contact space connecting Luchtbal and ‘Oude Landen’ to the city. On top of this, both areas claim a particular position as part of a regional landscape. The canal at Luchtbal marks the transition from the Albertkanaal-highway system to the port of Antwerp. And the area at ‘Oude Landen’ is part of the natural landscape of the ‘Kempen’, which runs parallel to the canal and meets here the man-made landscape, cut off from the Scheldt. The canal-highway system running from Antwerp until Liège also connects to the urban landscape at Luchtbal. This meeting of an urban and canal-highway system creates a typical condition of convergence and a higher frequency of different activities along the canal. City contacts in Herentals, Hasselt and Liège show this higher frequency of industrial, commercial, recreational, etc. functions where the ring road meets the canal. In Antwerp we can find a similar range of different patches, which can be reinforced to inscribe our proposal into the larger scale system, but also to function as connectors of city quarters at both sides of the canal. The canal brings unity to this range of patches as a continuous space passing through the different atmospheres – event,
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leisure, business, transferium, pedestrian crossing and recreation. The large green area north of Luchtbal can be imagined as an extra large park defined by a sequence of different patches where the nature is a dominant element. The microtopography of this landscape shows a series of higher and lower patches, defining dry and wet areas. This condition generates particular landscapes – a higher green social housing area, a low natural flooding area, a high green zone, a low polder landscape, sports and recreational fields, a higher residential strip and a lower campus. All of these can be reinforced and connected to form a permeable network of pathways joining the elements to create one extra large park. At crucial locations in this network new platforms and functions are added with the main new gate to the park at the Havana site in the north of Luchtbal.
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MADE IN TAIHU-
Re-considering the Village in the (Expanding) City
B E I J I N G, CH I N A [2012]
- IN COrporation WITH SAFAA AL BATTRAWI, SANNE CLAEYS, JONAS DE MEYER, SEDAILE MEIJAS, ALBERTO SALIS, ANDREEA SFERCOCI & XIE YING -
The ‘Made in Taihu’ project tackles the major challenges booming China is dealing with: food security, increasing energy demand and poor social institution of relocated villagers and rural migrants searching for better job opportunities in the urbanizing areas. As already once in its history, Taihu is to regain its experimental capacity. In the Mao-era, Taihu was made a test-site for accrued patty cultivation by means of an impressive engineered irrigation. After the cultivation revolution however, the change to an open market encouraged depleting monoculture and industrialization. This, in turn caused the over-use of natural resources, an increase in pesticides and a lack of biodiversity which transformed Taihu into land again marked by dryness, with a water table 50 metres below surface. Meanwhile the amount of polluting industries was on the increase, as well as the rural migration and energy demands. Can Taihu become a test-site for China again? Can ‘Made in Taihu’ become a top-quality brand of food and renewable energy in the competition with other players in the Beijing region?
can be kept small so a no-waste policy can be promoted. No waste of land, food or energy: locally-produced food and energy go directly to the consumers’ homes and their waste is in turn recycled and used to produce new food or energy. On such premise, Taihu will be a place where the floating population can find a permanent job by contributing to the production of food and energy. Programmes linked to tourism, leisure and research are interwoven on site as well. Urbanizing the area, increasing the population number and rethinking ultimately requires a change in mobility and connectivity. ‘Made in Taihu’ can thus be a site-specific counterproposal for the generic ‘Made in China’.
The challenge is to accomodate at least double the amount of inhabitants currently residing in Taihu while at the same time preserving productive land and restoring the soil for future generations. In Taihu, cycles of production and consumption
Evolution of the Chinese Landscape
Portion of the Physial Model
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Illustration of Vision Map for the Taihu Region
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C u lt i vat i n g c o n n e c t i v i t y - IN COrporation WITH ALBERTO SALIS -
RE C002_SUBWAY PLAN A faster pace is not necessarily commensurate with a better pace. High-quality living also has to do with stratgic-connections rather than high-speed linkages. If in Taihu the latter connection exists, the former kind can be improved. Additionally, the public transport network can contribute to awareness-building: Taihu’s inhabitants can be familiarized with the origin and nature of their food and energy production. A wider accessibility and a public realm closely-knit with the productive environment form the basis for rethinking the hierarchy of existing infrastructures. The proposal suggests to upgrade some main roads devoted to car-orientated traffic and complement this with downgraded streets. These , exclusively for bicycle and pedestrian flows, are closely related to the specific environment of the area and to local use. Another essential challenge for Taihu is to encourage alternatives to individual car use. If the bus currently is a highly-used transportation mode, it can be encouraged together with inter-modal stations hosting bicycles and three wheelers. A third proposal considers a site-specific water transportation system. By reintroducing seasonal water transport, the now neglected rivers recover their role as armatures within the Taihu area and its surroundings.
The urban growth of Beijing resulted a plan of a general empowering of subway/metro system. The objective is to limit traffic jams and guarantee an efficient and cheap interconnecting system. ‘Made in Taihu’ encourages this idea by proposing a further extension of the Yizhiang line to connect it to the Batong line (line n. 1). This way Taihu is directly connected and more integrated with the various transportation of Beijing.
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1
BEIJING SUBWAY PLAN 2015 TIANFUCUN BOOK CITY
YIZHUANG RAILWAY STATION CIQU CIQU SOUTH
RONGCHANGDONGJIE RONGJINGDONGJIE
JINGHAILU TONGJINANLU
existent proposals
TAIHU
MADE IN TAIHU line n.1 line n.5 Yizhuang Line (existent)
YIZHUANG LINE
Yizhuang Line
SUBWAY PLAN (extension)
Proposed Subway Line Extension
RE C004_PUBLIC TRANSPORTS
PUBLIC TRANSPORTS city-to-city bus line ring bus line coastal bus line metro line extension water transport
Proposed Public Transport Plan
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1/500
PR 011_Jinghailu Area
Section 9
PR 012_Jinghailu Area Ideas and Concept
1/500
Section 10
Section 11
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PR 012_Jinghailu Area
Section 11
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PR 011_Jinghailu Area Section 12
Section 9
Section 12
Section 10
Sections through various parts of the Region
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RESILIENT ECOLOGIES
- Requalifying Infrastructures
KO R TR I J K , B E L G IUM [2012]
- IN COrporation WITH JONAS KNAPEN & KALKIDAN WUDNEHE -
Futhering a reflection on the ongoing merging of medical and educational facilities, the relocation of institutional facilities and the abandoning of industrial sites, the project explores the possibility to capitalize on the (temporary) of vacancy which currently characterizes large parts of the city, to gradually insert a new layer of ecological and simultaneously prodcutive - infrastructure. The project evaluates vacant sites in both their site-specific and overall system value, investigating their potential to create a diffuse ‘energy park’ in the city which can also eventually accomodate other (ecological) programs over time. The aim is to both initiate and orchestrate an open-ended process of regeneration of the city’s open spaces, which will eventually converge toward the emergence of clear large-scale, landscape figures. 0
500
1000M
5000M
Gradience of Vacancy
Territorial Structure
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WATER
RIVERFRONT STRUCTURE TOPOGRAPHY ASPHALT
ENERGY
SURFACE STRUCTURE ORIENTATION
RECYCLING PRODUCTION
CO2
CONTAMINATION IMPERVIOUS SURFACE COMMUNITY CAPACITY SURFACE WATERFRONT SOIL CONDITION ORIENTATION TOPOGRAPHY SURFACE WATERFRONT ORIENTATION TOPOGRAPHY INFRASTRUCTURE
GREENHOUSE WETLAND BIOSWALE RAINWATER HARVESTING ALGAE ASPHALT REMOVAL SOLAR PANELS WINDTURBINE URBAN AGRICULTURE COMPOSTING PHYTOREMEDIATION BIOMASS BIOFUEL CATTLE TREE NURSERY ORCHARD FOREST GARDENING 2012
2020
2030
2040
2050
Vision Map - Resilient Ecologies
0
50
100
200
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COUNTER-BALANCE
- Intermediate Landscape Design Strategy For The
Culembourg Site C A P E TO W N , S O U T H A FRICA [2013] - INDIVIDUAL THES IS -
Cape Town historically had a strong relationship with the sea. The grid layout of the settlement at the time was largely influenced by the programmatic requirements for the local terrain - based on topography (mountain and sea relationship) and existing water systems (for domestic and agricultural use). The reclaimation of the Foreshore area (1938-45) proved to be the catalyst to transform the city for modern needs and international trade by expanding the harbour, improving the railway infrastructure and building a new highway system that improved mobility and connectivity across the metropolitan area and with the hinterland of South Africa. As a result of the parallel system of infrastructure, historical mountain to sea connections that traditionally structured the city bowl area was erased. This proved to be the downfall as the loss of the strong spatial relationship and identity with the sea that that the city once had. Today, a large linear strip of land, east of the CBD, is owned by the transport authority, Transnet. Despite being dominated by
railway infrastructure, it’s strategic location to the city centre and good connection by road and rail infrastructure, has placed a lot of pressure on this piece of land to become available for future development. Through this synthesis, the following research questions should be asked: How can the Culembourg site be reclaimed without interfering with the current mobility and infrastructures to and from the city? How can the site be colonized through landscape elements to create an ‘intermediate landscape’ to prepared future development to accomodate and control urban growth? Through colonizing the site and infrastructures, how can a strategy be prepared to requalify the infrastructures over time and the privately owned sites, to create a condition of inclusive urbanism not only for the site but also for other parts of the city centre?
Historic Cape Town - 1777
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Existing Metropolitan Context: Urban Corridors & High-Order Institutions
Infrastructural Barriers
Reclaiming the Site - what next?
Applying Densities to Open space
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The approach to the site is to create an ‘Intermediate Landscape’ Design Strategy. The starting point is through a system of ‘phasing’. Manipulating the topography is an effective strategy to deal with the potential flooding, sea-level rise and soil contamination concerns. A system of ‘high and low’ levels will be created: the lower levels can accomodate urban agriculture in the future and open up the system of water streams that run from the mountain towards the sea. The higher levels will acommodate new forests that accomodate future development as the demands and needs arises. Diverse range of plant species will encourage to create new ecosystems for this ecologically decline area. Over time, as urban development intensifies, Cape Town Central station can be relocated to the east where all the railway lines converge. A new public tram system can be implemented and aligned through a boulevard system that can connect the existing downgraded main station with Sea Point. As all these strategies take place, the existing highway infrastructure can be downgraded and removed to create a more inclusive urban condition for the city.
COUNTER BALANCE
Phasing of Eastern Precinct PHASE 1 - REMEDIATION PROCESS
PHASE 1 - REMEDIATION PROCESS
HIGHER LEVELS_
LOWER LEVELS_
Casuarina Equisetifolia
Phragmites Australis
Casuarina Cunninghamiana
PHASE 2 - SUCCESSIONED LANDSCAPE
PHASE 2 - SUCCESIONED LANDSCAPE
HIGHER LEVELS_
LOWER LEVELS_
Acacia Karoo
Wachendorfia Thysiflora
Ficus Natalensis Acacia Xanthophloea
Site Projected Evolution
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Zantedeschia Aethiopica
Scirpus Cyperus Alternifolius
Tarchonanthus Camphoratus
Chasmanthe
Brachylaena Discolor
Crocosmia
Dodonaea Viscosa
Watsonia
Recommended Plant Species 81
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Phase 1
Phase 2
Phase 3
Phase 4
Urban Design Framework for the Culembourg Site
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Dolomite Camp, Etosha National Park July 2011
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Barnard Mutua Architects Windhoek, Namibia [2009-11]
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Kupferquelle Resort - Tsumeb, Namibia [2009-10] pg. 38
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Village Walk & Kalahari Holdings Mix-use Development Windhoek, Namibia [2010] pg. 44
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SACU Headquarters - Windhoek, Namibia [2009-14] pg. 45
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Dolomite Camp - Etosha National Park, Namibia [2010-11] pg. 46
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Nujoma Offices - Windhoek, Namibia [2010-11] pg. 54
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KUPFERQUELLE RESORT T SU M E B, N A MI BIA [2008 - 2010]
- IN CORPORATION WITH LEON BARNARD, George alcock & Este steyl -
The client wanted a resort facility of local and regional significance that would cater for tourists and business people. This large site, located on the southern edge of the mining town of Tsumeb, has two distinct features: one part of the site is quite flat surrounded with clusters of large trees and a natural water feature. The other part is on a linear ‘koppie’ with lush vegetation and magnificent views over the town and the surrounding hills. The main complex is located on the flat part of the site near the entrance to the site. The main complex is spatially orientated around the 50m olympic size swimming pool to create an oasis-like atmosphere. The gateway space is framed by a generous forecourt space, a tower that makes reference to the old mine shaft tower in the town, and announced by two double pitched roof building blocks. The internal circulation space is the main architectural ordering principle that spatially ties the main building (including the restaurant and conference halls) together. At the opposite end of the flat terrain, the caravan park is characterised by a natural water feature with communal braai facilities, tall trees with extensive canopies, and a pylon structure for signage purposes, next to main route as entering or leaving the town. On the ‘koppie’, 15 chalets & 10 Bus Quarter units are placed in a linear row, to create a rural street-like quality which are either north or south facing. All of these units have significant views over the surrounding areas. The architecture are quite simple in form, modern, but rustic and earthy in tectonic expression. It makes reference to the vernacular farm buildings of the region; walkways and roof canopies are located to deal with the local climate, in order to provide shade and shelter from the sun and summer thunderstorms.
Site Plan
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View towards Gateway Entrance
Interior view of Main Circulation Space
View over Swimming Pool towards Restaurant
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Ground Floor Plan - Main Complex
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Covered Restaurant Area overlooking Swimming Pool
Covered Walkways
Exterior View of Typical Chalet
‘Street’ View of Chalets
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Exterior View of Bus Quarters
Detail of Covered Bedroom Deck
Interior View of Typical Chalet
Timber Braai Deck of Typical Chalet
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Digest of Namibian Architecture 2010
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Village walk & Kalahari holdings mix-use development Windhoek, Namibia [2010 - Ongoing] - In corporation with leon barnard & este steyl -
Village Walk is a mix-use development that forms part of a large emerging sub-centre north of the Windhoek CBD. This previously runned-down area is currently undergoing extensive urban renewal.
The program consists of retail and office space are generated on the ground level; a combination of apartment units and office space are located at first floor level; with on-site parking located in the basement and internal courts.
The two sites opposite each other are seen as an entity with the main intention of creating a pedestrian based linear-like space that terminates in a forecourt space at the end of the vista. The public space is framed by two storey buildings and the main building for Kalahari Holdings that terminates at the end of the vista.
The architecture are quite simple in form, modern, but rustic and earthy in appearance. It makes reference to the vernacular German colonial style. The architecture responds to the local climate and promotes place-making and providing shade in this harsh and warm climate.
3d Representation
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SACU Headquarters WI n d h o e k , n a m ib ia [2 0 1 0 - 1 4 ]
- IN CORPORATION WITH francis mutua & MARCO SCRIBA -
The site for the proposed South African Customs Union (SACU) headquarters is located in a new sub-centre south of the CBD of Windhoek. The rectangular site is located in a previously residential area currently undergoing extensive urban renewal, mostly in the form of local authorities headquarters, medium-sized office and residential complexes. The main intention is to create a landmark building on the corner site where local and African references are neglected for a more modernist high-tech architectural expression.
Third Floor
The architectural concept is based on a ‘cube within a cube’ idea. The ‘outer cube’ acts as a ‘skeleton structure’, expressed as columns with filtered sun-screen devices, that frames the ‘inner cube’. The ‘inner cube’ is mostly transparent and accomodates office space for members and executives, an entertainment space at the top, and the chamber with social areas on the ground level. This building will be the first phase of the new SACU headquarters. Two new building (archives and tribunal) will be built in the near future.
First & Second Floor
3d Representation of the Building
Ground Floor
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DOLOMITE CAMP E T O S H A N ATI O N A L PA RK , N A M IBIA [2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 1 ]
- IN CORPORATION WITH LEON BARNARD, francis mutua & John Masanzu -
The site, located in the western part of Etosha National Park, presented a number of challenges. The contrast of the topographical features provided great opportunities and challenges to maximize on the site’s potential and uniqueness, such as choice of building materials; harsh climate (sun and strong winds) and the great distance between the site and town centres to require access to building materials and local labour. Further challenges in providing the necessary bulk services for the camp and integrating it with the existing service lines in the region (i.e. water, electricity etc.) to make the camp fully operational, added more pressure to the budget and tight deadline. The camp was built on a linear mountain, using its strategic position to maximise on the views towards the east and the west. Large amount of loose dolomite stone on the mountain left the professional team with little option but to ‘elevate’ the built structures and opt for a ‘touch the earth lightly’ approach. The preferred materials of choice was a timber and gumpoles structural system with thatched roofs and canvas infill, allowing for easy transport to and on the site and making it easier to construct and build. Green and sustainable technologies were a preference.
Aerial view of the Camp in relation to the Mountain
Special attention were given to the camp’s interiors and finishes. Although rustic in appearance, it was designed to harmonize and compliment the natural surroundings i.e. weathered dolomite rock outcrops and local vegetation. Local reference and vernacular features were also incorporated in the detailing.
View toward the Main Complex
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View towards the east facing part of the Mountain
Rimflow Pool & Deck Area
‘Bouma’ Space overlooking the Lounge Deck
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500
gumpole beams intersect with halflap joint
400
125-150mm diam double gumpole beam fixed with 16mm diam rod and covered with 21mm diam ms hollow round pipe @ 500cc (Refer to details)
114 x 38mm SA Pine joists @ 370-400 cc (cca treatment) (no finger joint)
110 x 114mm saligna column
228 x 38mm SA pine timber edge
150 x 52mm SA Pine joist (cca treatment) (no finger joint) 130 x 22mm saligna timber decking
1:10
Perspective without dropper structure
ction FF
NTS
Consulting Engineers REVISIONS INT.
De
Section through Typical Main Complex Structure Sectional Perspective Detail - Corner feature Typical deck corner: cut-away view
DESCRIPTION
DATE
INT.
DESCRIPTION
ALL DIMENSIONS TO BE CHECKED ON SITE BEFORE ANY WORK
SEELENBINDER CONSULTING ENGINEERS CC
Municipal Use
Client
IS PUT IN HAND. THIS DRAWING TO BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH ENGINEER'S
P.O. BOX 922 WINDHOEK NAMIBIA
TEL: +264 61 235000 FAX: +264 61 235001 E-MAIL: sce@sce.com.na
OMAKE HOUSE 156 JAN JONKER ROAD WINDHOEK
Client
DRAWINGS WHEN APPLICABLE. DIMENSIONS NOT TO BE SCALED. ANY DISCREPANCIES AND AMBIGUITIES ON THIS DRAWING TO BE REPORTED TO THE ARCHITECT. COPYRIGHT RESERVED.
Quantity Surveyor
Architect
17 Liliencron Street Box 9671 Eros Phone: 23 5021 Fax: 23 5023
152 Rober Mugabe Ave. Box 22422 Windhoek Phone: 240 405 Fax: 240 400
View toward the Main Complex
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Title
REG. CC 97/213
MULTI-DISCIPLINARY CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND PROJECT MANAGERS
Dining Dec (exten
Namibia W
Project
DOLOMIT
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Reception Area
Sundowner Bar Deck
Side view of Typical Chalet
Timber Staircase leading to Typical Chalet
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FRONT ELEVATION
BACK
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SCALE 1:50
JF3
SECTIO SCALE 1:50
Interior view of Luxury Chalet - canvascement/sand details capping with chicken me
125-150mm dia gumpole rafter
150mm thick thatch
25-30mm diam droppers @300cc 50% shade netting
2,100
114x110mm timber beam
JF3
Floor Plan of Typical Chalet
Interior view of Luxury Chalet 150x52mm SA pine
50
114 x 38mm SA pine joist (cca treatment)(no finger joints)
450
130 x 22mm saligna timber decking
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Design Magazine Style, Elegance, Design Jan - March 2012 Edition 5 (Namibia)
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National Geographic Traveller South Africa Spring/Summer Edition 2011
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NUjoma offices W I n d h o e k , n a mibia [2 0 1 1 - 2 0 1 4 ]
- IN CORPORATION WITH leon barnard & CHRIS DE JAGER -
Nujoma Offices is a mix-use development that forms part of a larger sub-centre north of the CBD of Windhoek. This previously runned-down area is currently undergoing extensive urban renewal. This corner site has a steep west-facing slope and with magnificent views over the city.
A series of ‘cubes’ are arranged in such a way to create a system of single and double volume outside and pedestrian spaces. Each cube is an interplay of mass and transparency, that deals with solar orientation, views and provides surveillance according to its location.
The architectural concept was to create a elevated steel roof canopy that acts as a glorified shading device. This gave the opportunity to design a more free and open architectural layout on ground level that is independant from the roof structure itself.
The accomodation consists mainly of small-scale office spaces, a cafeteria, eight self-catering units and basement level parking.
Public Interface with Staircase leading into Roof Covered Space
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Corner Expression of Office Complex
Exterior View of Self-cateing Units
Internal Roof Covered Space
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Observatory Public Space Upgrading March 2009
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Piet Louw Architects, Urban Designers & City Planners cape town, south africa [2007-09]
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Quality Public Spaces - Atlantis & Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa [2007-09] pg. 58
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Paardevlei Development - Somerset West, Cape Town, South Africa [2005 - 2008] pg. 62
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Watergate Development - Mitchells Plain, Cape Town, South Africa [2007-08] pg. 66
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Constance La Gaite: Factory & Environs Precinct Mauritius [2008] pg. 67
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QUALITY PUBLIC SPACES PROGRAM ATL A N TI S & O B SERVAT ORY, CA PE T OWN , SOU TH AFRI CA [2007-09]
- IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, DAVE DEWAR & anton roux -
This study develops preliminary precinct plans for seven potential spectator viewing sites for the 2010 Football World Cup. The intention is to set up a number of large screens around the city so that all people can watch the televised matches in a public atmosphere. It is hoped that this will bring to the event an atmosphere which electrifies the entire city. The second intention, and arguably the most important one, is to bring about substantial lasting benefits to a number of public spaces in Cape Town: the initiative is thus an extension of the city’s dignified places programme. Two of the viewingsites realised are in Atlantis and Observatory.
Atlantis
The Atlantis site has a highly strategic location in the northeast quadrant formed by the intersection of Rygersdal and Charl Uys Streets in Atlantis. The intention is to create a fine public space which can be used for social gathering, informal performance and which serves to integrate the surrounding public facilities. A system of low walls, which also operate as informal seating, are used to define three grassed terraces. The central terrace is lower than the other two, creating a natural amphitheatre. A stage is located on the eastern edge of the central terrace, providing an informal performance space. A system of paved pedestrian walkways, which respect existing pedestrian desire lines make the space highly permeable. All existing trees are retained. Strategic new tree planting is used to soften the space around the crèche and to define the western edge of the space.
Ry ge
rsd
Observatory
al
Care l
Uys
The Site
Locating the Viewing Sites
58
Locating the Atlantis Site
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Town
ablished as a ‘new town’ in Cape Town. The area d with very high rates of ent. The spatial quality of poor.
trategic location in the ed by the intersection of streets. It is surrounded a church and a crèche able amount of housing close to the town centre nt residential areas. The ality public space which gathering and informal serves to integrate the es. While the benefits of n the short term the site e for a fan park for the
gh an existing gateway r and, via steps, on the re 6). There are also taxi l and Carl Uys Streets, stem of low walls, which al seating, are used to aces. The central terrace two, creating a natural located on the eastern e, providing an informal
Figure 6: Atlantis Site Plan
Atlantis: Urban Design Proposal
estrian walkways, which rian desire-lines, make ble.
eate a large forecourt rl Uys Street passes, to istrates court. Similarly, a higher order system of e public institutions.
etained. Strategic new n the space around the western edge.
Atlantis: Bird’s Eye View
Atlantis: Bird’s Walkway Detail
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The Observatory site is a strategic and public one. It is centrally located between Lower Main Road and Observatory station. The population in the immediate hinterland is relatively dense, providing significant levels of support. The site is highly accessible by public transportation. It is primarly accessed by Station Road, which is an important connection to the station. It is also central to a number of important local and sub-metropolitan institutions: a school to the west; a church to the north east; a library to the south east. A current negative feature is that there is nothing which ties these institutions into a coherent whole; they are all free-standing events. The intention is to create fine public space which reinforces the confidence of the entire neighbourhood and which integrates the various socal institutions. It is a multi-purpose space: a kick about space for children, play-space for toddlers, a pleasant short-cut for pedestrians moving to and from station. Above all, it is a primarly a place for passive recreation.
ry rvato Obse ion Stat
d nR
Lower Main Rd
io Stat
Locating the Observatory Site
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To the south, low walls on the northern edge of the park and L-shaped corners to the south-east and the south-west define a flexible forecourt space. The walls provide informal seating and hard surfaced space accommodates parking but it can also be used for events such as a weekend markets, outdoor children parties and so on. The heavily treed edges ensure that visually it reads as a part of the park. A monument is located in the north-centre of this space. In the north, a
large, heavily treed werf is made up of a number of smaller spaces. In the north-east, a hard surfaced forecourt space for the church accommodates parking. Low walls separate this space from the central space, which accommodate children’s play spaces. In the northwest is a forecourt space to the community hall. This is largely a car-free zone save for service vehicles. All the spaces are well lit.
The square is simply made. The edges are heavily treed but the central space is simply grassed and is criss-crossed by two diagonals which invite pedestrian short-cuts. The corners of the park are splayed, to create formal gateways.
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All existing trees are retained. Selective planting reinforces the canopy at structurally stategic places.
Observatory: Bird’s Eye View
Figure 1: Observatory: Site Plan
Observatory: Urban Design Proposal Part : Gener c Arenas of Intervent on . : Publ c Space and Place Mak ng
Observatory: Forecourt Detail
Observatory: View from Station Road
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PAARDEVLEI
s o me r s e t w e s t, ca pe t own , sout h a frica [2 0 0 5 - 0 8 ] - IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, dave dewar & anton roux -
The area known as Paardevlei covers 760 hectares of land on the coast between Somerset-West and Macassar some forty kilometres from the Cape Town CBD. Due to its large size, pivotal location, magnificent natural setting, views, and cultural landscape elements, the site has immense potential. The overall intention of the site is seen as a ‘new town in town’ and it should be aimed at a dynamic balance for a full range of urban activities. The sensitive ecological nature of the site suggests that its development should be based on a strong green concept. Particularly, given the flat, wet, nature of the site, run-off management should provide the first level of urban structure and migration corridors between the lagoon and the sea and mountains should be maintained. The edges of the lakes, too, are of great ecological significance, in terms of flora, fauna and bird life. Positive attributes of the site should be retained and, wherever possible, enhanced. These include dominant views, the cultural landscape, the integrity of the scenic routes, and the lakes which need to be rehabilitated and cleaned.
The Site
Locating the Paardevlei Site
The short, therefore, the model informing development should be one of an intensive, integrated, mixed-use, pedestrianfriendly and vibrant urban area, within a beautiful, carefully protected and enhanced natural landscape. The concept at the level of the overall site is driven by a number of central performance qualities: • • • •
Sustainability Integration Compaction Spatial quality
• • •
Equity of access Choice Complexity
Birds Eye View of Paardevlei Site
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Constraints & Informants of Paardevlei Site
Urban Design Framework for Overall Site
Physical Model of Overall Site
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The existing precinct, the De Beers precinct, was originally the headquarters of the explosives company and was reputed to have been designed by the celebrated English architect Sir Herbert Baker. The philosophic approach to heritage is obviously central to the design problem. It was decided not to adopt a ‘hands-off’ approach but rather to take a position of respecting heritage, enhancing and improving, and creating new heritage. The primary design informants and the concept are underpinned by a number of main ideas. - Most new development, which is mixed-use, including nonnoxious light industry, is located away from the historic core: a wedge of green space separates the old from the new; - In vehicular traffic terms, De Beers Avenue is downgraded, by diverting through traffic through the new development in order to protect the historic precinct; - A limited number of new buildings are inserted to ‘complete’ the original design by enclosing a system of courts; - The courtyard theme of the historic precinct is followed in the new complex; - New buildings are made as background buildings: they are lower than historic structures. A model of part of the precinct, shows the relationship between the new development and De Beers Road (the main approach to the historic precinct).
Aerial Photo of Precinct 1
Section though Boulevard
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De Beers Avenue
Paardevlei
Historic Precinct Central Forecourt Space
Linear Werf Forecourt
KEY Existing Buildings of Heritage Significance
Multi-way Boulevard
New Infill Buildings New Development Superblocks
Forecourt Square
Ecological Corridor Multi-way Boulevard
Central Square New Entry Point
Figure 10: Spatial Design Framework
Physical Model of Precinct 1
Figure 11a and b: Model of the Historic Precinct
Urban Design Framework for Precinct 1
Physical Model of Precinct 1
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WATERgate
M I TCH E L L S P L A IN , CA PE T OWN , SOUT H A FRICA [2007 - 2008] - IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, dave dewar & anton roux -
The site is one of three proximate land parcels owned by New Age Developments in Mitchells Plain, Cape Town. The intention is to develop the two parcels to the east and west as single storey residential units. This central site is planned as a much higher density, largely walk-up, residential neighbourhood, catering for the lower middle section of the residential market. Some 2000 units (mainly apartments) are envisaged. The location of the site in its metropolitan context is extremely centrally located, lying at the intersection of two emerging mixed use activity corridors.
The model of development is an intensely urban, pedestriandominated and increasingly mixed-use one, as local inhabitants benefit from the pedestrian flows generated by the station and the proposed hospital. The scheme will provide much needed housing opportunities at affordable prices and in an accessible location. It will also result in a unique living environment which maximizes the locational potential of the site over time. Unfortunately the project was abandoned.
Urban Design Plan
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CONSTANCE La Gaite: Factory and Environs Precinct M A U R I TI U S [2008]
- IN CORPORATION WITH PIET LOUW, dave dewar, anton roux & JEAN-FRANCOIS ADAM ARchitects (mauritius) -
The Constance La Gaite estate is located in the north-east of the island, on the northern fringe of the town of Flacq. Flacq is the primary central place of the north-eastern region which also potentially benefits from a number of up-market resort hotels on the Bel Mare coastline in the vicinity of Post De Flacq. The Flacq district, therefore, is of considerable structural significance in terms of the island as a whole. Simultaneously, the east-west corridor in the direction of Quartier Militaire is increasing in intensity. This urban corridor, underpinned by two parallel movement spines, connects a series of settlements along its length (taking the form of ‘beads on a string’) into a significant settlement corridor system. Development should take the form of a system of strongly edged villages, each of differing sizes and different characters. The ‘glue’ between the villages should be positively structured and landscaped open space.
Urban Design Framework
Within the villages, a strong system of spaces and places should structure the internal layout. These should reflect a clear pedestrian priority in the townscape layout, with an emphasis on landscaped space detailing. The route network for the overall area should occur in a dispersed pattern to improve access and permeability and also to offer choice of route in an hierarchical sense. A sense of gateway should be spatially created at strategic locations, in order to create a positive sense of arrival and experience.
Precinct Plan
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Hand sketch by author, Royal Palace, Udaipur, India December 2014
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Riaan Louw Architect • Urban Designer • Strategic Planner
50 Fifth Avenue, Boston Estate, Bellville 7530, Cape Town South Africa +27 76 489 6006 riaanlouw.arch@gmail.com riaanlouw_arch
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