Page 16 - Landscape SA 101

PROJECT

Slate walkway leading to the main entrance, with Parthenocissus quinquefolia
starting to make its mark

CLARENS

32 Upper Clarens is a nine-unit apartment building situated in Fresnaye, Cape Town, in
walking distance to the Sea Point amenities and promenade.

new modernist approach needn’t movement of design, the architecture and Square One’s approach to planting
result in brutal, stiff environments landscape is a product of the belief that design is to create dynamic landscapes
A as Clarens has shown. Welcoming, style will last beyond fleeting fashions. that respond to the site. The Clarens
habitable spaces contribute to a more Environmentally conscious, thoughtful design bares testimony to their planting
meaningful connection between design improves the user’s way of living. design which always has ‘something new
inside and outside spaces. Square One The generous building envelope creates a and exciting to offer.’ With the planting
Landscape Architects were inspired by the diverse range of living spaces and seamlessly approach, they focussed especially on
work of the Bauhaus artist László Moholy- connects interior and exterior experiences. seasonality and texture.
Nagy to interact with the modernist lines
and approach of the architecture. Brief and design approach They worked with the architects and
main contractor to ensure that all storm
Clarens bears testimony to the fact that The client requested their new building water is collected in harvesting tanks in
being stuck at home needn’t be dreary and to be enveloped by lush planting the basement, which in turn is used for
that when architects, landscape architects and Square One focussed on texture irrigation. At the onset of this project, Cape
and inspired clients work together, the and colour variation, which the client Town was experiencing severe drought
result is excellent. particularly liked. The soft landscaping is and the design therefore ensured that
a combination of indigenous and exotic decisions responded accordingly.
Using local materials made specifically for material, including trees, shrubs, bulbs,
the project, and referencing the modern perennials and groundcovers.

14 Landscape SA • Issue 101 2021