Page 6 - Landscape SA 98

FEATURE

Layered planting around the footprint of
the building accentuates its architecture
and provides a sleek effect

possible, designed to offset the further Menlyn Maine precinct. Only indigenous Portulacaria affra was used in conjunction
developing of a heat island effect that species were used in order to give the with Buddleja saligna, with a stark contrast
many built cities have. The extensive desired effect, comply with the landscape between the vibrant green of the former
greenery provides a habitat for birds and concept and realise the project brief. and the rich grey foliage of the latter. This
insects. species combination gives an identity
Evergreen shrubs form the backdrop to the to the different facades of the building;
Soft landscape and planting landscape directly against the footprint the Buddleja is able to grow into higher
of the building; these will develop into hedges and was planted against the
All planting was carefully chosen to formed hedges over time to link with southern façade, where large walls were to
fall within the guidelines of the greater the contemporary style of the building. be softened, whilst the Portulacaria gives
a green welcome in lower planters at the
main entrance.

Flowering groundcovers such as
Agapanthus and Aristea ecklonii provide
seasonal colour around the building,
together with a further mass effect of the
ornamental grass Aristida junciformis.

Evergreen tree avenues of Harpephyllum
caffrum were used on the northern
and western facades of the building to
give ample shade cover in future to the
glass facades, as well as to the spill-out
balcony on the western façade which
will later become an outside seating
area. Deciduous tree avenues of Kirkia
accuminata were used on the southern
façade of the building to give ample
winter light to the plants below, as well
Flower colour is restricted to blue and white to strengthen the mass effect of the landscape as to link with the same tree species used

4 Landscape SA • Issue 98 2021