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The barrel-vaulted cross axis to the arcade A view down the arcade towards the portal box

Water is carried down the central line of the
arcade connecting the terraces

Greening of the arcade A quiet intersection of spaces anchored by the water millstone

from top to bottom and in so doing, create an open arcade, allowing once again for The site was surveyed topographically,
the classical symmetry of a formal garden delicate climbers to dress it. Importantly, the establishing the basic lines of the main axis
that allows one side of the garden to reflect height of the arcade would remain constant as well as the secondary pathways that would
the other. This axis would form a spine for throughout its alignment, ensuring that as branch off to encourage deeper exploration
movement from the lower to the upper one climbs the steps, movement within the of the garden. The layout took advantage of
terrace, with a tall arcade representing the link archway is still comfortable. sight lines, ensuring that there was interest
between old and new medicine. The transition in architectural language to be found along every path and from any
At the lower end of the axis, the arcade from modern, rectilinear geometries to softer, angle.
was to take on a solid, box-like geometry, traditional forms was envisioned, culminating The truck’s roadway was drawn across the
closed on its sides but open to the sky with as a woven, half-dome structure resembling lower terrace and instead of trying to disguise
a series of internal ribbed arches that would a traditional Swazi hut. The experience is it, it was integrated as the entry route for
allow shade-loving creepers to green the one of a seamless journey that connects the visitors to the garden (on foot or by golf cart).
interior. The box would cut cleanly through contemporary world with that of tradition, A series of large, stone-clad planters flank
the existing Viburnum hedge, protruding culture and heritage. either side of the route. Planted with columnar
and offering a circular framed view over the The garden took root from this primary Podocarpus and forming a boulevard, they
distant valley – a watchful eye connected concept. create a sense of theatre.
possibly to the wisdom of spiritual healings. Architecturally, the central arcade
This boxed geometry would gradually Design dominates the garden. It was designed as
move towards the upper terrace, giving Having structured the garden in concept, a light steel structure, treated to activate
way to the curved archway and becoming finding the correct scale became essential. oxidisation and set in a rich, red-rust finish.

Check us out www.salandscape.co.za Landscape SA • Issue 139 2024 5