Page 8 - Landscape-Issue141(2)

PROJECT

Barrett says that getting the plants
up to the different levels was extremely
difficult and they had to be carried up,
which was very time consuming and very
tiring. The crane helped with the larger
trees and shrubs.
The high grade, lightweight planting
medium, crucial for future plant growth,
needed to be kept moist to reach
the newly planted plants as quickly
as possible. They grew well and later
required a lot of pruning and thinning.
Environmental considerations
The refurbished Old Cape Quarter
received a 4-Star Green Star Design rating
from the Green Building Council South
Africa. Prioritising occupant well-being
and optimised biophilic living and work
spaces, the integration of substantial
balcony planters, with masses of endemic
flora, bring the occupants closer to nature
Cascading landscape terraces around the central piazza with curated selection of indigenous and endemic in their everyday life.
species To enhance water conservation, the
landscape primarily features indigenous
and endemic plant species. Consideration
of wind and sun exposure influenced
plant selection, ensuring that hardy,
water-efficient succulents were chosen
to endure the hot, dry Cape summers
and withstand wind loads on the fifth
floor. An advanced greywater recycling
system irrigates these landscape
areas. Additionally, the development
incorporates a range of sustainable
features including photovoltaic solar
panels, recycling programs, energy-
efficient double-glazed windows and LED
lighting.

Irrigation and maintenance
A fully automated drip irrigation system
has been installed across all four levels
of the development. This sophisticated
system, using greywater from the
building, ensures precise and efficient
watering of the landscaping, adapting
Street view of the heritage façade, with succulent species in a shallow rooftop planter to the needs of the plants throughout
the year. To support the system’s optimal
performance, address any potential
issues and the upkeep of planting, an
initial 12-month maintenance contract
has been established. This contract
includes ongoing weekly maintenance,
ensuring the irrigation system remains in
excellent working condition and the plant
life receives consistent, adequate care.
Awards
Arrow Landscapes received a SALI gold
award in June 2024 for the installation
of this project, which was entered in the
category of Landscape Construction with
Design by Others.
In 2022, the project received a
development award from the South
African Property Owners Association
(SAPOA): Award for Innovative Excellence.

Photos by Sean Gibson, supplied courtesy of
Level 5 balcony edge planter with a mix of indigenous, seasonal species dhk Architects. n

6 Landscape SA • Issue 141 2024 Check us out www.salandscape.co.za