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PROJECT


          OLD CAPE QUARTER




          Located in the vibrant area of De Waterkant, this neighbourhood is known for its
          blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, reflecting the diverse history
          and culture of Cape Town. Notable for its well-preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian
          architecture, many buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.




                                                                                Project Team
                                                                                Client: Tower Property Fund
                                                                                Landscape Architects:
                                                                                Square One Landscape Architects
                                                                                Landscape Contractor:
                                                                                Arrow Landscapes
                                                                                Architect: dhk Architects
                                                                                Project Engineers:
                                                                                Sutherland Engineers
                                                                                Quantity Surveyor: Smith & Co
                                                                                Sustainability Consultant:
                                                                                Imbue Sustainability
                                                                                Main Contractor: GVK Siya-Zam




                                                                               he  area’s  unique  charm  comes  from  its
                                                                               cobbled  streets,  historical facades, and
                                                                           Tcolourful semi-detached cottages. However,
                                                                           the emergence of new retail areas nearby resulted
                                                                           in a decline in the Old Cape Quarter development’s
                                                                           use. Consequently, the existing structure needed
                                                                           a comprehensive renovation.
                                                                             The consulting team was tasked with
                                                                           transforming the existing development into a
                                                                           modern, mixed-use space incorporating retail,
                                                                           offices and residential units, while maintaining its
                                                                           historical character and integrating it seamlessly
                                                                           into the broader urban environment. An essential
                                                                           part of this transformation was the role of
                                                                           planting, which was the primary focus of Square
                                                                           One Landscape Architects.
                                                                             At the core of the development lies the protected
                                                                           Old Cape Quarter piazza, a significant historical
                                                                           landmark.  This space, now required to act as a
                                                                           spill-out area for the surrounding incoming retail
                                                                           and commercial elements, was to be enhanced as
                                                                           an active public space. Four residential levels were
                                                                           added to the existing development with extensive
                                                                           edge and balcony planters for privacy, but also for
                                                                           protection against the harsh coastal conditions. A
                                                                           4-Star Green Star rating was targeted by the team.

                                                                           Landscape design concept
                                                                           Square  One  carefully  curated  the  building’s
                                                                           cascading landscaped terraces by incorporating
                                                                           a selection of indigenous and endemic plants
                                                                           designed  to  soften  the  building’s  edges  and
                                                                           enhance its visual appeal.  These species were
                                                                           chosen not only for their ability to blend
                                                                           seamlessly with the surrounding environment
                                                                           but also for their resilience against the harsh
                                                                           coastal conditions. This approach ensured that the
                                                                           planting offered inhabitants effective protection
                                                                           from  the  elements  while  maintaining  the  site’s
                                                                           heritage value. By integrating these species, the
          Level 2 balconies with mass planting for screening against the elements, and for privacy  design respected the historical significance of the


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