Page 21 - LandscapeIssue-143

PROJECT

The rugged terrain of the estate required careful planning to ensure that paths and planting beds were levelled and stable without causing damage to the natural
landscape

Indigenous plants and the focus on sustainability ensures that the landscaping aligns with the Blue Duikers are found on the estate.
eco-conscious vision of the estate Photo by Leon Bruggemann.

The African Leopard butterfly, African Veined White butterfly and Black Swordtail butterfly are found at Serenity Hills. Photos by Leon Bruggemann.

Installation were not ideal for planting, requiring artificial materials to maintain the eco-
Landscape installation posed challenges the introduction of organic matter and friendly ethos.
relating to the terrain, weather and soil soil amendments to ensure proper plant
conditions. In the first instance, the site’s establishment. Irrigation and water management
rugged terrain, steep slopes and natural While no formal irrigation system is currently
boulders posed an initial challenge for Bowling greens and volleyball in place, the estate’s water management
both the soft and hard landscaping fields strategy focuses on self-sustaining plants
installation. Careful planning was required Once completed, the bowling green will that require minimal intervention. In the
to ensure that pathways and planting beds feature a specialised grass variety known event of extended dry periods, water can
were levelled and stable without causing for its durability and ability to maintain an be sourced from the estate’s innovative grey
unnecessary damage to the natural even surface, which is crucial for sporting water system, which treats water from the
landscape. activities. The installation will include precise sewer plant for irrigation use. Additionally,
Secondly, the coastal climate presented grading to ensure a level surface, with the each home is fitted with rainwater harvesting
challenges with periods of heavy rain and use of a sand-based soil to promote drainage. tanks that capture water for private garden
high winds. This necessitated the use of The volleyball field will be constructed use, further reducing the need for municipal
erosion control measures, particularly on using river sand, chosen for its soft texture water supplies.
sloped areas, and flexible scheduling was and drainage capabilities, ensuring a playable
needed to work around unpredictable surface even after rain. Both recreational Information supplied by The Wenger Family
weather patterns. spaces will be designed to integrate with the and Qhawe Services. Photos courtesy of
Thirdly, soil conditions in certain areas estate’s natural environment, using minimal Serenity Hills and Leon Bruggemann. n

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