Page 8 - Landscape-Issue149

PROJECT

being both nature and the residents.
It is also worth considering the overall
improvements in this localised area of the
ecology; through slow transformation, from
cane farming to large areas being rewilded,
the biodiversity has expanded through scale
and these previously fractured eco-systems
are starting to physically connect, which is
when true biodiversity occurs.
The rewilding approach at Seaton also
focuses on improved soils, as after years of
farming the soils are depleted and in need
of a ‘fallow’ season. Topsoils or composts
have not been imported onto the property
for the public landscapes, for two specific
reasons: the volumes required would be
enormous, and the CO2 footprint associated
with transportation, as well as the cost per
cubic metre, could not be justified.
A new method of amelioration has been
adopted using Vitasoil, and dressing the
high intensive areas with a locally made
rough mulch. Currently the growth seen in
Section of the gatehouse and surrounding landscaping these organically enhanced soils has been
excellent, and it is hoped that microbial
activity will continue to improve.
The gatehouse and its connection to
nature
Designed by Brent Buchanan of Nsika
Architecture, the land-art bridge blends
seamlessly with the landscape and
mirrors the natural rise and fall of the land.
Buchanan says the gatehouse departs
from the usual style of estate entrances,
resembling a connected ribbon. “Rather
than being imposing and bulky, it focuses
on functionality, weaving together a unified
system of walkways and roads,” he explains,
adding that it was inspired by the land-
art bridges of Europe that enable fauna to
traverse busy roadways. It also allows people
to move through it, over it and within it.
The upper level links one precinct to
another, effectively offering the ‘roof’ as
a pathway guiding pedestrians, cyclists
Perspective of bridge gatehouse designed by Brent Buchanan of Nsika Architecture. and horses from one side to the other,
while staying connected to the beauty of
the landscape. Within the gatehouse, the
building provides facilities for managing an
estate, including a security office, sales office,
management office and meeting rooms.
It also serves as a central mobility hub for
residents and visitors.
Each touchpoint within the gatehouse
complex reflects a seamless integration of
people’s needs, purposeful design and the
contours of the natural terrain. Murray Collins
of Collins Residential, says: “Beyond its role as
a secure entry and exit point for pedestrians
and motorists, the gatehouse emerges
as a hub that seamlessly marries services,
people, environment and transportation.
This integration flows easily through the
structure, traversing a textured landscape. In
the convergence of architecture and nature, it
is a symbol of function with purpose.”

The upper level of the gatehouse connects various precincts and serves as a scenic pathway for pedestrians, Information supplied by Rainmaker Marketing on
cyclists and horses. With the roof garden, it blends function with nature, keeping people immersed in the behalf of Collins Residential, Land Art Studios and
landscape. Nsika Architecture. Photos by Chris Allan. n

6 Landscape SA • Issue 149 2025 Check us out www.salandscape.co.za