Page 9 - Landscape-Issue153

PROJECT

Along retaining walls, Carpobrotus edulis provided erosion control, reduced heat and softened boundaries

A laser-cut steel screen (far left) conceals air conditioning units in the feature garden, turning a practical
element into a design feature. Grasses soften the harsh, industrial environment.

Hard landscaping turf was incorporated into this space deadlines for each phase, so both teams
The hard landscaping combined functional to provide a durable, low maintenance often worked extended hours to deliver on
infrastructure with creative detailing to surface. Together, these elements tied the schedule without compromising quality.
enhance both the aesthetics and usability gardens into the broader site infrastructure, Heavy construction had left the
of the gardens. Concrete benches were offering practical solutions for staff comfort soils severely compacted, demanding
installed to provide staff with outdoor and circulation, while reinforcing the intensive rotavating, loosening and the
seating, while flagstone walkways created contemporary design concept. addition of organic matter to restore
natural circulation routes within the conditions suitable for root growth and
planting. Installation drainage. Finally, the exposed industrial
Large boulders were craned in to The installation was phased to align with site faced harsh climatic extremes – frost
introduce height and texture to the ongoing construction, requiring close in winter and intense heat in summer –
otherwise flat site, and edging was coordination with multiple contractors but with careful plant selection and soil
carefully laid to define spaces, with cobbles on site. preparation, plant losses were kept to a
separating lawns from beds and sleek One of the biggest challenges was minimum and the gardens established
edging used between gravel and planting. adhering to the client’s strict health successfully.
A custom laser-cut steel screen was and safety protocols, which required
added to conceal air conditioning units specialised medicals for all staff and daily Environmental aspects
in the feature garden, turning a practical work approvals before operations could Sustainability was central to the design.
element into a design feature, while artificial begin. The client also imposed tight Large natural boulders were craned in

Check us out www.salandscape.co.za Landscape SA • Issue 153 2025 7