The design of a modal interchange in Korsten, Port Elizabeth: santuary for the urban nomad
- Authors: Magwabeni, Mpho
- Date: 202015
- Subjects: Transportation buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Terminals (Transportation) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Commuting -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41258 , vital:36424
- Description: The inception of this treatise is derived simply from the identification of the current inefficient public transportation facilities in Nelson Mandela Bay. This is especially experienced in the Korsten precinct as there is a scattering of transport nodes and none of them can be particularly identified as the key transport node in the fabric. With the 2010 World Cup behind us and many infrastructures such as the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium working as urban anchor of activity, the question still at hand is how the issue of integration between commuters and transportation can be addressed. This sets the scene for the application of an architectural resolution through the design of a transport interchange of the Korsten region. At present there are two functional informal taxi ranks that service the commuters of Korsten; the primary informal taxi node located on Attwell Street and the secondary informal taxi node on Cottrell Street. Currently they operate independently providing a service to people from different destinations, for instance Kleiner and Kempton Park. The first concern that arises is the proximity of the two taxi ranks in respect of the surrounding urban landscape. For these taxi nodes to be of service to the urban nomad they must be positioned in a more concentrated location to integrate efficiently with the urban fabric. Secondly, a thorough investigation into the informal trade is necessary to ascertain how it can enhance the street life and keep the edges activated and integrated. This treatise proposes the integration of the two independent taxi nodes with the proposed BRT system that has been implemented by the NMBM. This amalgamation would strengthen the urban landscape and create a place for the urban nomad. According to an article by Ian Ollis (2013) there is a dire need for accessible, affordable mass transport across South Africa .The bus rapid transit system was supposed to cure this woe, but implementation has been slow and mismanaged, especially in municipalities like Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 202015
- Authors: Magwabeni, Mpho
- Date: 202015
- Subjects: Transportation buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Terminals (Transportation) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Commuting -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41258 , vital:36424
- Description: The inception of this treatise is derived simply from the identification of the current inefficient public transportation facilities in Nelson Mandela Bay. This is especially experienced in the Korsten precinct as there is a scattering of transport nodes and none of them can be particularly identified as the key transport node in the fabric. With the 2010 World Cup behind us and many infrastructures such as the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium working as urban anchor of activity, the question still at hand is how the issue of integration between commuters and transportation can be addressed. This sets the scene for the application of an architectural resolution through the design of a transport interchange of the Korsten region. At present there are two functional informal taxi ranks that service the commuters of Korsten; the primary informal taxi node located on Attwell Street and the secondary informal taxi node on Cottrell Street. Currently they operate independently providing a service to people from different destinations, for instance Kleiner and Kempton Park. The first concern that arises is the proximity of the two taxi ranks in respect of the surrounding urban landscape. For these taxi nodes to be of service to the urban nomad they must be positioned in a more concentrated location to integrate efficiently with the urban fabric. Secondly, a thorough investigation into the informal trade is necessary to ascertain how it can enhance the street life and keep the edges activated and integrated. This treatise proposes the integration of the two independent taxi nodes with the proposed BRT system that has been implemented by the NMBM. This amalgamation would strengthen the urban landscape and create a place for the urban nomad. According to an article by Ian Ollis (2013) there is a dire need for accessible, affordable mass transport across South Africa .The bus rapid transit system was supposed to cure this woe, but implementation has been slow and mismanaged, especially in municipalities like Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 202015
The design of a high performance sailing centre
- Authors: Dealtry, Thomas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Design and construction Architecture and recreation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23695 , vital:30601
- Description: This treatise addresses the architectural challenge of designing a High Performance Centre (HPC), serving South African Sailing (SAS), to be located in Port Elizabeth’s harbour. Designing a facility which caters speciffically to the functional requirements of sailing racing and recreation will cater to the needs of SAS, whilst upgrading the state of Port Elizabeth’s oceanic recreational facilities, thereby boosting the local tourism sector by establishing Port Elizabeth as South Africa’s watersport capital. The current status of the harbour as an area undergoing a redevelopment from a heavy industrial focus to a recreational and commercial waterfront provides the opportunity for an architectural intervention which spearheads this shift, whilst addressing the postindustrial landscape which remains. A study of the nature of the sport of sailing is conducted in order to determine the requirements of facilities catering for sailing racing and recreation, and to supplement an investigation of the typology of the HPC which, through the study of precedents, clarifies its specific nature and characteristics. This results in the development of a set of site selection criteria, which inform the best possible location for such an intervention within the harbour. In depth contextual analysis is conducted in order to determine role of the harbour within PE’s urban, ecological and historical fabrics, from which the current development plans of the Nelson Mandela Bay Development Agency and Transnet are outlined so as to understand the direction in which the future of the PE harbour is headed, and to align an architectural response with this vision. This analysis sets up a number of contextual constraints and informants which, with the aid of phenomenological concepts of place-making and materiality, the principles architectural responses to post-industrial landscapes, and the nature of the relationship between architecture and water, guide the design process, ensuring an appropriate response to the site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dealtry, Thomas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Design and construction Architecture and recreation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23695 , vital:30601
- Description: This treatise addresses the architectural challenge of designing a High Performance Centre (HPC), serving South African Sailing (SAS), to be located in Port Elizabeth’s harbour. Designing a facility which caters speciffically to the functional requirements of sailing racing and recreation will cater to the needs of SAS, whilst upgrading the state of Port Elizabeth’s oceanic recreational facilities, thereby boosting the local tourism sector by establishing Port Elizabeth as South Africa’s watersport capital. The current status of the harbour as an area undergoing a redevelopment from a heavy industrial focus to a recreational and commercial waterfront provides the opportunity for an architectural intervention which spearheads this shift, whilst addressing the postindustrial landscape which remains. A study of the nature of the sport of sailing is conducted in order to determine the requirements of facilities catering for sailing racing and recreation, and to supplement an investigation of the typology of the HPC which, through the study of precedents, clarifies its specific nature and characteristics. This results in the development of a set of site selection criteria, which inform the best possible location for such an intervention within the harbour. In depth contextual analysis is conducted in order to determine role of the harbour within PE’s urban, ecological and historical fabrics, from which the current development plans of the Nelson Mandela Bay Development Agency and Transnet are outlined so as to understand the direction in which the future of the PE harbour is headed, and to align an architectural response with this vision. This analysis sets up a number of contextual constraints and informants which, with the aid of phenomenological concepts of place-making and materiality, the principles architectural responses to post-industrial landscapes, and the nature of the relationship between architecture and water, guide the design process, ensuring an appropriate response to the site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of international convention centre in Swakopmund, Namibia
- Authors: Zwart, Hendrikus Johannes
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Convention facilities -- Namibia -- Swakopmund -- Designs and plans Exhibition buildings -- Namibia -- Swakopmund -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39348 , vital:35133
- Description: This treatise is a study that concerns itself with the exploration into an international convention and exhibition centre for Namibia and the appropriate architectural response in terms of its program and context. Typically convention centres tend to be large introverted buildings, lacking an engagement with its surroundings and a true sense of place. The study will aim to capture the unique essence, identity, and the spirit of place, which will be key to the development of the brief and expression of the building. The investigation and analysis will bring about a design proposal that aims to respond to the relevant issues and topic of the treatise in a meaningful, sensible, and appropriate architectural manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Zwart, Hendrikus Johannes
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Convention facilities -- Namibia -- Swakopmund -- Designs and plans Exhibition buildings -- Namibia -- Swakopmund -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39348 , vital:35133
- Description: This treatise is a study that concerns itself with the exploration into an international convention and exhibition centre for Namibia and the appropriate architectural response in terms of its program and context. Typically convention centres tend to be large introverted buildings, lacking an engagement with its surroundings and a true sense of place. The study will aim to capture the unique essence, identity, and the spirit of place, which will be key to the development of the brief and expression of the building. The investigation and analysis will bring about a design proposal that aims to respond to the relevant issues and topic of the treatise in a meaningful, sensible, and appropriate architectural manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The design of a community health centre for Bethelsdorp
- Authors: Marais, Mariska
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Medical centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38841 , vital:35006
- Description: This treatise was inspired by concern about the well-being of the less fortunate and their poor living conditions in township environments in South Africa. The proposal is a design of a community health centre in the township of Bethelsdorp, Port Elizabeth. The intervention will act as a safe space between home and large-scale hospitals while creating a positive urban space within a monotonous environment. The treatise engages with the issues and methods related to the design of a community health centre in the township environment to inform the final design proposal. It starts with an investigation into the theories of urban structure and public spaces in South African townships, after which it explores the building type. The building type is investigated in terms of the healthcare system in South Africa (with its emphasis on Port Elizabeth) , and the interrogation of community health centres by means of analysing carefully chosen precedents. Lastly, the nature of townships and township architecture is explored to apply this to the context of Bethelsdorp and the direct area the centre will affect. The architectural design is the response based on the interrogation. The centre intends to help as many citizens as it can, by providing a variety of services in an area that it will help to be the official heart of Bethelsdorp.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Marais, Mariska
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Medical centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38841 , vital:35006
- Description: This treatise was inspired by concern about the well-being of the less fortunate and their poor living conditions in township environments in South Africa. The proposal is a design of a community health centre in the township of Bethelsdorp, Port Elizabeth. The intervention will act as a safe space between home and large-scale hospitals while creating a positive urban space within a monotonous environment. The treatise engages with the issues and methods related to the design of a community health centre in the township environment to inform the final design proposal. It starts with an investigation into the theories of urban structure and public spaces in South African townships, after which it explores the building type. The building type is investigated in terms of the healthcare system in South Africa (with its emphasis on Port Elizabeth) , and the interrogation of community health centres by means of analysing carefully chosen precedents. Lastly, the nature of townships and township architecture is explored to apply this to the context of Bethelsdorp and the direct area the centre will affect. The architectural design is the response based on the interrogation. The centre intends to help as many citizens as it can, by providing a variety of services in an area that it will help to be the official heart of Bethelsdorp.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The design of a student-resource centre in Central, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Harmse, Kim
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Student unions -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Architecture -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39065 , vital:35032
- Description: This study investigates the making of a Student-Resource Centre in Central, Port Elizabeth. The project evolved from the situation in Central, where there is an increase in the student demographic, due to the increase in registered students at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). This has resulted in a shortage of student housing on campus; and therefore many students are living in the inner city where housing is more affordable but transport to campus is still accessible. These students are decentralised from the main University Campus; and they do not share the same 24-hour access to NMMU facilities, as do those living on-campus, or in Summerstrand. This treatise proposes a student resource centre within Central, located near the highest density of students, to provide study facilities, off-campus student health services, off-campus computer facil-ities, student-connection spaces, as well as a link to the broader community through student-oriented retail/commercial facilities, such as printing/copy centres, food markets, laundry facilities et al., as well as providing additional student accommoda¬tion in the form of student flats. The primary design aim of this treatise, is to design a student resource centre that provides the decen¬tralised students in the inner city with equal access to the same standard of facilities as the students that reside on-campus and within the more expen¬sive area of Summerstrand, through the study and implementation of contemporary learning space theories that are relevant to the 21st Century Stu¬dent. Qualitative research methodologies were used, using both primary and secondary sources, in the methods, as laid out herein.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Harmse, Kim
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Student unions -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Architecture -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39065 , vital:35032
- Description: This study investigates the making of a Student-Resource Centre in Central, Port Elizabeth. The project evolved from the situation in Central, where there is an increase in the student demographic, due to the increase in registered students at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). This has resulted in a shortage of student housing on campus; and therefore many students are living in the inner city where housing is more affordable but transport to campus is still accessible. These students are decentralised from the main University Campus; and they do not share the same 24-hour access to NMMU facilities, as do those living on-campus, or in Summerstrand. This treatise proposes a student resource centre within Central, located near the highest density of students, to provide study facilities, off-campus student health services, off-campus computer facil-ities, student-connection spaces, as well as a link to the broader community through student-oriented retail/commercial facilities, such as printing/copy centres, food markets, laundry facilities et al., as well as providing additional student accommoda¬tion in the form of student flats. The primary design aim of this treatise, is to design a student resource centre that provides the decen¬tralised students in the inner city with equal access to the same standard of facilities as the students that reside on-campus and within the more expen¬sive area of Summerstrand, through the study and implementation of contemporary learning space theories that are relevant to the 21st Century Stu¬dent. Qualitative research methodologies were used, using both primary and secondary sources, in the methods, as laid out herein.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A memory work project for Marikana
- Authors: Snyman, Emile Alexander
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Monuments -- South Africa -- Rustenburg Memorials -- South Africa -- Rustenburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38885 , vital:35010
- Description: This treatise suggests one possible strategy for engaging the memory of the Marikana Massacre through different representational modes. Part 1 of this treatise takes the form of the research conducted, which was explorative in nature and focused on coming to an understanding of collective memory, the role of monuments and memorials within this process, the contemporary South African memorial landscape and the events that transpired at Marikana between 9 and 16 August 2012 and what their historical significance may be. As it was found that strikes featuring on the platinum belt were not only related to wage issues, Marikana as a settlement within the context of South Africa’s platinum belt was further investigated in order to highlight what the multiple challenges and issues are with which communities are faced on a daily basis. Part 2 sets out the strategy of a memory work project for Marikana which involves three components, namely a web- and phone-based application called ‘Remembering Marikana’ which provides a discursive arena for the politics of memory, a memorial for the victims of the Marikana Massacre at Thaba (Marikana Mountain) which facilitates annual commemoration of the massacre, and the design of a Mgcineni Noki Memorial Sports Centre, a community institution which embodies the values of the strike leaders and makes a positive contribution to the impoverished urban economy of the Wonderkop neighbourhood in Marikana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Snyman, Emile Alexander
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Monuments -- South Africa -- Rustenburg Memorials -- South Africa -- Rustenburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38885 , vital:35010
- Description: This treatise suggests one possible strategy for engaging the memory of the Marikana Massacre through different representational modes. Part 1 of this treatise takes the form of the research conducted, which was explorative in nature and focused on coming to an understanding of collective memory, the role of monuments and memorials within this process, the contemporary South African memorial landscape and the events that transpired at Marikana between 9 and 16 August 2012 and what their historical significance may be. As it was found that strikes featuring on the platinum belt were not only related to wage issues, Marikana as a settlement within the context of South Africa’s platinum belt was further investigated in order to highlight what the multiple challenges and issues are with which communities are faced on a daily basis. Part 2 sets out the strategy of a memory work project for Marikana which involves three components, namely a web- and phone-based application called ‘Remembering Marikana’ which provides a discursive arena for the politics of memory, a memorial for the victims of the Marikana Massacre at Thaba (Marikana Mountain) which facilitates annual commemoration of the massacre, and the design of a Mgcineni Noki Memorial Sports Centre, a community institution which embodies the values of the strike leaders and makes a positive contribution to the impoverished urban economy of the Wonderkop neighbourhood in Marikana.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Reaching the isolated through the design of air clinic facility in Moshoeshoe II, Maseru Lesotho pre-hospital care and transport
- Authors: Lesia, Tumelo Emmanuel
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Medical centers -- Lesotho -- Maseru -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- Lesotho -- Maseru
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39284 , vital:35071
- Description: The purpose of this research is to develop a design of an Air Clinic Facility, to reach the isolated people in the highlands of Lesotho. This came through the realization of the access barrier created by the mountainous terrain, making it difficult to supply medical care to isolated communities. The aim of this research is to investigate a suitable architectural approach to an air clinic facility as a device that will make reaching the isolated effortless. Emergency healthcare architecture principles have been employed as a remedial strategy to the design. The motive behind this treatise originates from the authors desire to understand the role that architecture can play to solve the accessibility issues facing the uplands. The choice to address the realm of emergency healthcare architecture also originates from the desire to understand the effect that architecture can have on the lives of ordinary people. The main architectural intervention will focus on the process of accessing and using the air clinic facility, whereby a mutually beneficial interaction between the program and the context will be realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Lesia, Tumelo Emmanuel
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Medical centers -- Lesotho -- Maseru -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- Lesotho -- Maseru
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39284 , vital:35071
- Description: The purpose of this research is to develop a design of an Air Clinic Facility, to reach the isolated people in the highlands of Lesotho. This came through the realization of the access barrier created by the mountainous terrain, making it difficult to supply medical care to isolated communities. The aim of this research is to investigate a suitable architectural approach to an air clinic facility as a device that will make reaching the isolated effortless. Emergency healthcare architecture principles have been employed as a remedial strategy to the design. The motive behind this treatise originates from the authors desire to understand the role that architecture can play to solve the accessibility issues facing the uplands. The choice to address the realm of emergency healthcare architecture also originates from the desire to understand the effect that architecture can have on the lives of ordinary people. The main architectural intervention will focus on the process of accessing and using the air clinic facility, whereby a mutually beneficial interaction between the program and the context will be realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a bamboo processing plant in the Ibhayi township
- Authors: Maré, Kimon Brain
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bamboo construction -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Sustainable architecture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38896 , vital:35011
- Description: This dissertation investigates the potential of architecture as a regenerative device, originating from an ecological, social and economic concern for the heavily polluted Swartkops estuary situated east of the Ibhayi district, Port Elizabeth, as well as a preoccupation with Bamboo and the benefi ts thereof, not only as an ecological mediator but as a sustainable source of building fi ber. For years surrounding factories and urban runoff has polluted the river, causing severe damage to the ecology of the Estuary. The poisonous pollution poured into the Swartkops River has degraded the estuary to such a degree that the fi sh caught in the river is not fi t for human consumption. Not only killing surrounding fauna but driving humans and animals away. [Enviro-Fish Africa 2011.] In the Apartheid era, black communities were relocated to the Ibhayi precinct, with limited job opportunities and lack of infrastructure, the river is not only a source of water to the community but a source of food. The area has become one of the worst, economically and socially in Port Elizabeth. [Census 2011.] Therefore, I propose to re-purpose the fl ooded salt pans just south of the Marina Salt factory, to a bamboo processing plant along with a plantation. The bamboo species is capable of cleansing the air and soil better than trees are able to, in addition to attracting bird life. [Stéphane Schröder 2016.] Proposing to plant bamboo clusters along the Chatty river, not only creates an opportunity for recreational space, but restoring the estuary’s ecology, with the added benefi t of providing raw materials with numerous uses by the community, for the community. Bamboo is one of the most versatile and eco-friendly sources of material with over a thousand uses, requiring a minimum of a 1ha bamboo plantation to create a viable business model. I wish to create a building that can both improve the physical and economical nature of the Ibhayi precinct.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Maré, Kimon Brain
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bamboo construction -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Sustainable architecture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38896 , vital:35011
- Description: This dissertation investigates the potential of architecture as a regenerative device, originating from an ecological, social and economic concern for the heavily polluted Swartkops estuary situated east of the Ibhayi district, Port Elizabeth, as well as a preoccupation with Bamboo and the benefi ts thereof, not only as an ecological mediator but as a sustainable source of building fi ber. For years surrounding factories and urban runoff has polluted the river, causing severe damage to the ecology of the Estuary. The poisonous pollution poured into the Swartkops River has degraded the estuary to such a degree that the fi sh caught in the river is not fi t for human consumption. Not only killing surrounding fauna but driving humans and animals away. [Enviro-Fish Africa 2011.] In the Apartheid era, black communities were relocated to the Ibhayi precinct, with limited job opportunities and lack of infrastructure, the river is not only a source of water to the community but a source of food. The area has become one of the worst, economically and socially in Port Elizabeth. [Census 2011.] Therefore, I propose to re-purpose the fl ooded salt pans just south of the Marina Salt factory, to a bamboo processing plant along with a plantation. The bamboo species is capable of cleansing the air and soil better than trees are able to, in addition to attracting bird life. [Stéphane Schröder 2016.] Proposing to plant bamboo clusters along the Chatty river, not only creates an opportunity for recreational space, but restoring the estuary’s ecology, with the added benefi t of providing raw materials with numerous uses by the community, for the community. Bamboo is one of the most versatile and eco-friendly sources of material with over a thousand uses, requiring a minimum of a 1ha bamboo plantation to create a viable business model. I wish to create a building that can both improve the physical and economical nature of the Ibhayi precinct.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a retirement home: bridging the gap for the elderly generation through the design of a retirement complex in the heart of a growing city core located in Walmer, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Watson, Robin Anthony
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Adult day care centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction , Nursing homes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction , Older people -- Dwellings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Planning , Old age homes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39185 , vital:35054
- Description: This treatise has been developed from a combination of a specific programme and site related issues. The project centred around the design of a new retirement complex in Walmer, Port Elizabeth. The specific urban condition is of particular interest as the site is centrally located at a meeting point of three different spatial urban conditions, namely commercial, institutional and suburban residential. The programme developed from the need to develop a new typology of elderly housing for the growing elderly population in Port Elizabeth in order to address the often overlooked issues of the existing typologies. These issues were looked into, leading to the understanding that the existing retirement options available within Port Elizabeth are based on the functional separation of the different levels of care required by the elderly in establishments that are isolated from the greater community and are, in some cases, institutional in nature. However, when looking at models for retirement facilities available within other contexts, it is clear that new and innovated models have been developed which have advantages over these 'traditional' establishments. This treatise aims at developing a retirement model within the suburb of Walmer that supports a variety of unique residential options and comprehensive services that meet the needs of recently retired persons who remain active, as well as frail residents. The identifiable challenge is the establishment of an architectural model that provides its occupants with privacy and identity while allowing them to integrate with their environment and avoids the need to move as they grow older.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Watson, Robin Anthony
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Adult day care centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction , Nursing homes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction , Older people -- Dwellings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Planning , Old age homes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39185 , vital:35054
- Description: This treatise has been developed from a combination of a specific programme and site related issues. The project centred around the design of a new retirement complex in Walmer, Port Elizabeth. The specific urban condition is of particular interest as the site is centrally located at a meeting point of three different spatial urban conditions, namely commercial, institutional and suburban residential. The programme developed from the need to develop a new typology of elderly housing for the growing elderly population in Port Elizabeth in order to address the often overlooked issues of the existing typologies. These issues were looked into, leading to the understanding that the existing retirement options available within Port Elizabeth are based on the functional separation of the different levels of care required by the elderly in establishments that are isolated from the greater community and are, in some cases, institutional in nature. However, when looking at models for retirement facilities available within other contexts, it is clear that new and innovated models have been developed which have advantages over these 'traditional' establishments. This treatise aims at developing a retirement model within the suburb of Walmer that supports a variety of unique residential options and comprehensive services that meet the needs of recently retired persons who remain active, as well as frail residents. The identifiable challenge is the establishment of an architectural model that provides its occupants with privacy and identity while allowing them to integrate with their environment and avoids the need to move as they grow older.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a student resource centre in central Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Jacobs, Lize-Mari
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Libraries -- Space utilization , Library buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18908 , vital:28748
- Description: The city centre of Port Elizabeth houses a large percentage of the city’s student population. The primary tertiary institution, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, is decentralised from the city centre. Thus, many students sacrifice a lot of time and money travelling far distances between the campus and home every day. The treatise proposes a Student Resource Centre in Central Port Elizabeth as an appropriate building that will provide the students with appropriate learning spaces and access to resources in close proximity to home. The treatise seeks to understand the aspects that influence the design of learning spaces. Students and pedagogy are constantly changing within the current age of technology. Learning spaces should be designed to satisfy student needs and reinforce current pedagogy. The treatise also investigates the challenges and opportunities of an identified site located within a precinct that is inaccessible and in a state of urban decay that causes segregation within the city. The Student Resource Centre will act as a central gathering and learning space serving the many varied needs of the students within its constituency, while also positively contributing to the urban context of the city as a whole.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Jacobs, Lize-Mari
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Libraries -- Space utilization , Library buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18908 , vital:28748
- Description: The city centre of Port Elizabeth houses a large percentage of the city’s student population. The primary tertiary institution, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, is decentralised from the city centre. Thus, many students sacrifice a lot of time and money travelling far distances between the campus and home every day. The treatise proposes a Student Resource Centre in Central Port Elizabeth as an appropriate building that will provide the students with appropriate learning spaces and access to resources in close proximity to home. The treatise seeks to understand the aspects that influence the design of learning spaces. Students and pedagogy are constantly changing within the current age of technology. Learning spaces should be designed to satisfy student needs and reinforce current pedagogy. The treatise also investigates the challenges and opportunities of an identified site located within a precinct that is inaccessible and in a state of urban decay that causes segregation within the city. The Student Resource Centre will act as a central gathering and learning space serving the many varied needs of the students within its constituency, while also positively contributing to the urban context of the city as a whole.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an international wool exchange for Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Bothma, Ashley Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Historic sites -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Historic buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38852 , vital:35007
- Description: Due to the growth increase in the wool industry in South Africa and the industry's lack of public activity that the existing South Africa (S.A) wool exchange exudes, the opportunity for a new type of wool exchange presents itself. the advantages in technology have evolved in many an industry and the same can be for the wool industry. the existing S.A. wool exchange fails to comfortably meet the needs of the industry with regards to technology. the creation of international wool exchange will provide a platform to boost the industry and incorporate the use of current technology to improve on the process involved within the program. BKB. Ltd have expressed a similar interest in the development of an international wool exchange but have requested the use of an abounded heritage building in an attempt at a sustainable future through re-use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bothma, Ashley Andre
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Historic sites -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Historic buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38852 , vital:35007
- Description: Due to the growth increase in the wool industry in South Africa and the industry's lack of public activity that the existing South Africa (S.A) wool exchange exudes, the opportunity for a new type of wool exchange presents itself. the advantages in technology have evolved in many an industry and the same can be for the wool industry. the existing S.A. wool exchange fails to comfortably meet the needs of the industry with regards to technology. the creation of international wool exchange will provide a platform to boost the industry and incorporate the use of current technology to improve on the process involved within the program. BKB. Ltd have expressed a similar interest in the development of an international wool exchange but have requested the use of an abounded heritage building in an attempt at a sustainable future through re-use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of an urban agriculture centre for Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Marinus, Sheree Anne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban agriculture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18919 , vital:28749
- Description: This dissertation is based on the design of an Urban Agriculture Centre situated within the urban fabric of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The treatise evolves out of issues pertaining to actual problems. Deforestation, desertification, floods, drought, population growth and pollution, only to name a few, are issues that play a crucial role in the survival of humanity and other ecosystems. After extensive research, it was identified that traditional farms are unsustainable, inefficient and causes great damage to the environment. Current farming methods will not be able to produce enough food for the growing population. Traditional farming relies on the climate and particular seasons to produce crops. At the rate that the population is growing, traditional farmers will not be able to keep up. Traditional farms use hectares and hectares of land - this is the one major disadvantage, as there is only a certain amount of arable land in the country. The treatise diagnosed this problem, and proposes that farming should move into the urban areas, where the majority of the population subsists. New generation farming techniques allows for agriculture to take place within the urban fabric. The agriculture technique that will be used in this treatise is hydroponics. The treatise addresses urban issues such as sprawl and wasted space within urban areas. For this reason, the treatise adopts a derelict industrial heritage building, within the Central Business District of Port Elizabeth, as the building that will be utilized by the proposed urban farm. The treatise has chosen the Old Premier Mill Building in Port Elizabeth as a suitable candidate for the proposed project. The building is over one hundred years old, and possesses unique heritage value. Using an existing building is a sustainable option, but for obvious reasons the treatise will be challenged to preserve the heritage value of the old Premier Mill building. The concept of an urban farm/vertical farm is perceived as a highly technical building, due to its nature, which demands a ‘high-tech’ aesthetic. The treatise challenges this contrast: designing a highly technical building while trying to preserve a structure of high heritage value. Part one of this dissertation sets the groundwork for the treatise and discusses the different aspects the of the project that will influence the design. Part two sets the foundation for all the aspects that will inform the treatise concerning the proposed project. The knowledge gathered in these two sections will be applied in part three of this dissertation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Marinus, Sheree Anne
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban agriculture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18919 , vital:28749
- Description: This dissertation is based on the design of an Urban Agriculture Centre situated within the urban fabric of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The treatise evolves out of issues pertaining to actual problems. Deforestation, desertification, floods, drought, population growth and pollution, only to name a few, are issues that play a crucial role in the survival of humanity and other ecosystems. After extensive research, it was identified that traditional farms are unsustainable, inefficient and causes great damage to the environment. Current farming methods will not be able to produce enough food for the growing population. Traditional farming relies on the climate and particular seasons to produce crops. At the rate that the population is growing, traditional farmers will not be able to keep up. Traditional farms use hectares and hectares of land - this is the one major disadvantage, as there is only a certain amount of arable land in the country. The treatise diagnosed this problem, and proposes that farming should move into the urban areas, where the majority of the population subsists. New generation farming techniques allows for agriculture to take place within the urban fabric. The agriculture technique that will be used in this treatise is hydroponics. The treatise addresses urban issues such as sprawl and wasted space within urban areas. For this reason, the treatise adopts a derelict industrial heritage building, within the Central Business District of Port Elizabeth, as the building that will be utilized by the proposed urban farm. The treatise has chosen the Old Premier Mill Building in Port Elizabeth as a suitable candidate for the proposed project. The building is over one hundred years old, and possesses unique heritage value. Using an existing building is a sustainable option, but for obvious reasons the treatise will be challenged to preserve the heritage value of the old Premier Mill building. The concept of an urban farm/vertical farm is perceived as a highly technical building, due to its nature, which demands a ‘high-tech’ aesthetic. The treatise challenges this contrast: designing a highly technical building while trying to preserve a structure of high heritage value. Part one of this dissertation sets the groundwork for the treatise and discusses the different aspects the of the project that will influence the design. Part two sets the foundation for all the aspects that will inform the treatise concerning the proposed project. The knowledge gathered in these two sections will be applied in part three of this dissertation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a centre for water sports in Newlands, Cape Town
- Authors: MacKenzie, Paul
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans Recreation centers -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39218 , vital:35064
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a Water Sports Centre in the sporting precinct of Newlands in Cape Town. The building is concerned with the redevelopment of an existing facility that is underutilised and outdated, compared to the 21st-century sporting arena. The purpose of this treatise is to investigate the processes and issues involved in the design of a Water Sports Centre that is located in a public park environment, and to better understand the contextual, spatial, physical, and theoretical influences on the nature of such a project’s architectural resolution. The process begins with an analysis of the two separate typologies, namely, water sports centres and sports stadiums, to better understand the spatial and physical nature of the combined building types. Various precedents are investigated of which the materiality and physical nature of the buildings are uncovered to identify an appropriate architectural language. Moreover, the spatial nature of these buildings are divided into categories of which the inter-relationships are analysed. The nature of the site is then investigated to identify and develop constraints and design informants. The site-defining elements are analysed individually, and a corresponding set of issues is established through the study of particular precedents. With an understanding of the physical and spatial attributes of the typology, combined with an appropriate response to the site, the design resolution for the Water Sports Centre in the Newlands sporting precinct is presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: MacKenzie, Paul
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans Recreation centers -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39218 , vital:35064
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a Water Sports Centre in the sporting precinct of Newlands in Cape Town. The building is concerned with the redevelopment of an existing facility that is underutilised and outdated, compared to the 21st-century sporting arena. The purpose of this treatise is to investigate the processes and issues involved in the design of a Water Sports Centre that is located in a public park environment, and to better understand the contextual, spatial, physical, and theoretical influences on the nature of such a project’s architectural resolution. The process begins with an analysis of the two separate typologies, namely, water sports centres and sports stadiums, to better understand the spatial and physical nature of the combined building types. Various precedents are investigated of which the materiality and physical nature of the buildings are uncovered to identify an appropriate architectural language. Moreover, the spatial nature of these buildings are divided into categories of which the inter-relationships are analysed. The nature of the site is then investigated to identify and develop constraints and design informants. The site-defining elements are analysed individually, and a corresponding set of issues is established through the study of particular precedents. With an understanding of the physical and spatial attributes of the typology, combined with an appropriate response to the site, the design resolution for the Water Sports Centre in the Newlands sporting precinct is presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a cultural resource centre in the lower Khuiseb river valley, Namibia: a collective project
- Authors: Niedermeier, Inka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- Namibia -- Designs and plans Community centers -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38830 , vital:35004
- Description: The treatise focuses on how to design built space that is ‘place-specific’ and captures the ‘spirit’ of the Namib Desert landscape through the experience of architecture. The project specifically focuses on tourism developments in natural and cultural environments. An investigation and analysis are done of the nature of the physical, spatial and cultural context of the ephemeral Khuiseb river of Namibia. By inductive and deductive reasoning, an argument is presented regarding the appropriate architectural approach of a luxury eco-lodge in a proposed eco-tourism precinct, that captures the Zeitgeist of the context while responding to the socio-economic conditions to encourage an autonomous community in a selfsufficient and sustainable way.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Niedermeier, Inka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- Namibia -- Designs and plans Community centers -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38830 , vital:35004
- Description: The treatise focuses on how to design built space that is ‘place-specific’ and captures the ‘spirit’ of the Namib Desert landscape through the experience of architecture. The project specifically focuses on tourism developments in natural and cultural environments. An investigation and analysis are done of the nature of the physical, spatial and cultural context of the ephemeral Khuiseb river of Namibia. By inductive and deductive reasoning, an argument is presented regarding the appropriate architectural approach of a luxury eco-lodge in a proposed eco-tourism precinct, that captures the Zeitgeist of the context while responding to the socio-economic conditions to encourage an autonomous community in a selfsufficient and sustainable way.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a digital resource centre in Motherwell, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Bursey, Rowan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38874 , vital:35009
- Description: This treatise is centered on the design of a digital resource centre in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The building is concerned with providing a civic space which promotes access to and effective use of digital information and communication technologies. The treatise explores the issues and methods involved in the design of a public digital resource centre. The research starts with an investigation into the nature of public space and civic facilities within a South African township context before exploring the development of the library typology and its evolution in the digital age, while exploring the issues and processes involved in the design of a civic building in a township environment. The architectural design is seen as an appropriate response to the identified architectural issues. Relevant precedents are chosen based on the nature of these issues and the context in which they are situated. The buildings are analyzed in terms of these key issues and will thereby provide an understanding of the architectural identity of the civic building archetype. An understanding of the architectural typology and an analysis of relevant precedents leads to the identification of a set of site selection criteria which can be used to select an appropriate site within the Motherwell precinct. The nature of Motherwell and the identified issues related to the selected site are then investigated in order to develop a set of informants and constraints. Specific elements which are unique to the selected site are then investigated individually while using relevant precedents to establish an appropriate response to the issues involved. An appropriate architectural response is then developed through an understanding of the physical and spatial qualities of the building typology while also responding to the specific issues related to the site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bursey, Rowan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38874 , vital:35009
- Description: This treatise is centered on the design of a digital resource centre in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The building is concerned with providing a civic space which promotes access to and effective use of digital information and communication technologies. The treatise explores the issues and methods involved in the design of a public digital resource centre. The research starts with an investigation into the nature of public space and civic facilities within a South African township context before exploring the development of the library typology and its evolution in the digital age, while exploring the issues and processes involved in the design of a civic building in a township environment. The architectural design is seen as an appropriate response to the identified architectural issues. Relevant precedents are chosen based on the nature of these issues and the context in which they are situated. The buildings are analyzed in terms of these key issues and will thereby provide an understanding of the architectural identity of the civic building archetype. An understanding of the architectural typology and an analysis of relevant precedents leads to the identification of a set of site selection criteria which can be used to select an appropriate site within the Motherwell precinct. The nature of Motherwell and the identified issues related to the selected site are then investigated in order to develop a set of informants and constraints. Specific elements which are unique to the selected site are then investigated individually while using relevant precedents to establish an appropriate response to the issues involved. An appropriate architectural response is then developed through an understanding of the physical and spatial qualities of the building typology while also responding to the specific issues related to the site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a new medical faculty building at Livingston Hospital in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Erwee, Chantal
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39076 , vital:35036
- Description: On 24 July 2016, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) announced formal state approval to establish a new medical school. This treatise proposes the design of the medical faculty for NMMU. This medical faculty will challenge the typical school typology by the application of Biophilic design principles. This is achieved by critically engaging with the nature of a medical faculty and campus and by examining the context in which the proposal takes place. By means of a typological investigation, Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth was deemed the most suitable location for the medical faculty. Through the integration of the programmatic requirements, technical strategy and the model of Biophilia, which stimulates the physiological needs and neurological functions of the users, the treatise successfully established a new precedent for medical school design in South Africa. The investigation of Livingstone Hospital highlighted the need for rehabilitation of the adjacent green structures and the campus as a whole. The design provides the “stent” which will fuse these entities, healing not only the physical campus but the users of the campus, the surrounding landscape and ultimately the adjacent precinct. The introduction of a medical faculty to the Health Sciences Department of NMMU in Port Elizabeth will breathe new life into the medical industry, unclogging the arteries which restrict the provision of healthcare for South African citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Erwee, Chantal
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39076 , vital:35036
- Description: On 24 July 2016, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) announced formal state approval to establish a new medical school. This treatise proposes the design of the medical faculty for NMMU. This medical faculty will challenge the typical school typology by the application of Biophilic design principles. This is achieved by critically engaging with the nature of a medical faculty and campus and by examining the context in which the proposal takes place. By means of a typological investigation, Livingstone Hospital in Port Elizabeth was deemed the most suitable location for the medical faculty. Through the integration of the programmatic requirements, technical strategy and the model of Biophilia, which stimulates the physiological needs and neurological functions of the users, the treatise successfully established a new precedent for medical school design in South Africa. The investigation of Livingstone Hospital highlighted the need for rehabilitation of the adjacent green structures and the campus as a whole. The design provides the “stent” which will fuse these entities, healing not only the physical campus but the users of the campus, the surrounding landscape and ultimately the adjacent precinct. The introduction of a medical faculty to the Health Sciences Department of NMMU in Port Elizabeth will breathe new life into the medical industry, unclogging the arteries which restrict the provision of healthcare for South African citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a primary healthcare centre for women and children in KwaZakhele, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Du Preez, Ashleigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38863 , vital:35008
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a primary health care centre for women and children in Kwazakhele, Port Elizabeth. The primary health care facility will provide the space ‘in-between’ home and hospital and will promote improved maternal care by concentrating on antenatal and postnatal services, delivered in a safe environment. The Centre will encompass an understanding of cultural, social and economic informants of health and enable an empowerment of community through a holistic approach to health care design. The Centre aims at dealing with both physical and mental issues that are connected to pregnancy, as well as other aspects of women’s health needs. A maternity ward, as well as a psychological component that deals with antenatal depression and rape counselling, will be incorporated into the design. Understanding traditions in township architecture and the design of healthcare centres internationally and in South Africa provide the basis of a cultural engagement stimulating the design of a health centre providing opportunities for social interaction.By enhancing the urban space, a better quality of living will be provided in the community. Through this intervention, the promotion of wellness will be stimulated and strengthened.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Du Preez, Ashleigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Designs and plans Health facilities -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38863 , vital:35008
- Description: This treatise focuses on the design of a primary health care centre for women and children in Kwazakhele, Port Elizabeth. The primary health care facility will provide the space ‘in-between’ home and hospital and will promote improved maternal care by concentrating on antenatal and postnatal services, delivered in a safe environment. The Centre will encompass an understanding of cultural, social and economic informants of health and enable an empowerment of community through a holistic approach to health care design. The Centre aims at dealing with both physical and mental issues that are connected to pregnancy, as well as other aspects of women’s health needs. A maternity ward, as well as a psychological component that deals with antenatal depression and rape counselling, will be incorporated into the design. Understanding traditions in township architecture and the design of healthcare centres internationally and in South Africa provide the basis of a cultural engagement stimulating the design of a health centre providing opportunities for social interaction.By enhancing the urban space, a better quality of living will be provided in the community. Through this intervention, the promotion of wellness will be stimulated and strengthened.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of botanical conservatory facilities at cathedral peak in the Drakensberg, KwaZulu Natal: a cathedral of conservation
- Authors: Hirst, Charné
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Conservatories -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal -- Design and plans Architecture -- Environmental aspects , Architecture, Modern -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39098 , vital:35042
- Description: This treatise investigates how eco-tourism can be employed to support the development of natural identity and place-making of a sacred environment through architectural intervention in the midst of an industrialised society. The principle argument of this treatise is that through the symbiosis of nature and the built environment, architecture can provide a counter-narrative to the disconnection between humans and nature. With ecotourism being a contemporary attempt to re-connect humans with our natural routes, to create awareness, a spiritual awakening and a global warming crisis intervention, this treatise will be the architectural product of conservation. The unification of ecology and architecture is critical to a contemporary definition of the natural environment. This treatise proposes the design of botanical conservatory facilities at Cathedral Peak, a tourist and research precinct in the renowned natural and cultural National Heritage Site of the Drakensberg Mountains. It presents an architecture which becomes an extension of the landscape and articulates its natural ecological systems through architectural design, while reinforcing the junction of the natural and built environment. It places the focus on integration between inside/outside spaces, in which the harmonious and symbiotic relationship can be experienced. Although it presents a contemporary architecture, it integrates various vernacular material and tectonic references, becoming a symbol of the nature of the place. The proposal is further described as a ‘cathedral of conservation’ designed as a modulated system for the simulation of particular climatic environments, with attributes drawn from the Gothic cathedral archetype in its attention to verticality and detail to materiality, and from a phenomenological perspective of place and identity as a building asserting the distinctive nature of the place. This cathedral of conservation is an architectural response to the sacredness and spirituality of the mountains, inducing a dialogue between the conservatory and the mighty Cathedral Peak which is one of the most famous natural attributes of the Drakensberg and thus the site’s most valuable vista.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Hirst, Charné
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Conservatories -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal -- Design and plans Architecture -- Environmental aspects , Architecture, Modern -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39098 , vital:35042
- Description: This treatise investigates how eco-tourism can be employed to support the development of natural identity and place-making of a sacred environment through architectural intervention in the midst of an industrialised society. The principle argument of this treatise is that through the symbiosis of nature and the built environment, architecture can provide a counter-narrative to the disconnection between humans and nature. With ecotourism being a contemporary attempt to re-connect humans with our natural routes, to create awareness, a spiritual awakening and a global warming crisis intervention, this treatise will be the architectural product of conservation. The unification of ecology and architecture is critical to a contemporary definition of the natural environment. This treatise proposes the design of botanical conservatory facilities at Cathedral Peak, a tourist and research precinct in the renowned natural and cultural National Heritage Site of the Drakensberg Mountains. It presents an architecture which becomes an extension of the landscape and articulates its natural ecological systems through architectural design, while reinforcing the junction of the natural and built environment. It places the focus on integration between inside/outside spaces, in which the harmonious and symbiotic relationship can be experienced. Although it presents a contemporary architecture, it integrates various vernacular material and tectonic references, becoming a symbol of the nature of the place. The proposal is further described as a ‘cathedral of conservation’ designed as a modulated system for the simulation of particular climatic environments, with attributes drawn from the Gothic cathedral archetype in its attention to verticality and detail to materiality, and from a phenomenological perspective of place and identity as a building asserting the distinctive nature of the place. This cathedral of conservation is an architectural response to the sacredness and spirituality of the mountains, inducing a dialogue between the conservatory and the mighty Cathedral Peak which is one of the most famous natural attributes of the Drakensberg and thus the site’s most valuable vista.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The design of a multi-purpose motor sports pit complex for Kyalami
- Authors: De Bruyn, Sheldon
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Racetracks (Automobile racing) -- South Africa -- Midrand Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Midrand
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39337 , vital:35088
- Description: Since the invention of the motor car over 100 years ago, people have been trying to improve its technical capabilities by constantly pushing its limits. Motor sport developed out of this desire for technical mastery of speed, which led to the first Formula 1 Championship in 1960 at Silverstone, England. The sport’s popularity increased and spread to the corners of the world. Since 1962, Formula 1 had been hosted by South Africa. Technological developments on Formula 1 cars then would, years later, be adapted for regular road cars. Parallel with the development of the sports cars was the development of the buildings to stay abreast with the requirements of increasing crowds, larger media presence and technologies, and construction methods and materials. These buildings evolved from simple single storey buildings to multi-floor complexes that accommodated thousands of spectators and team players. However, as the buildings pushed the envelopes, and their scale increased, some of the essence of the sports culture from old was lost. Large grandstands and pit complex buildings have created a sterile environment for the spectacle of the sport. Area prolonged absence from the Formula 1 calendar; firstly, from ancones and then, for financial reasons, a newly injected interest and ownership from Porsche South Africa saw a grand return of Formula 1 to local soil. This happened at the historically significant racing site of Kyalami. What is exciting about this project is the opportunity that arises to connect (through design) the spectator back to the track and sport in a more meaningful way that strongly reminds us of the sport of earlier days of the sport. With the influence of old architectural typologies and embracing the technological advances, the proposed pit complex shows a balance between pushing the architectural envelope and increasing spectator value.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: De Bruyn, Sheldon
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Racetracks (Automobile racing) -- South Africa -- Midrand Sports facilities -- South Africa -- Midrand
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39337 , vital:35088
- Description: Since the invention of the motor car over 100 years ago, people have been trying to improve its technical capabilities by constantly pushing its limits. Motor sport developed out of this desire for technical mastery of speed, which led to the first Formula 1 Championship in 1960 at Silverstone, England. The sport’s popularity increased and spread to the corners of the world. Since 1962, Formula 1 had been hosted by South Africa. Technological developments on Formula 1 cars then would, years later, be adapted for regular road cars. Parallel with the development of the sports cars was the development of the buildings to stay abreast with the requirements of increasing crowds, larger media presence and technologies, and construction methods and materials. These buildings evolved from simple single storey buildings to multi-floor complexes that accommodated thousands of spectators and team players. However, as the buildings pushed the envelopes, and their scale increased, some of the essence of the sports culture from old was lost. Large grandstands and pit complex buildings have created a sterile environment for the spectacle of the sport. Area prolonged absence from the Formula 1 calendar; firstly, from ancones and then, for financial reasons, a newly injected interest and ownership from Porsche South Africa saw a grand return of Formula 1 to local soil. This happened at the historically significant racing site of Kyalami. What is exciting about this project is the opportunity that arises to connect (through design) the spectator back to the track and sport in a more meaningful way that strongly reminds us of the sport of earlier days of the sport. With the influence of old architectural typologies and embracing the technological advances, the proposed pit complex shows a balance between pushing the architectural envelope and increasing spectator value.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The design of Makana monument in Grahamstown: pathway of memory inspired by nature, mediating public and sacred space, as a regenerative mechanism of a forgotten place
- Authors: Almon, Peta Pryor
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Monuments -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Historic buildings -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Historic sites -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Architecture and society -- History -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41283 , vital:36431
- Description: Since 1994 the post-apartheid heritage discourse has become one of the primary tools to deal with culture, identity and citizenship in South Africa. It is one of the means by which a democratic national identity is being forged and the production of new monuments is the physical manifestation of this discourse. The South African landscape holds many suppressed or unarticulated histories; histories which are a function of socio-political and land battles throughout the years of colonisation and apartheid. In society, socio-political ideals are supported by daily practices, which in turn affect social structures. These structures and the values that they uphold, in turn are interned in the monument. The monument then radiates these through its physical form. Monuments are therefore a collective mirror from which society can position itself, expressing socio-political ideals that are reinforced by community actions. This treatise explores monument as a mechanism of social regeneration towards the vision of a democratic landscape. The treatise investigates the making of monuments by analysing philosophical positions, characteristics with the intention of extracting principles, and types of monuments. This was done in order to gain an understanding as to why monuments exist, the fundamental principles involved, and the architectural approaches to these. The work is centred around Grahamstown, focusing on heritage within the city. This heritage is explicitly represented in over seventy sites within the city. Through an analysis of these heritage sites, it became clear that there is an imbalance of represented histories; mainly favouring the colonial histories while the African histories remain unarticulated or poorly represented. This imbalance is testimony to the socio-political ideals over time which in turn affected the morphology of the city over time. This resulted in contrasting spatial structures; the colonial side of town structured by a grid plan centred on a major axial route from which the spatial hierarchy extends, and the township side which is characterised by a repetitive, non-hierarchical grid layout. The landscape of the city underpins this spatial layout where features are used to enforce socio-political ideals. The structuring elements of the landscape are crucial in this regard. Surrounding hills create a bowl condition in which the city is located which in turn is divided in half by a river reinforcing the two sides of the city. Two entry points into the city are demarcated by prominent hills, positioned directly opposite each other on either side of the city. Gunfire Hill on the west is accentuated by the 1820 Settlers Monument, while opposite to the east is Makana’s Kop surrounded by the township and remains unarticulated and known only by oral histories. This clear imbalance in the representation of histories is commonly characteristic in the South African landscape and settlement patterns. The treatise seeks to arrive at an architectural intervention that is a step towards reducing this imbalance, as well as representing these suppressed histories appropriately. Vincent Scully’s notion of architecture mimicking nature was used as a theoretical lens through which the approach to the architecure and landscape were viewed. Consequently, phenomenological ideas are used as an architectural approach which aims to integrate people, nature and heritage in the form of a monument. In line with this, African traditions and beliefs were investigated, specifically the inherent relationship between nature, human spirit and settlement. The proposal is the Makana Monument located on Makana’s Kop, maintining the principles of monuments while facilitating the social needs of the surrounding community within the township of Hlalani. The site is physically monumental in nature, due to its steep slope and prominent tree line. Presented with a naturally sacred site that is positoned at the centre of a community and contains significant history pertaining to Grahamstown. These themes became the informants of the design. The aim is to maintain the natural vertical prominence of the site by creating a building that gives definition through contrasting horizontal retaining walls positioned along the contour lines. Located at a crucial point on the slope, it mediates public and sacred space. Routes through and into the building are informed by the energies of existing desire lines of people’s pathways. The intention of the building is to give dignity to a sacred natural landscape, facilitate the needs of the community, and appropriately recognise the supressed heritage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Almon, Peta Pryor
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Monuments -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Historic buildings -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Historic sites -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Architecture and society -- History -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41283 , vital:36431
- Description: Since 1994 the post-apartheid heritage discourse has become one of the primary tools to deal with culture, identity and citizenship in South Africa. It is one of the means by which a democratic national identity is being forged and the production of new monuments is the physical manifestation of this discourse. The South African landscape holds many suppressed or unarticulated histories; histories which are a function of socio-political and land battles throughout the years of colonisation and apartheid. In society, socio-political ideals are supported by daily practices, which in turn affect social structures. These structures and the values that they uphold, in turn are interned in the monument. The monument then radiates these through its physical form. Monuments are therefore a collective mirror from which society can position itself, expressing socio-political ideals that are reinforced by community actions. This treatise explores monument as a mechanism of social regeneration towards the vision of a democratic landscape. The treatise investigates the making of monuments by analysing philosophical positions, characteristics with the intention of extracting principles, and types of monuments. This was done in order to gain an understanding as to why monuments exist, the fundamental principles involved, and the architectural approaches to these. The work is centred around Grahamstown, focusing on heritage within the city. This heritage is explicitly represented in over seventy sites within the city. Through an analysis of these heritage sites, it became clear that there is an imbalance of represented histories; mainly favouring the colonial histories while the African histories remain unarticulated or poorly represented. This imbalance is testimony to the socio-political ideals over time which in turn affected the morphology of the city over time. This resulted in contrasting spatial structures; the colonial side of town structured by a grid plan centred on a major axial route from which the spatial hierarchy extends, and the township side which is characterised by a repetitive, non-hierarchical grid layout. The landscape of the city underpins this spatial layout where features are used to enforce socio-political ideals. The structuring elements of the landscape are crucial in this regard. Surrounding hills create a bowl condition in which the city is located which in turn is divided in half by a river reinforcing the two sides of the city. Two entry points into the city are demarcated by prominent hills, positioned directly opposite each other on either side of the city. Gunfire Hill on the west is accentuated by the 1820 Settlers Monument, while opposite to the east is Makana’s Kop surrounded by the township and remains unarticulated and known only by oral histories. This clear imbalance in the representation of histories is commonly characteristic in the South African landscape and settlement patterns. The treatise seeks to arrive at an architectural intervention that is a step towards reducing this imbalance, as well as representing these suppressed histories appropriately. Vincent Scully’s notion of architecture mimicking nature was used as a theoretical lens through which the approach to the architecure and landscape were viewed. Consequently, phenomenological ideas are used as an architectural approach which aims to integrate people, nature and heritage in the form of a monument. In line with this, African traditions and beliefs were investigated, specifically the inherent relationship between nature, human spirit and settlement. The proposal is the Makana Monument located on Makana’s Kop, maintining the principles of monuments while facilitating the social needs of the surrounding community within the township of Hlalani. The site is physically monumental in nature, due to its steep slope and prominent tree line. Presented with a naturally sacred site that is positoned at the centre of a community and contains significant history pertaining to Grahamstown. These themes became the informants of the design. The aim is to maintain the natural vertical prominence of the site by creating a building that gives definition through contrasting horizontal retaining walls positioned along the contour lines. Located at a crucial point on the slope, it mediates public and sacred space. Routes through and into the building are informed by the energies of existing desire lines of people’s pathways. The intention of the building is to give dignity to a sacred natural landscape, facilitate the needs of the community, and appropriately recognise the supressed heritage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015