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 building linking central and the Baakens river mouth
- Authors: De Klerk, Paul
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- 21st century , Urban renewal -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43138 , vital:36746
- Description: This treatsie focuses around the reationship of the Baakens Valley and the historical core and their respective declined states that has been affected through shifts in urban development and urban sprawl. Urban centres are moving away from the core decentralizing activity affecting the central areas allowing people-orientated environments to decline as an outcome of urbanism. Settlement expansion was forced along the coast due to topography Decentralised city growth with urban sprawl far from the historical core. New centres developed within residential realms detracted from people returning to the historical core Increased major arterial routes diminished density through vehicular orientated living spaces vs the density of the historical core orientated to the pedestian and mixed use activity City centre deteriorated due to Urban expansion and activity centres leaving the CBD resulting in a dilapidated city core.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: De Klerk, Paul
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- 21st century , Urban renewal -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43138 , vital:36746
- Description: This treatsie focuses around the reationship of the Baakens Valley and the historical core and their respective declined states that has been affected through shifts in urban development and urban sprawl. Urban centres are moving away from the core decentralizing activity affecting the central areas allowing people-orientated environments to decline as an outcome of urbanism. Settlement expansion was forced along the coast due to topography Decentralised city growth with urban sprawl far from the historical core. New centres developed within residential realms detracted from people returning to the historical core Increased major arterial routes diminished density through vehicular orientated living spaces vs the density of the historical core orientated to the pedestian and mixed use activity City centre deteriorated due to Urban expansion and activity centres leaving the CBD resulting in a dilapidated city core.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The design of a learning resource centre in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Henderson, Lauren
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Elementary school buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction School buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42705 , vital:36683
- Description: Streets and sidewalks should be seen as public spaces within themselves (Flositz, 2010,iii) this thought triggered an interest in public spaces and what they offer the users and community in which they are placed. This research will examine not only the impacts of the colonialist regime’s planning on Port Elizabeth, but more specifically the segregation and planning of public spaces affecting New Brighton, a predominantly “Black” suburb along the periphery of the city that came to be as a result of forced removals from the city centre (Pettman, 1913: 298). The main argument being carried through this treatise is the significant role that public spaces play in the lives of the urban poor (Dewar & Uytenbogaardt, 1995: 10) especially looking at South Africa and the impact apartheid had on public spaces. It looks at the potential and the ability of the design of public architecture to develop community spaces for all that contributes to a sense of place and pride for the community of New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. This treatise uses the understandings and information gathered throughout the research conducted to develop a suitable design response that generated a significant educational community hub inclusive of a Learning Resource Centre. It will strengthen not only the connection between the various users (races, religions, genders or ages) but also the current segregated and isolated schools within New Brighton’s community. The intention was to bridge not only street and building together but also school and community as a cohesive environment that works together to create a unique experience, exclusive to that area impacted by the context and community in which it sits. Ideas of public space, the in-between and Montessori’s schooling together with the notions of place-making is what ultimately influenced many of the design decisions and the authors theoretical stance. Looking at streets as more than just movement routes or thoroughfares from point A to point B, we can see them as places within a space, where one can experience the world that moves around them. Ultimately the design developed as a response to the identified issues and challenges and created a facility that not only meets the need of the under-resourced secondary schools in New Brighton but also contributes to the development of the public realm of those schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Henderson, Lauren
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Elementary school buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Design and construction School buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42705 , vital:36683
- Description: Streets and sidewalks should be seen as public spaces within themselves (Flositz, 2010,iii) this thought triggered an interest in public spaces and what they offer the users and community in which they are placed. This research will examine not only the impacts of the colonialist regime’s planning on Port Elizabeth, but more specifically the segregation and planning of public spaces affecting New Brighton, a predominantly “Black” suburb along the periphery of the city that came to be as a result of forced removals from the city centre (Pettman, 1913: 298). The main argument being carried through this treatise is the significant role that public spaces play in the lives of the urban poor (Dewar & Uytenbogaardt, 1995: 10) especially looking at South Africa and the impact apartheid had on public spaces. It looks at the potential and the ability of the design of public architecture to develop community spaces for all that contributes to a sense of place and pride for the community of New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. This treatise uses the understandings and information gathered throughout the research conducted to develop a suitable design response that generated a significant educational community hub inclusive of a Learning Resource Centre. It will strengthen not only the connection between the various users (races, religions, genders or ages) but also the current segregated and isolated schools within New Brighton’s community. The intention was to bridge not only street and building together but also school and community as a cohesive environment that works together to create a unique experience, exclusive to that area impacted by the context and community in which it sits. Ideas of public space, the in-between and Montessori’s schooling together with the notions of place-making is what ultimately influenced many of the design decisions and the authors theoretical stance. Looking at streets as more than just movement routes or thoroughfares from point A to point B, we can see them as places within a space, where one can experience the world that moves around them. Ultimately the design developed as a response to the identified issues and challenges and created a facility that not only meets the need of the under-resourced secondary schools in New Brighton but also contributes to the development of the public realm of those schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The design of an office headquarters for SAMSUNG in the foreshore, Cape Town
- Authors: Wiese, Andre
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Office buildings -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Office layout -- South Africa -- Cape Town Office buildings -- Design and construction Office buildings -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40413 , vital:36159
- Description: This treatise developed through an interest in 21st century office buildings and most particularly, their impact on productivity, employee wellness and corporate culture. The conventional office of the mid-20th century disregarded employee health and well-being and was geared toward increasing productivity and production. The retrofitting of these buildings is very costly, and it is almost impossible to ensure compliance with modern-day environmental and efficiency standards to ultimately create a good office environment conducive to productivity and employee well-being. The nature of office has shifted to a more collaborative, socially interactive, open and flexible working environment because of the mobility technology offers the workplace. The current office building typology is concerned with the health and well-being of employees, active design, sustainability and environmental awareness. The treatise takes a qualitative research approach that is exploratory in nature and through careful analysis and interpretation, site constraints and informants are identified that inform the design of an office headquarters for Samsung. Pure research is based on the readings of Richard Sennett, Jane Jacobs, Stephen Kellert and Judith Heerwagen. An understanding is developed around factors that positively impact employee health and well-being in the workplace. Research determines that social interaction, human nature connectivity and the designed environment significantly impact the health and well-being of office user. Social interaction is scalable from the urban network to internal workspaces and is essential to create a seamless connection between the office environment and immediate urban context to stimulate serendipitous moments of interaction. The design of a Samsung Headquarters in Foreshore Cape Town uses Building Information Management (BIM) among other strategies to respond to its immediate environmental conditions and to create an environment conducive to the health and well-being of the office user and effectively increase productivity. The design is situated along a prominent pedestrian corridor that connects the CBD to the waterfront.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Wiese, Andre
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Office buildings -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Office layout -- South Africa -- Cape Town Office buildings -- Design and construction Office buildings -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40413 , vital:36159
- Description: This treatise developed through an interest in 21st century office buildings and most particularly, their impact on productivity, employee wellness and corporate culture. The conventional office of the mid-20th century disregarded employee health and well-being and was geared toward increasing productivity and production. The retrofitting of these buildings is very costly, and it is almost impossible to ensure compliance with modern-day environmental and efficiency standards to ultimately create a good office environment conducive to productivity and employee well-being. The nature of office has shifted to a more collaborative, socially interactive, open and flexible working environment because of the mobility technology offers the workplace. The current office building typology is concerned with the health and well-being of employees, active design, sustainability and environmental awareness. The treatise takes a qualitative research approach that is exploratory in nature and through careful analysis and interpretation, site constraints and informants are identified that inform the design of an office headquarters for Samsung. Pure research is based on the readings of Richard Sennett, Jane Jacobs, Stephen Kellert and Judith Heerwagen. An understanding is developed around factors that positively impact employee health and well-being in the workplace. Research determines that social interaction, human nature connectivity and the designed environment significantly impact the health and well-being of office user. Social interaction is scalable from the urban network to internal workspaces and is essential to create a seamless connection between the office environment and immediate urban context to stimulate serendipitous moments of interaction. The design of a Samsung Headquarters in Foreshore Cape Town uses Building Information Management (BIM) among other strategies to respond to its immediate environmental conditions and to create an environment conducive to the health and well-being of the office user and effectively increase productivity. The design is situated along a prominent pedestrian corridor that connects the CBD to the waterfront.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Identity, culture, architecture & the design of a Chinese cultural school in Morningside, Kabega, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- Authors: Akpokiniovo, Oghenetejiri
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Architecture, Chinese -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Interior architecture School buildings -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42727 , vital:36685
- Description: This treatise is born out of preoccupation with Identity, Culture and Architecture. Through the study of the fragility of the South-African Chinese community: their double heritage, their quest for a sense of place and permanence with the establishment of Chinese Schools that maintain the Chinese culture. It begins with identifying their almost unstable and fragmented nature of movement, their struggle to find a ‘place’ in Port Elizabeth, especially after the establishment of the Group Areas Act of 1960 and their fight against apartheid and discrimination. It becomes clear that migration, racial segregation, confusion, forced removals, and displacement have been their legacy in South Africa. The purpose of this document is to investigate the symbolic nature of architecture, and how it can be used as a tangible medium to bring about an affirmation of identity, and create a sense of place for the future; giving credence to the celebration of culture and social interaction. Through the use of literature reviews, informal interviews, desktop research, analysis, precedent studies and other qualitative studies; there will be an understanding of the community in terms of how they came about settling in South Africa; their migratory patterns due to forced removals and the current status of the community in terms of cultural revolution; understanding the cultural issues the community face; in the establishment of a centralised symbolic precinct that allows for the celebration and promotion of culture. Through the design of the Chinese Cultural School, it will be demonstrated that in order to create a sense of place for the Chinese community, aiding in integration and restoration; one will need to engage in the argument of the vitality of authentic architecture, the vernacular language of a particular culture, and the subjectivity of identity especially in a context outside of its homeland.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Akpokiniovo, Oghenetejiri
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Architecture, Chinese -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Interior architecture School buildings -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42727 , vital:36685
- Description: This treatise is born out of preoccupation with Identity, Culture and Architecture. Through the study of the fragility of the South-African Chinese community: their double heritage, their quest for a sense of place and permanence with the establishment of Chinese Schools that maintain the Chinese culture. It begins with identifying their almost unstable and fragmented nature of movement, their struggle to find a ‘place’ in Port Elizabeth, especially after the establishment of the Group Areas Act of 1960 and their fight against apartheid and discrimination. It becomes clear that migration, racial segregation, confusion, forced removals, and displacement have been their legacy in South Africa. The purpose of this document is to investigate the symbolic nature of architecture, and how it can be used as a tangible medium to bring about an affirmation of identity, and create a sense of place for the future; giving credence to the celebration of culture and social interaction. Through the use of literature reviews, informal interviews, desktop research, analysis, precedent studies and other qualitative studies; there will be an understanding of the community in terms of how they came about settling in South Africa; their migratory patterns due to forced removals and the current status of the community in terms of cultural revolution; understanding the cultural issues the community face; in the establishment of a centralised symbolic precinct that allows for the celebration and promotion of culture. Through the design of the Chinese Cultural School, it will be demonstrated that in order to create a sense of place for the Chinese community, aiding in integration and restoration; one will need to engage in the argument of the vitality of authentic architecture, the vernacular language of a particular culture, and the subjectivity of identity especially in a context outside of its homeland.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of a 21st century headquarters for the Transnet National Ports Authority in the port of East London
- Authors: Ramjee, Neche'
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Harbors -- South Africa -- East London -- Design and construction Marine terminals -- Design and construction National Ports Authority of South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23801 , vital:30621
- Description: Ports form part of an international global network that facilitates trade and economic growth. This thesis is born out of interest in communicating economic prosperity and corporate identity in a modern South African society through the design of a headquarters for the state owned company (parastatal), Transnet National Ports Authority. This paper unpacks and the reviews the strategies, methods and tools when interpreting corporate identity into corporate architecture as well as the issues and challenges when establishing a corporate identity for a parastatal company in connection with the potential role and impact that ports have on urban development in the 21st Century. Qualitative research has been conducted to investigate and understand what corporate identity is in order to establish the key symbolic components which signify a brand, within its national context, to its users, clients and the public. Furthermore theory relating to place is used in order to establish the relationship between man and nature has also been investigated in order to appropriate principles of wellness and sustainability within a corporate environment which are site specific. This provides a platform for an architectural intervention which responds to the ecological and urban issues of the site, as harbours have a dominant land use in a city they have significant implications for the physical and environmental features thereof. The findings will lead to an appropriate brief which will arrive at a design response which is an authentic architectural expression of the company’s corporate identity. An office building typology will be investigated and implemented onto the site to successfully communicate the brand and contextual identity. Urban strategies which seek to marry the rigid industrial processes with its active public interface will be investigated in order to contribute to promote trade on the East London waterfront.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ramjee, Neche'
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Harbors -- South Africa -- East London -- Design and construction Marine terminals -- Design and construction National Ports Authority of South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23801 , vital:30621
- Description: Ports form part of an international global network that facilitates trade and economic growth. This thesis is born out of interest in communicating economic prosperity and corporate identity in a modern South African society through the design of a headquarters for the state owned company (parastatal), Transnet National Ports Authority. This paper unpacks and the reviews the strategies, methods and tools when interpreting corporate identity into corporate architecture as well as the issues and challenges when establishing a corporate identity for a parastatal company in connection with the potential role and impact that ports have on urban development in the 21st Century. Qualitative research has been conducted to investigate and understand what corporate identity is in order to establish the key symbolic components which signify a brand, within its national context, to its users, clients and the public. Furthermore theory relating to place is used in order to establish the relationship between man and nature has also been investigated in order to appropriate principles of wellness and sustainability within a corporate environment which are site specific. This provides a platform for an architectural intervention which responds to the ecological and urban issues of the site, as harbours have a dominant land use in a city they have significant implications for the physical and environmental features thereof. The findings will lead to an appropriate brief which will arrive at a design response which is an authentic architectural expression of the company’s corporate identity. An office building typology will be investigated and implemented onto the site to successfully communicate the brand and contextual identity. Urban strategies which seek to marry the rigid industrial processes with its active public interface will be investigated in order to contribute to promote trade on the East London waterfront.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of a 3D printing facility in Central, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Huiskens, Riaan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Architecture and technology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23739 , vital:30615
- Description: High-tech architecture is moving towards a paradigm shift with the development and incorporation of digital fabrication technology. This interest is extended into the discussion of recycling existing infrastructure. In this treatise, a topic which ties into both the heritage and ecological discourse. It recognises the significance of historical urban elements and the finite quality of heritage resources within the city. A historical building used as a host for the design of a 3D printing facility invites a dialogue between the architecture of the old and the expression of the new. The Premier Mill Building is identified as an historical urban artefact and the proposed programme complements the historical background of the building, which was a granary. A building from another time, now caught in a post-industrial age. The primary architectural exploration focuses on the possibilities offered by 3D printing in the making and expression of architecture. Therefore research is focused on the types and processes of 3D printing and there products. Secondly, the treatise employs an urban artefact as a vehicle of expression for a new programme, which requires an understanding of the topic of marrying present and past architecture. In the treatise the city, is understood through the work of Aldo Rossi’s conceptual perspective of the city. Further, the topic of digital tectonic is explored in order to establish an expression of digital fabrication. Heritage and conservation principles are investigated to complete a theoretical understanding of the project. This treatise document is a record of the design process from start to finish. The document unpacks the treatise through its various stages of growth: project background; research; design strategies and final design.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Huiskens, Riaan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Architecture and technology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23739 , vital:30615
- Description: High-tech architecture is moving towards a paradigm shift with the development and incorporation of digital fabrication technology. This interest is extended into the discussion of recycling existing infrastructure. In this treatise, a topic which ties into both the heritage and ecological discourse. It recognises the significance of historical urban elements and the finite quality of heritage resources within the city. A historical building used as a host for the design of a 3D printing facility invites a dialogue between the architecture of the old and the expression of the new. The Premier Mill Building is identified as an historical urban artefact and the proposed programme complements the historical background of the building, which was a granary. A building from another time, now caught in a post-industrial age. The primary architectural exploration focuses on the possibilities offered by 3D printing in the making and expression of architecture. Therefore research is focused on the types and processes of 3D printing and there products. Secondly, the treatise employs an urban artefact as a vehicle of expression for a new programme, which requires an understanding of the topic of marrying present and past architecture. In the treatise the city, is understood through the work of Aldo Rossi’s conceptual perspective of the city. Further, the topic of digital tectonic is explored in order to establish an expression of digital fabrication. Heritage and conservation principles are investigated to complete a theoretical understanding of the project. This treatise document is a record of the design process from start to finish. The document unpacks the treatise through its various stages of growth: project background; research; design strategies and final design.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of a eucalyptus furniture manufacturing facility in Hogsback, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Yspeert, Hymie
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Furniture industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23727 , vital:30614
- Description: The purpose of this research is to investigate the tectonic poten¬tial of Eucalyptus. This is done by using the design of a furniture manufacturing facility in Hogsback as a scenario through which the tectonic potential of Eucalyptus can be explored. Eucalyptus as a material for investigation was chosen because, in the context of South Africa, Eucalyptus is listed as an invasive alien species which poses certain ecological problems to our ecosystems. Yet it is known as a versatile building material. The research is qualitative and empirical in nature and takes the form of pure research. The research was done by conducting site visits and through exploratory artworks and tectonic models (sculptures), as well as by reviewing relevant literature and conducting precedent studies based thereon. It was found that the tectonic potential of Eucalyptus rests in the ma¬terial’s great structural strength, compared to its weight. The factory type proved to be suitable building type through which to investigate the tectonics of Eucalyptus given its functional and architectural concern regarding structure and tectonics. The context of Hogsback added depth to the architectural challenge in requiring a response to climatic conditions, which can vary with vast extremes and can change within a short period of time. The practical implication of this research is that Eucalyptus has great potential in the making of architecture. It therefore warrants further investigation into the material’s structural properties which, thus far, has not been widely researched. This has become more of a necessity due to the fact that it is increasingly becoming more popular as an alternative to commercial species such as pine or other wood species used in the building construction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Yspeert, Hymie
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Furniture industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23727 , vital:30614
- Description: The purpose of this research is to investigate the tectonic poten¬tial of Eucalyptus. This is done by using the design of a furniture manufacturing facility in Hogsback as a scenario through which the tectonic potential of Eucalyptus can be explored. Eucalyptus as a material for investigation was chosen because, in the context of South Africa, Eucalyptus is listed as an invasive alien species which poses certain ecological problems to our ecosystems. Yet it is known as a versatile building material. The research is qualitative and empirical in nature and takes the form of pure research. The research was done by conducting site visits and through exploratory artworks and tectonic models (sculptures), as well as by reviewing relevant literature and conducting precedent studies based thereon. It was found that the tectonic potential of Eucalyptus rests in the ma¬terial’s great structural strength, compared to its weight. The factory type proved to be suitable building type through which to investigate the tectonics of Eucalyptus given its functional and architectural concern regarding structure and tectonics. The context of Hogsback added depth to the architectural challenge in requiring a response to climatic conditions, which can vary with vast extremes and can change within a short period of time. The practical implication of this research is that Eucalyptus has great potential in the making of architecture. It therefore warrants further investigation into the material’s structural properties which, thus far, has not been widely researched. This has become more of a necessity due to the fact that it is increasingly becoming more popular as an alternative to commercial species such as pine or other wood species used in the building construction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
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 a juvenile detention centre for Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Adams, Eduan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Youth centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Juvenile detention homes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Juvenile delinquents -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23969 , vital:30650
- Description: Out of a total of 236 active correctional centres across South Africa, only 5.5% of these cater to the needs of juvenile offenders, and none of these are located within the immediate Port Elizabeth area. This means that in their already fragile state, children from Port Elizabeth and the immediate surrounding areas are sent away from their families and support base to serve their sentence. Therefore, a need for a Juvenile Detention Centre within the Port Elizabeth area was realized. In this treatise an investigative study of existing Juvenile Detention Centres was carried out to which an understanding of the building typology, nature of the site and technical requirements was formulated. The site selected in Schauderville conforms to the site selection criteria established, and enhances the link to Nerina One Stop Child Justice Centre. The primary focus of the study was to design a building to provide secure residential care for juvenile offenders, offering a range of programmes to assist their rehabilitation back into society. The outcome, is presented as a set of architectural drawings and a model(s).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Adams, Eduan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Youth centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Juvenile detention homes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Juvenile delinquents -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23969 , vital:30650
- Description: Out of a total of 236 active correctional centres across South Africa, only 5.5% of these cater to the needs of juvenile offenders, and none of these are located within the immediate Port Elizabeth area. This means that in their already fragile state, children from Port Elizabeth and the immediate surrounding areas are sent away from their families and support base to serve their sentence. Therefore, a need for a Juvenile Detention Centre within the Port Elizabeth area was realized. In this treatise an investigative study of existing Juvenile Detention Centres was carried out to which an understanding of the building typology, nature of the site and technical requirements was formulated. The site selected in Schauderville conforms to the site selection criteria established, and enhances the link to Nerina One Stop Child Justice Centre. The primary focus of the study was to design a building to provide secure residential care for juvenile offenders, offering a range of programmes to assist their rehabilitation back into society. The outcome, is presented as a set of architectural drawings and a model(s).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of a Memorial Park and a Promatorium complex in Humewood Extention, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Cochrane, Camryn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Terrain vague -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23750 , vital:30616
- Description: This treatise is the result of an initial interest in the concept of ‘terrain vague’, the phenomenon of disconnected spaces that are internal to the city yet exist outside the effective and functioning networks of the urban system (Sola-Morales 1995, 120). The notion of terrain vague informs the theoretical preoccupation of this study and sets the basis on which the contextual and programmatic concerns are considered and explored. The harbour precinct of Port Elizabeth was selected as the focus area for the study, in which the characteristics of the terrain vague were uncovered through a series of maps, diagrams and photographs. The role of the cemetery as a type of terrain vague in the urban fabric is simultanelously investigated. The study refers to Richard Weller’s interpretation of the nature of the contemporary city and principles of landscape urbanism as a basis for developing ways of approaching the city and it’s spaces of terrain vague.Through this, the study is situated predominantly in the ecological discourse. The use of precedant studies as a means of exploring the application of the theoretical principles discussed in this study is key to providing the reader with a contextual understanding and clarity. The architectural intervention proposes a memorial park in the harbour precinct. This aims to generate a spatial awakening of the terrian vague. By reclaiming the denatured landscape (oil tank farm) and re-scripting it as a culturally significant area that is re-integrated into the public realm, the opportunity to rehabilitate the ecological flows of the city is realised. The design of a promatorium complex within the proposed memorial Park aims to re-introduce the funerary landscape into the city and in doing so challenges the threat of cemetries remaining as spaces of terrain vague. The promatorium complex is seen as a facility that supports the functions of the memorial park as a commemorative landscape in the 21st century. In all this intervention aims to transform a disregarded wasteland into an operational landscape. The aim is to enhance the ecological systems of the city and by extension to reconcile the interface between man and nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Cochrane, Camryn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Terrain vague -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23750 , vital:30616
- Description: This treatise is the result of an initial interest in the concept of ‘terrain vague’, the phenomenon of disconnected spaces that are internal to the city yet exist outside the effective and functioning networks of the urban system (Sola-Morales 1995, 120). The notion of terrain vague informs the theoretical preoccupation of this study and sets the basis on which the contextual and programmatic concerns are considered and explored. The harbour precinct of Port Elizabeth was selected as the focus area for the study, in which the characteristics of the terrain vague were uncovered through a series of maps, diagrams and photographs. The role of the cemetery as a type of terrain vague in the urban fabric is simultanelously investigated. The study refers to Richard Weller’s interpretation of the nature of the contemporary city and principles of landscape urbanism as a basis for developing ways of approaching the city and it’s spaces of terrain vague.Through this, the study is situated predominantly in the ecological discourse. The use of precedant studies as a means of exploring the application of the theoretical principles discussed in this study is key to providing the reader with a contextual understanding and clarity. The architectural intervention proposes a memorial park in the harbour precinct. This aims to generate a spatial awakening of the terrian vague. By reclaiming the denatured landscape (oil tank farm) and re-scripting it as a culturally significant area that is re-integrated into the public realm, the opportunity to rehabilitate the ecological flows of the city is realised. The design of a promatorium complex within the proposed memorial Park aims to re-introduce the funerary landscape into the city and in doing so challenges the threat of cemetries remaining as spaces of terrain vague. The promatorium complex is seen as a facility that supports the functions of the memorial park as a commemorative landscape in the 21st century. In all this intervention aims to transform a disregarded wasteland into an operational landscape. The aim is to enhance the ecological systems of the city and by extension to reconcile the interface between man and nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of a municipal administration centre for Mount Fletcher, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ndzeleni, Phakama
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans , Office buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42716 , vital:36684
- Description: The premise behind this treatise is that poor infrastructure dampens the economic potential of rural areas, as a result, increase migration to urban areas. this in turn puts more pressure on urban infrastructure and rapidly grows townships and squatter camps in the periphery of large cities. this research originates from the experience of having lived in both rural and urban areas, therefore having seen the widening economic disparity between the two settlements. small towns in previously self-governed homelands are remnants of Apartheid separate development policies. these areas are characterized by ill structured monotonous low scale environments lacking sense of place.Mount Fletcher is a centre serving numerous rural communities however the planning, or lack thereof, abides by the minimum standards and most basic provision of services with a lack of quality public infrastructure. The existing public buildings which should be major structuring elements are dispersed within the built environment which results in a lack of a structural ordering system. The issue identified above create an opportunity for architecture to serve as a catalyst towards creating positive urban environments which can then build a sense of dignity and pride for the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ndzeleni, Phakama
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans , Office buildings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Designs and plans Architecture, Modern -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42716 , vital:36684
- Description: The premise behind this treatise is that poor infrastructure dampens the economic potential of rural areas, as a result, increase migration to urban areas. this in turn puts more pressure on urban infrastructure and rapidly grows townships and squatter camps in the periphery of large cities. this research originates from the experience of having lived in both rural and urban areas, therefore having seen the widening economic disparity between the two settlements. small towns in previously self-governed homelands are remnants of Apartheid separate development policies. these areas are characterized by ill structured monotonous low scale environments lacking sense of place.Mount Fletcher is a centre serving numerous rural communities however the planning, or lack thereof, abides by the minimum standards and most basic provision of services with a lack of quality public infrastructure. The existing public buildings which should be major structuring elements are dispersed within the built environment which results in a lack of a structural ordering system. The issue identified above create an opportunity for architecture to serve as a catalyst towards creating positive urban environments which can then build a sense of dignity and pride for the community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of an archive and memorial park in South End, Port Elizabeth: an interactive community educational project
- Authors: Struwig, Arno
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Parks -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Planning Municipal archives -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23716 , vital:30604
- Description: This treatise addresses the current lack in concern for acknowledging and preserving the memories and historical elements of a once thriving place: South End, Port Elizabeth (fig. 11, p. 20). The Group Areas Act of 19501 (Y. Agherdien, A. C George, S. Hendricks, 1997) resulted in expropriation of land and the demolision of buildings and roads which started to take place in South End during the 1970’s, forcefully removing the residents from their home neighbourhood and home. The treatise focuses on the traces of what is left of South End (fig. 02, in red) and how these elements can be acknowledged and preserved for the future generations. Theories on the discourse of memory, specifically collective memory, are investigated to establish an understanding on different methods to capture, record and preserve these traces and memories of South End. This investigation will be followed by principle explorations to establish how these theories can be implemented and manifested in the historical landscape. It is proposed to design an archive next to St. Peter’s Church, above St. Mary’s Cemetery in South End and a memorial park on the “triangular site” across from the cemetery, addressing the existing conditions of the landscape and the memories of the ex-residents of South End (figs. 16-18, p. 24). The archive will consist of a conventional archive (static element) housing the maps and documentation related to the city of Port Elizabeth, and an oral archive (dynamic element) consisting of a recording studio that collects and records the stories of the ex-residents of South End, constantly changing and adding to the archive. The memorial park will resemble a “living archive” which constantly changes and re-evokes the memories of the original inhabitants of South End. The proposed project is intended to act as an educative catalyst to the visitors, citizens of Nelson Mandela Bay and the future generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Struwig, Arno
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans Parks -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Planning Municipal archives -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23716 , vital:30604
- Description: This treatise addresses the current lack in concern for acknowledging and preserving the memories and historical elements of a once thriving place: South End, Port Elizabeth (fig. 11, p. 20). The Group Areas Act of 19501 (Y. Agherdien, A. C George, S. Hendricks, 1997) resulted in expropriation of land and the demolision of buildings and roads which started to take place in South End during the 1970’s, forcefully removing the residents from their home neighbourhood and home. The treatise focuses on the traces of what is left of South End (fig. 02, in red) and how these elements can be acknowledged and preserved for the future generations. Theories on the discourse of memory, specifically collective memory, are investigated to establish an understanding on different methods to capture, record and preserve these traces and memories of South End. This investigation will be followed by principle explorations to establish how these theories can be implemented and manifested in the historical landscape. It is proposed to design an archive next to St. Peter’s Church, above St. Mary’s Cemetery in South End and a memorial park on the “triangular site” across from the cemetery, addressing the existing conditions of the landscape and the memories of the ex-residents of South End (figs. 16-18, p. 24). The archive will consist of a conventional archive (static element) housing the maps and documentation related to the city of Port Elizabeth, and an oral archive (dynamic element) consisting of a recording studio that collects and records the stories of the ex-residents of South End, constantly changing and adding to the archive. The memorial park will resemble a “living archive” which constantly changes and re-evokes the memories of the original inhabitants of South End. The proposed project is intended to act as an educative catalyst to the visitors, citizens of Nelson Mandela Bay and the future generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of an Islamic Sufi lodge in Oudekraal nature reserve, Cape Town
- Authors: Mcnaught,Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Islamic architecture -- Cape Town sufism Nature conservation -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23790 , vital:30620
- Description: Humans have an innate psychological and emotional affinity to the sacred natural world, however with increasing urbanization nature and the natural world is under threat, presenting a situation which is likely to have physical and emotional consequences for society. This treatise grapples with issues pertaining to the interface between man and nature and its relation to the sacred. It examines how the architecture concerning a building type, the Sufi Lodge, found within traditional Islamic architecture can be translated into the 21st century to strengthen the sense of culture, meaning and spirituality for the Islamic Sufi community that exists within South Africa. The challenge is firmly rooted in notions of place making as well as this interface between man and nature. Emile Durkheim’s dichotomy of sacred and profane is used as a starting point to build a discussion around issues that come with the creation of sacred place in the artificial and natural. Architectures role in this, in its nature as a mediator between realms, is analysed, particularly focussing on Thomas Barrie’s principles of sacred place creation. These principles are then overlaid with the specific Islamic formal belief system to create an approach which embraces community, culture and the sensitivities of making in a natural landscape.In all this treatise seeks to understand the principles in order to develop a proposal for an Islamic Sufi Lodge for the Islamic Sufi community in Cape Town South Africa. This facility looks to serve as a vessel for interactions within a greater social network creating a space for pilgrims and residents, allowing for ritual gathering and learning as well as providing a liminal place for solitude and deep spiritual connection to nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mcnaught,Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Islamic architecture -- Cape Town sufism Nature conservation -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23790 , vital:30620
- Description: Humans have an innate psychological and emotional affinity to the sacred natural world, however with increasing urbanization nature and the natural world is under threat, presenting a situation which is likely to have physical and emotional consequences for society. This treatise grapples with issues pertaining to the interface between man and nature and its relation to the sacred. It examines how the architecture concerning a building type, the Sufi Lodge, found within traditional Islamic architecture can be translated into the 21st century to strengthen the sense of culture, meaning and spirituality for the Islamic Sufi community that exists within South Africa. The challenge is firmly rooted in notions of place making as well as this interface between man and nature. Emile Durkheim’s dichotomy of sacred and profane is used as a starting point to build a discussion around issues that come with the creation of sacred place in the artificial and natural. Architectures role in this, in its nature as a mediator between realms, is analysed, particularly focussing on Thomas Barrie’s principles of sacred place creation. These principles are then overlaid with the specific Islamic formal belief system to create an approach which embraces community, culture and the sensitivities of making in a natural landscape.In all this treatise seeks to understand the principles in order to develop a proposal for an Islamic Sufi Lodge for the Islamic Sufi community in Cape Town South Africa. This facility looks to serve as a vessel for interactions within a greater social network creating a space for pilgrims and residents, allowing for ritual gathering and learning as well as providing a liminal place for solitude and deep spiritual connection to nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of an urban resources centre in Korsten, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Boliter, Laura
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23761 , vital:30617
- Description: The adoption of a critical spatial perspective is imperative, if social justice is to be performed in urban environments, according the urban theorist Edward Soja. From this perspective of a socio-spatial dialectic, understood using Lefebvre’s ideas around the social production of space and the right to the city, the current spatial conditions of Port Elizabeth are seen as perpetuating past constructions of inequity. In these constructions of inequity large, systematically oppressed groups of the public are forced to traverse across segregating urban barriers to access the opportunity and advantages of living in an urban system. This condition continues to disadvantage those it was historically set up to undermine, on economic and social terms. This condition subverts these urban nomads, who are those forced into transience to access urban opportunity. Korsten is investigated as a key transition space in the Port Elizabeth area, straddling the impoverished north and wealthy south, as one of the key spaces where the urban nomad moves through to access better resourced parts of the city. The space of Korsten is understood to be a key domain for the urban nomad in Port Elizabeth and is thereby an appropriate place for intervention to intensify the city and improve urban quality, thus dignifying and enriching the lives of citizens and improving equity in the city. The notion of opportunity is focused on as the catalytic vehicle for urban quality to be improved, ultimately resulting in the design of Korsten as an urban resources centre with new educational and economic resources as a central structuring element in a re-scripted field of resources. The architectural design is produced within the paradigm of field conditions. This results in a design product which integrates as a part of a field condition of public resources in Korsten. A qualitative methodology is adopted within the critical research paradigm and will use methods of desktop surveys, literature reviews and participant observation to collect data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Boliter, Laura
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23761 , vital:30617
- Description: The adoption of a critical spatial perspective is imperative, if social justice is to be performed in urban environments, according the urban theorist Edward Soja. From this perspective of a socio-spatial dialectic, understood using Lefebvre’s ideas around the social production of space and the right to the city, the current spatial conditions of Port Elizabeth are seen as perpetuating past constructions of inequity. In these constructions of inequity large, systematically oppressed groups of the public are forced to traverse across segregating urban barriers to access the opportunity and advantages of living in an urban system. This condition continues to disadvantage those it was historically set up to undermine, on economic and social terms. This condition subverts these urban nomads, who are those forced into transience to access urban opportunity. Korsten is investigated as a key transition space in the Port Elizabeth area, straddling the impoverished north and wealthy south, as one of the key spaces where the urban nomad moves through to access better resourced parts of the city. The space of Korsten is understood to be a key domain for the urban nomad in Port Elizabeth and is thereby an appropriate place for intervention to intensify the city and improve urban quality, thus dignifying and enriching the lives of citizens and improving equity in the city. The notion of opportunity is focused on as the catalytic vehicle for urban quality to be improved, ultimately resulting in the design of Korsten as an urban resources centre with new educational and economic resources as a central structuring element in a re-scripted field of resources. The architectural design is produced within the paradigm of field conditions. This results in a design product which integrates as a part of a field condition of public resources in Korsten. A qualitative methodology is adopted within the critical research paradigm and will use methods of desktop surveys, literature reviews and participant observation to collect data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of the Nelson Mandela presidential library on constitutional hill
- Authors: Diesel, Devon
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Library buildings -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40435 , vital:36165
- Description: The ideology of society can be argued to the main generation of the spatal coding and structuring of the city. it is thus spatal and physical remnants of past ideologies that form the ideological legacy as a product. The product with determines the lived experience of society in the city today. this study examines the nature of space as a socio-spatial construct of the ideological legacy of society and how in turn this legacy affects the physical and spatal manifestation of the lived experience of a society with a contrasting ideology, within the city of current Johannesburg.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Diesel, Devon
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Library architecture -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Library buildings -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40435 , vital:36165
- Description: The ideology of society can be argued to the main generation of the spatal coding and structuring of the city. it is thus spatal and physical remnants of past ideologies that form the ideological legacy as a product. The product with determines the lived experience of society in the city today. this study examines the nature of space as a socio-spatial construct of the ideological legacy of society and how in turn this legacy affects the physical and spatal manifestation of the lived experience of a society with a contrasting ideology, within the city of current Johannesburg.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of a community owned winery in Philippi informal settlement Cape Cape
- Authors: Steytler, Willem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wineries -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans , Wine and wine making -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39196 , vital:35057
- Description: The study focuses on Philippi as a particular place and the communities that dwell there. It aims to study the spatial dispositions caused by apartheid and colonialism. The dissertation highlights the inequality of South African cityscapes which is then extrapolated in the conditions that exists on the Cape Flats. A core focus of the study is the way in which architecture might aid the spatial inequality in a post-apartheid South Africa. The first bottle of wine was bottled in South Africa seven years after the Cape had been colonized. This means that the wine industry has always been synonymous of colonialization to a certain degree. Further research reveals that the part of the Cape Flats that is today known as Philippi Township was used for grapevine cultivation by German settlers from the 1830s, but with the advent of the forced removals, the 1950 Groups Area Act zoned that land for the relocation of the non-white community. The community on the Cape Flats experiences a significantly lower quality of life than many of the suburbs in Cape Town. (http://journals.sagepub.com) It can be noted that the areas surrounding Cape Town have an abundance of vineyards owned mostly by a singular demographic with a significantly higher income than those living in the townships. Research has indicated that the ‘terroir’, (climatic and environmental conditions) of Philippi is ideal for grapevine cultivation and there are upwards of 250 hectares of open land. The viticulture industry is one of the biggest sources of income for the Western Cape but the problem lies in the fact that the revenue created is channeled only to an elite group of people. To counteract the repercussions of apartheid many strategies have been implemented by the government; among these is land reform. The physical and spatial nature of this place is investigated to create an architectural viewpoint on the matter. The treatise explores the design of a community-owned winery in the Philippi Informal Settlement and examines how the resultant architecture might address the impaired configuration of the urban make-up while strengthening the sense of identity. The idea is that through leap-frog development locals will plant vineyards in open spaces, making the township a greener space to live in, whilst also generating income for the local inhabitants and allowing for the transfer of knowledge. The use of precedent studies into the nature of building type, site visits as well as site- and precinct investigations were necessary to reach an understanding of the building type and a possible architectural response to the sensitive topic. All research is qualitative using inductive reasoning. Qualtative research is based on observation to gather non-numerical data. Inductive reasoning is reasoning where the premises support the conclusion, which means that the conclusion is the part of reasoning that inductive reasoning is trying to prove. The understanding gained from the above-mentioned methods led to an appropriate architectural response in the form of a design. The design is the conclusion and proposed solution of the treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Steytler, Willem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wineries -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans , Wine and wine making -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39196 , vital:35057
- Description: The study focuses on Philippi as a particular place and the communities that dwell there. It aims to study the spatial dispositions caused by apartheid and colonialism. The dissertation highlights the inequality of South African cityscapes which is then extrapolated in the conditions that exists on the Cape Flats. A core focus of the study is the way in which architecture might aid the spatial inequality in a post-apartheid South Africa. The first bottle of wine was bottled in South Africa seven years after the Cape had been colonized. This means that the wine industry has always been synonymous of colonialization to a certain degree. Further research reveals that the part of the Cape Flats that is today known as Philippi Township was used for grapevine cultivation by German settlers from the 1830s, but with the advent of the forced removals, the 1950 Groups Area Act zoned that land for the relocation of the non-white community. The community on the Cape Flats experiences a significantly lower quality of life than many of the suburbs in Cape Town. (http://journals.sagepub.com) It can be noted that the areas surrounding Cape Town have an abundance of vineyards owned mostly by a singular demographic with a significantly higher income than those living in the townships. Research has indicated that the ‘terroir’, (climatic and environmental conditions) of Philippi is ideal for grapevine cultivation and there are upwards of 250 hectares of open land. The viticulture industry is one of the biggest sources of income for the Western Cape but the problem lies in the fact that the revenue created is channeled only to an elite group of people. To counteract the repercussions of apartheid many strategies have been implemented by the government; among these is land reform. The physical and spatial nature of this place is investigated to create an architectural viewpoint on the matter. The treatise explores the design of a community-owned winery in the Philippi Informal Settlement and examines how the resultant architecture might address the impaired configuration of the urban make-up while strengthening the sense of identity. The idea is that through leap-frog development locals will plant vineyards in open spaces, making the township a greener space to live in, whilst also generating income for the local inhabitants and allowing for the transfer of knowledge. The use of precedent studies into the nature of building type, site visits as well as site- and precinct investigations were necessary to reach an understanding of the building type and a possible architectural response to the sensitive topic. All research is qualitative using inductive reasoning. Qualtative research is based on observation to gather non-numerical data. Inductive reasoning is reasoning where the premises support the conclusion, which means that the conclusion is the part of reasoning that inductive reasoning is trying to prove. The understanding gained from the above-mentioned methods led to an appropriate architectural response in the form of a design. The design is the conclusion and proposed solution of the treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A rehabilitation centre for Soweto designing the social reintegration of ex-convicts
- Authors: Siziba, Billy
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rehabilitation centers -- South Africa -- Soweto -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39087 , vital:35041
- Description: The aim of this study is to design a rehabilitation centre for parolees which will address the issues pertaining to the re-integration of ex-inmates into society reducing the chances of recidivism. It challenges the current methods and strategies implemented in correctional facilities in South Africa, their insufficiencies in rehabilitating criminals and preparing them for a return to society. A new solution to this social problem of crime and recidivism Is explored through this architectural thesis. This is achieved through providing an infrastructure with consistent methodologies that cater for unit operations using boot-camp rehabilitation, healthcare and vocational training provided all as a collaborative effort with the correctional services, municipal healthcare services and private N.G.O’s. An adaptive approach both in the program and architecture contributes to the objective of meaningful social re-integration. The research methodology implemented is a qualitative investigation, through the Interpretation of contemporary situations, various site visits, Interpretative sketches of existing structures, Technical analysis from firms. Interpretive and case study research is also used, as a background to the research body.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Siziba, Billy
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rehabilitation centers -- South Africa -- Soweto -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39087 , vital:35041
- Description: The aim of this study is to design a rehabilitation centre for parolees which will address the issues pertaining to the re-integration of ex-inmates into society reducing the chances of recidivism. It challenges the current methods and strategies implemented in correctional facilities in South Africa, their insufficiencies in rehabilitating criminals and preparing them for a return to society. A new solution to this social problem of crime and recidivism Is explored through this architectural thesis. This is achieved through providing an infrastructure with consistent methodologies that cater for unit operations using boot-camp rehabilitation, healthcare and vocational training provided all as a collaborative effort with the correctional services, municipal healthcare services and private N.G.O’s. An adaptive approach both in the program and architecture contributes to the objective of meaningful social re-integration. The research methodology implemented is a qualitative investigation, through the Interpretation of contemporary situations, various site visits, Interpretative sketches of existing structures, Technical analysis from firms. Interpretive and case study research is also used, as a background to the research body.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The design of a new muncipal council chamber in central Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Cizek, Judy Ann
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plan , Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39315 , vital:35078
- Description: The student protests in South Africa in 2015 and 2016 that called for ‘decolonisation’ sparked an interest in the contested heritage of a multi-cultural society. In the South African context, there are different experiences and perceptions of the past that have resulted in contested narratives that compete for dominance in the collective memory of society today. Colonialism and its ideologies have shaped the South African built environment, as well as the social construct. Colonialism may not still be an active agent today, but its legacy continues to filter into the lives of South Africans. Apartheid was an extreme extension of colonialist ideology. Since the dawn of South Africa’s democracy, the country has been in a state of post-regime hangover and faced with the task of building a new national identity. This treatise explores the notions of memory and identity to position the indigenous cultures of Southern Africa next to the dominance of colonial culture and to create a dialogue between the legacy of colonial built heritage and post-colonial national identity. Port Elizabeth is the ideal context in which to explore the realm of post-colonial identity in architecture, as it was the first major British settler town and formed the heart of British colonialism. The Old Post Office building complex in Port Elizabeth offers an opportunity for the explorations of postcolonial theory, as it is undoubtedly a colonial building and needs drastic intervention, which could allow more room for adaptation than a building that is in better condition. The building programme for the adaptive reuse of the Old Post Office building complex will be a new municipal council chamber and offices which will act as an extension to the Port Elizabeth city hall. The aim of this treatise is to design an appropriate architectural intervention for the Old Post Office building in Central Port Elizabeth. This architectural intervention must acknowledge and respect the colonial heritage but focus on being a post-colonial building of the future by becoming a useful and relevant place for the people of Central Port Elizabeth. This is achieved through understanding what it means to be postcolonial and what this means for architecture by understanding the spatial implications of colonial planning in Port Elizabeth, the spatial planning of indigenous South African statement patterns and the heritage laws and conservation principles. This will be done through literature reviews, spatial studies, interviews and precedent studies in order to find a strategy for designing a new municipal council chamber in for the Old Post Office building complex in Port Elizabeth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Cizek, Judy Ann
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plan , Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39315 , vital:35078
- Description: The student protests in South Africa in 2015 and 2016 that called for ‘decolonisation’ sparked an interest in the contested heritage of a multi-cultural society. In the South African context, there are different experiences and perceptions of the past that have resulted in contested narratives that compete for dominance in the collective memory of society today. Colonialism and its ideologies have shaped the South African built environment, as well as the social construct. Colonialism may not still be an active agent today, but its legacy continues to filter into the lives of South Africans. Apartheid was an extreme extension of colonialist ideology. Since the dawn of South Africa’s democracy, the country has been in a state of post-regime hangover and faced with the task of building a new national identity. This treatise explores the notions of memory and identity to position the indigenous cultures of Southern Africa next to the dominance of colonial culture and to create a dialogue between the legacy of colonial built heritage and post-colonial national identity. Port Elizabeth is the ideal context in which to explore the realm of post-colonial identity in architecture, as it was the first major British settler town and formed the heart of British colonialism. The Old Post Office building complex in Port Elizabeth offers an opportunity for the explorations of postcolonial theory, as it is undoubtedly a colonial building and needs drastic intervention, which could allow more room for adaptation than a building that is in better condition. The building programme for the adaptive reuse of the Old Post Office building complex will be a new municipal council chamber and offices which will act as an extension to the Port Elizabeth city hall. The aim of this treatise is to design an appropriate architectural intervention for the Old Post Office building in Central Port Elizabeth. This architectural intervention must acknowledge and respect the colonial heritage but focus on being a post-colonial building of the future by becoming a useful and relevant place for the people of Central Port Elizabeth. This is achieved through understanding what it means to be postcolonial and what this means for architecture by understanding the spatial implications of colonial planning in Port Elizabeth, the spatial planning of indigenous South African statement patterns and the heritage laws and conservation principles. This will be done through literature reviews, spatial studies, interviews and precedent studies in order to find a strategy for designing a new municipal council chamber in for the Old Post Office building complex in Port Elizabeth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The design of a new school of architecture for Nelson Mandela University: resurrecting the desolated architecture student
- Authors: Meyer, Mareli
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plan , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Buildings , Architecture -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39326 , vital:35082
- Description: The Nelson Mandela University (NMU) School of Architecture (SoA) has been operating on the top two floors of the Library building on the NMU South Campus for the past 40 years. Since 2005 Architectural technology and Interior Design have also been operating in the same space. It has become a concern that the space in which these three disciplines operate is not big enough for future growth. As a result, student intake is being capped and the plan to add an Urban and Regional Planning course cannot be executed because there is not enough space to expand. (Dark,2010) (Addendum A & B) This current situation has provided the foundations for the design of a new School of Architecture Building, which will provide adequate space for the future growth of the Department. Further investigation into the current facilities also raise issues of public integration, which becomes a driving idea behind the design of the new school. The research focuses on 1. A critique on architectural education and how spaces can be arranged and articulated to provide a vibrant studio based educational facility that is 2. Integrated into the public realm of a university campus. A Case Study on the existing School of architecture shows that the school has many good features that can be used to design the new school. It suggests that lecture halls can be used as a catalyst for public integration in architecture schools and the large flexible studio space that forms the heart of the school, creates a vibrant interactive learning space in which ideas and art is generated. A precedent study on existing architecture schools is used to establish what the nature of an architecture school is and how the architects have attempted to create well-functioning architecture schools. An Urban Master plan is presented to address the issue of dis-connectivity between the North and South campus of the university. The master plan proposes better connectivity between North and South Campus through a pedestrian boulevard that connects a new forecourt on North Campus to a forecourt on South Campus. The layout and zoning within the urban master plan suggests possible sites for the new structure, based on public activity and accessibility to address the issue of public integration. The SoA will form part of a new forecourt on North Campus which will be an agglomeration of building enclosing a public courtyard of which the Architecture department will form part in becoming the arts precinct on the University Campus. The space in which the current SoA is operating will be used for library facilities, this was the purpose of the space before it was allocated to the Architecture Department for “temporary use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Meyer, Mareli
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: College buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plan , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Buildings , Architecture -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39326 , vital:35082
- Description: The Nelson Mandela University (NMU) School of Architecture (SoA) has been operating on the top two floors of the Library building on the NMU South Campus for the past 40 years. Since 2005 Architectural technology and Interior Design have also been operating in the same space. It has become a concern that the space in which these three disciplines operate is not big enough for future growth. As a result, student intake is being capped and the plan to add an Urban and Regional Planning course cannot be executed because there is not enough space to expand. (Dark,2010) (Addendum A & B) This current situation has provided the foundations for the design of a new School of Architecture Building, which will provide adequate space for the future growth of the Department. Further investigation into the current facilities also raise issues of public integration, which becomes a driving idea behind the design of the new school. The research focuses on 1. A critique on architectural education and how spaces can be arranged and articulated to provide a vibrant studio based educational facility that is 2. Integrated into the public realm of a university campus. A Case Study on the existing School of architecture shows that the school has many good features that can be used to design the new school. It suggests that lecture halls can be used as a catalyst for public integration in architecture schools and the large flexible studio space that forms the heart of the school, creates a vibrant interactive learning space in which ideas and art is generated. A precedent study on existing architecture schools is used to establish what the nature of an architecture school is and how the architects have attempted to create well-functioning architecture schools. An Urban Master plan is presented to address the issue of dis-connectivity between the North and South campus of the university. The master plan proposes better connectivity between North and South Campus through a pedestrian boulevard that connects a new forecourt on North Campus to a forecourt on South Campus. The layout and zoning within the urban master plan suggests possible sites for the new structure, based on public activity and accessibility to address the issue of public integration. The SoA will form part of a new forecourt on North Campus which will be an agglomeration of building enclosing a public courtyard of which the Architecture department will form part in becoming the arts precinct on the University Campus. The space in which the current SoA is operating will be used for library facilities, this was the purpose of the space before it was allocated to the Architecture Department for “temporary use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017