Reefs in ruin: Tsitsikama National Park

Abstract

This dissertation sets out to investigate the role of architecture as a mediator between destruction and growth with specific reference to the global effects of coral bleaching. The basis of this thesis is a personal interest in the effects of coral bleaching and the means of prevention and cure thereof. Coral bleaching events are ever increasing and need to be addressed. Oceans are one of our main sources of life and need to be preserved and protected. In order to explore the means of architecture as a mediator between land and sea, I propose a Coral Reef Nursery and Rehabilitation centre in the Tsitsikamma National Park in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Additionally, supplementary amenities of a restored restaurant, an aquarium and a re-established diving school are proposed. This dissertation will start by introducing the proposed site and its relation to the imminent threats of coral bleaching (Part 01), after research and further explorations (Part 02) this dissertation will propose a final design (Part 03) followed by a full evaluation of the process and findings (Part 04).