FUTURE RUIN FOR FYNBOS Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Centre | Berg River Dam | Franschhoek M. ARCH PROF DISSERTATION 2021 LODEWYK MEYER 2016043131 This document is submitted to the University of the Free State Department of Architecture in partial fulfillment of a Masters in Architecture Department of Architecture, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State. Lodewyk Meyer | 2016043131 | lodewykfelixmeyer@gmail.com Declaration of original authorship The work contained in this dissertation has not been previously submitted at this or any other institution of higher education. To the best of my knowledge, this dissertation does not contain material that has been previously published or written by another person except where due reference is made. Acknowledgements This document is dedicated to those who provided guidance and support as well as those who made this whole journey possible. Prof J. Smit; P Jooste-Smit; JH. Nel and H. Raubenheimer for their expert advice and guidance. Louis Meyer, Marlicia Meyer and Lunell Greyling for their continued support. ABSTRACT The fynbos biome is a natural splendour in South Africa, however, not a lot of people are educated on the complexities of the biome and how to conserve it for future generations. A small farm school ruin situated between Franschhoek and the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve has fallen into disuse and decay but planted a seed for many possibilities. The educational background and location of the ruin present the opportunity for a new intervention, driven by Cape Nature, that builds on the past function, creating a place that educates hikers, tourists, and locals alike on the importance of fynbos. A Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Centre is proposed to bridge the gap between human and nature through architectural spaces. In order to create a symbiotic relationship between man and nature the proposed intervention builds on the past, to educate the present and future generations about the fynbos biome. Time serves as an important element in the Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Centre as it is the architect of ruin, thus time and ruin will be used as tools to instil nature appreciation. The design is intended to decay, allowing nature to take back the place, leaving behind fragments of the past whilst still serving the intended purpose of celebrating fynbos. With time the proposal aims to regenerate the surrounding landscape, whereafter it will leave behind a ruin that continues to enhance the phenomenological experience of the place. TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 Part One: The Investigation 6 Part Two: Grounding 30 Part Three: Exploration 56 Part Four: Design Synthesis 150 Part Five: Technical Synthesis 162 Part Six: Conclusion 2 Project Summary 8 Research Question 31 Fynbos 57 Accommodation List 151` Introduction 163 Conclusion 4 Introduction 9 Problem Statement 32 a. Ground coverage 61 Design Development 151 Environment and Micro-climate 165 Reference list 9 Aims 33 Touchstone 79 Final Design 151 a. Site conditions and challenges 10 Client 35 Concepts 78 a. Site Plan 151 Form and Function 10 User Analysis 35 Concept 1: Ephemerality 81 b. Proposed Development 152 Circulation 11 Orientation 36 Concept 2: The Scab and the Scar 82 c. Future Ruin 152 a. Hiking and Biking 11 Location 37 Concept 3: Fluidity 85 d. Reception and Guide’s Office 152 b. Cars 13 Proposed site 40 Theoretical Grounding 93 e. Interpretation Spaces 152 Structural Overview 15 History 41 Biophilia Instilling Conservation 107 f. Research and Ablution 153 Structural Detailing 17 Site Analysis 41 a. Biophilia 113 g. Restaurant and Kitchen 153 a. Foundations 17 Macro 41 i. Kogelberg Cabins 125 Future Ruin 153 b. Column and beam structure 19 Mezzo 42 ii. Design Application 127 Final Model 153 c. Flooring 21 a. Plants and materials 42 b. Human Well-being and Nature Apprecia- 129 Documentation 154 d. Walls 22 b. Site analysis tion as a form of Conservation 129 a. Site Plan 154 e. Glass 23 c. Weather 44 Ruin 130 b. Roof Plan 154 f. Roofing 25 d. Trail network 44 a. Ruin Value 131 c. Elevations 154 g. Screening 27 Micro 45 b. Existing Ruin 133 d. Reception, Fynbos shop and 155 Sustainability 45 c. The Intentional Ruin Guide’s Office 155 a. Water 45 i. An anticipatory theory of ruin ecology 135 e. Restaurant and Kitchen 155 b. Wastewater treatment 46 ii. Intentional ruin 139 f. Research and Ablution 157 c. Solar 46 iii. Land Art 145 g. Interpretation Spaces 157 d. Planted roof 47 iv. Precedents 157 e. Site rehabilitation 47 v. Design application 158 f. Future Ruin Stone Quary Precedents 159 Amenities 49 Youfangping Village Landscape Design 159 a. Kitchen 51 Hylla Cloud Nature Experience Center 160 b. Research 53 Kogelberg Cabins PROJECT FRAMEWORK PART ONE PART THREE PART FIVE PART TWO PART FOUR PART SIX T TH E SE C I SIN NVESTIGATI O EXP H ELORATION NICAL SYNTH Introduce the reader to the This part will show Technical aspects of the overview of the project. explorations into fynbos, design will be shown. theoretical groundings, and precedent studies leading up to the design. D G E SR IO S S CUNDING IGN SYNTHE ONCLUSION Show the reader what the Layout of the design process project wants to achieve and and the final outcome. an in-depth investigation of the place it will inhabit. PART ONE THE IN NVESTIGATI O PROJECT SUMMARY Program: Interpretation Centre, Conservation Laboratory, Restaurant and Eco-tourism. Location: Berg River Dam, Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa Coordinates: 33°56’13’’S 19°04’31”E Client: Cape Nature Users: Researchers and Tourists who are interested in the fynbos kingdom and its beauty. Theme: Ruin inducing an appreciation of the landscape, conserving fynbos. Architectural Theoretical Grounding: How can the Ruin of the past, present, and future have an influence on the user’s appreciation and conservation of the environment? Architectural Approach: Light timber structures will be supported by natural stone walls, forming land art in the form of a future ruin that frames the landscape. These stone walls will provoke an appreciation of the landscape long after the spaces have degraded or been removed. Aim: This thesis hopes to use appropriate ruin-informed architecture as a catalyst to form a symbiotic relationship between human and nature in order to make us understand the vulnerability of fynbos. Figure 01. Fynbos in the valley (Author, 2021). Figure 02. Fynbos in the valley (Author, 2021). 1 2 INTRODUCTION Fynbos is one of South Africa’s valuable treasures that remains vulnerable due to the worlds’ constant change. Fynbos directly generates a large amount of income for people and companies within the Western Cape and is also indirectly responsible for tourism estimated at R77 million per year (Turpie, 2003). Many South Africans are not aware of the value or vulnerability of fynbos, allowing it to remain in danger of going extinct. Therefore, a Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Centre is proposed that will use popular types of tourist attractions that are lacking in this specific area to attract tourists and locals, educating them about fynbos and raising funds to allow for the physical protection of the species. The centre will be situated on an easily accessible piece of land next to the Berg River dam, close to Franschhoek, in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The site has exceptional views and has easy access to the vast Jonkershoek National Park and all its trails. On the site, there is a small, abandoned building, used in the mid to late 1900s as a farm school before the dam was built in the early 2000s. This little brick structure is completely forgotten but when it was discovered, it and its relationship with the surrounding landscape inspired the development. The dissertation aims to find an architectural solution that will act as a catalyst in the relationship between human and nature, instilling care for one another, in order to make us understand the vulnerability of fynbos, creating a deeper connection with it, and thus motivating the people to protect the endangered plant life. Figure 03. Ruin (Author, 2021). 3 4 PART TWO GROUNDING 6 RESEARCH QUESTION How can architecture create a symbiotic relationship between the dwellers and nature throughout the passage of time with biophilic design and intentional ruins enhancing the phenomenological experience within the natural landscape? Figure 04. Interpretation centre (Author, 2021). Figure 05. Future ruin (Author, 2021). 7 8 PROBLEM STATEMENT CLIENT Fynbos, a natural splendour in South Africa, more specifically the Western This development will be occupied by a number of different users, ranging Cape, is under-conserved and under-protected. Similar to the disposition of from non-profit organisations and researchers that work with the community fynbos a small ruin located between the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve and to private tenants that will rent the restaurant and shop. Cape Nature will be Franschhoek is left neglected. How can the small ruin, which once was a small regarded as the client, and they will make use of different investors to fund farm school, serve as a starting point to develop architecture that can educate the development. These investors might include Franschhoek tourism or and conserve nature? How can architecture draw humans towards nature just institutions like universities that will make use of the research facilities. These like the ruin drew me towards it and the natural splendour that surrounds it? organisations and institutions will be included in the design process to ensure all Ultimately, how can ruin as a theoretical theme inform architecture that not the needs are attended to. The income from the tenants and tourist attractions only caters for the present but also for the future in order to form a symbiotic will then be used to fund the conservation of the surrounding fynbos as well as relationship between humans and nature? the maintenance of the development. AIM This thesis hopes to use architecture as an instrument to form a symbiotic relationship between human and nature in order to make us understand the vulnerability of fynbos, creating a deeper connection with it, and thus motivating the people to protect the endangered plant life. Figure 06. Logo (CapeNature, 2021: online). Proposed, is a Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Centre that will use popular types of tourist attractions that are lacking in this specific area as a tool to attract tourists and locals, educating them about Fynbos and raising funds to allow for the physical protection of the species. USER ANALYSIS Multiple theoretical standings will be used to develop a building that acts as a catalyst in the relationship between human and nature, instilling care for one Seasonal users another. These theoretical standings will use fynbos and the existing ruin as Visitors to the Jonkershoek nature reserve for walking, hiking, fynbos tours and inspiration in order to apply in the most applicable manner. mountain biking as well as visitors to the restaurant and interpretation space. Permanent Staff Local people employed for the management and maintenance of the centre as well as tour guides and rangers who maintain the nature reserve and its tracks. This will also include the staff of the restaurant. Researchers Semi-permanent users that make use of the amenities provided for the research and conservation of the fynbos. Examples of these users are university students, researchers and non-profit organisations like Fynbos Forum. 9 10 Orientation Figure 07. Location within the Western Cape (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). Location This dissertation is proposed at the entrance of the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve within the Hottentots Holland Mountains, close to Franschhoek, in the Western Cape of South Africa. The Jonkershoek mountains, with their high peaks and deep valleys, form part of the larger Boland mountain range (Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve). The Eerste, Berg, Lourens and Riviersonderend rivers all have their sources high in these mountains with the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve being one of the country’s highest rainfall areas, providing water for Stellenbosch and Cape Town (mc Donald, 1883: 4). 11 12 Proposed site The site is situated at the entrance of the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, on Franschhoek’s side. The Jonkershoek Nature Reserve lies between the towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek with the better-known part located closer to Stellenbosch. The site is situated on a piece of land owned by the Berg River dam that was previously home to the builders of the dam and tunnel system. The buildings were temporary however and were removed soon after the completion date. After the housing was removed the degraded roads and floor slabs were left behind and withstood the test of time. The footprints of the buildings can be seen on satellite imagery (figure 08) to the east of the site but are not visible from the roads as it is covered by plant growth. This means that the site itself is not very sensitive but will be rehabilitated to the standard of the surrounding fynbos. The specific part of the site where the development will be located sits between this existing footprint and the dam, on a clear piece of land with a small ruin positioned upon it. This ruin dates back further, where it was an old farm school and later oxen stables for forestry. Figure 08. Proposed site (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). Figure 09. Locality Plan (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). 13 14 History Figure 16. Dam Location 1995 Figure 17. Site 1995 (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). Franschhoek is famous for its rich history, however, the site upon which the development sits (only Five Kilometres to the South-West) has close to no historical documentation. This does not mean the site has no history, it only means that other means of sourcing had to be implemented, even if it is less reliable. Dam The dam was constructed from July 2004 to July 2007 and was filled to the brim in winter 2008. The dam is a major part of the Berg Water Project, increasing the Cape Town water supply by 20% at the time. The wall was Figure 10. Berg River Dam wall Figure 11. Trans Caledon Tun- constructed in the northern part of the valley, flooding the whole valley (Saaiman, 2016: online). nel (Van Vuuren, 2011: 22). with 130 million cubic metres of water (Moodley, 2009). The flooded land consisted of some farmland, a farmhouse, and nature reserve, purchased by the government to make this project a reality. The majority of the wall consists of rock mined from the riverbed, keeping the cost down whilst making the dam deeper. Site The land surrounding the specific site is currently owned by the dam and is not protected but is surrounded by protected nature reserves. This land is layered with different times and different people placed there for different reasons. The land was mainly unoccupied up until the 1970s when a tunnel Figure 18. Dam Location 2021 Figure 19. Site 2021 (figure 11) was drilled (7.9 Kilometres long) through the mountains to the (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). Theewaterskloof dam wherethrough water can be pumped to supplement either dam (Van Vuuren, 2011: 25). This meant that the land was developed to provide the builders etc. with housing and entertainment facilities. This development was abandoned after the tunnel was completed in 1982 and was then used by forestry for about 15 years (Van Vuuren, 2011: 25). The only visible remains are the concrete slabs from some of the houses seen in figure Figure 12. Tunnelers housing footprint (Google Figure 13. Trough rings 12, but if you didn’t know it is there you would walk past it as it is surrounded earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). (Author,2021). by plant growth. The specific part where the development will be situated, however, has a small brick ruin (figure 14 and 15) that was there a few years before the other developments and outlived them all. Ruin The small brick ruin on site was built in the mid-1900s before the dam was planned and functioned as a small farm school for the farm that was located where the dam now is. After the farms were bought by the government, the school, also part of the land, was abandoned. A few years later, when the government first started with its first large forestry movement, the abandoned school was used as oxen stables. This can still be observed in the ruin in the Figure 14. Existing ruin east wall Figure 15. Existing ruin northern form of a 13-meter-long trough in half of the building. (Author,2021). space (Author,2021) 15 16 Site Analysis Macro The site is located deep in the Boland Mountain range within the Western Within a radius of five kilometres from the site, there are no popular attractions. Cape. To describe the area, in the summer the low-lying areas feel like French Just outside the five kilometres radius, however, it is surrounded by one of countryside and in the winter this area has weeks of rain, making it look like South Africa’s most popular tourist attractions in the shape of Franschhoek, Scotland, with some snow on the mountain tops. one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations, with all its cellars, restaurants, and art galleries within and around it (figure 21). With the growing interest in hiking, mountain biking and other leisure activities, the Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Centre hopes to extend the The Jonkershoek Nature reserve is used by many locals as it is easily tourist rich area towards the nature reserve to raise awareness regarding the accessible by car and bicycle, unlike the Mont Rochelle Nature reserve that is vulnerability of fynbos. difficult to access as it is on top of the Franschhoek pass and doesn’t permit cyclists. Tourists are mostly unaware of this area and would love to have At the moment, there are no similar developments in the area. Tourists who are easily accessible leisure activities close to their accommodation with other interested in these activities must visit the information centre in Franschhoek functions that support it like a shop, restaurant, and ablution. to find out where trails are located and are then most likely pointed towards the Mont Rochelle hiking trail (figure 20), as it is the only trail with an entrance Regarding the local vernacular, the surrounding area has no unified vernacular, fee and maintenance. The Berg River and Jonkershoek Nature reserve the most identifiable is the traditional Cape-Dutch style buildings, few of surrounding it however are currently being developed by locals and mountain which is original, and mostly used for housing. biking groups, who are only asking for donations to support their basic costs. Therefore, this is the perfect location for this centre, catering for tourists and locals whilst involving and educating them regarding fynbos conservation. Figure 20. View towards site from Mont Rochelle (Author,2021). Figure 21. Leisure destinations in facinity (Google earth, 2021: online.Adapted by author). 17 18 Mezzo The site is encircled by a breath-taking mountain range with valleys stretching in all directions. The most spectacular views are to the west (over the Berg River dam) and the south (into the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve). Apart from the ruin, existing road layout and a few houses in the distance, the only manmade structures are four old reservoirs on the hill to the north (figure 25) and two bridges in the southern valley (figures 23 and 24), although not visible from the site. Dominant plant species mainly consists of fynbos, which means the vegetation is mainly under 1.5 metres in height with no trees. On the hills and mountains, Figure 23. Suspention bridge in valley (Author,2021). Figure 26. Panoramic view of dam 1km from site (Author,2021). the vegetation is dryer and in the valley with streams, greener fern type species thrive. The reason for this is that it has more groundwater and is also less prone to veld fires, making the species in the valleys much older. The area also has an abundance of granite rock and gravel with different types of timber including driftwood and burnt wood seen in figures 32 to 34. Figure 22. Birds eye view drawing of site (Author,2021). Figure 24. Bridge up Berg River (Author,2021). Figure 27. Panoramic view 3.2km up river from site (Author,2021). Figure 25. Delapitated reserviors on hill next to site (Author,2021). Figure 28. Panoramic view of site and dam (Author,2021). 19 20 Types of plants Figure 29. Fynbos up valley Figure 30. Fern up valley Figure 31. Dead fynbos on (Author,2021). (Author,2021). site (Author,2021). Materials Figure 32. Burnt tree stump Figure 33. Eroded rock up Figure 34. Pepples next to on site (Author,2021). valley (Author,2021). river (Author,2021). Figure 35. Site Analysis (Google earth, 2021: online.Adapted by author). 21 22 Weather Wind: The western evening sun lowers over the dam but fortunately, the very late Strong Summer - SE Design Reactions bright sun is cut off early by the mountains, making for an extraordinary sunset, Hot Summer - NE especially on a cloudy day. The area has a pretty average temperature but is Cold Winter - NW The thick stone walls aid in the control of temperature, acting as a thermal mass one of the country’s highest rainfall areas with an average of up to 3 000mm for the hot summer days and cold winters whilst also blocking some of the strong Very Cold Winter - SW in the nearby mountains (Diamond, 2014). winds. All the spaces are completely openable and customisable, allowing for a ventilating breeze through the spaces on a summer day, whereas, the glass facades can be closed off with the screens raised, warming the interior on a winter’s day. Figure 36. Slope percentage (Climatedata, 2021: online). Figure 37. Mean wind speed (Climatedata, 2021: online). Figure 38. Climate (Climatedata, 2021: online). Figure 39. North facing interpretation centre Figure 40. West facing side of restaurant Figure 41. West facing research lab (Author, 2021) (Author, 2021) (Author, 2021) On the northern sides, the screens have horizontal The western facade of the restaurant gives The western facade of the research labs has a timbers that stop most of the sunlight when beautiful views over the dam but is very exposed thick stone wall as thermal mass, but to include closed and allow some filtered light to enter when in the afternoon. a Folding screen system is the beautiful view of the dam, two large sliding opened, giving unobstructed views of the natural developed to open the facade completely during windows open to the west with big screens that landscape. the day, providing some shade whilst being able to can be closed if the afternoon sun is a hindrance. completely close off in the afternoon. 23 24 Figure 42. Trail Network (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). These are different hiking trails that are comprised of exist- ing trails maintained by the locals, routed in different ways to experience different areas and different amounts of diffi- culty. The trails are routed to start and finish at the Fynbos Centre, enabling you to connect 2 or more trails to increase length and difficulty. These are only the maintained routes, but when you are guided in a tour group the trails explore the deeper parts of the valleys, including ponds and water- falls. Contour Mast Climb Distance: 14km Distance: 20km Difficulty: 4/10 Difficulty: 7/10 Figure 43. View from Fortsnek (Niemand, 2018: online) Figure 44. View walking towards site from the west (Gill, 2019: online) Duration MTB: 1 hour Duration MTB: 2 - 3 hours Duration Hiking: 2.5 - 3 hours Duration Hiking: 4 – 5 hours Easy and fast with views of Steep climb for a 360 view the dam and diverse flora. of the dam and surrounding farms. Dam Skerpheuwel Loop Distance: 18 km Distance: 19km Difficulty: 6/10 Difficulty: 9/10 Duration MTB: 1.5 - 2 hours Duration MTB: 2 - 3 hours Duration Hiking: 3 - 4 hours Duration Hiking: 4 - 5 hours Flat profile but sharp steep Sharp climb and rough ter- climbs with beautiful views rain with panoramic views, of dam and wildlife. streams and a waterfall. Figure 45. View up valley towards Fortsnek (Niemand, 2018: online) Figure 46. View walking west away from site (Gill, 2019: online) 25 26 Micro The immediate context on site consists of fynbos, some alien species including a few trees, and the ruin. When the trees are removed there is a 360-degree view of the landscape, including the dam that is visible from the ruin. The ruin consists of two external walls (one with a gable), one internal wall, a floor slab, and a watering trough. The inner side of the walls consists of a timber structure with single stretch bond brick infill, whereas the outside is cladded with English bond bricks that seem to have been added later. The ruin is a layering of textures and materials, a result of many additions over time with different amounts of degradation. The colour and shape of the ruin are slowly changing to that of the surrounding nature, mimicking it in some places and being consumed by it in other. Conclusion The site analysis creates a deeper understanding of the site and its influences, informing applicable conceptual developments and theoretical approaches that will inform the design response. Figure 48. Existing ruin (Author,2021). Figure 50. Existing ruin (Author,2021). Figure 51. Existing ruin south view (Author,2021). Figure 47. Drawing of ruin mimicing mountain (Author,2021). Figure 49. Exiterior wall (Author,2021). Figure 52. Internal wall (Author,2021). Figure 53. Existing ruin edge left by roof sheating (Author,2021). 27 28 ART THP REE EXPLORATION 30 Fynbos Ground Coverage As the site was previously developed it is not very rich in fynbos growth. It The Cape fynbos is a wonder of the world with more than 7000 species contains some alien plants and trees that need to be removed as they can crammed into 46000 square kilometres (Cowling, Paterson-Jones, and spread easily and use much of the needed water. There is some fynbos on Richardson, 2000: 12), yet it is unnoticed by many. This is somewhat the site, although they are not that endangered. It consists of many Stoebe understandable, as it seems uninviting from a distance, but when you get plumosa (slangbos) a shrub that is common and grows up to 1 metre tall as close there is a rich variety of flowers and plants. It is extremely important well as Anthospermum aethiopicum (seeroogbossie) growing up to 2 metres that awareness is raised for fynbos as it remains in danger of extinction. Many tall. Both species are used in fynbos bouquets (Manning, 2007). people, animals and insects rely on fynbos daily, thus it must be preserved for future generations. Figure 54. Fynbos on site Figure 56. Stoebe plumosa (Author,2021). (Author,2021) Figure 57. Anthospermum aethiopicum (Author,2021) Figure 55. Site plant growth (Author,2021). Figure 58. Site from entrance (Author,2021). 31 32 Touchstone One of the early steps in the development of this dissertation was to explore and express what the essence of the site is. This exercise ensures that the most important aspects of the place are taken into account to reach the most appropriate product. In the case of this dissertation, this exploration was done before the function of the development was decided. This means that the findings impacted the end result dramatically. When visiting the site, the beauty of the place fills an overwhelming part of one’s thoughts, also being the reason why the location was so intriguing. One realises that this is a rare spectacle that very few people are fortunate to experience. But when you look closer and do some research, you realise that the Fynbos kingdom is very sensitive and needs great attention to protect it from endangered species and human activity. This touchstone mimics the rehabilitation process of Fynbos and experiments with the involvement of humans in the process. The touchstone shows a foreign shape (alien species), and when the pully (human as catalyst) gets turned, the alien species are opened and removed in order to reveal the Figure 59. Touchstone (Author,2021). green plant (indigenousness species) underneath. After the alien species is removed it forms its own entity whilst allowing the indigenous species to thrive. This experiments with the idea that the alien species can be used in the development, thus protecting the Fynbos, in high contrast to what it previously was. This shows that fynbos is already influenced by human but is also in desperate need of the human help to protect and rehabilitate it in order to preserve it for future generations. Figure 60. Touchstone detail (Author,2021). Figure 61. Touchstone detail (Author,2021). Figure 62. Touchstone closed (Author,2021). Figure 63. Touchstone open (Author,2021). 33 34 The three concepts investigate different elements from the surrounding landscape, seeing how it will impact the design in some cases and will be able to guide and influence it. Concept 1: Ephemerality | Ruin Ecology and Time Concept 2: The Scab and the Scar The existing ruin with its layers gives a sense of temporality, embracing the fact The scab and the scar refer to the process fynbos goes through in the case that some things last and others don’t. This means that there is a relationship of fire. Fire plays an important role in the germination of fynbos enabling it to between ruin and time that most will see as negative. How can the idea of grow again, whilst most alien species doesn’t (Reserve, K: online). The scab is ephemerality be implemented to create a symbiotic relationship between the immediate result of the fire, with ash, burnt timber and a grey landscape, ruin and time? ‘An Anticipatory Theory of Ruin Ecology’ is an idea by Jason whereas the scar, burnt timber logs and blackened rocks, is only a reminder of Rhys Parry, that investigates the idea of building ruins for endangered species the scab that once was but have recovered fully. These elements all indicate to thrive (Parry, J: online). This can change the way architects look at ruins, the process of regeneration, serving as a reminder of what once happened not as a negative, but as another opportunity to make a positive impact after just like a ruin would. How can the new development mimic this process? the building has been abandoned. As fynbos is a very sensitive species, it is aiding in the rehabilitation process of fynbos and maybe serve as a reminder unlikely that a man-made object will enhance the growth thereof. Thus, a future (scar) in the form of a ruin. ruin must be implemented in another way, using it to enhance the landscape to make the dwellers appreciate it more whilst attempting to make the development as sensitive as possible to prevent any harm to the existing fynbos. Figure 64.(Author,2021). Figure 65.(Author,2021). Figure 66.(Author,2021). Figure 67.(Author,2021). Figure 68.(Author,2021). Figure 69.(Author,2021). IN-BETWEEN | TENSION | RUIN | ECOLOGY | TIME REHABILITATION | FIRE | BALANCE | HEALING | GROWTH 35 36 Concept 3: Fluidity | Harmonious Connections with Nature Fluidity as a concept can play a big role in the architectural approach and These concepts formed part of the original reaction to the site, introducing its applicability regarding the surroundings. Fluidity means that there must ideas and objectives that can be considered throughout the development be harmonious connections between nature, with all its elements, and the whilst also introducing other points of interest that will be explored and architecture. The most important will be fynbos and the views, but other augmented as a theoretical grounding. To enhance the phenomenological elements like wind, water and fire will also play a part in these connections experience in the place, ruin and fluidity will be explored further, in the just like they influence fynbos itself. This results in an architectural approach form of Biophilia. Applying these aspects will hopefully create a symbiotic that reacts to the specific site, taking factors like wind, water and fire into relationship between human and nature, instilling a conservationist mentality. account whilst incorporating fynbos and views into the design decisions. Figure 70.(Author,2021). Figure 71.(Author,2021). Figure 72.(Author,2021). FENGSHUI | FORMGIVING | TENSION 37 38 Figure 73. Intentional ruin framing view up valley (Author,2021). INTRODUCTION: Theoretical Grounding RESEARCH QUESTION Fynbos is currently preserved by different organisations in different parts of the fynbos kingdom, sending people into the ‘veld’ cutting down all the alien trees and plants, trying to protect the fynbos. This is labour intensive practice BIOPHILIA INSTILLING Kogelberg Cabins that is very necessary, but how can the public be educated regarding the Biophilia CONSERVATION vulnerability of Fynbos to protect it for future generations? This thesis hopes to use architecture as an instrument to form a symbiotic Design Application relationship between human and nature to make us understand the vulnerability of Fynbos, creating a deeper connection with it, and thus motivating the people to protect the endangered plant life. Human Well- being and Nature This goal seeks to use a more non-physical approach to conservation, Appreciation attracting more people thus getting the word out. The development will use as a form of different theoretical and practical approaches to instil care for fynbos into Conservation the dwellers whilst using it to fund and support physical conservation. How can architecture create a symbiotic relationship between the RUIN Ruin Value dwellers and nature throughout the passage of time with biophilic design and intentional ruins enhancing the phenomenological experience within the natural landscape? Existing Ruin First, biophilic design and human well-being will be discussed together with their influence and impact on nature appreciation. Thereafter, applicable precedents will be discussed together with the impact the approach has on The Intentional An Anticipatory the design. Ruin Theory of Ruin Ecology Land Art Precedents Design Application CONCLUSION 39 40 Biophilia instilling Conservation c. Nature of Space addresses the diverse spatial constructions in nature, like Design Application the ability to see into the distance, or to play with the safe and the unknown How can a biophilic design approach aid in the creation of place and space danger (Browning, 2014: online). The development includes almost all of the ‘Nature in Space patterns of that shape symbiotic relationships between human and nature? It seems biophilic design’ patented by Terrapin Bright Green. The spaces of the ironic to have a building that is used to appreciate and support nature. These patterns of biophilic design can all be used in the development to proposed development are positioned in such a way to allow for the most Understandably, physical shelter is needed for different functions, but how contribute to the phenomenological experience. Kogelberg Cabins, a local, visual connection with nature possible, using big glass facades with screen can the design approach enhance the phenomenological experience within a context-relevant, precedent is also used for construction integrated biophilic systems in front. The screen system and windows can be opened to allow natural landscape whilst also providing physical/functional spaces? design to achieve the same effect. nature to creep inside whilst also allowing for natural ventilation and diffused light (figure 75). The walkways are also raised above the fynbos, weaving from space to space allowing for views in all directions of the fynbos and the Biophilia Kogelberg Cabins mountainous landscape. A system is also planned for wastewater treatment, this, together with the rainwater drainage will run through the development “We will never be truly healthy, satisfied, or fulfilled if we live apart The Kogelberg cabins (figure 74) is situated on a similar type of site with towards the dam with natural ponds throughout as seen in figure 76. and alienated from the environment from which we evolved. fynbos receiving primary attention. KLG uses biophilic design approaches to - Stephen R. Kellert enhance the guest’s experience through their experience with nature. Some These elements of biophilic design will enhance the dweller’s experience of of these approaches are: nature whether it is conscious or sub-conscious. Biophilia is a natural attraction we, as human beings, have to nature. It is the reason we as humans are likely to feel better when surrounded by nature - Raised walkways to lower impact on fynbos whilst letting it grow right up to and feel depressed in a harsh man-made landscape. Biophilic design is the edge. Human Well-being and Nature Appreciation as a form of when designers and architects incorporate nature in their work, hoping to - SA Pine cladding that age with time to integrate with nature. Conservation contribute to the wellbeing and health of their occupants. Terrapin Bright - Natural pool and ponds with running water. Figure 75. Dynamic & Diffuse Light (Author,2021). Green, a design consulting firm from New York wrote a report named, ’14 - Large openable facades with sweeping views of nature. Biophilic design takes major leaps towards human well-being and nature Patterns of Biophilic Design: Improving Health and Well-Being in the Built appreciation, but can it be used as a tool to conserve fynbos? The last thing we Environment’ that discusses the benefits of biophilic design (Browning, 2014: want to lose is someone/something we love and appreciate. This means that if online). They state that it can be categorised into different groups: architecture is able to make you love nature, you are more likely to protect it. If the public forms this connection with fynbos, there are many ways in which a. Nature in the Space: Direct, physical presence of nature. it will take a step towards fynbos conservation. It can be financially (donating b. Natural Analogues: Mimicry of shapes and patterns from nature. to research and rehabilitation/conservation organisations), physically (forming c. Nature of the Space: Spatial configuration in nature. part of projects or just lowering your impact), and even just spreading the word. As the development is located within nature, ‘nature in space’ and ‘nature of space’ will be most applicable (Browning, 2014: online). Conclusion a. Nature in Space forms seven of the 14 patterns namely: Using biophilic architecture as a design approach can help to instil care into the everyday dwellers, strengthening their relationship with fynbos, but how 1. Visual connection with nature: views can this strategy be guaranteed to enhance the phenomenological experience 2. Non-Visual Connection with Nature: Audio and haptic within the natural landscape far into the future, when the building and its 3. Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli: predicted connection functions are no longer in use, or has been dilapidated or destroyed? 4. Thermal & Airflow Variability: Changes in temperature, humidity, airflow and natural materials 5. Presence of Water: See, hear or touch 6. Dynamic & Diffuse Light: Fluctuating intensities of light and shadow 7. Connection with Natural Systems: seasonal changes Figure 74. View from living room of Kogelberg cabin (Abdel, 2020: online). Figure 76. Presence of Water (Author,2021). 41 42 RUIN The existing ruin on site is a simple example of a ruin that displays a timeline of the site, allowing a dweller to see the past, the present and what will be. This ruin is a small example, as many other ruins show the real power of ruins to enhance the phenomenological experience within a place. How can a new development be designed to enhance the present experience as well as the future experience when the rest has fallen away? Can a ruin be seen as a form of biophilia, instilling nature appreciation? To establish how a ruin can play a part in enhancing the phenomenological experience, you first have to determine why we find them beautiful in the first place. What is a Ruin? Ruin Value “…the irreparable remains of a human construction that, by a destructive act or process no longer dwells in the unity of the “Ruins are attractive because they’re not just things that original, but may have new unities that we may enjoy.” have survived, but they also point towards something.” -Brian Dillon -Robert Ginsberg (Ginsberg, 2004: 284) A ruin can be regarded as one of those information boards you see in a botanical garden, giving information about the plants at its feet. A ruin does the same, giving us information about the surrounding’s past, it can be more mysterious, but that “To us, the ruin allows you to see the past, as well as your present Figure 78. Building in decay (Riley,2018: online). makes it even more exciting. Brian Dillon also said, “the true value of a ruin is in condition, and what you’re going to be – you can see all those its ability to allow us to move across time.” But how can a ruin achieve this effect? three at the same time.” Decay, especially in buildings (figure 78), can create an atmosphere with layers of - Yves Marchand (Macdonald, 2014: online) identity that is embedded within it (Bruins, 2017: 5). These layers are in the shape of different attributes (rusted equipment, overgrown plants, and stained walls) that reveals the ruin’s voyage through time (Bruins, 2017: 5). This means that dereliction is not beautiful on its own, but because it allows our mind to wander and explore, thus making it beautiful. What can make a ruin valuable is the fact that it can sometimes enhance a natural landscape, which is extremely ironic, yet fascinating. Presumably, the following two factors play a major role in this. First is the effect of contrast, where one appreciates one thing more because there is something, in high contrast, from which it echoes. Secondly, one gets respect for nature when it dominates a ruin, showing its real power that one can so easily overlook. Then there is another type of ruin, one relating to a structure that has decayed to its basic form, with a harmonious relationship with nature (figure 79). Marco Casagrande stated, “Ruin is when man-made has become part of nature.” This is when dereliction has progressed so far that the basic form of the building (the more monolithic parts made from stronger materials) are starting to form part Figure 77. Imaginary View of the Grand Gallery of the Louvre in Ruins (Hubert,1796). Figure 79. Scottish ruin decayed to basic form (Robertson, 2018:online). of nature. The ruin does not seem like a neglected building but like a beautiful addition to the landscape. 43 44 Existing Ruin The Intentional Ruin Figure 82. Sea level - Richard Serra (Lubbersen,2014: online. Adapted by author). Intentional ruin The existing ruin is the only beacon on the site and was one of the Knowing that ruin can enhance the phenomenological experience and instil nature The process of designing a structure with some elements that fade away significant inspirations behind the origin of this project, together with the appreciation, how can the new development implement a future, ‘intentional’ over time, and others that last during ruin. Those elements that last over fynbos and the all-encompassing natural landscape. It is in the transition ruin to last into the future, while more ephemeral parts fade over time? periods of ruin are planned in such a way that it can exist as an independent between dereliction and a valuable ruin. The existing ruin is the narrator of element in the distant future, not imposing on the landscape, but enhancing a story telling us about the relationship people had with the surrounding the phenomenological experience thereof. landscape in the past, with different layers dating back to different times. An anticipatory theory of ruin ecology These layers of the ruin can tell us about its history without any physical To achieve the care instilling effect, the intentional ruin needs to be information. The existing ruin has some beauty and also value, not financial, This idea by Jason Parry explores the possibility that architects must start planned carefully in order to enhance the dweller’s experience in the but emotional. to design buildings with the future of the building in mind, especially when it present (when the building is operating) and in the future (when only the turns to ruin. More specifically, he looks at the idea of designing it in a way to ruin remains). This means that it needs to be positioned in such a way that accommodate endangered non-human species to thrive after the building is it complements the site and its views without the physical spaces, and Conclusion abandoned (Parry, 2020: online). the physical spaces need to be placed along this intentional ruin in such a way that the spaces make sense in the present. The intentional ruin must This outlook on ruin value and dereliction makes us conscious about the This can be a good way to ensure the future conservation of fynbos after the function as a form of land art and in order to understand the way land buildings we design in the present and makes us think twice about what building is not in use anymore, but as fynbos is very sensitive, other approaches art can enhance our phenomenological experience of a place, the work it will be like in the future and the stories it will tell. Buildings are rarely must be tested. Fynbos is not likely to inhabit a ruin, but one can ensure the of Richard Serra will be analysed. More specifically the project of “Sea designed with their future ruin in mind, it is designed to meet the current future of fynbos on-site by being as sensitive as possible. But how can this idea Level”, one of his more obscure works (figure 82). goals and functions. Albert Speer, Hitler’s personal architect was aware be reinterpreted in a different way to assist fynbos in the future? of this and started to implement it into his designs. His goal however was to have the building convey a message after it has fallen into despair, as a How can the future ruin continue to have a positive impact on fynbos and not just Land Art result of war most likely, and resulted in large concrete structures. Jason eliminate its own negative impact? As ruin can instil an appreciation of nature Parry however explored the same idea but instead argued that this future and enhance the experience in nature, an intentional ruin can be implemented Sea level - Richard Serra ruin should be designed in such a way that it can allow non-human species in such a way to achieve it. What is an intentional ruin and how can it be used as Lee Ufan Museum & Benesse House Museum – Todao Ando to thrive after it has been abandoned. How can a future ‘intentional’ ruin a biophilic tool to preserve fynbos? be implemented to enhance the phenomenological experience of the Sea level is a work of art done by Richard Serra in 1996 in Zeewolde, dwellers and instil the desire to conserve nature? Figure 83. Lee Ufan Museum – Todao Netherlands. It consists of two concrete walls built to the height of sea level Ando (Preston,2010:online. Adapted Figure 84. Lee Ufan Museum – Todao Ando that is on the other side of the dike. Out of context, the wall is extremely by author). (Preston,2010:online. Adapted by author). simple, but it still achieves some basic effects that can be seen in popular works of architecture like the Lee Ufan Museum, by Tadao Ando (figure 83-85). The placement of the walls has a big influence on your observation of the surrounding landscape. In both these examples, the placement of the walls is perpendicular to the slope of the site, this enables the wall to extenuate the slope and to give you a completely new perception of the site. Another significant result of the walls (seen in Benesse House Museum – Todao Ando) is its ability to enhance the view of a landscape by framing a specific view, placing the view in contrast with the walls. This contrast can also be created between the walls and the vegetation at its feet. Exploring Richard Serra’s land art and the land art-like work of Tadao Ando, it is clear that land art in the shape of a future ruin will be able to enhance the experience of the site, instilling an appreciation of Fynbos in Figure 80. Existing ruin in transition (Author,2021). Figure 81. Existing ruin in transition (Author,2021). Figure 85. Benesse House Museum – Todao Ando (Martin,2020:online. Adapted by author). the dwellers visiting the site in the years to come. 45 46 Precedents Figure 86. Present vs Future (Author,2021). Youfangping Village Landscape Design (figure 86-87) and Hylla Cloud Nature Experience Centre (figure 88-90) were analysed to investigate how an intentional ruin can be integrated within a design. This building was not designed as future ruins but was identified as it presents the possibility. Both these projects make use of thick natural stone walls as the foundation for the lighter structure that rises from it. Using local rock has the ability to instantly make it more site-specific and natural, whilst it can be used for structure and insulation. Youfangping Village Landscape Design places the stone walls perpendicular to the contours, like Todao Ando, with the space reaching out to the vast mountain views like an ocean pier. The stone wall gives a welcoming materiality whilst it places the light structural system above in contrast to it, making it feel in harmony with nature through its porousness. Hylla Cloud Nature Experience Centre uses thick stone mounds to shape the spaces within and on the outside, supporting a natural roof structure that floats over it. These stone mounds are positioned in such a way that it blends the inside and outside into one space whilst providing shelter. This project is purposely designed as a nature appreciation site and achieves just that. As seen in Figures 86 and 88, both these projects were deconstructed to Figure 87.(ADEA, 2017: online). show how the building might look if it has fallen into ruin. The findings are interesting and seemed to enhance the phenomenological experience of the Figure 91. View from interpretation centre (Author,2021). Figure 92. View from interpretation centre after decay (Author,2021). place. Design Application The Fynbos Centre will use natural stone walls to form an intentional ruin that can instil nature appreciation for years to come. It will use tactics learnt from the investigation of the above project to place the ruin in a way to frame the surrounding landscape whilst using it for structural and practical purposes. The walls (especially the ones moving towards the dam will accentuate the contours, frame the view towards the landscape, and support a biophilic designed timber structure that stretches to the water. The figures on the right-hand page show the intentional ruin in the present and the future. Figure 88. Present vs Future (Author,2021). Conclusion These theoretic approaches and examples can be used to inspire this dissertation from the start to the finish, ensuring that an applicable development is designed to create a symbiotic relationship between the dwellers and nature throughout the passage of time. Biophilic design and intentional ruins will drive this project and the choices made in order to enhance the phenomenological experience within the natural landscape, thus preserving fynbos. Figure 89. Stone walls (Shuang, 2020: online). Figure 90.(Shuang, 2020: online) Figure 93. View from research facilities (Author,2021). Figure 94. View from research facilities after decay (Author,2021). 47 48 Precedents Materiality Structure Theoretical Approach The façade of the pavilion is constructed with rough stone, rooting it into The façade of the pavilion is constructed with rough stone, rooting it into the In this project, one can see the potential for a future ruin. If the structural Youfangping Village Landscape Design the mountain landscape, with steel structures mounted onto it. The thesis mountain landscape, with steel structures mounted onto it. The rear of the system is removed or dilapidated, the natural stone walls left behind will still development will also seek to make use of natural stone from the area, building is level with the ground whilst the front is lifted above the ground, provoke an appreciation of the landscape in the form of land-art. The stone creating strong mounds on which lighter structures can be mounted. providing a plinth for viewing as well as more cover underneath. On the side walls will accentuate the slope of the site, and when the dweller is amongst it, Architect: ADEA of the pavilion, a staircase connects it to the surrounding fields and trails, it will frame the landscape in a dramatic/romantic manner. Location: Xi’an, China Figure 97. Side view (Author,2021). forming an interconnected system with the traditional village lifestyle. The pa- To achieve this effect in the thesis, modular systems will be used, supported Year: 2017 vilion makes use of traditional bamboo screens to create an adaptable semi- by natural stone walls framing the landscape and creating a future ruin in the open connection between the pavilion and the square. form of land art. Site Figure 102. Present vs future (Author,2021). Similar to the proposed site, Youfangping (a small village) is surrounded by numerous mountains and watersides, serving as a summer resort for a large number of people from the surrounding cities. However, through the seasons when tourists disappear, a problem arises. Most people are left behind and the labour force starts to drain dramatically. Figure 103. Perspective (Author,2021). Figure 100. Section (Author,2021). Figure 95. Site plan (ADEA, 2017: online. Adapted by author). Figure 98. Landscaping (ADEA, 2017: online). Function The design aims at providing villagers with a reason to return and arousing visitors’ nostalgia (ADEA, 2017: online). They attempt this with functional Conclusion public spaces for gathering and communications. Most of the development This thesis will use the Youfangping Village Landscape Design in terms of consists of open stone landscaping sloping over the site whilst a transparent materiality, but mainly for formgiving and the theory of ruin ecology. The way semi-indoor structure is erected on the side, providing space for gathering the natural stone walls lay on the site and how the enclosure may deteriorate Figure 96. Birds eye view (ADEA, 2017: online). and mountain viewing. Figure 99. Exploded isometric (Author,2021). Figure 101.(ADEA, 2017: online). will provoke an appreciation of the landscape for centuries. 49 50 Hylla Cloud Nature Experience Center Function Materials Structure In contrast with the traditional buildings, the “red house” has no present rules The floors and walls all consist of a red natural stone, only produced in the The thick walls and floor are both constructed with local red stone, with well- for its use. The architect believes that the user should be able to decide the region. It forms a strong contrast with the view of the wild landscape, with a articulated steel columns scattered around to support the random-shaped Architect: gad buildings use. The boundary between the spaces and nature are blurred, timber roof hovering over the spaces, supported by a steel structure. The roof structure. The roof structure is formed with purpose-made steel beams, Location: Lijiang, China allowing the users to choose how they want to view nature. The building architects took local materials and made something that is not local. In the supporting timber ceiling insulation, waterproofing and timber chips used as Year: 2020 was designed with a better view of the mountains in mind, saying “how can I end, the architect used simple materials and unsophisticated methods to cover. photograph the mountains better?” (Shuang,2020: online). The building only make it a modern building that conforms to the local spirit, interacts with Site separates the resting, activity, bathing and storage rooms from each other, nature, and has a sense of design and feel (Shuang, 2020: online). allowing the user to do with it what they prefer. The lounge area can be used The Cloud centre, also known as the “Red House”, is located on a moderate as a bar, venue, retail centre or café, all depending on your needs. slope leading up to Mount Zhishan. Its views look up into the mountains on the outside and the other, it overlooks the village and countryside (Shuang, 2020: online). Figure 106. View Figure 107. Inside-outside space (Shuang, 2020: online). (Shuang, 2020: online). Theoretical Approach Figure 121. Section (Author,2021). In this project, one can see the potential for an [un] intentional. If the structural Figure 109. Circution Figure 110. Stone wall reaching into system is removed or dilapidated, the natural stone walls left behind will still (Shuang, 2020: online). nature (Shuang, 2020: online). provoke an appreciation of the landscape in the form of land-art. Figure 104. Entrance view (Shuang, 2020: online). Figure 122. Column articulation (Author,2021). Figure 123. Structure isometric (Shuang, 2020: online). Conclusion The materiality and the inside-outside threshold of this project will apply in the thesis project, with the thick stone walls providing protection, materiality and framing the landscape using local materials. The thick walls of this project Figure 105. Plan (Shuang, 2020: online. Adapted by author). Figure 108. Present vs future (Author,2021). Figure 120. View of open facade (Shuang, 2020: online). will also enhance the experience of the user after it is dilapidated. 51 52 Kogelberg Cabins Theoretical Approach Structure Sustainability The Kogelberg makes use of a biophilic design approach to enhance the user’s Pine was used as it is lightweight and fade to the colour of the landscape over Indigenous grass species is planted on the roof, making use of roof trays that experience of nature and also to ensure the development is as sensitive as time. The cabins and the walkways are raised from the ground to limit the allows for easy maintenance whilst providing thermal qualities. The planted Architect: KLG Architects possible. Timber shading devices (figure 128) gives dynamic light, changing impact on the fynbos, insects and snakes. The cabins are insulated with high roof trays make for a softer roof line in contrast to the surrounding mountains Location: Kleinmond South Africa through the day whilst natural pools and ponds (figure 125 and 130) are grade insulation and makes use of thick gabion walls for thermal cooling and whilst making the building almost disappear from a higher perspective. Then constantly running in the background, attracting all kinds of animals and birds. insulation. The structure is a simple column beam structure that makes for they also make use of enviro-loos to lower water usage and each cabin has its Year: 2020 Large sliding doors enable the dwellers to drag nature inside with the fynbos easy construction and gives a sense of lightness on the landscape. own solar panels. at the building’s feet whilst providing panoramic views of the mountains. Figure 130. Planted roofs (Abdel, 2020: online). Site Located in the Kogelberg nature reserve, this site is very similar to the thesis site, surrounded by spectacular landscape and fynbos. Function The design seeks to present the visitors with an overnight cabin that connects Figure 127. Section (Abdel, 2020: online). them with nature. Each opens up to its own private view with porous facades Figure 128. Gabion wall with techtonic shading (Abdel, 2020: online). blending with the plant growth. Figure 125. Natural pool (Abdel, 2020: online). Figure 129. Section and structure (Abdel, 2020: online. Adapted by author). Figure 131. Side elevation (Abdel, 2020: online). Conclusion This project can be used for many reasons in the thesis as it is in a similar context and provides many examples of biophilic design with the construction solutions to achieve them. It is also a good example of a off grid system that might also be implemented in the Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Figure 124. Site plan with views (Abdel, 2020: online. Adapted by author). Figure 126. View into landscape (Abdel, 2020: online). Centre. 53 54 PART FOUR DESIG ISN SYNTHES 56 1. Reception 2. Fynbos Shop 3. Guide’s Office 4. Research 5. Interpretation Centre Part four will show the process of the design from the 6. Restaurant first reactions to the final design outcome. The design Accommodation List 7. Ablution will react on the theoretical stances whilst providing all the necessary accommodations. Reception...............................85m2 Restaurant..........................680m2 7 2 To simplify the essence design approach, a new reception................................20m 4 intentional ruin in the form of heavy, permanent, Fynbos Shop.........................90m2 Dining....................................200m2 stereotomic walls and light timber structures must Storage......................................14m2 Lounge.....................................40m2 be developed, integrated with the existing ruin, to Bar..............................................26m2 enhance the phenomenological experience. Guide’s Office.....................160m2 Cellar...........................................6m2 2 Office12.5......................................m2 Office/lounge..........................19m2 Male wc.....................................12m2 3 Storage......................................13m2 Female wc.................................12m2 Boardroom..............................35m2 1 Meeting space.......................60m2 Kitchen...................................150m2 Dry storage..............................10m2 5 Research Facilities...........225m2 Cold storage...........................10m2 Lab...........................................100m2 Office.......................................5.5m2 6 Office........................................93m2 Staff wc and lockers.............16m2 Bathroom..............................10.5m2 Kantine......................................13m2 Storage..................................10.5m2 Service yard...........................210m2 Interpretation Space.....350m2 Ablution.................................80m2 Space 1......................................90m2 Mens.........................................36m2 Space 2.....................................80m2 Ladies.......................................34m2 Space 3.....................................110m2 Sauna...........................................5m2 Massage room..........................7m2 Figure 132. Conceptual collage (Author, 2021). Figure 133. Site layout (Author,2021). 57 58 INSPIRE CONSERVATION PHYSICAL CONSERVATION INTERPRETATION SPACES RESEARCH FACILITIES RESERVE RANGERS FYNBOS HUMAN RAISE FUNDS HIKING TRAILS GUIDED TOURS MTB TRAILS FYNBOS SHOP RESTAURANT FYNBOS PICKING RUIN Figure 134. Fynbos-Human Relationship (Author,2021). Figure 135. Function (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by author). 59 60 Design Development The first reactions to the site were to investigate how the connection between It was decided that the spaces will be timber structures lifted from the the existing ruin and the new development will be handled. The existing ground, supported by the stone walls (intentional ruins) and concrete ruin will be kept intact exactly as it is, whilst adding a new structure within footings, that can be removed in the distant future if needed (figures 142-144). it (possibly the entrance or a point of hierarchy). Then the intentional ruin’s There was then experimented with different formgivings (figure 145) that take position on the site was experimented with, using it to frame different views inspiration from the vernacular Cape Dutch styles. It was then decided that of the surrounding landscape and nature at its feet. Two main axes was then these forms are too harsh for the natural landscape and that a tectonic timber determined, one moving from east to west directly between the ruin and the structure will be more sensitive and adaptable to the natural surroundings dam, and the other parallel to the ruin serving as the start and finish lines of and climate. the different hiking and biking trails. Figure 136. Intentional Figure 137. Framed views Figure 138. Structure ruin with pond inside existing ruin Figure 140. Plan 1 Figure 141. Plan 2 Figure 142. Section: Figure 143. Section: vernacular style Figure 144. Section: Formgiving experiment connection with stone wall Figure 139. Section of existing ruin and interpretation space Figure 145. Formgiving experimentations Figure 146. Connections with nature 61 62 The plan was then shifted to create an axis from the entrance straight towards the dam where the interpretation centre reaches over the water, creating an architectural promenade through it. The eco-tourism and research facilities are then attached to this axis, parallel to the existing ruin. The type of structure used was then also determined, using strong timber column-beam structure on piles, with a lighter timber roof structure and screens. This allows the spaces to be adaptable to the climate whilst being sensitive to the surrounding plant growth. Figure 151. Reception perspective Figure 152. Reception isometric section Figure 153. Reception section Figure 147. Plan 3 Figure 148. Interpretation centre section Figure 149. Interpretation centre perspective Figure 150. Interpretation centre isometric Figure 154. Model: interpretation centre Figure 155. Model: interpretation centre and reception Figure 156. Model: reception and walkway 63 64 Before the spaces were developed further, the intentional ruin was placed on the site to determine if it sits right and will be able to function as its own entity. This also made it clear that the walkways need to be adaptable to the site in order to move through it without cutting the earth. It was also decided that the walls will rather be tapered to the top, making it seem more sensitive whilst still giving the wanted effect. Figure 158. Computer generated isometric view of intentional ruin on site (Author,2021). Figure 159. Computer generated model of intentional ruin and walkways (Author,2021). Figure 160. Computer generated model of intentional ruin and walkway on site (Author,2021). Figure 157. Computer generated model of intentional ruin on site (Author,2021). 65 66 The walkways are a very important aspect of the development as they will be the binding element and must be used as a tool to enhance the experience of fynbos and the surrounding landscape. The walkways will consist of a simple timber boardwalk that hovers over the fynbos, and weaves between the intentional ruin and the spaces, providing views in every direction. In some places, the walkway will be supported by the stone wall whilst placing the fynbos between the walkway and the wall in other places. Where the boardwalk meets the trails, there is a cobblestone threshold that maintains a consistent connection between the two. Figure 165. Section render of walkway-trail transition (Author,2021). Figure 161. Section of walkway Figure 162. Drawings of walkway and intentional ruin Figure 166. Render of walkway-trail transition (Author,2021).Figure 163. Isometric render of walkway-trail transition (Author,2021). Figure 164. Isometric render of walkway-trail transition (Author,2021). 67 68 As the layout of the development was still lacking in some areas and unjustified As this axis moves towards the dam, the intentional ruin walls are accentuated in other, the influential elements on site were analysed to determine the ideal by the dropping contours, like the work of Richard Serra and Todao Ando. layout. The only physical object on the site is the existing ruin. It is positioned This radial plan with the existing ruin at its centre presents sweeping views 50 degrees of the north axis, with its two points, pointing towards the hiking in some directions whilst the points reaching out into nature will frame other and biking trails. This axis was then claimed to contain the eco-tourism views. It also allows the fynbos to reach into the development, including it in functions as well as the research facilities. This axis is then linked to an East- every space. From a practical standpoint, the east-west axis minimises the West axis, running straight from the entrance, past the existing ruin, through western sunlight whilst still providing spectacular views. This axis is also ideal the interpretation spaces towards the dam. This axis can be seen as the goal for the placement of solar panels. The north-south axis incorporates the ruin of achieving nature conservation, served by the other axis to achieve success. into the development, allowing the hiking trails to run along with it. Figure 167. Trails Figure 168. Framed views (Google earth, 2021: online. (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by Author). Adapted by Author). Figure 171. Layout model (Author,2021). Figure 172. Layout model (Author,2021). Figure 169. Earth-Water Figure 170. Sweeping views (Google earth, 2021: online. (Google earth, 2021: online. Adapted by Author). Adapted by Author). Figure 173. Layout model (Author,2021). Figure 174. Layout model (Author,2021). 69 70 Figure 175. Plan 4 with fynbos landscaping Figure 178. Roof plan with formgivings Figure 176. Column-foundation articulation Figure 179. Section of connection with stone wall Figure 177. Fynbos info boards 71 72 Figure 180. Documentation development (Author,2021). Figure 181. Interpretation centre section documentation development. Figure 182. Model Figure 183. Model: Interpretation space 73 74 Figure 186.(Author,2021). Figure 184. Section: Research office and Ablution documentation development Figure 187.(Author,2021). Figure 185. Section: Guide office and Reception documentation development Figure 188.(Author,2021). 75 76 Final Design Figure 193. Plan 7 Figure 194. Plan 8 The intentional ruin consists of straight stone walls that accentuate the natural To make the walls less rigid, subtle curves were added, especially to the landscape and frame different views, but how can it be developed further to endpoints. This allows the spaces to open up to the landscape, making for be less rigid whilst still enhancing the dweller’s experience. better views. The inside corners were also changed from a simple radius into two different curves. This makes it look less forced. Figure 189. Reception and Restaurant Figure 190. Restaurant Figure 196. Plan 10 Figure 195. Plan 9 Conclusion As the first attempts at a more curved approach seemed a bit extravagant, This development guided the design in the right direction through many some of the curves and angles were simplified slightly. A water system was trials and errors. The final design will be shown next, whereafter a technical also incorporated for sustainability and biophilic design reasons with a natural synthesis will follow, explaining the more practical and technical aspects. ‘tide’ pool connecting the development with the dam. For the next step, to open the centre of the development more to nature and provide better views, Figure 191. Render: Interpretation centre Figure 192. Interpretation centre the ablution was tilted slightly away from the research facilities. 77 78 Final Design Figure 198. Site Plan This is the final design for the Fynbos Interpretation and Regeneration Centre planned next to the Berg River Dam in Franschhoek, Western Cape, 1. Entrance 9. Interpretation Centre 2. Reception 10. Ablution South Africa. 3. Fynbos Shop 11. Parking 4. Restaurant 12. Service Yard 13 5. Kitchen 13. Water Treatment 6 10 6. Research Lab 14. Dam 7. Research Office 15. Tide Pool 8. Guide’s Office 7 3 8 2 15 9 4 1 5 14 11 12 Figure 197. Interpretation Centre and Tide Pool 79 80 Figure 199. Proposed Development Figure 200. Future Ruin 81 82 Figure 201. Proposed Development (view from south) Figure 202. Proposed Development (view from northern hill) 83 84 Figure 204. Entrance View of Reception 1. Reception 2. Fynbos shop a. Storage 3. Guide’s Office b. Office c. Office/lounge d. Storage e. Boardroom f. Courtyard g. Map h. Meeting space a f 2 d b e 3 c 1 h g Figure 203. 85 86 Figure 205. Reception Figure 206. Fynbos Shop (existing ruin) and Natural Pond 87 88 Figure 207. Reception Section AA Figure 208. Reception 89 90 Figure 210. Viewing Tower and Fynbos Shop Figure 209. Reception Viewing Tower Section BB 91 92 6 2 1 4 3 5 Figure 211. 1. Interpretation space 1 2. Interpretation space 2 3. Interpretation space 3 4. Tide pool 5. Restaurant 6. Guide’s office 93 94 Figure 213. Interpretation Centre and Tide Pool Figure 212. Interpretation Space 3 Section DD 95 96 Figure 214. Interpretation Space 3 and Tide Pool Figure 215. Interpretation Space 3 97 98 Figure 216. Interpretation Space 3 Figure 217. Interpretation Space 2 99 100 Figure 218. Interpretation Space 2 and 3 Section EE 101 102 Figure 219. Interpretation Space 1 and Restaurant Figure 220. Interpretation Space 1 103 104 Figure 221. Figure 222. 105 106 1. Research lab 2. Research office a. Bathroom b. Storage 3. Mens ablution c. Lockers 4. Ladies ablution d. Bicycle storage 5. Sauna 6. Massage room 7. Fynbos shop 5 6 4 d c 1 c a d b 3 2 Figure 223. 7 Figure 224. Research Lab 107 108 Figure 225. Research Office Figure 226. Research Lab 109 110 Figure 228. Research Lab Western Facade Figure 227. Research Lab Section CC 111 112 g b 3 1 a a f 2 4 de c h i e 1. Reception a. Fireplace j 2. Dining area nl 3. Bar b. Cellar 4. Kitchen c. Main kitchen 6 d. Prep production m e. Prep cooking Figure 229. f. Dishwashing 5 g. Coffee h. Dry storage k i. Cold storage j. Office k. wc and lockers 7 l. Kantine 5. Mens wc 6. Ladies wc 7. Service yard m. Garbage and recycling n. Gas o. Parking o Figure 230. Restaurant Reception and Lounge 113 114 Figure 231. Restaurant Section FF Figure 232. Restaurant Lounge 115 116 Figure 233. Restaurant South Facade Figure 234. Restaurant and Kitchen South Facade 117 118 Figure 235. Kitchen Section GG Figure 236. Restaurant North Facade 119 120 Figure 237. Restaurant: East Facade Figure 238. Restaurant West Facade 121 122 Figure 239. Figure 240. 123 124 Future Ruin Figure 241 Figure 242. 125 126 Final Model Figure 244. Physical Model: Top View Figure 245. Physical Model: Interpretation Centre Figure 243. Physical Model: Reception and Fynbos shop Figure 246. Physical Model: Research Facilities Figure 247. Physical Model: North view 127 128 Documentation TRAIL START:MAST CLIMB CONTOUR SITE BOUNDARY TRAIL FINISH: SITE BOUNDARY LEGEND MAST CLIMB Existing ruin TRAIL START: CONTOUR 33°56'14.05'' S DAM ±271 500 Clean water ±271 500 19°04'34.92'' EGray water 8 ±271 000 9 84 ±271 000 Sewerage ±270 000 Treated water 417 9 ±270 000 ABLUTION WASTEWATER ABLUTION RESEARCH TREATMENT RESEARCH WASTEWATER LAB LAB TREATMENT ±268 500 ±268 500 RESEARCH POND OFFICE RESEARCH±268 000 RUIN OFFICE EXISTING RUIN FYNBOS ±268 000 FYNBOS SHOP retaining wall SHOP 4 283 GUIDE'S viewing tower 25 695 9 703 27 554 4 523 15 082 17 277 OFFICE 92 8 RECEPTION GUIDE'S9 77 000 to site bounadry OFFICE water through 33°56'13.89'' S RECEPTION run down to pool 77 000 to site bounadry ±266 00019°04'32.01'' E INT. SPACE map of trails 2 INT. SPACE 1 and landmarks INT.TIDE POOL INT. SPACE 3 INT. SPACE 3 INT. SPACE 1 ±266 000±258 950 SPACE 2 2 90m2 ±263 000 ±265 000 RESTAURANT intentional ruin 33°56'14.05'' S 110m±258 950 ±258 000 19°04'34.92'' E RESTAURANT TIDE POOL 2±263 000 ±262 500 ±265 000 370m KITCHEN 8 970 38 069 PARKING ±258 000 KITCHEN ±262 500 natural pond ±265 500 256m2 cobblestone crossing BERG RIVER DAM from walkway to trail 255 000 PARKING ±264 000 copacted gravel SERVICE YARD ±263 330 lookout point TRAIL START: BERG RIVER DAM new geelhout trees SKERPHEUWEL LOOP 255 000 TRAIL FINISH: SKERPHEUWEL LOOP DAM Site Plan Roof Plan figure 248 figure 249 10m 10m 10m 10m GSEducationalVersion GSEducationalVersion 129 130 70 000 to site boundary 82 000 to site boundary 70 000 to site boundary NELI OD FL O GE M ED DA 737 1 06 1 3 7 2 81 15 79 26 8 72 4 37 NE D LI OO FL GE M ED DA 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 9 015 17 277 4 283 15 082 3 053 1 504 27 493 RESTAURANT: INT. SPACE 1: gray macsteel ibr gray macsteel ibr roof sheeting 15° 500x130x6mm thick roof sheeting 15° steel gutter INT. SPACE 2: gray macsteel ibr roof sheeting 15° folding timber screens INT. SPACE 3: gray macsteel ibr pivet door roof sheeting 15° NATURAL STONE WALL NATURAL STONE WALL FFL INT. SPACE 1 (gfl) - 266 000 38x50mm horizontal timber FFL INT. SPACE 2 - 265 130Steel seat on 230x230mm NATURAL STONE WALL screen with steel frame concrete footing FFL INT. SPACE 3 - 264 130 North Elevation (Interpretation space) figure 250 scale 1:200 259 000 TIDE POOL DAM - 258 000 Viewing tower: timber clad 115 114 113 112 111 110 109 108 107 106 105 104 103 102 101 100 99 98 97 96 95 94 93 92 91 90 89 88 87 11 016 4 980 9 470 5 824 ABLUTION: R3 Modular planter system placed on 2 000 1 444 3 185 415 gray macsteel ibr roof sheeting 4° RECEPTION: FYNBOS SHOP: gray macsteel ibr gray macsteel ibr roof sheeting 22° roof sheeting 22° 1 446 Existing ruin: NATURAL STONE WALL english bond brick FFL ABLUTION - 266 500 FFL RECEPTION (gfl) - 266 000 pond Steel seat on 230x230 concrete 38x50 vertical timber screen exposed roof structure over footing with steel frame courtyard East Elevation (Reception, Fynbos shop and Ablution) figure 251 scale 1:200 131 132 GSEducationalVersion GSEducationalVersion 2 957 1 951 22 999977 554422 551177 256 1 905 500 2 500 1 000 5 130 1 000 870 2 930 999 1 484 78 RAIN GARDEN Reception, Fynbos shop and 79 97 Guide’s Office Floor Plan figure 252 80 98 scale 1:200 81 aa ab ac ad ae RESEARCH OFFICE POND AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate ae 99 125m2 EXISTING RUIN 4 500 timber cladded viewing tower 27 100 62 macsteel ibr roof sheeting 22° 22° 00 101 8 22°1 50x38mm battens every 400 aa 0 275 6 102 FFL VIEWING TOWER - 270 000 1 9 2 STORAGE 102x38mm sa pine rafters 82 103 in pairs of two every 2000 68 6 4 83 104 RECEPTION 152x50mm sa pine purlins every 1000 timber decking board u 84 105 85m2 SEMI-PRIVATE 3 COURTYARD 98 85 FYNBOS SHOP 106 100x228mm sa pine columns 3 timber decking board 90m2 DETAIL 2ad 25 86 02 STORAGE ac 107 32 ab 108 5 vertical timber screen in steel frame 3 110 A 109 111 OFFICE BOARDROOM 112 GUIDE'S OFFICE 113 OFFICE / timber decking board RECEPTION LOUNGE 100m2 timber decking board FFL RECEPTION (gfl) - 266 000114 85m2 100x228mm sa pine beam 115 GATHERING SPACE DETAIL 3 A 152x50mm joists fastened to structure every 400 steel footing supporting 228x100mm beams with 300x300mm concrete foundations existing ruin trough on ffl existing brick ruin Section AA D figure 253 266000 GSEducationalVersion scale 1:50 133 134 GSEducationalVersion 2 450 630 945 1 100 700 00 0 0 1 00 5 3 0 00 0 0 0 8 4 0 00 0 0 2 21 008 3 3 2 7 5 00 02 8 5 1 10 7 50 6 435 4 62 3 26 R 1 ND E RE RENDER 2 7 337 DETAIL 4 RENDER 4 i h 49 BAR CELLAR RECEPTION 50 50mm insulation board with 18mm 15° 266 000 fireplace RESTAURANT 51 shutterboard on bottom265 270 AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate 72 macsteel ibr roof sheeting 15° 1 370m2 1 52 DISHWASHING 152x50mm sa pine battens every 500 04 9 53 100x228mm sa pine rafters beam0 1 20 DINING LOUNGE 1 15°RENDER 4 90 54 120x240mm I beam9 17 PREP 7 COOKING2 PREP PROD. 55 100x228mm sa pine columns MAIN KITCHEN 56 20 050 15 950 BREEZEWAY 48 KITCHEN 57 PPMA resin flooring DRY STORAGE D 256m 2 58 RESTAURANT COLD AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 2 PREP STORAGE 59 370m COOKING 120x240mm I-section column OFFICE KANTINE LADIES 264 450 GAS 264 780MENS REFUSE FFL DINING SPACE (gfl) - 266 000 5 1 1 5 WC AND LOCKERS 00 9 2 o FFL RESTAURANT - 265 270 9 83 n 6 263 230 m 152x50mm joists fastened to structure every 1000 l 22 steel footing on 300x300mm concrete 930 3 900 5 9002 2 00 0 SERVICE YARD foundations supporting 228x100mm beams 5 copacted gravel k 2 Restaurant and Kitchen 210m Floor Plan Section DD figure 254 j figure 255 scale 1:200 GSEducationalVersion GSsEdcucatiolnaelVe r1sio:n50 135 136 4 743 2 880 2 373 2 406 3 000 2 840 1 480 1 500 0 50 2 0 50 2 50 0 3 Detail 4 Render 4 Macsteel ibr roof sheeting 22° figure 257 figure 258 12.5mm plasterboard fastened to purlins scale 1:10 chimney, 220mm outside, 200mm inside diameter macsteel ibr roof sheeting 15° 50mm insulation board flashing bolted to purlin covering wall/I-beam 120x240mm I-beam connection 152x50mm sa pine battens every 400 100mm insulation board 15° 12.5mm plasterboard nailed to bottom of battens steel plate casted into concrete 240x120mm I-beam 114 114 107 219 column/foundation to attach timber structure concrete column casted with foundation to 228 support timber structure timber top hung window timber cladding 100x228mm sa pine column flashing fastened to batten folded over insulation and gutter edge 70x120 timber spacer between I-beam and gutter 500x130x6mm steel channel gutter timber top hung window frame sill hanging over gutter 15° 126 29 55 500 flashing fastened to timber beam folded over 100x228mm sa pine beam 488 gutter edge 152x50mm joists fastened to structure every 400 152x50mm sa pine on side streaching between columns to support windows Render 2 240x120mm I-beam welded to I-section columns GSEfiducgatiounarlVersi on356 1000mm 1000mm GSEducationalVersion 190 120 240 120 57 (render 4) 137 138 228 120 30 130 70 290 126 50 50 1 442 42 890 140 130 y 62 w gravel yard for researcher's vehicles (bicycle/cart) to unload samples 63 v 0164 s 6241 64 SAUNA 65 MASSAGE 87 66 67 88 6 73 1 68 89 C 69 18mm shutterboard fastened to 50x38mm lightweight 90 steel channel channels 70 LOCKERROOM 100x228mm sa pine column fastened to concrete 91 71 C ABLUTION column within stone wall RESEARCH LAB 92 AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate 1000mm thick 93° double slanted natural stone wall on72 80m2 AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate 266 500 100m2 LOCKER 266 750 73 93 ROOM 12.5mm plasterboard fastened to steel channels 74 sliding pocket window 94 152x50mm sa pine purlins every 1000 with timber sliding BATHROOM screen outside 76 102x38mm sa pine rafters in pairs of two every 2000 95 77 100x228mm sa pine beam every 2000 STORAGE B 9678 79 97 AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate flooring 266 500 18mm shutterboard 80 98 152x50mm sa pine joists every 500 81 50x38mm sa pine battens every 400 RESEARCH OFFICE POND AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate 125m2 00Research and Ablution 81 Floor Plan aaB 0 27 9 5 62 figure 259 1 STORARGEender 1 scale 1:200 figure 260 1000mm GSEducationalVersion GSEducationalVersion 139 140 6366 1 44 6 2 61 0 1 6 7 50 1 93 6 9 3 02 1 90 0 3 00 0 2 00 0 3 33 8 6 2 06 8 54 4 3 6 2 26 R 1 DEN RE 00 3 1 9 R ND E RE 001 6 00 0 14 099 1 190 3 1 0 6 3 3 0 5 5 228 16 968 2 90 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 9 0 3 v w y z q s R3 Modular planter system placed on grid, draining onto roof sheeting 6 macsteel ibr roof sheeting 4°° 4° 4° 152x50mm sa pine battens every 400 50mm insulation board with 18mm shutterboard both sides 315x120x5mm steel channel as gutter fixed on timber 1 470 900 3 530 structure 100x228mm sa pine columns 1000mm thick 93° double 2 200 ABLUTION slanted natural stone wall AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate 80m2 1 285 1 500 3 850 RESEARCH OFFICE AUTHENTIK AC4 wood laminate 125m2 FFL RESEARCH OFFICE FFL RESEARCH LAB - 266 750 - 266 500 FFL RESEARCH OFFICE - 266 500 2 000 600 4 050 2 050 1000x400mm concrete strip footing compacted earth 100x228mm sa pine beam steel footing on 300x300mm concrete foundations supporting 228x100mm beams Section BB figure 261 scale 1:50 GSEducationalVersion GSEducationalV1er4sio1n 142 2 500 1 285 2 800 2 500 Render 3 Render 6 Render 5 figure 262 figure 263 figure 264 500mm 4mm SOLARVUE window 50mm insulation board reused timber cladding 18mm shutterboard 50x38mm sa pine structure pairs of 102x38mm sa pine between 228x100mm structure rafters every 2000 with shutterboard nailed to it 152x50mm joists every 500 100x228mm sa pine column-beam 50x38mm battens every 300 structure 100x228mm sa pine beam RENDER 6 1000mm 1000mm 2000mm GSEducationalVersion GSEducationalVersion 143 144 E 4 723 1 025 1 841 5 516 3 611 10 703 1 297 6 602 837 10 072 1 158 2 892 a 259 130 b 265 130 258 950 266 000 c INT. SPACE 2 timber decking board INT. SPACE 1 2 timber decking board d INT. SPACE 3 80m 90m2 264 130 timber decking board 110m2 TIDE POOL e 258 950 RENDER 5 board suspended from ceiling 2 000 18 045 9 247 2 758 2 000 2 000 4 000 2 000 2 000 9 562 11 998 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 E natural pond Interpretation Spaces Floor Plan BERG RIVER DAM figure 265 GSEducationalVersion 258 000 GSEducationalVersion scale 1:200 145 146 904 12 329 909 4 153 3 851 1 787 4 942 macsteel ibr roof sheeting 15° 50x38mm sa pine battens every 400 15° 102x38mm sa pine rafters in pairs of two every 2000 DETAIL 5 d a 400 152x50mm sa pine purlins every 1000 flashing bolted to purlin covering beam-window connection 12.5mm plasterboard fastened to purlins 15° 100x228mm sa pine column-beam structure timber top hung window 4° window sill overhang flashing fastende to beam to cover wall-roof sheeting steel tube drainage hole connection INT. SPACE 2 102x38mm sa pine rafters every 2000725x125x4350mm in-situ lintol 228 timber decking board 300x50x6mm steel channel as gutter with square steel tubing 1 480 70 123 80m2 welded to one side for drainage through wall 4° 128 11° 5mm steel sheeting frame 1 440 50 270 1000mm thick 93° double slanted natural stone wall 1000mm thick 93° double slanted natural stone 1 660 FFL INT. SPACE 2 - 265 130 wall on 1000x400mm concrete footing 725x125x4350mm in-situ lintol 8mm steel frame placed in stone wall 53 725 55 extending 15mm past wall edge 4 150 670 1 200 1000x400mm concrete strip footing compacted earth Section EE Detail 5 figure 266 figure 267 GSEdsucatioanalVersi o1n :50 GSEducsatiocnalVelrseion 1:10 147 148 1 240 840 2570 2 860 81 81 10 840 2 50 50 890 35 40 PART FIVE TEC SH IN SIC EAL SYNTH 150 Introduction Form and Function Circulation The design requires two different types of construction methods to achieve All the spaces will make use of the same two-metre interval timber structure Hiking and Biking the wanted objectives. One is a heavy natural stone wall that will require hard but will have different dimensions based on the specific functions. The size of labour (discussed later) and the other is a timber frame structure that can be the columns and beams will all stay the same but will have more support for As the development is the centre for the surrounding hiking and biking trails, manufactured off-site and assembled on site. Following, the technical aspects heavier spaces. In the restaurant (figure 270), steel beams are also used as a the circulation consists of pretty wide boardwalks that guide the dwellers of the development will be discussed, including construction methods, result of the scale. across the development without harming the landscape. There is also environment, functionality, and sustainability. allocated storage for bicycles. Figure 268. Construction type (Author,2021). Figure 269. Column and beam structure (Author,2021). Figure 271. Walkway-trail trnsition (Author,2021). Figure 273. Service yard and parking (Author,2021). Structural overview The natural stone walls are the more permanent element and will be constructed first. It will be labour intensive and will use rock from the trans- Caledon tunnel (figure 274) 1200m away. The timber structures are raised above the ground, supported by the stone walls and concrete footings, and can be manufactured off-site, minimising activity on the site. This Structure will also give the possibility to remove the spaces if it is no longer used. Environment and Micro-climate Site conditions and challenges The site has no physical challenges, but it is preferred that the earth is damaged as little as possible in the construction process. After the construction is completed, the surrounding landscape will be completely rehabilitated to a better standard than it was prior to construction. The development is Figure 272. Walkway section (Author,2021). designed in such a way that the plant growth will be completely untouched through everyday use. Cars Site accessibility The main parking is located about 50 meters from the development (figure The site is easily accessible with any vehicle, but as it is separated from 273), being a casual gravel space with scattered ‘Geelhout’ trees for shade. municipal services, it will have to be self-sufficient. To make provision for this, a The parking will fit about 40 cars with two disabled parking spaces. Then sustainable off-grid approach will be taken for electricity, water and sewerage. there is a service yard for the kitchen that can be accessed from the main parking. It has three large parking spaces with space for a delivery van. Figure 274. Quary (Author,2021).Figure 270. Restaurant structure (Author,2021). 151 152 Structural detailing Column and beam structure Walls Screening Foundations The primary structure will consist of 76x228mm glued beam frames sitting on All the walls will be non-loadbearing, used as infill between the frame structure. A screen system is developed to protect the building but enables it to open custom steel footings. Then there will be 34x114mm floor beams inside the The wall will have 50mm x 38mm studs with shutterboard on the inside and up completely. The screens consist of 38mm x 76mm steel frames with 38mm x The site has a shallow rock base, and as a result thereof, the 300mm x 300mm frame, supporting the floor and also 152x50mm rafters supporting the roof. the outside and insulation infill. On the outside, a damp-proof membrane will 76mm timber infill, connected with steel tubing, pulled open from the top with concrete footings can be casted directly on it. The stone walls are tapered Flooring be placed on the shutterboard and will be cladded with natural timber. an electric pully system. In the north (figure 283) the screen has horizontal to the top and as a result thereof, the base width will differentiate slightly. A shading and in the west and east vertical (figure 284-285). concrete strip foundation will be casted for the stone walls as it is structural Most of the development will make use of a 21mm thick boarded floor, whereas in some places and there will be columns inside the wall where it supports Figure 282. Screening system (Author,2021).the restaurant dining area and research facilities will have a smoother timber the timber structures. Where the columns or the beams is supported, there is board finish and the kitchen a tile floor. The flooring will be consistent from custom steel footings that bolt through the timber and is set into the concrete outside to inside, but on the inside, the planks will sit on an 18mm thick shutter footing board. Figure 281. Wall structure (Author,2021). Figure 275. Wall section (Author,2021). Figure 276. Footings (Author,2021). Figure 279. Structure: Interpretation space 2 seftion (Author,2021). Glass Where the timber frames are filled with glass, in most cases it will be a window or door that will allow for natural ventilation. On all the sides where solar gain is a concern, timber screens are placed in front of it. 4mm SOLARVUE glass will be used as the openings are large and needs to be somewhat insulative. Roofing Different roofing systems are used throughout the development. Where the roof is zinc only, a double roof system is used to articulate the roof from the frame. This is to create an aesthetic overhang whilst allowing for natural insulation/ventilation. Where planted roofs are used, the rafters are placed 400mm apart with the sheeting on top. Figure 277. Footings (Author,2021) Figure 278. Footing (Author,2021). Figure 280. Interpretation space 2 roof structure (Author,2021). Figure 283. Screening system (Author,2021). 153 154 As some of the best views are to the west, the western facades have dense Sustainability timber screens but can be opened completely during the earlier hours to 1. Dam allow for spectacular views. Water Figure 286 Water 2. Pumpsystem configuration Figure 284. Western screening (Author,2021). (Author,2021). 3. Settling tank4. Wastewater treatment 3 Rainwater 5. Pond 4 6. Cistern 7. Solar panels 8. Tide pool aeration wetland 6 stream rain treatment garden pond 2 5 if empty if full dam pump rainwater cistern irrigation filter toilets 1 Figure 285. Western screening (Author,2021). taps settling tank 8 Wastewater treatment Figure 287. Wastewa- ter treatment section (Author,2021) 7 2 9 7 1 6 8 4 5 3 1. inflow 4. outflow 7. outflow collection zone Figure 288. 2. water level 5. inpermeable layer 8. outflow structure with water level adjustment Water system configuration 3. drainage pipe 6. filtration material 9. inflow distribution zone with large stones (Author,2021) 155 156 Solar Site Rehabilitation Future Ruin Stone Quarry Figure 292. (Bock, 2017: online. Adapted by author). The southern part of the restaurant’s roof is home to 60 solar panels to After the construction is complete, the site will be rehabilitated, removing all The seven-meter-wide tunnel (figure 293 and 294) was drilled provide the centre with electricity. This roof was chosen as it faces north and the old roads except the one that will be used as the entrance. in the 1970s to pump water from the Theewaterskloof dam is not visible from any side. The following specifications are needed to go off- to the Berg River Dam and the rock was distributed close grid: by. This development proposes to use this rock instead of a Solar Panels: 60 x 450W panels (3 arrays of 20 panels in series) new quarry, thus rehabilitating the landscape in the process of building the intentional ruin. Inverter: 3 x 5.5KW inverters in parallel Batteries: 4 x 100AH LiFePO4 28V (15.36KWh storage) Annual CO2 emission reduction: 40 000kg Planted Roof The R3 modular planter system (figure 289), produced by Greensquared will be used to create planted roofs on the ablution, guides office and kitchen. The planters have dimensions of 455mm x 455m x 100mm and weigh 20kg when filled and saturated. This system is ideal as it is easy to install and service. • Locally manufactured • Roots grow from one planter to another • Water and nutrients are shared Figure 290. Prior to rehabilitation Figure 293. Trans-Caledon Tun- • Made from recycled and recyclable polypropylene plastic (Google earth, 2021: online. nel (Van Vuuren,2011: online). • Excellent drainage and airflow below the planters Adapted by author). • Water reservoirs for retaining water (Greensquared,2021: online) Figure 291. After Rehabilitation Figure 294. Trans-Caledon (Google earth, 2021: online. Tunnel (Author,2021). Figure 289. R3 planter units (Greensquared,2021: online). Adapted by author). 157 158 Amenities Figure 296. Research facilities plan (Author,2021). Kitchen amenities Research Amenities f e d c 1 h e i j a b m 2 Figure 295. Kitchen plan (Author,2021). 159 160 PART SIX CONCLUSION 162 Conclusion The site analysis set out in part 2 created a deeper understanding of the complexities of the site allowing me to expand on the design possibilities. The functions and extent of the project were however still very unclear at this stage. Part 3 developed a conceptual framework that allowed me to start thinking theoretically about the design and how to incorporate ruin as a theoretical discourse. It was very clear from the start that the ruin was an important element on site, therefore the theoretical discourse needed to build on the atmospheric quality already existing in the present ruin to create a ruin for the future. The theoretical grounding helped me to link the theme of ruin with biophilia and the intended design. The grounding broadened the design possibilities towards a final proposal which was further strengthened by the precedent analysis. All the different parts finally came together in the design synthesis that encapsulated all the thoughts and concepts. This part was however not smooth sailing and the design development process was challenging. The layout of the scheme gave many problems initially with orientation and formgiving. However, with time it started to flow, creating spaces that finally allowed nature to become one with the architecture. With the final design proposal, the design elements, theoretical ideas, and structural solutions all started to come together to generate architecture that creates a symbiotic relationship between human and nature. Part 5 further contributed to the way the architecture respects and works with nature. Designing with intentional ruin in mind created a structure that could work with time gracefully, creating a heightened appreciation for nature over many years. 163 164 Reference List Books, Dissertations and Journals Images 1. Browning, W.D. Ryan, C.O. Clancy, J.O. 2014. 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design. New York: Terrapin Bright Green LLC. com/reports/14-patterns/#front-matter> [Accessed 27 September 2021]. [Accessed 9 October 2021]. 2. Bruins, O. 2017. ‘The beauty of dereliction: Designing with ruins and decay’, Dissertation, Delft University of Technology, Delft. 2. 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