Biomedical Research Institute

The overall concept for the landscape architecture was a modern contemporary design in keeping with the design of the new building by Roelof Rabe Architects to create spaces that provide respite from the intense environment of the campus. Further to this concept it is recognized that it is within these outside spaces that social interaction takes place. The design concentrated on promoting and facilitation positive outdoor space.

The detail design of the walls and pergolas took this into consideration to allow for multi -functional use of space. TERRA+ Landscape Architects were responsible for the layout of the space and the design and detailing of the hard-landscaping elements such as pergolas, paving and other landscape elements.

Through-out the design process there was a focus on allowing the outside spaces to permeate the inside spaces with echoes of the paving patterns reflected in the floor patterns of the atrium space, strengthening the indoor-outdoor connection. Careful selection of trees for the atrium space was considered to ameliorate the space for human comfort.

The planting palette was carefully considered to use endemic species where possible and an overall indigenous plant palette from the rich fynbos floral kingdom of the Western Cape. The diversity of the fynbos biome provides seasonal change and interest which contributes to the sense of place and identity. The selection of plants is also water-wise and resilient to the climatic changes typical of the context.

Photographs by David Savage, Southland Photography