Reality vs. Fiction: Kloof Street
by Sebastian van Greunen   
22 September 2010
While playing google earth tourist, I stumbled across my architectural thesis site. The existence of a rather predictable parking & commercial structure made me think about how large the gap between my fiction and Kloof Street's reality was.

My proposed development for this site (done 11 years ago, by the way) was to create a creative centre that immersed itself into the wonderful, buzzing energy of Kloof street, Cape Town. The building comprised of public exhibition spaces, art, sculpture and photographic studios. It also provided vital resources such as fully equipped workshop spaces, a dedicated design library and a cinema space for public or private viewings. The intention was to create a building that invited members of the public to wander in off the street and engage with its occupants.

SITEPLAN

In an attempt to respond to the granular urban fabric of the area, the massing of the building was fragmented into different parts, connected by a pedestrian route that entices the public to venture further into the building. North and South facades of the building were designed to respond to the light conditions required for studio work, while materials such a copper cladding and glass was used extensively.

North East view of model

So, now for the reality... well at least you can park your car and buy a snack.

 


                       
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