School of Architecture and Planning (ETDs)

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End date: 2024Subject: search.filters.subject.SDG-11: Sustainable cities and communities

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Now showing 1 - 10 of 28
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    Fetching fietas: Reclaiming memory through Urban Design
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Kalla, Zakeeya; Makhubu, Jabu Absalom
    This Project aims to bridge the gap between an urban context that acknowledges the past with a constantly evolving urban fabric through the lens of memory. The objectives are to understand Apartheid planning and its consequences in terms of forced removals and the impact thereof on the current urban fabric of Fietas Johannesburg. This project will also study the city of Johannesburg’s initiatives thus far and intended, for renewal and upgrading of Fietas to enable a strategy to assimilate the current and evolving urban landscape of Fietas with the memory of its past. The project will be focused on Fietas in Johannesburg, south Africa. The research will focus predominantly on site analysis and overall observations gained from site visits and secondary sources of information such as previous projects, frameworks from the city and existing data such as zoning and land uses etc. This information together with interviews with previous community members (5 interviews in total) will help guide the design development towards a framework that incorporates the past memory of Fietas with its current and con- stantly evolving urban fabric.
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    Ruins as Record: Reconstructing narratives on a former miners' compound in Germiston
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Morkos, Verena
    Post-apartheid South Africa contains within it the embedded and residual pain of an oppressive regime. Untold narratives are contained within its scarred landscape. Hidden amongst an overgrown landscape, dilapidated concrete and brick walls protrude, presencing forgotten narratives. Once a miners’ compound, owned by Simmer and Jack, these material fragments contain traces of the past. They are archives of erased memories and bodies. One walks amongst the grass-enshrouded ruins as an architect, archaeologist and archivist. Through the lens of architecture and archaeology, the ruins are not seen as static remnants of the past but as a means to understand the past lived experiences of the miners who inhabited the space. The absences among the ruins are a dynamic void within a spatiotemporal realm, bridging the past and the present. This liminal space allows the viewer to interpret the past in a continually evolving manner, allowing for the reconstruction of counter-narratives. The ruins tell a story of the everyday living conditions of thousands of miners on the Witwatersrand. The compound was a machine of oppression and control. In many ways, it acted as a panopticon; it made prisoners out of labourers. The compound barely had the bare necessities to keep the miners alive enough to work. They lacked basic amenities, freedom and were not given the chance to have a voice. Looking at the present-day context of the site, it is central to many industrial factories with blue-collar and precariat workers. They face various challenges in their everyday lives, such as commuting times, inadequate amenities and the need for representation. Their everyday lives are considered and are further explored in terms of ‘tactics’ and ‘strategy’ as written about by Michel De Certeau. Strategy is a system of control imposed on a group of people, and tactics are a way that the ‘everyman’ escapes the control in their daily lives. Looking at the past with the current context of the site raises the question: How can a site of control serve as a canvas for the reconstruction of forgotten memories and the inscription of present-day workers’ counter- narratives? This thesis looks at juxtaposing the site’s history by transforming it into a site that stimulates dialogue between the past’s traumas and the present-day workers’ counter-narratives. The architectural intervention gives control back to the worker, opposing the past conditions where workers were oppressed and controlled. The main programs include a workers’ centre and a counter-archive. This represents the narratives of the present-day worker and the forgotten narratives of the miners. It is an ever-growing archive of the past and the present. Additionally, there are exhibitions representing the everyday life of a mine worker; this leads to the representation of the modern day worker, which takes place amongst the ruins. This allows for the intertwining of new narratives with the old
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    Groundwork: Exploring architecture-environment reciprocity in the Karoo
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) De Fine , Tammy Ohlson; Dörmann, Kirsten
    Groundwork locates architecture in the midst of the environmental crisis and calls on architects to intervene in ways that improve or enhance the condition of the natural world. This project is an architectural collaboration with nature in the Wolwekraal Nature Reserve in Prince Albert, South Africa. The design of a biodiversity research facility refers to existing but siloed theories and research to develop a cohesive approach for the insertion of buildings in sensitive environments. The research framework served as the launchpad for a qualitative analysis that incorporated social, historical, economic and ecological data, ground truthing and multispectral imagery. The building engaged a particular combination of materials, systems and construction methods that allow it to touch the ground lightly while still providing a state of the art, multi-functional research facility that responds to the needs of the multiple communities it is serving. The work challenges the buildings relationship to humans, plants and animals; and aspires to work in harmony with nature by eliciting cues from the environment that point to an architectural intervention the land can tolerate.
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    Interconnected voidscapes: re-imagining Northcliffs cultural landscape through architectural intervention
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mahomed, Nabeel; Francis, Liale
    Voidscape is a term that will be used in the research to describe the interconnected network of social, cultural, and spatial voids within Northcliff, serving as a conceptual framework to analyse the gaps and divisions present in the community’s fabric. This research attempts to identify an urban program that finds significant opportunities for design intervention through a detailed analysis of the neighbourhood, eventually addressing the existing void spaces that potentially promote and ignite positive change in the community. The study will identify strategic avenues for an architectural intervention that are in line with the goals and demands of the community. The urban program will act as a guide for the creation of lively, inclusive public areas that foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity for all residents, regardless of their backgrounds or origins. It encourages a feeling of community and connection among locals through this process
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    Form follows fashion: translating haute couture craft into architectonics
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mutinga, Mercy Ndanu; Hilton, Judin
    Architecture, urban design and urban planning by definition can be opened up to interpretation, much like the reverence of an artist (Barzandeh, 2010). As jacks of all trades, these professions inspire and inform trends through the use and application of colour theories, materials, geometries, design principles and structural techniques (Carroll, 2000). In fashion design, a parallel industry and profession, these objectives, principles and techniques are applied in a similar way to varied subjects seeking to achieve and translate different visions (Barzandeh, 2010). Although seemingly geared in diverging directions, the collision of these industries clasps the potential to create innovative and impeccable end results. Architecture and fashion design have been in prolific dialogue for millennia. They have always been tightly knitted in concept, theory and practice as they originate from the same root, which is art, as critic Noel Carroll described in his book ‘Theories of Art Today’. (Carroll, 2000). Mark Gelernter, an academic and architectural historian asserts that architecture is habitable art while fashion is wearable art (Gelernter, 1995). Fashion designers have consistently appropriated architectonic components into their creations, while architects are increasingly applying elements found in fashion design into building forms (Leung, 2010). When viewed in isolation, these professions appear to be two distinct and separate industries and art forms. However, when these two fields come together, they give rise to a formidable proposition (Barzandeh, 2010). In this new age, the social expression of fashion and architecture have seen revolutionary evolution, and the relationship between the two has become more apparent in each field. This thesis delves into the “dynamic connection” between fashion design and architecture, with a particular emphasis on the societal aspects of architecture and fashion design. It examines how these two fields impact individuals in society over time, influenced by factors such as technology, art, science, and culture. It creates and proposes a blueprint for a fashion institute and museum that recognizes the bold nature of fashion trends, the surface appearance of fashion design, and how it can be interconnected not only with architectural aesthetics but also with functional and spatial design aspects. The objective of this thesis is not just to effectively address the functional, formal, and technological challenges of this relationship between fashion design and the built environment, but also to suggest an urban and architectural design approach or master plan that can be implemented in analogous locations across Johannesburg and Africa at large. As the late Virgil Abloh expressed, “Young architects can change the world by not building buildings”. Young architects can change the world by creating successful and functional spaces through processes of interdisciplinary and collaborative efforts that respond to both contemporary needs and future issues.
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    Architecture of mist: A sacred scents cultural preservation through a traditional incense hub in the Sasong Village, Tibet
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Liang, Mei Han
    At the roof of the world, Tibet reaches toward the sky with a short arm, envi- sioned as a vessel that draws a pro- found connection between the sacred and the earthly realms. The air here is thin and pure, yet vast and bound- less; every breeze carries the whispers of ancient mountains, the soft caress of green meadows, and the silence of endless skies. The mountains offer the cool touch of snow, while the land rises with the sun’s first light, softening into a misty veil as twilight descends. The air is alive—clear, crisp, and fragrant—lad- en with the weight of centuries. If one could imagine every connection to the heavens, every communion with the sacred, and every atmosphere rich with the memory of the land, it would feel as if they were incensed them- selves: infinite and eternal, with the soul brushed by the weightless touch of eternity in the boundless layers of air.Fig 0.6 Opposite Edited Ink Drawing Incense Burner (Author, 2024) An Architecture of Mist for Intervention— this thesis investigates a site in South- east Tibet, the Sasong Village, known as “the village of Sacred Scents and Fog.” Perched on the plateau, the village is steeped in cultural and heritage tradi- tions and is renowned for its high-altitude landscapes and spectacular peach blossoms. While its beauty and cultural significance are celebrated, the region’s ancient incense craftsmanship—deeply rooted in practical rituals—has become endangered, threatening its survival for future generations. This thesis aims to revitalize and reintro- duce this endangered craft into the core of Tibetan culture, restoring local knowledge of Tibet and the attention of the broader world. By considering the needs of the local Tibetans, the unique ecologies, and the ancient craftsman- ship of incense-making, this project uses architecture as a subtle, invisible frame- work. The design leverages transitional spaces to create innovative methodol- ogies, redefining spatial paradigms that honor both tradition and modernity. This architectural approach seeks to ex- plore the “in-betweens”—the interstitial spaces between nature and human in- tervention, between the past and the present, between the monumental and the intimate, and between the imagina- tive and the perceivable. With a deep concern for heritage sites rich in cultural and geological history, protective mea- sures are considered with utmost care. Tibet, an autonomous region long safe- guarded by its remote, high-altitude iso- lation, has nurtured its people with deep rituals and meaningful practices. Yet, to- day, Tibet faces significant challenges, including environmental degradation, cultural erosion, economic disparities, and infrastructural gaps, alongside the delicate balance between tourism de- velopment and cultural preservation. This thesis proposes an Architecture of Mist—a Traditional Incense Hub designed to catalyse architectural intervention, addressing these pressing issues while ensuring that Tibet’s cultural heritage is preserved. The objective is to maintain the ethereal beauty of the landscape while fostering sustainable development for the future. By creating human-scale structures that bridge the surrounding natural environment with thoughtfully im- plemented programs, the project fosters interactions that celebrate and preserve the rich Tibetan incense-making tradition for generations to come. This architec- tural vision aspires to be both a tribute to the past and a promise for the future, ensuring that the cultural essence of Ti- bet continues to thrive amidst the mist.
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    Up the Bucs: Cultivating Community Identity through Sustainable Placemaking and Sports Architecture in Orlando
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Osato, Matteo; Francis, Liale
    The research will thoroughly explore the development of the Orlando Football Complex, ex- ploring how cutting-edge technologies, sustainable design principles, and theoretical frame- works can work together to create a vibrant and inclusive footballing hub for the community of Orlando. An architectural principle that will drive the Orlando Football Complex develop- ment is the theory of “placemaking”, where the research will focus on proposing a football precinct that focuses on building spaces that encourage people’s well-being by supporting social interaction, cultural expression and environmental sustainability. The research aims to show what bringing back Orlando Pirates Football Club to Orlando can do for the commu- nity. The Orlando Football Complex aims to create vibrant, accessible and engaging public spaces that create a sense of place and identity in the community of Orlando. This research will examine the architectural context of Orlando, with the goal to develop the project’s objectives of revitalising under-utilised spaces and building new and inclusive spac- es whilst commemorating Orlando’s rich footballing history. The research will discuss how the Orlando Pirates Training Centre and Orlando Pirates Athletes’ Residences on either side of the Orlando Stadium will connect to the already established urban fabric; how the buffer zone can be converted into an urban park, and how pedestrian walkways will connect through the green belt ultimately stitching the sports complex to the existing urban fabric through di- rect and clear sidewalks. It will also explore how urban connection and urban corridors will be utilised in breaking the existing panopticon street system, transforming Orlando East and West into a walkable city with a lively street life. All of this, with the Orlando Football Complex at the heart of it. South Africa’s rich football history and its key role in the apartheid struggle have influenced the intention and design of the Orlando Football Complex. The Complex will stand as a testament to the power of architecture not only to create phys- ical spaces but to cultivate a vibrant and integrated community. The impact that thoughtful architecture and urban planning can have on social cohesion and well-being is profound and will foster a sense of personal and community identity. The envisioned Orlando Football Complex honours the past, embraces the present and shapes a more inclusive future for the legendary neighbourhood of Orlando.
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    Investigating modal integration of public transport and non-motorised transport in the City of Johannesburg: A case of the Roodepoort CBD
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Prince, Matshika Lindokuhle; Karam, Aly
    This study explored the integration of non-motorized transport (NMT) with public transport in the City of Johannesburg, particularly the Roodepoort CBD. The research investigates the status of NMT infrastructure and public transport services in the city, identifying gaps and opportunities for integration. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to understand the factors influencing successful integration and to highlight best practices from other cities worldwide. The study examined the causes of transport fragmentation and emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges to achieve seamless integration and analyses key enabling factors for successful integration, such as infrastructure planning and design, intermodal facilities, collaboration and coordination, policy, and regular support. Case studies of successful integration of public transport systems Globally are presented to gain practical insights for the implementation of integration strategies. Primary data was collected through interviews with key stakeholders and commuters and field observations were conducted to assess the existing NMT infrastructure and its integration with public transport. Convenience and purposive sampling methods were employed to select participants for the interviews and the data collected is analysed through thematic analysis, allowing for the identification of key themes and pattens relevant to the integration of NMT and public transport in the Roodepoort CBD. The findings of this study reveal that there is a possibility and opportunity for modal integration to occur within the Roodepoort CBD. However, there are various factors that need to be addressed such as the safety and security of pedestrians and the enforcement of regulations in terms of non-motorised transport facilities being used for other means such as street vending. The study concludes by providing recommendations to support the facilitation of this integration of NMT and public transport in the Roodepoort CBD.
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    Bridging Communities. A community centre to encourage and facilitate intergenerational connections in Johannesburg
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Lachman, Kaylene; Hart, Brendan
    The aim of this project is to create a safe space to facilitate and encourage intergenerational connections between the elderly and children whilst revitalising an underused park. The safe space will be a community centre that acts as a social hub where children and the elderly are able to work cohesively alongside each other, allowing for more meaningful interactions and mutual learning between the generations. The connections created through these interactions can foster more trust and empathy in the community. These shared spaces will allow the opportunity for the different generations to mutually benefit from each other. Some of these benefits include skill development, cultural preservation, mentorship programs and the improvement of mental and physical wellbeing of both generations. The intergenerational connections formed in this community centre can combat social isolation amongst the elderly. It can provide an enlightening and educational experience for the children. The revitalisation of the neglected urban space will create an enriching experience for the community as bridging the generational gaps will create deeper community bonds and improve the quality of life for all within the community.
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    Immersed in community : Environmental remediation of a mining-impacted township through collective, participatory agricultural research and production
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Shiburi, Katleho
    The term Witwatersrand translates to “the ridge of white waters”. It derives its name from the low sedimentary hills that stretch east-west across the southern part of Gauteng Province. The Witwatersrand mining belt encompasses areas from the East Rand to the West Rand of Johannesburg, including Soweto, and is mainly characterised by its “West”, “Central”, and “East Rand” sectors. The mining of gold in South Africa, particularly in Johannesburg, has been a primary driver of economic development in the city since its inception. Gold production has influenced Johannesburg’s economic, social, and political histories and left detrimental mining waste evident along the Witwatersrand ridge. This mine waste is produced during the extraction and processing of mineral resources. It often includes waste dumps, slime dams, and other waste storage facilities, which continue to impact the region and the health of communities residing near these waste storage facilities. Issues such as acid-mine drainage and soil pollution, amongst many others, persist even long after the closure of many of these mines. Decades of mining activities have drastically altered the natural landscape and continue to pose environmental and public health risks. Braamfischerville, an RDP settlement situated in the southwest of Johannesburg, is affected by mine tailings that are a stark reminder of gold mining. These tailings are hazardous, posing risks to the health and well-being of residents, the natural environment and livestock within this area through soil contamination, acid mine drainage, and air pollution. In this challenging environment, small-scale community farming has emerged near the mine dump and within residents’ backyards. However, this commendable initiative is overshadowed by the danger it poses due to exposure to harmful dust from the tailings, exacerbating the risks of such agricultural endeavours. Additionally, Braamfischerville grapples with high unemployment, a lack of formal skills development, insufficient communal spaces, and poorly constructed RDP housing, which often lacks partition walls, ceilings, and proper ventilation. These concerns highlight the urgent need for holistic community interventions to address the socio-economic issues prevalent. The proposed intervention aims to repair the toxic landscape by establishing an experimental remediation centre that utilises hemp, a fibrous plant, to remediate the environment. This centre will also provide spaces for research, the manufacturing of hemp into wall and ceiling panels, training, and social interaction, ultimately contributing to the local and township economy.