ARCHITECTS
THABA ECO VILLAGE RESIDENTIAL, LIFESTYLE CENTRE AND MONTESSORI SCHOOL
B alwin Properties has long been recognised as a leader in the residential green building space, and now its Classic collection developments are taking the green building to new heights. All targeting EDGE advanced apartments and GBCSA 6 Star Green Star New Build and Net Zero Carbon ratings for their lifestyle centres and Montessori’s. Balwin aims to be the leading developer in the residential market. Thaba-Eco village recently won the International Properties Award for best Apartment and Architecture Multiple Residence for South Africa. Thaba-Eco Village is nestled at the foot of the Klip Riviers nature reserve offering the home-owners and lifestyle centre visitors to utilise the 300 hectares nature reserve for hiking, running and cycling. The residential blocks, consisting of a mix of 1,2, and 3 bedrooms are carefully designed to minimise its carbon footprint and optimise the human scale of each block. The lifestyle centre and Montessori are situated on a separate secured precinct allowing the public to visit the amenities offered. Balwin Properties CEO, Steve Brooks, says that
the Classic Collection developments are close to his heart as he sees them paving the way to the South African dream of a home for everyone. “We believe they are the obvious choice for home-buyers who want to manage their carbon footprint and reduce energy consumption. They are affordably priced and meet the expectations of a growing number of buyers who strive to be environmentally conscious.” By exposing every green intervention and making it part of the aesthetic, as opposed to submerging it in the fabric of the building and surrounding landscape, its value and importance are shared within the community. The concept forefronts green design as a living principle that will influence greater awareness and ultimately change behaviour. Tied into the concept is the urban design of the development, which places importance on walkability within purpose-planned green belts, pocket parks, and nature reserve in and around the estate to encourage outdoor activity within the community. Up to 30% of the overall project is used for the development of pocket parks and walkways
STRIP H: ALLIED CRANE
86 21 st Best Project Awards 2022
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