4 minute read
A Striking and Breathtaking Sight on the Wild Plains of South Africa
Radiating a bold, warm and masculine energy, Urban Industrial Abode is timeless, simple, and intricate in its detailing and design. Situated amongst a lush green environment in Johannesburg, South Africa, the residence possesses deep contrasts in its architectural style, yet works harmoniously well together, creating a symbiosis that establishes a perfect space for comfortable family living.
Founded in Lanseria, Johannesburg, Veld Architects execute a professional and passionate approach, specialising in detailing and manufacturing furnishings to deliver intricately designed interiors and architecture, fulfilling their clients’ vision of their perfect homes. The team at Veld Architects adopted a strong philosophy towards sustainable design, emphasising that while they are followers of form, remaining true to functional aspects of a home are essential.
The vision of Urban Industrial Abode was to combine the natural surroundings with masculine architecture, creating a family home with a softened touch that retains its striking, unique style. The design brief required Veld Architects to blur the lines between interior and exterior, as the clients desired to maximise the interior space, celebrating their spacious garden and the large trees that are a part of the wider environment. A central courtyard was designed to form a safe space against the elements, yet the space incorporates more of the natural environment at its centre. Large stack doors and windows are designed to open up, providing an abundance of warm light and breathtaking views of the garden, accentuating the visual aspect of the wider landscape.
The project presented many challenges for the team at Veld Architects, as they endeavoured to deliver the perfect residence for their clients. The team introduced wood as an external material, as well as grey and earth-coloured tones that create a contrast with the charcoal elements in the design. The implementation of natural elements were designed to soften the exterior, creating a stark comparison with the cladded masculine façade and simplistic forms. Furthermore, the site is situated in a panhandle, which was an initial challenge to address in terms of the approach to the home. However, Veld Architects designed a creative and versatile solution to overcome such an obstacle. The garages of the residence form the first point of entry, while the introduction of a stunning roof garden and a fine-detail, custommade front door creates a more inviting approach against the stark concrete block.
The implementation of natural materials is illustrated throughout the interior of the home. Vibrant colours are used to accentuate the elements, and ceramic custom tiles are incorporated to create a homely and unique atmosphere. The move to include such materials in the design initially presented itself as an area of difficulty for Veld Architects, however such a design process was important for the team, and their hard work has brought a purposeful warmth to the interiors. A seamless and balanced design flows throughout the interior and exterior architecture, with meticulous detailing of all the elements. Describing the journey to get the project to its final stage, Gillian Holl, Principal of Veld Architects, highlights that “thinking out the box” was an important part of the process in order to “achieve objects of beauty without the necessary resources at hand.” Urban Industrial Abode celebrates its cultural roots, as custom work was designed in conjunction with various artists and craftsmen to celebrate the South African narrative in design. For their unique and bold design of Urban Industrial Abode, Veld Architects have been shortlisted for Residential Property Value £5 Million Plus in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020. Commenting on the influence of the Awards, Gillian Holl highlights that “it acknowledges great design and inspires us to do better, not only for our clients, but for the environment and all humankind.”
A key aspect of the design is the main entrance western wall, an in situ wall on the western façade. The goal was to generate interest for guests entering from the western side, as well as establishing a relationship between the visitor and the context. Due to the wall being on the western side, the team had to implement light boxes that would allow the guests to glimpse at the vista views without sacrificing comfort due to the harsh western sun. Such a move led to small protrusions in the concrete, successfully establishing the connection between the visitor and the design, and further allowing enough light and pattern to enthral the observer.
The homeowners of Urban Industrial Abode have expressed their satisfaction and enjoyment of achieving their perfect residence, commenting that “Veld Architects facilitated the building of our dream home both fulfilling the brief and marrying a stark building to its natural surroundings.” With a touch of personalisation, warm and inviting interiors, and a strong exterior, Veld Architects have delivered a perfect sanctuary for their client’s. Urban Industrial Abode is designed to provide safety from the harsh elements of the outdoors, yet incorporates well into its environment, celebrating the South African climate in all its glory.
