UBUNTUCURVE
THE CONVERGENCE OF SOUTH AFRICAN CULTURES AND LANDSCAPES
UBUNTU CURVE
The cultural convergence of South African culture and landscapes
Ubuntu Curve is designed to celebrate the convergence of South African cultures through a multifunctional, modular seating solution for public spaces. The concept emphasises unity, community interaction, and cultural heritage while providing a versatile platform that adapts to the dynamic needs of urban environments. The design integrates contemporary South African aesthetics with modern functionality, creating a product that is as visually appealing as it is practical.
Key features
- Modular Design - Informal Trading Stall - Cultural Representation - Cobblestone Threshold - Material Section - Eco-friendly Materials - Bicylcle Parking - Easy Assembly and dismantling
A quality that includes the essential human virtues;
FEATURES
1. MODULAR & ADAPTABLE DESIGN
Can be arranged in various configurations to create seating clusters, extended benches, or communal tables.
Easy to assemble, disassemble, and reconfigure for different public space needs.
2. MULTIFUNCTIONALITY
Seating & Table Integration: The bench connects to form tables for social interaction.
Bicycle Parking: Integrated bike parking slots promote eco-friendly transport.
Trading Stall Adaptability: Flexible edges can be used as small stalls for informal traders.
Wheelchair Accessibility: Designed to be inclusive, with dedicated space for wheelchair users
3. INNOVATIVE STRUCTURE & MATERIALS
Curvilinear Form: Creates a light and organic feel, making the furniture inviting and visually appealing.
Material Choice:
Frame: 8mm bent galvanised steel plates (powder-coated in black) for durability and rust resistance.
Seating Surface: Smooth hardwood slats, ensuring comfort and heat resistance. Fixings: Anti-rust steel screws secure the slats and plates.
Weather Resistance: High protection against UV rays and heat-resistant materials enhance longevity.
4. AESTHETIC & CULTURAL IDENTITY
African-Inspired Geometric Cutouts: Decorative metal cutouts reflect local heritage.
Earthy Color Palette: Natural wood, black metal, and cultural accent colours
LED Lighting: Subtle LED strips accentuate the curves, making it stand out at night.
5. SUSTAINABILITY & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
VOC-Free Materials: Ensures environmentally friendly production. Recyclable & Durable Materials: Designed for long-term sustainability.
Cobblestone Threshold: Surrounding cobblestones define the public seating zone and integrate Proudly South African materials.
6. COMMERCIAL VIABILITY & MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY
Ease of Manufacturing: Simple assembly with pre-cut modular parts.
Cost-Effective Production: Efficient use of materials reduces costs while maintaining quality.
Scalability: Suitable for urban spaces, transport hubs, parks, shisa nyama and universities.
TSHEPO COFFEE
A man ’s dream of serving students, one coffee at a time The client requested a design for a Coffee Shop. The coffee shop will be situated at the University of NorthWest University, Mafikeng. One of the desires for the design was that shipping containers be used as part of the design. The brief includes programmatic functions such as a Social Lounge, Kitchen, Cold Room and Activity Lounge. The design response was creating a Ushaped typology which uses shipping containers to define the space. On top of the Social Lounge there is an Entertainment space in which patrons can enjoy their coffee. The steel structure is used for shelter for the activity Lounge and bring a sense of community for the students, to gather. The container doors can be opened to create an extension of space.
