Sustainability Takes Root: The Fynbos Building Sets New Standards for Cape Town Living

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28-11-2024
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Infrastructure News
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As Cape Town continues to evolve into a hub for innovative architecture, one project stands out: The Fynbos. Set to redefine urban living and sustainability, The Fynbos has made significant strides since construction began late last year.

Developed by Lurra Capital and touted as Africa’s first biophilic building, it promises not only to reshape the city’s skyline but also to set new standards for eco-conscious design and urban sustainability. This innovative mixed-use structure, currently under development on Upper Bree Street, is already capturing the imagination of both local and international audiences.

Growth in Action: Progress Update

According to the developers of The Fynbos, Lurra Capital, work on the site is advancing steadily. The project basement, which officially broke ground in November 2023, is now over 38% complete. “The focus has been on critical groundwork such as lateral support – which ensures the stability of structures, preventing collapse, particularly in projects like basement excavations and foundation work – and bulk earthworks, with piling and the installation of anchors well underway. Notably, stage one of construction has reached 70% completion, while other stages are also progressing smoothly.”

“Safety remains a top priority on the site, and recent safety audits reflect the dedication of the team, with a 95.97% audit result. This shows a strong commitment to not just timely progress but also a safe working environment.”

Biophilic Design: Nature Meets Architecture

“The Fynbos is more than just a building. It is a vision of what future cities can look like, blending natural and urban elements seamlessly,” says Paul Upton, Head of Developments for DG Properties, sales agents for The Fynbos. Designed to incorporate biophilic principles, this 24-storey development features a stunning 1,200m² vertical garden on its façade. This garden, comprising 30 indigenous tree species and 20 indigenous shrub species, is supported by a highly sophisticated water and nutrient system, including integrated irrigation that facilitates a fully smart watering system to ensure the greening of the building is integral to its daily operation and maintenance. Moreover, the unique “flying gardeners” maintenance concept will enhance the sustainability of The Fynbos. The façade works will start four levels below the structural line, allowing biophilic technology and planting to commence as the structure rises. This means that planting will begin before the building construction has topped out, ensuring that plant growth will be a feature at the lower levels upon occupation. The building also champions sustainable living by integrating cutting-edge eco-friendly solutions. Solar panels will generate double the energy required to power communal areas, and a rainwater harvesting system is designed to complement the building’s low-flow fittings and well-point filtration. The expansive windows, double-glazed to reduce energy consumption, further enhance the sustainability credentials of the project.

Market Response: A Growing Appetite for Sustainable Living

“The real estate market has shown robust interest in The Fynbos, with demand for these biophilic apartments remaining strong,” advises Keith Anderson, Sales agent for DG Properties. “This correlates with recent data, showing a noticeable shift in property markets globally, with an increasing appetite for developments that prioritise sustainability and wellness.” In South Africa, this trend is especially prominent in cities like Cape Town, where eco-conscious buyers are driving demand for homes designed with environmental and well-being considerations. According to a 2024 report, Cape Town has seen substantial interest in decentralised, eco-friendly properties, including those with sustainable energy and water management systems.  An additional report emphasises how Cape Town’s skyline is increasingly defined by developments that blend modern luxury with sustainability​. A report on real estate sustainability trends highlights that urban developments are focusing more on carbon neutrality, biodiversity, and wellness features. This trend is echoed by the World Economic Forum, which notes that real estate portfolios worldwide must adapt to include environmental and wellness-focused design to meet the demands of a post-pandemic world​. “The Fynbos offers a range of apartment sizes and prices to cater to diverse buyers. Studio units start at R1.560 million, with one-bedroom apartments beginning at R3.055 million. For those seeking more space, two-bedroom apartments are available starting at R6.068 million. According to Keagan James of DG Properties, “The Fynbos has garnered attention from both local and international buyers, reflecting the growing desire for homes that provide a harmonious balance between modern urban living and nature.”

A Blueprint for Future Cities

The overarching design principles of The Fynbos not only align with local needs but resonate with a global shift towards sustainable and resilient cities. The rising popularity of biophilic buildings, as seen in eco-villages and green urbanism across the world, highlights the growing importance of nature-infused spaces. The ecovillage principles that prioritise natural ecosystems, community integration, and green spaces are being applied on a grand scale with The Fynbos, offering Cape Town a blueprint for future developments. “As construction progresses and the project moves closer to completion, The Fynbos is not just a building in Cape Town – it’s a beacon for sustainable, eco-friendly urban living. Cape Town residents, property investors, and environmentalists alike will undoubtedly be watching this space with great anticipation,” concludes Upton.