Reclaiming lost space : a centre for sports and education development in the Pretoria city centre

Abstract

The dissertation considers contemporary theory with regards to unprogrammed space and the impact of such space on the urban environment. The intrinsic relationship between programmed and unprogrammed space is defined, resulting in a formal translation in terms of an architectural intervention. Lost space is the evidence of inept urban planning and this study attempts to reintegrate an entire city block into the urban fabric of the city. The exploration of a new programme into the area, takes the form of a sports and education facility in an urban park. The final proposal creates a place of relief in the city, with Pretoria's inherent vernacular used as a generator of form. The design unifies a disparate community by using sport as a bridge builder and providing a canvas for urban exchange.