Theses and Dissertations (Architecture)

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Exploring opportunities and challenges in cultivating traditional African crops for sustainable urban agriculture : insights from the Melusi underprivileged community
(University of Pretoria, 2024-06) Botes, Karen; u29192910@tuks.co.za; Louw, Anrea
Urban agriculture (UA) is increasingly recognised for its potential to enhance food security in cities, yet integrating Traditional African Crops (TACs) into Sustainable Urban agriculture (SUA) remains underexplored, particularly in underprivileged communities like Melusi in Tshwane, South Africa. This study explores the opportunities and challenges of TACs integration in Melusi's SUA to address severe food insecurity and improve environmental, social and economic spheres of sustainability exacerbated by financial constraints and limited access to nutritious food. This research employs a qualitative approach grounded in the interpretive paradigm. It employs semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with Melusi community members and stakeholders. Thematic analysis is conducted using ATLAS. Ti software to identify patterns and insights on SUA practices, community perceptions of TACs, and barriers to implementation. Themes explored include SUA's socio-economic impacts, TACs' cultural significance, and environmental sustainability in urban agriculture. Recommendations include tailored strategies for enhancing local food production, fostering community engagement, and effectively integrating TACs into SUA initiatives to improve food security and resilience in Melusi.
Informal adaptations : reworking informal trades connection to city public spaces and building interfaces
(University of Pretoria, 2025-01) Toffah, Tariq; u19111292@tuks.co.za; Dlamini, Lesedi
This project, titled "Informal Adaptations: Reworking informal trades connection to city public spaces and building interfaces," focuses on the design of a mixed-use development at 232 Boom St, Daspoort 319-Jr, Pretoria, 0001 (GPS coordinates: -25.738708, 28.189034), with the aim of integrating informal traders into the urban fabric. The project is situated within a context of urban neglect and underutilization of public spaces, specifically addressing the challenges faced by informal traders in accessing secure and serviced trading spaces. The Department of Architecture's research field on urban regeneration and social inclusion provides the theoretical framework for this project. While there is no specific client, the project serves the needs of the informal traders in Tshwane, aiming to improve their livelihoods and promote their integration into the city. The theoretical premise underpinning the project is the belief that informal trade plays a vital role in the urban economy and should be supported and integrated into the city's fabric rather than marginalized. The project aims to create a more inclusive and vibrant urban environment by providing informal traders with access to secure trading spaces, essential infrastructure, and opportunities for social interaction and economic growth.
A posthumanist critique of PRASA’s Metrorail infrastructure and its contribution to perpetuated inequalities of the majority, Hatfield, Pretoria
(University of Pretoria, 2023-07) Devenish, Paul; Toffa, Tariq; chrisjt388@gmail.com; Thompson, Christopher
This research is contextualised in the post-apartheid urban environment railway infrastructure of PRASA’s Metrorail, which has inherited many stations with built forms, structures and operations informed by the apartheid era’s spatial planning policies, and practices. Apartheid adapted and applied modernist principles to spatial planning, which created built environments of mono-functionality, rationality, operational efficiency, and racial segregation. This resulted in spaces of austerity which currently limits social justice, economic efficiency, and environmental sustainability. PRASA’s Metrorail is currently experiencing infrastructure failure, vandalism, and crime, which has prompted the implementation of station revitalisation strategies as part of their modernisation programme. The modernisation programme aims to also reflect their values of ‘safety’, ‘fairness and integrity’, ‘teamwork’, ‘service excellence’, ‘communication’, and ‘performance driven’. This research investigates the recently revitalised Rissik Station as a case study for similar passenger railway station typologies, to uncover inherited apartheid rational non-human systems that may persist and perpetuate inequity for its users, through a posthuman critique. Applying the posthumanist critique to Rissik Station helps reveal nuanced interactions between the entangled human and non-human actors (hard and soft infrastructures) to understand and make explicit what is implicit about the station that others the human component.
Emthonjeni urban park : utilising landscape narratives as an informant for decolonized landscape design approaches
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Shand, Dayle; mabaso.siphiwe@gmail.com; Mabaso, Siphiwe
The City of Tshwane is largely devoid of formally provided Public Open Space for Afrocentric cultural activities related to nature and landscape – which at present often take place in rural landscapes. This has implications for identity making and feeling ‘at home’ in the city. The aim of this project is to create an urban park that gives the residents of Malusi informal settlement, (who are mostly from rural landscapes and urban settings outside of the highly urbanized province of Gauteng) a feeling of ‘home’ in the city. Simultaneously, the project aims to addressing the shortage of public spaces in the city, and specifically in informal peripheral areas, while also reinstating the City of Tshwane’s Nursery to a functional and meaningful landscape in the urban fabric. The South African landscape, and people’s relationships to it, are deeply scarred by the abhorrent and discriminatory planning of the apartheid and colonial governing systems, evident in the 1913 Natives Land Act (27 of 1913) and the Development Trust and Land Act (18 or 1936). The forceful removal of people from the land has impacted how people now use and relate to spaces, especially in urban environments. Spatial inequality is South Africa, resulting from past laws and race based spatial planning, excluded the needs of Africans in urban areas and persists today. This means that even today most African urban residents stay the furthest from the city due to the inherited apartheid spatial planning patterns, where parks and other natural resource-related services remain limited in light of the high population levels in these areas. The impact of this, is that there are limited spaces, which truly represent African use of space, and which could support the daily, and lifetime needs of urban residents, especially in light of the fact that urbanization remains an upward trend in South Africa and will ultimately further change people’s relationship to the landscape. The aim of the project is to use the concept of ‘biocultural diversity’ as a tool in designing public open space. Biocultural diversity is an approach that argues against the predominant worldview where culture and nature are in opposition, and instead promotes an argument that they are intertwined. The narratives, and experiences shared by participants in the research project undertaken earlier in the year, as well as the authors own personal understanding of African place-making and use, are used as informants to create an urban park where cultural activities can take place. The design approach also integrates current activities that are happening in an around the existing site, while upgrading the site to be a landscape that connects people from home through the provision of spaces to perform cultural activities, farm, and harvest medicinal plants, and to relate back nature.
Unlocking urban potential : an assessment of the limitations found within external urban connectivity networks and amenity accessibility opportunities within Tshwane’s mixed-use precincts, to determine resident suitability
(University of Pretoria, 2024-06-28) Devenish, Paul; Toffah, Tariq; aphelelezndlovu@gmail.com; Ndlovu, Aphelele Z.
In light of South Africa's history of segregation, patterns of exclusion still exist in the urban context. Mixed-use developments have been one of the interventions in a post-apartheid context used to address these persistent historical socio-spatial barriers, by integrating a range of close residential and non-residential compatible socio-economic opportunities within the same area or parcel of land, in the hopes of fostering connected and inclusive urban environments. Though this was the intention, currently these environments still exhibit infrastructural, social, economic, and mobility challenges that hinder inclusivity. Through a quantitative comparative case study analysis conducted on mixed-use high streets within Sunnyside and Hatfield respectively, that investigates the existing external connectivity and accessibility networks. The study aims to uncover existing limitations within these networks that prevent social cohesion and impact their suitability for holistic residency. The desktop study included a macro and meso scale analysis of the precincts to situate the precincts amongst existing potential natural and infrastructural barriers, and amenity opportunities as prescribed by the CSIR sustainable settlements frameworks. In addition, observational analysis documented micro scale human engagements with soft and hard infrastructures. 20 Interviews were conducted with current residents of the respective precincts,which focused on their lived experiences of the amenity opportunities within the precinct. The study found that Hatfield’s high street and its surrounding programmes are better externally connected to the broader context of Pretoria compared to Sunnyside, due to the larger transport offerings. In terms of the amenity offerings, there is satisfaction with the offerings, as the various opportunities support the main reason for habitation, being close proximity to work,education, and affordable housing options. In addition, both precinct amenities options adhere to the CSIR prescribed requirements. Though this is the case, there are expressed desires for more health care and educational facilities in Sunnyside, and entertainment opportunities in Hatfield. Additionally, observations and interviews revealed that both precincts show a lack of hard infrastructure offerings that support informal activities like informal trade particularly in Sunnyside. However the street edges and thresholds in Hatfield facilitated more interaction and inclusion opportunities between the street, the pedestrian and the building programme than in Sunnyside. Amongst both precincts, a common concern was regarding lack of safety within the neighbourhood and the high street. Therefore, the results show a combination of negative and positive remarks. Above all else, the findings shows that the adherence to framework requirements does not promise satisfactory results, but there needs to be closer attention paid to the site and its intangible demographic specific needs to foster more inclusive multifunctional environments.
Pretoria heritage layers : developing a heritage catalogue for iron age settlements found in the (former) Transvaal
(University of Pretoria, 2023-07-24) Swart, Johan; adiimacdonald@gmail.com; MacDonald, Adrienne
The study of heritage has become a distinct research area in the academic world and has a profound influence on society. Over the last century, many organisations have developed charters to aid in the global conservation and protection of heritage resources. Through the use of heritage values developed by these organisations, heritage authorities have the tools to determine the significance of important heritage sites. Organisations, such as UNESCO, have taken these sites and developed a catalogue of heritage resources that can be found on an international scale. The South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA) has followed suit and developed a list of important heritage resources that can be found throughout the country, and that are deemed important at either a national, provincial, or local scale. However, the current list does not contain many of the cultural landscapes that this country encompasses. The Iron Age is a crucial period in South Africa’s historical narrative, and SAHRA’s heritage resource list only contains two of many Iron Age settlements found in the country. This leaves an unfortunate gap in the heritage resource list, which affects the public awareness of these cultural landscapes. In this study, a concise list of Iron Age settlements found in the Transvaal will be established. These sites will be interpreted through the use of a heritage value matrix to determine their cultural significance. Thereafter the sites will be added to data sheets that can be used as the beginning of a concise catalogue containing important heritage resources found in the country.
Assessing urban dynamics in Johannesburg’s public space : highlighting urban segregation and connectivity patterns of public space from an urban psychology perspective
(University of Pretoria, 2024-06) Devenish, Paul; Hugo, Jan; verushagovender12@gmail.com; Govender, Verusha
This research investigates patterns of urban segregation and connectivity in public recreational spaces within the City of Johannesburg, focusing on Innesfree Park and Frank Brown Park along the Corridors of Freedom development spines. Situated in a post-apartheid context, these parks symbolise spaces historically marked by segregation, Now, revitalisation efforts are being undertaken to promote social cohesion. The study uses an urban psychology lens to explore how architectural design elements and social psychological processes influence the formation of connections or divisions among diverse user groups in these public park settings. Through qualitative desktop and fieldwork analysis, the research aimed to uncover nuanced insights into how these public spaces are experienced. By examining the dynamics of segregation and connection, this study contributes to understanding the complexities of urban public space in post-apartheid South Africa. The findings reveal multifaceted insights into the mechanisms influencing segregation and connection at macro, meso, and micro scales. Macro analyses highlight the significance of proximity and access to high-movement spines in promoting or hindering connections. Conversely, the study identifies how historical spatial exclusion and infrastructural barriers perpetuate segregation, particularly evident in post-apartheid South Africa. At the meso scale, the research delves into infrastructure arrangements and public interfaces, emphasizing their role in facilitating or impeding social cohesion. It examines how poorly designed infrastructures, influenced by historical spatial planning, continue to segregate communities despite contemporary urban initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity. Micro-level analyses focus on user perceptions and architectural articulation within these public spaces which symbiotically form mechanisms that foster connections and segregations in public urban spaces. Insights indicate that while certain design interventions and user driven programs promote connections, others inadvertently isolate communities, highlighting the complex interplay between space design and social dynamics. This study contributes novel insights into the field of urban psychology offering practical implications for policymakers and urban planners. By understanding these dynamics, stakeholders can leverage urban spaces to foster inclusive communities and mitigate social segregation in diverse urban contexts.
Patterns of urban public space utilisation in an African city and rapid urbanisation : social and economic networks and their influence on public space on Robert Sobukwe Street, Sunnyside
(University of Pretoria, 2024-06) Toffah, Tariq; marks.gwangwa@gmail.com; Gwangwa, Marks Moshoeu
The study investigates spatial dynamics and patterns of urban public space utilisation in an African city, with a specific focus on Robert Sobukwe Street in Sunnyside, Pretoria. The study aims to examine contemporary issues with spatial consequences affecting African urban public spaces. Key concerns in this study include the effects of rapid urbanisation or urban migration and the interplay of formal and the informal sector on urban public spaces. Through a qualitative research approach, the study identified a link between socio-economic issues and the need for using urban public space for generating income. The aim was to find patterns and generate a general conclusion, giving readers an insight on how densely populated streets, with a diverse range of activities, functions in an African city. This information provides a perception on how rapid urbanisation will affect African urban public spaces on a larger scale. The study also reveals policy gaps in managing the informal sector in urban environments, while exploring the tensions between the law, human rights, and policies. Recommendations include the revision of local frameworks to better support the informal sector and the provision of supporting facilities.
The role of public space in the informal realm of urban centres: how to support informal trade in African cities
(University of Pretoria, 2024-09) Toffah, Tariq; dlamz.inc@gmail.com; Dlamini, Lesedi
With an emphasis on the connections between informal vendors and formal public spaces, this study examines the critical role that public spaces play in promoting urban expansion within African cities. The study uses a multidisciplinary approach to find creative solutions that use public spaces as catalysts to build sustainable, lively, and egalitarian urban settings. The first part of the study looks at how public spaces have changed historically, emphasising changes towards commercialization as well as the necessity of decolonization and cultural inclusion. After that, it explores the intricacies of urban growth, the significance of religion, the unofficial sector of the economy, and the varied ways in which public spaces are used. Through involving a broad range of stakeholders, such as vendors, legislators, local communities, and urban planners, the study effectively depicts the intricate dynamics involved in the development, utilisation, and administration of public spaces. The results underscore the necessity of implementing inclusive and contextually sensitive urban planning and design techniques that tackle crucial concerns, including infrastructure, safety, and regulatory assistance. Important discoveries emphasise the need for inclusive, well-kept public areas to sustain street vendors' livelihoods and improve the standard of living in metropolitan areas. For vendors and customers alike, safe and appealing settings require enhanced infrastructure, streamlined regulatory procedures, and aggressive municipal support. The study emphasises how public spaces may drive urban expansion by promoting social connection, economic opportunity, and cultural expression. By offering practical insights and policy recommendations targeted at converting public spaces into efficient catalysts for sustainable urban growth, the study adds to the larger conversation on urban development. In the end, this study provides a viable route for creating more dynamic, resilient, and equitable urban ecosystems in African cities.
Architectural education with special reference to the University of Pretoria
(University of Pretoria, 1960) Sandrock, Brian Allan Theodor
This thesis concerns the education of arci1itects, with one of its chosen objects to bring into focus a particular aspect of a broad contemporary problem - the reconciliation of technology and the spirit. Indeed it must be openly admitted that this work was prc~,ted in the first instance by the sincere belief that such a reconciliation is not only possible, but a matter of profound necessity. It is written in the teeth of increasing specialization, fully mindfull of the manifold responsibilities that will befall the architect if he is to maintain his age-old role of bringing together in harmony all the technological, materialistic, and spiritual aspects of human endeavour-; but in the ready conviction that it is entirely for the good that such a high aim be accomplished. It is not intended to labour the wider aspects, since they are well enough known - but it behoves any thinking person to be attuned to the overall state of things aro~nd him, being so enabled to relate the details of his own particular line of experience to the situation as a whole. In the face of a landslide of technological advance, aesthetic and spiritual values tend to become obscured, outdated and ignored - scientific knowledge becomes increasingly impersonal and overwhelming. The pattern of serious thought shifts uneasily in search of equilibrium in the field of relentless new forces; while popular philosophy floats inevitably according to the ebb and flow of circumstances. The educationalist is ever more in need of a wide and steady understanding. Never-the-less, this work is concerned primarily with a limited field-; architectural education, with special reference to the University of Pretoria. As such it demands a quiet assessment of a fairly intimate situation, rather than a global compilation of references and cross-references. In the long run the findings must be a matter of opinion - and it seems that the basic ingredients of sound opinion will be found in quiet and time. The material itself is at hand. Furthermore the compilation of notes will be attempted with due respect for the astrigent qualities of brevity and explicity, albeit at the expense of finer subtleties of meaning and interpretation. At its best the work will be a positive probe into the problem. That it could provide a final and unequivocal answer has never been expected.
Food & the future : mapping food security for urban digital town
(University of Pretoria, 2023-08-01) Davey, Calayd; Van der Hoven, Christo; kylahloots@gmail.com; Loots (neé van Schalkwyk), Kylah-Brunhilde
Urban Digital Twins (UDTs) have huge potential to initiate change but are not yet mature enough to be useable since many aspects of cities, such as social fabric, still need to be integrated within the models. In response to this critique, this study investigates a subset of the social fabric: food security. Food systems are an integral part of the social fabric of cities, influencing community health, culture and identity. This study has a dual aim: firstly, to explore how the social fabric of a city can be mapped and classified to be digital twin ready and ultimately add to the UDT and secondly, to comment on the food security of Hatfield. The study will define food security in a specific taxonomy within Hatfield's context and set the foundation for the research methodology.This report falls within the pragmatic paradigm. Within a pragmatic paradigm, the research design is expansive and uses a mixed methodology that integrates quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. The research methods include grounded theory, desktop research, GIS mapping, GIS analysis using comparative methodology, case studies and descriptive statistics. To support data analysis, ArcGIS and Web of Science were used as instruments for data collection and analysis. Hatfield is more food secure than initially believed, however, many possibilities exist to increase access. Since food security has four pillars, it is evident that Hatfield is food secure in some regards and food insecure in others. In terms of the availability of food outlets, Hatfield can be deemed food secure, whereas food security decreases in terms of nutrition. From the maps, two main concerns emerged: Lack of connectedness and lack of nutrition. Hatfield can be classified within the nuanced taxonomy as ‘non-stable, but physical, and financial access to producer with less nutritional food’. Future research should consider mapping the average income and financial ability of residents to understand the affordability of restaurants in the area. Investigating each pillar of food security in more detail, including the cultural layer, would further enhance the understanding of food security in Hatfield. UDTs have the power to redefine African cities, igniting positive transformations. Through mapping and classifying the food security of Hatfield, profound insights have been gained into the methodology of mapping social fabric and the state of its food security.
Topomythopoiesis : the expression and reception of classical mythology in gardens from antiquity to 1800
(University of Pretoria, 2024-04-17) Barker; johan-nel.prinsloo@up.ac.za; Prinsloo, Johan Nel
This thesis introduces ‘topomythopoiesis’ as a distinct genre of landscape place-making that deliberately evokes myths. A theoretical framework was developed to elucidate the relationship between myths and the gardens that manifest them. Based on theories of perception and garden reception, it is posited that designed ‘topomyths’ are not to be understood as physical incarnations of myths, but as compositions of emblematic, spatial and somatic signifiers that summon a virtual landscape. This imagined place is cultivated within the garden dweller through their acquaintance with the verbal and visual representations of myths. When this immaterial dimension of landscape is brought in relation with the sensory – an act of participation – enchantment is felt. This thesis provides the first panoramic history of the continual expression and reception of classical myths in gardens as an exemplary tradition of topomythopoiesis, from its origins in the cult sanctuaries of ancient Greece up to its decline in the landscape gardens of the late nineteenth century. A broad, multidisciplinary literature review of secondary and primary sources was undertaken to write a series of chronological episodes that each focuses on different aspects of classical topomythopoiesis. It was found that the tradition was transmitted through various means: the artistic mimesis of statue and spatial types; the dissemination of the myths (both ancient and re-imagined, both verbal and visual); the collation and elucidation of mythical iconography in emblem books; the visualisation and theorising of topomythopoiesis in design treatises; and the cultivation of participation through poetic and polemic literature and guidebooks. First-hand accounts of garden reception confirm that classical topomyths were encountered through participation to offer glimpses into the virtual landscape of Arcadia. Thus, classical topomythopoiesis serves as an example of a way of place-making that invites a participatory mode of reception that pursues enchantment, and has potential to be employed in the face of the disenchanted world of modernity.
African identity in architecture : Guiding principles for the architectural design of traditional health practices in Gauteng, South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2023-08) Breed, Christina; Stafford, Gary; jkmolebatsi@gmail.com; Molebatsi, John Kagiso
The practice of traditional medicine, in its various forms and to varying degrees, has always been an integral part of the majority of South African’s lives. Among indigenous people, the practice of traditional medicine is highly revered, however, these African traditions were not valued under colonial rule. This has resulted in the largely informal, underdeveloped, and unregulated traditional healthcare sector that persist today. Currently, there are no purpose-built spaces for traditional health practices. The aim of this study is to assess the state of the practice of traditional medicine in South Africa, and through semi-structured interviews, develop guiding architectural design principles for the construction of consulting spaces for traditional health practitioners in an urban context in Gauteng. The following research question guided the study: What are the guiding principles for the spatial and material design of consultation spaces for traditional health practices in Gauteng that can enhance meaning response through a strong African identity? A qualitatively inductive and deductive content analysis of the interviews provided rich primary data for interrogation guided by the research question. The findings reveal that, firstly, the practice of traditional medicine is still pertinent to the indigenous people, including those in an urban setting such as Gauteng. Secondly, there are guiding principles that define the practice of traditional medicine. These include location, orientation, preferred indigenous fractals, steaming and bathing facilities, storage of muti (traditional medicine), outside spaces and landscape, and amabhayi (printed cloths with strong cultural motifs). Thirdly, there are unique colours, materials, and artefacts that are significant to the practice of traditional medicine. Lastly, indigenous healers are facing unique challenges when practicing and performing rituals in urban settings. In conclusion, the study makes recommendations regarding the design process, the arrangement of internal spaces, indigenous symbols, construction materials, the interior décor, the design of the landscape, the construction process, and post-construction maintenance.
Green infrastructure planning principles for improved decision-making at the site development design stage at the City of Tshwane
(University of Pretoria, 2023-12) Breed, Ida; tania@bpla.co.za; Du Plessis, Tania
Globally, researchers advocate the potential of green infrastructure applications to contribute to inclusive, safe and sustainable cities as captured by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number 11. Socio-economic urgencies and political agendas often overshadow green infrastructure opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa. The development and incorporation of implementable, context-based green infrastructure planning principles in spatial planning policies and frameworks are scant in many Sub-Saharan African cities, and so is research on green infrastructure. This study considers the challenges and opportunities that city officials face with green infrastructure planning when enforcing minimum public open space requirements in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. A literature review that focused mainly on green infrastructure guidelines in Sub-Saharan Africa was conducted. The researcher considered the alignment of the green infrastructure guidelines identified in the literature with a policy document review of spatial and environmental development principles in South African national, provincial and local spatial policy documents. In parallel with the literature and policy review process, 16 semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 interviewees involved in green infrastructure planning at the City of Tshwane. The researcher followed a co-development process that commenced with the interviews and continued through a participatory workshop with 23 participants, including a pre-workshop online survey and five post-workshop feedback and clarification discussions. Participants included city officials, property developers, and built-environment practitioners, all with many years of experience in the city's land development application process. The findings illustrate that city officials face many complex challenges with the application of green infrastructure, such as poor intergovernmental collaboration; conflicting policies, regulations and frameworks; scarce resources; urbanisation resulting in land invasions due to a housing shortage; and a lack of appreciation of the value and benefits that green infrastructure can provide. The findings further illustrate that local spatial policies have many national, provincial and city planning principles but are not carried through to the site development planning stage. Many opportunities were identified for improved green infrastructure planning, such as streamlining the land development application process, incentivising developers, enabling cross-sectoral partnerships to open up new resource pools to fund green infrastructure applications, and promoting the long-term benefits of green infrastructure. Based on the findings, 20 planning principles are proposed for the city's site development planning phase that overlap with 18 principles in the literature but emphasise aspects of access, safety, quality and cross-sectoral partnerships to co-develop and co-manage green space. These are unique requirements in a Sub-Saharan African context that can assist with the increased sustainability, protection and local benefits that green infrastructure offers and represents in the city. The study demonstrates the value of local cross-sectoral input in green infrastructure planning by following co-design, co-development, co-management, and co-ownership approaches that enable residents to benefit from civic resources and contribute to environmental justice whilst ascertaining the contextual application of research outcomes.
Design Strategies for Informal Settlements towards Climate Change Adaptation in Eswatini
(University of Pretoria, 2023-10-31) Du Plessis, Chrisna; ndlangamandlamusawenkosi@gmail.com; Ndlangamandla, Musawenkosi
Climate change holds potentially serious consequences for low-cost residential neighbourhoods. This implies a need to determine how these areas can be managed so that they have capacity to cope with and adjust to climate change. The purpose of this study was to identify design strategies for informal settlements to adapt to the effects of climate change and continue to function and provide appropriate services to its residents. Resilience Thinking Theory was used as a lens for understanding and dealing with change caused by the impacts of climate change. The study, which followed a mixed method research methodology, consisted of interviews, an observation study, precedent study, and focus groups. Interviews informed the extent of the problem and served to identify the climate change effects to which informal settlements in Eswatini should adapt. Observation studies determined the adaptive capacity of a selected informal settlement, Msunduza, Mbabane, to identify areas that require enhancement to increase their adaptive capacity to the effects of climate change. Precedent studies provided possible solutions implemented in other countries from which lessons can be taken. Finally, focal groups were used to evaluate the design strategies that were proposed in the study by synthesising all findings from the research methods. Empirical findings indicated that climate change has an impact on the environment, infrastructure and buildings. The results further revealed that informal settlements have a low adaptive capacity to climate change. However, there are traces of good resilience of water management systems to flooding in some parts of the selected informal settlement. The precedent study indicated how green technologies have been used to contribute to the resilience of different projects in similar climatic and socio-economic contexts. Focus group discussions identified design strategies for buildings, infrastructure, and resources suitable for the context of Eswatini. The research output was a design toolkit that could serve as a guide to developers of new affordable residential neighbourhoods, formal upgrading of informal settlements, and to residents retrofitting their self-help houses. The toolkit offered in this study is believed to contribute to the development of affordable settlements that will adapt to the impacts of climate change. The study further contributes a framework that can be used or further developed to assess the adaptive capacity of informal settlements to the impacts of climate change.
A critical analysis of the potential impact of higher education on South African emerging building technologies
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Bothma, Cobus; u18005595@tuks.co.za; Botha, Kristel
On a once vacant site in Arcadia next to the heart of the Pretoria CBD now lies a series of buildings that integrate the public realm of the city with an intricate system of a distinctive discipline - architecture. This project is an architectural hub that accommodates CPD conventions hosted by the Pretoria Institute of Architects, as a permanent location for workshops and lectures. The primary aim will be to introduce professionals to emerging building technologies (EBTs) in the industry with events that result in the practical application of new knowledge gained by designers. Presenting EBTs will address the issue caused by conventional building technologies to the environment and add the opportunity for architects to engage in CPD conventions that result in a physical structure. The Apies River that runs through the site presents a key opportunity to expand this project along the route of the river, creating a promenade of projects that were created and tested on site. The effects of the CPD conventions will echo along the river in the form of various installations that benefit existing programmes along the river that are currently disconnected from the natural space. The buildings on site is the epicentre and the CPD convention projects that are created on site and installed at various locations along the river will be connected to the project as the branches of the system. The community is not only meant to benefit from these installations along the route that will enhance current programmes, but from the site itself as it will accommodate the public by creating walkways, ablutions and resting spaces, which will be interwoven with the workspaces to break the barrier between the architecture profession and the larger community. The emphasis will be placed on creating visual and physical accessibility by dispersing the buildings across the site with approachable interfaces. The built form is meant to read as a palimpsest of legible, yet intriguing, layers that are a blend of both emerging and conventional building technologies.
Exploring the dynamics of informal trade and urban identity : a qualitative study of Church Street in Pretoria
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Van Aswegen, Anika; mmmokolane@gmail.com; Mokolane, Molebogeng
This research study delves into the heart of Pretoria's Central Business District, exploring the dynamic world of informal trading scenarios through the lens of interior architecture. The research unveils the intricate spatial routines, rituals, and place identities formed by the informal traders, set against the vibrant backdrop of city life. The study leans heavily on non-obtrusive observational data collection methods, enabling the gathering of authentic insights while respecting the rights and privacy of the traders. The chosen locale for this exploration is the walkable corridor of Helen Joseph Street, formerly known as Church Street, a thriving hub of informal trading activity within Pretoria CBD. Findings from this study reveal a rich tapestry of spatial dynamics and social exchanges, brought to life by the unique blend of sounds, sights, and scents that characterize the urban landscape. From the incessant hum of city traffic to the enticing aroma of braaied mielies, the research highlights the multi-sensory experience of the urban environment and its role in shaping perceptions and experiences of the cityscape. This research contributes significantly to the discipline of interior architecture. By delving into the spatial and temporal aspects of informal trading, it informs the design of inclusive and adaptable urban spaces that respect and celebrate cultural diversity. The study also underscores the pivotal role of place identity in fostering a sense of belonging and authenticity in the urban environment. While the study’s geographic and temporal scope present certain limitations, the depth of insights gathered, and the nuanced understanding developed about the spatial practices of informal traders, make a compelling case for the value of such investigations. As an exploration of the intersection of informal trading, urban interiority, and human-scale design, this study lays a robust foundation for future research in interior architecture within South African cities.
Understanding urban social capital landscapes as an informant of digital twin use-cases in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2024-07-24) Davey, Calayde; Kithue.masu@gmail.com; Masu, Diana Kithue
In the coming decades, Sub-Saharan Africa’s urban growth is expected to be the highest globally (Dodman, D et al. 2017). These small to medium sized cities in Africa will experience rapid growth, more so than in urban centres, making it difficult to meet the requirements of infrastructure and services that can reduce urban risks (Dodman, D et al. 2017). These risks can happen across a spectrum, of varying scale, from everyday small events such as infectious diseases to larger less frequent risks such as earthquakes and storms, constant poverty, climate change and the problems that urban growth brings upon (Dodman, D et al 2017). Urban populations face genuine risks to their health, safety, and overall well-being due to the various challenges they encounter. In order to combat urban risk, urban resilience is required, because urban resilience is the adaptive capacity of a city or urban system to recover from shocks and various stressors such as urban risks (Harrison et al 2014). Urban resilience is not limited to technical and social aspects. Instead, social capital provides the flexibility that is able to support urban resilience and recovery effectively from those risks (Dobson (2017).Understanding the social capital landscape of an urban community offers a valuable means of comprehending the interdependencies and self-sufficiency of that community. This could lead to identifying appropriate and contextual urban strategies to enhance community well-being. Emerging digital technologies could be effective tools to facilitate urban strategies for communities. One such technology is digital twins for cities. Digital twins for cities is the digitization of a city's physical elements, systems, and operations to observe and analyse its historical and current performance and actions (Davey et al 2023). These data driven responsive feedback tools can assist in bridging the gap between implementation and reality. However, most digital twins focus on the physical and technical (technology centric view) dimensions of the city (Ravid & Gutman 2022) such as the technical functionality of its infrastructure, data modelling, planning and management, as well as enhancing those related services (Nochta et al 2020). Nevertheless, this approach does not necessarily take into consideration what people do on the ground, how people navigate their built environment. As such, this approach may miss out on the social capital needs of urban communities and hinder the effectiveness of digital twins technologies in servicing real needs of people. This paper explores how the understanding of social capital could inform relevant digital twins use-cases in South Africa. As such, by analysing the social aspects of a specific urban area, city makers can identify and leverage the opportunities, strengths, and needs of communities to articulate how digital technologies could be deployed to improve the effectiveness of urban interventions and help identify social issues in the city. This paper focuses on a middle-income case study of Hatfield, City of Tshwane, South Africa. Using a mixed-methods approach, this paper maps social capital metrics within a community, and analyses the mapping through a theoretical framework of grounded theory. This mapped information forms the data that can be used to build a viable digital twins city that takes into consideration the social aspect of communities.
The climate change adaptation potential of the historic Burgers Park in Tshwane and its effect on the use of the space
(University of Pretoria, 2023-09-29) Hugo, Jan; nombusomnguni18@gmail.com; Mnguni, Nombuso
Urban parks are found in cities, and cities happen to be significant climate change contributors, accounting for 70% of emissions of greenhouse gases, this puts urban parks in a susceptible position of bearing the burden of climate change effects, which is already evident to a large extent. The report presents a qualitative case study that assesses two present-day urban challenges, climate change and public spaces. This study considers the connection between the use and climate change adaptation potential of urban public spaces by analysing a historical urban public space, Burgers Park, located in central Tshwane, South Africa. The study adopts a mixed method case study research method based on the pragmatism paradigm. The study findings reveal that Burgers Park has been able to adapt to a pattern of rather steady change, attesting to its existence for over 150 years. However, when facing climate change effects such as increased temperatures, to that, add site-specific disturbances such as the Urban Heat Island Effect, littering, and social, economic, and management changes, this park may have an increased climate change vulnerability. However, the climate adaptation potential exists. People continue to use the Park despite evidence of degradation. The study contributes to the risk mapping and climate change adaptation discourse of public spaces, accenting the significance of climate change adaptation in the socio-ecological and socio-spatial spheres of public spaces.
How are the principles of community engagement in architecture, within Public Interest Design, relevant to and applied in our South African informal context?
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Combrinck, Carin; andellek@gmail.com; Kotze, Andelle
Despite the radical political transformation promised in the democratic elections of 1994, the people of South Africa remain adversely affected by the socio-spatial legacies of a segregated urban landscape (Ballard 2021). Architects' efforts to tackle these challenges are often overlooked and marginalised within the broader field of architecture. Although globally, there is a greater awareness of the importance of social engagement and agency in design (Awan et al. 2011). There are various examples of how the principles of Public Interest Design are applied in international contexts, but are these principles relevant in our South African informal context? This study aims to prove that these principles are relevant if applied in our South African informal context and subsequently offers an example of how this can be accomplished. By using the work done by Collectif SAGA architects in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, as case studies, this report analyses their engagement with the project leaders, partners and surrounding community to determine how the aforementioned principles are successfully applied. Data collection was done through interviews with the Collectif SAGA team, as well as the project leaders and partners, and was analysed using a thematic analysis. The study found that through building a strong sense of trust with the project partners, by involving and engaging with various organisations, by stepping beyond the traditional role of the architect as artist and technician, and by building upon a solution to a problem the community has already taken ownership of, Collectif SAGA’s involvement was successful in bolstering projects that greatly benefit the community. Collectif SAGA applied principles of engagement that is recognised as good Public Interest Design practices, thus indicating that these methods are relevant in our South African Informal context, and can be applied successfully.

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