Project Location: Pretoria 

Project Focus Area: Urban Transport

Supervisor: Dr Calayde Davey & Christo Van Der Hoven 

Project Description: 

This project addresses the critical interplay between Architecture and Transportation in the context of Pretoria's rapidly growing student city, Hatfield. Recognizing the unsustainability of the current car-reliant system and the division exacerbated by existing barriers, this study proposes a holistic approach to urban development. The research uncovers Hatfield's heavy reliance on motor vehicles, limiting active transportation modes and hindering pedestrian safety.

The Hatfield framework acknowledges both the area's isolation and its untapped potential. By repurposing underused spaces along the railway, the project aims to restore connectivity between North and South, with a focus on accessibility, structured development, and social inclusivity. The design embodies a commitment to economic and social circularity, creating vibrant public spaces that serve the entire community.

Central to the project's strategy is the use of containers, known for their environmental friendliness, efficiency, and durability. The incorporation of containers not only aligns with sustainability goals but also offers flexibility in future expansion. The concept revolves around a dynamic building design that seamlessly interacts with its surroundings, fostering inclusivity and accessibility at every level.

By populating 30% of the grid with containers, with the potential to expand to 50% over time, the project allows for permeable spaces between containers, nurturing diverse outdoor interactions. The inclusivity ethos extends to the integration of various platforms and levels, ensuring open access and fluid merging of different programs.

Ultimately, this project aims to blur the lines between formal and informal spaces, creating a dynamic urban habitat that serves as a beacon of inclusivity within Hatfield. It embodies a vision of a vibrant, interconnected community hub that not only addresses current challenges but also adapts to the evolving needs of the future.

In conclusion, the Hatfield project vividly illustrates the profound impact of integrating architecture, transportation, and urban mobility. Offering a holistic approach to urban development that addresses the pressing need for sustainable and accessible transportation solutions in Pretoria's dynamic student city. Through the conversion of liminal spaces along the railway, the project has the transformative potential of thoughtful design interventions. The introduction of versatile, dynamic spaces empowers users to customise the environment to best suit their needs. This endeavour not only renews the urban landscape but also demonstrates how user-centric spaces can empower communities. By prioritising active transportation, the project not only enhances accessibility but also fosters a safer and more engaging pedestrian experience in Hatfield. This successful convergence of architecture and transportation serves as a symbol of positive transformation, emphasising the enduring value of crafting adaptable, user-centric spaces that thrive and adapt over time.