As we reflect on the recently concluded CIB City Centre Sustainable Housing Design Competition held on October 27, 2023, the Department of Architecture at the University of Pretoria stands in celebration of the winners and the collaborative spirit that made this event a resounding success.

In the heart of Pretoria, a movement towards sustainable urban housing has taken shape, born from a union of visionaries. This competition, a proposal initiated by the CIB Working Commissions and supported by an alliance including the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC), Nelson Mandela University and Boogertman + Partners, is a testament to what can be achieved when industry leaders and educational institutions come together.

Set against the canvas of Pretoria's evolving cityscape, we sought to challenge the creative minds of tomorrow's architects, urging them to rethink how our cities can grow sustainably. The stage was perfectly set at a historical site and ripe for innovation. Our Department has always believed in the power of collaboration. We are thus immensely proud to recognise the architectural learning sites and their third-year students who responded to our call, bringing with them infectious enthusiasm and groundbreaking ideas.

In recognising the winning designs, we celebrate the combined effort of every individual who played a part in this competition:

First Place: Nelson Mandela University's Team 268 stood out with a vision that was applauded by all.

Second Place: Cape Peninsula, University of Technology's Team 275, exemplified the excellence that emerges from collaboration.

Third Place: The University of Johannesburg's Team 223 showcased what can be achieved when new voices are heard.

The competition also highlighted entries that excelled in specific sustainability categories, underscoring the importance of focused innovation: Environmental, Economic, and Social Sustainability Prizes: Awarded to the University of Cape Town, Tshwane University of Technology, and Nelson Mandela University, respectively. Teams that received Honourable Mentions deserve praise for their inspirational work, which broadened the conversation about sustainable urban living.

This celebratory article would be incomplete without expressing our deepest gratitude to the CIB, our main sponsor and partner, whose commitment to innovation in building and construction shines as a beacon for all our endeavours.

As we commemorate this event, it is clear that partnerships enrich the journey towards sustainable urban development. Our alliance with CIB, industry sponsors, and the broader academic community has sparked creativity and paved the way for practical solutions to real-world challenges. Join us in celebrating this momentous collaboration. Together, we take a bold step towards a sustainable and vibrant urban future with opportunity and inclusive growth.

For more information on the competition, our partners, and our vision for sustainable urban development, please contact Francine van Tonder.