Within the Western Cape of South Africa lies a small town called McGregor. This town is home to a very vernacular and modest architecture. A plot of land was chosen on the outskirts of the town in order to hint at the idea of the town growing. In groups, a master plan of 15 individual plots was designed to ‘continue’ the town. A wetland was imposed on the sight to provide a sustainable attitude towards the 15 plots and also continue the sustainable attitude of the rest of McGregor. Once the mater plan was decided upon, individual plots were given to each group member.

 

The site chosen amongst the 15 row houses is situated towards the upper section of the plot and has direct access to the wetland, which becomes a natural park for the residence to make use of as they please.

 

The row house takes inspiration from the vernacular of its surroundings while maintaining a contemporary feel. It is divided into three parts: public/private space and two private spaces with a garden and courtyard linking them. The front door opens up to the entrance foyer, which sits between the living area and kitchen. The very private front facade is contrasted by the opposite facade that opens up to the courtyard with the use of slatted screens. Beyond this part sits the first private space, which is home to the owners of the house. The next private space is a single unit on its own that is also owned by the clients but could be rented out. Although this unit is separated from the rest of the house, it is still connected through its consistent roof design as well as the garden between them.

 

Trombe walls are articulated into the design of the north facade of the houses in order to maximise use of the sunlight and passively warm or cool the interiors. A ‘waterlei’ system is also expressed through the garden running from a small pond that also cools the interiors through evaporative cooling. The garden in front of the stand alone unit can be used for farming food to ensure a more sustainable lifestyle.

 

The row house sits modestly within the community and takes advantage of the act of making within the town whilst imposing a contemporary take on the vernacular houses surrounding it.