Clifton, an independent school for boys, undertook an expansion masterplan to establish themselves as one of the foremost educational institutions in South Africa. The school board, in 2016, entrusted Boogertman + Partners to conceptualise the masterplan based on their bold vision for the future.
The unique, urban campus, based in the heart of a residential area, Morningside, expanded through the purchase of a number of individual, residential properties which included several historic homes, within the suburban block bordered by Lambert, Rosetta, Innes, and Venice Roads in Durban.
The sub-urban pallet allowed Boogertman + Partners to develop a bold masterplan that entailed demolishing existing structures, building new ones, consolidating existing building stock and carving out architecturally respectful spaces all while interconnecting and linking the arteries of the campus with lush Durban landscaping, paths and activated spaces between buildings to create an urban, green campus.
At the core of the campus lies a central piazza, designed by B+P in 2017, which serves as the heart of the school community and acted as the ceremonial commencement of the masterplan envisaged. The campus's layout embraces the natural contours of the landscape, creating a harmonious relationship between built structures and the environment. Typically, lush Durban greenery and thoughtfully placed gardens surround the buildings, not only enhancing aesthetics but also fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
The piazza design promotes connectivity, while covered walkways and courtyards link different, newly built and existing educational buildings, encouraging students to move freely between spaces regardless of weather conditions. These walkways also incorporate seating areas and small study pods, inviting students to engage in group discussions or find a quiet spot for individual study.
Whilst the former residential homes create a unique campus feel, they are not always practical for a typical classroom configuration. Being an urban campus, space is a premium. The decision was taken to anchor the campus by new multistory buildings, primarily the Uzalo House classroom block on Venice Road, the Grade R building in the heart of the campus, and the Prep Classroom block towards the South.
In order for Clifton to rival other top, independent boys school and attract the next generation of top sportsmen and academics, two vital interventions were required – additional sporting facilities and a boarding establishment. Sport is fundamental to the curriculum of Clifton and requires the necessary infrastructure and facilities on campus, which on the sloping site would be terraced to create an additional sports field. This required the considered demolition of properties along Rosetta and Innes Rd to create extended fields and banks along the road boundary, some with integrated seating tiers from which to watch games.
The latest offering by the school, Centenary House boarding Establishment, was by far the largest single infrastructure investment undertaken by the school and represented the crowning glory of the masterplan envisaged.
Based on a boutique boarding concept, the facility accommodates 120 beds, with boarders accommodated in 1, 2 and 4 bed spaces, 5 staff apartments, a full industrial kitchen and dining facility, which double up as a flexible function space, as well and social common rooms and homework study rooms. The school first aid room is integrated into the boarding establishment sanitorium. The design prioritizes sustainability and eco-friendly principles, with rainwater harvesting systems, solar panels, and energy-efficient technologies incorporated into the buildings. These elements not only reduce the school's ecological footprint but also serve as educational tools, inspiring students to be environmentally conscious.
In conclusion, the Clifton Campus in Durban exemplifies an architectural and urban design that celebrates the integration of natural elements and harmonious connection of spaces. With the central piazza as its beating heart, the campus fosters a thriving educational environment that nurtures both academic excellence and a strong sense of community.
