The One mixed-use residential development, is envisioned to have a striking urban presence harmonizing with the contemporary vernacular of the surrounding mature, tree-lined townscape of Stellenbosch. Its design thoughtfully acknowledges the historic village’s original rectangular grid layout and “werf” character, respecting the area's architectural heritage. Reflecting the traditional patterns of Stellenbosch, the structure engages closely with the streetscape, enclosing and defining the public spaces around it. This approach not only honours the site's historical context, it also activates an interactive vibrant streetscape which contributes to a vibrant sense of place. The streets are designed for pedestrians and cyclists rather than being dominated by parking for cars. Residents parking is concealed from the street interface.
The building's elevation is divided into three distinct sections, establishing a hierarchical order of base, body and head to the building mass. This elevational order is articulated by two contrasting planes which simply separates the body from the recessed base and head of the building. The body of the building is projected forward, making it the most visible element, characterized by white rendered walls punctuated with deep balcony recesses. These simple rectilinear forms, with their high wall to aperture recesses, echo the traditional thick walls commonly seen in historic barn structures and wine cellars. The base and head of the structure feature full-height glazing and cladding, set back from the main facade. This recessed plane enhances the visual lightness of the building, allowing the larger mass to blend more harmoniously with its surroundings. Additionally, the building's bulk is broken not only at the base and top head but also at regular intervals along its length by Juliette balconies recessed in cladded vertical bands. These design interventions are critical to the horizontal scale of the very long facades.
The architectural style of the building reflects its historical context while embracing a modern vernacular interpretation. Drawing inspiration from Stellenbosch’s heritage of rural architecture and its mountainous setting, the design acknowledges the area's role in South Africa’s cultural history. It features a mix of pitched and flat roofs to create a compilation of roofscape typical to the varied barn style structures of the Cape Agricultural “Opstal”. . Smooth, whitewashed walls, along with recessed glazing and deep-set balconies, blend with a modern urban aesthetic while staying connected to Stellenbosch's vernacular style.
The building consists of 508 units – a mix of mainly studios, 1-beds and 2-bed typologies. Dedicated secure undercover parking bays are provided for each unit. These are stylish and functional homes suitable for a variety of residents. Residents will have the privilege to be part of a group but also have their privacy.
The One proposes a state-of-the-art student village within a stylish student apartment building, which will have top quality amenities and facilities to ensure a completely comfortable and enjoyable living experience for all its inhabitants and visitors. The building will not only house private and shared residential facilities, but will also have a commercial component on ground level to the corner of Hofman and Dennesig roads, which will provide and promote an interactive interface with the street in typical Stellenbosch street-café style.
This all-inclusive student accommodation is designed with communal spaces to cater for various activities: a study centre, cinema, e-gaming, games room, gym, laundry, pause areas and communal fully equipped kitchens. Two large landscaped courtyards provide outdoor study spaces, braai facilities, leisure areas and a swimming pool. Aesthetic detailing has been undertaken with the focus on ease of maintenance whilst enhancing the contemporary quality and distinction of the domain. Following through on Boogertman + Partners’ ethos of “Human Centered Design", this proposal was designed to promote a well-integrated, sustainable, safe and amiable future living environment.
Modern relaxed living with design at its core; the contemporary units will be fitted out with high-end fixtures and finishes. Performance glass windows, built in cupboards, engineered stone counters in kitchen and bathrooms and fibre optic internet will be some of the design features that will feature in the units.
