MASTER PLAN FOR BELVIDERE ESTATE
Waterfront Estate and Parkland Development
THE SITE
The 67 hectare Belvidere Estate slopes gently to a one kilometre shoreline along the Knysna lagoon, sheltered from climatic extremes by the Knysna Heads at the Indian Ocean and by steep forested hills to the south and west. The Estate is a few minutes’ drive from the beach at Brenton-on-Sea.
Within the Estate, Belvidere House — one of the most important historic buildings in the Knysna area — stands in a large clearing partially enclosed by avenues of oak trees. The Estate is the central portion of the original Duthie farm. The house, which is structurally sound and scheduled for restoration, commands a striking view of Belvidere Bay and the lagoon beyond. The Knysna–George Outeniqua steam train runs along the western and southern boundaries of the estate; the Belvidere station lying within walking distance of the developed portions of the site.
THE PROJECT
The aim of the proposed development programme for Belvidere Estate is to enhance its ‘English country’ setting by capitalising upon and conserving both the natural attributes and historical value of the site. As the central focus of the Estate, the restored Belvidere House will establish the visual and conceptual ‘village’ theme in which housing, recreation, and open space elements will be united within the spectacular setting.
The following general description of the proposed Belvidere Estate development is a brief summary:
- Single family dwellings – 167 single-family residential stands of various sizes will be clustered around culs-de-sac within the Estate, situated to capitalize on splendid views, open parkland, and water frontage.
- Belvidere House – The 3.7-ha Belvidere House property will be primarily open parkland, while the house itself will be restored to establish the architectural and historical focus of the community and to serve as the centre of a small, exclusive country inn.
- Retirement village – A 6.4-ha village will accommodate a small community with limited access for security and maximum exclusivity.
- Village Shop Site – A small village shop adjacent to the Estate entrance will be easily accessible to all residents.
- Jetty & slipway – Small-boat waterfront access will be provided, with parking at the waterfront and berthing facilities for Estate property owners.
- Open parkland system – Parkland and open space will comprise more than 50% of the Estate. The parkland will link all parts of the development with pedestrian paths and will incorporate the existing Oak and Gum tree avenues, to enhance the ‘village green’ character of the development.
- Recreation facilities – An area has been set aside for the establishment of a sports club/trim park.
- Limited access – A single entry gate to the estate will enhance exclusivity and security.
EXISTING SITE CONDITIONS
CLIMATE
Belvidere Estate experiences the most moderate climate in South Africa: sunny weather throughout the year, no frost, normal humidity, protection from coastal winds, and a 975 mm rainfall average (75% of which falls at night) evenly spaced among the seasons. Average temperatures for the area range from a high of 19° to 27°C in January, to a low of 8° to 18°C in July.
TOPOGRAPHY
The site rises westward from the lagoon shoreline to a height of more than 60 m at the western boundary. Moderate slopes predominate throughout the Estate, while steep slopes occur at the south-eastern waterfront area and on the southern boundary. Relatively flat slopes occur along the shoreline in the north-east portion of the site.
SOILS
Soils on the site consist primarily of calcareous medium-dense to very dense sand and dark brown topsoil over moist fissured clayey sand. These soils show little or no heave potential, and there are no collapsing sands. Soil characteristics within the site are relatively uniform and well suited to the nature of the proposed development.
SURFACE WATER
Apart from a natural spring near the waterfront in the south-east portion of the site, there are no existing natural streams or streambeds on the estate. No evidence of significant erosion has been observed. A culvert beneath the railway line conducts stormwater drainage from outlying areas onto the south-east portion of the site, and two smaller culverts are located in the west and south-west parts of the Estate. Tidal fluctuation is approximately 1.5m. All proposed stands will be located above the 50-year flood line.
VEGETATION
Vegetation within the site comprises a grass-forest-natural fynbos mosaic of native and introduced species in plantations, isolated row plantings, and clumps of individuals. The principal plantation areas comprise Pine and Gum species in the higher elevations toward the western boundary. A number of invasive alien species have become established, particularly in the south and south-eastern parts of the site. These include Rooikrans, Long-leaved Wattle, Black Wattle, Blackwood, Golden Wattle, and Port Jackson.
Pecan, Chestnut, and a variety of needle-leaved evergreens are found in the north-east portion of the site, while Cape Ash and introduced Oaks are scattered over the Estate. The most important zones of indigenous species lie along the lagoon edge, including Milkwood trees, Cape Ash, Coral tree, and other local species near the spring, and indigenous bush in the extreme south-east corner.
Open areas of former pasture (Buffalo grass) lie parallel to the shore in a series of large grassy rectangles partially defined by historic rows of Oak trees planted as part of the original Duthie farmstead. The most significant allée of Oak and Gum trees extends from the side entrance to Belvidere House, while the remaining two frame views from Belvidere House to the Knysna lagoon.
WILDLIFE
Although the Belvidere area was originally very popular for buck-hunting, and some small buck are still seen in the environs, they are not normally found on the Estate. However, prolific birdlife is a feature of the area, with more than 100 species commonly found on the site.
Fish eagles nest in the forested south-eastern waterfront, the shy Knysna Loerie can be seen in the woods, and the bubbling song of the Vleiloerie is often heard. Guinea fowl and a variety of little Sunbirds are common on the Estate, together with the Cape and other Robins, five types of Canary, Kingfishers, Weavers, Bulbuls, Flycatchers, Thrushes, Doves, and the magnificent Rameron Pigeon; also Cuckoos, Sparrowhawks, Shrikes, four different Swallows, the Knysna Woodpecker, and Hoopoe. Sometime visitors include Egyptian Geese, Yellow-billed Ducks, and Hadedas; while Heron, Plovers, Sandpipers, the White Stork, and Water Dikkop are regularly seen near water.
Aquatic life in the Knysna Lake area is important for recreation, conservation, and commercial activities. Fish species within the lagoon include Leervis, Kob, Grunter, Mullet, Steenbras, Elf, Bream, and Stumpnose. Coastal species include these fish and others, such as Musselcracker, Galjoen, Red Roman, Shark, and Skate.
Two sea animals in the lagoon—the famous pansy shell (Echinodiscus bisperforatus) and the Knysna seahorse (Hippocampus capensis)—enjoy special legislative protection as distinctive life forms. Some of the Knysna oyster beds are located on the far opposite lagoon banks.
LAND USE
National Road – The existing N2 skirts the northern edge of the lagoon between Knysna and ‘The Point.’ The newly planned by-pass will push major through-traffic further north, away from the lagoon, reducing vehicular movement in this sensitive area.
Railroad – The existing Knysna-George (passenger/goods) railroad line abuts the western and southern site boundaries. South of the Estate, the line runs almost to Brenton-on-Lake before cutting across the main channel of the lagoon to Knysna. To the west of the Estate, the railroad passes along the Wilderness Lakes on its way to George.
Lagoon – In 1985, the lagoon was proclaimed the Knysna National Lake Area, which ensures its continued protection under the National Parks Board. Collaboration among the Parks Board, local authorities, and private property owners within the area will ensure that the attractiveness and quality of the area will endure and that continued use of the area may take place without damage to the environment. The protected nature of Belvidere Bay makes it ideal for boating, swimming, and fishing.
Knysna – This historic town lies 3 km across the lagoon. An important tourist destination, Knysna also provides nearby shopping, entertainment, recreation, and cultural facilities for future property owners.
Belvidere – The quiet village of Belvidere north of the site comprises approximately 22 houses, four of which are historically important. Its Norman-style Holy Trinity Church (built by the Duthie Family c. 1855) is a National Monument, and Ferry House—Belvidere’s original sailor’s inn—has hosted many distinguished travelers.
HISTORY
The English country atmosphere which originally attracted European settlers to Belvidere continues to draw visitors every year. In the 1830s, Thomas Henry Duthie, a Scot with the British forces, purchased Belvidere Estate from George Rex—reputed son of George III, primary landowner in the Knysna area, and father-in-law to Duthie.
After initial difficulties in the establishment of their farm, the Duthies built the Estate into a focus for social activity and British hospitality. Belvidere House, finally completed in 1849, sheltered several generations of the family, ending in 1963 with the death of Avie Duthie—an eminent botanist and the last of the Belvidere Duthies.
CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Proposed development of the Belvidere Estate must be characterised first and foremost by sensitive handling of all natural and cultural factors which impact the site. Comparison of the following site constraints and opportunities reflects a careful blend of measures to enhance the Estate.
CONSTRAINTS
Steep slopes – Steep slopes on the southern boundary restrict the location of roads and services.
Stormwater – Off-site stormwater from outlying areas is discharged onto the site from one medium-size and two small culverts under the railway line. The moderate slopes will contribute to significant surface drainage throughout the site and must be accommodated in the layout of land use zones and circulation systems.
Soil conditions – To prevent a high incidence of settlement, the loose organic topsoil should be removed from areas where building and road construction will take place. Otherwise, the differential settlement of the dense brown and light brown in-situ sands will support normal brickwork. In a localized area in the north-east corner where topography retards surface water run-off, the ground should be graded; alternatively, sub-surface drains should be installed.
Vegetation – Undesirable invasive species should be eradicated, with particular attention to the removal of Port Jackson, Wattle, and Rooikrans.
Belvidere Township – The charm and historic significance of the Belvidere village must set the tone for new development within the Belvidere Estate. Architecture, planting, and views of the surrounding area must be sympathetic to and compatible with the village, to prevent diminution of its historic and aesthetic value.
Public access – Public access to the waterfront must be accommodated.
Railway lines – The Knysna-George railway line is adjacent to the south and west Estate boundaries. Although the train runs only a couple of times a day, planning and design of the new development should ensure minimal intrusion of the railway upon the Estate.
OPPORTUNITIES
Views – The sloping terrain affords spectacular sweeping views across the lagoon to the town of Knysna, against the background of forest and rolling hills. Proper layout and design of new development can ensure that these views are accessible from many of the stands, as well as from the road reserve and parkland areas.
The Manor House Area – The Belvidere House, cottage, barn, and surrounding area are significant assets which provide a thematic focus for architecture and open space. The house is an important example of Georgian Colonial architecture, with later Victorian additions. The old cottage behind Belvidere House is one of the very oldest yellowwood structures in the region and is said to have served as a hunting lodge in the early 1800s for George Rex. Refurbishment of these buildings would provide the community with a major asset.
Vegetation – The “English Lake District” look of the Estate derives partly from the strong appeal of its forest vegetation, which provides a pleasant setting for residential development. Aside from the historic importance of introduced vegetation (such as the visually significant Oak-framed entry drive), new planting should enhance the habitat value of the site for the continued attraction of birdlife. New development should be planned to incorporate existing important trees (especially Oaks, Cape Ash, Milkwood, Coral tree, and Flowering Gum).
Waterfront access – Convenient and direct access to the Knysna lagoon is one of the major features of Belvidere Estate.
Restricted access – With a single-point entry and no through traffic, security problems will be minimal.
Railway – A future small station building at the existing Belvidere railway siding could provide a facility for Estate residents travelling to Knysna or other local destinations.
Ferry service from Jetty – Future connection to the lagoon ferry service will link Estate residents with Knysna town, Thesen Island, Leisure Island, Brenton-on-Lake, and The Heads.
Site resources – Topsoil stockpiled from road and building construction areas may be used wherever required for the rehabilitation or establishment of new planting within the Estate, obviating the requirement for importation of topsoil. Clayey sand found on the site may be used to line ponds, and light brown or off-white sand from the Estate could be used to extend the existing beach on the south-eastern shore above the high water mark. Treated effluent water from the on-site sewage package plant may be used for irrigation and ponds in the parkland areas, and any surplus supplied to residents for garden use.
SITE DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS
Land use zones
Residential sites
Open parkland system
LAND USE
Single-family Residential – The 167 proposed single-family residential erven will be made up of four different types, corresponding to variations in both natural site character and market demand.
- Cul-de-sac sites
These moderate-sized (approximately 1,200 m²) stands will constitute the heart of the Estate. Combining privacy with easy access to parkland and water, the stands will be arranged in a village-style cluster around east-west cul-de-sac roads radiating from a central loop road and terminating in open parkland. Stretches of open field with copses of trees between the stands will establish the ‘village green’ setting, and most sites will enjoy northern exposure. - Estate sites
These larger (approximately 2,000 m²) sites will be located on the northern border of the Estate. - View sites
These elevated sites (approximately 2,200 m²) will be located on the southern and south-western slopes of the site. Most will be north-facing, and all will have views over the Estate to the water, hills, and forests. - Waterfront sites
These sites range in size from 1,200 m² to 4,000 m². Those on the gently sloping north-eastern shore will be smaller than the more elevated stands located in the steeper south-eastern portion. All waterfront stands will enjoy spectacular views of the lagoon and forests and will have private access to the water. Erven located just above the waterfront sites would have a 3-meter-wide walkway down to the shoreline.
In the forested portions of the proposed residential areas, careful felling of selected trees would open up views to the lagoon and provide increased sun exposure while retaining the wooded character of the site. Formation of a Belvidere Estate Owners’ Association would ensure perpetuation of the wooded village atmosphere throughout the Estate, through management of common Estate features such as the parkland, the sports club, and the jetty.
Belvidere House Site Development – The restored Belvidere House will be central to a loose cluster of approximately 30 small Georgian-style guest cottages. New buildings on the site will be designed in the spirit and style of Belvidere House, to reinforce the historic and aesthetic value of the development. Parkland character around the house will be designed to further emphasize its central function, with emphasis on the retention and long-term rehabilitation of the Oak and Gum tree allées.
Retirement Village – A 6.4-ha low-density retirement community with a maximum of 96 Colonial-style cottages will be located west of the site entrance in the second phase of the development. This feature will not only give single-family residential property owners the opportunity to retire without leaving Belvidere Estate, but will also provide the Knysna area with a much-needed facility.
Village Shop – The shop, located adjacent to the Estate entrance, will be designed to reflect the charm and character of the Estate.
Open Parkland – The parkland system will provide a visual and functional link among all parts of the Belvidere Estate. With careful attention to planting, the cul-de-sac and loop road will serve as parkland corridors, extending the forest into the circulation system. Non-structural site features such as a pond, a small waterfowl sanctuary, and passive recreational areas (i.e., grassy open areas) will also be contained within the parkland as aesthetically pleasing components of the natural stormwater management system.
Recreational Facilities – A network of footpaths will connect all parts of the Estate. Victorian cast iron and wood benches will be situated in approximate locations, shaded where necessary by small gazebos.
Jetty and Slipway – An open, grassy area with paved parking will lead to a slipway and jetty. The 2.5-meter-wide wooden jetty will extend into the lagoon and terminate in a small open gazebo. Floating jetties connected at right angles to the main jetty have been planned to provide berthing facilities for Estate property owners.
Sports Club – Active recreational facilities such as a sports club or trim park would be located in the north-west reserve area.
CIRCULATION
VEHICULAR
A loop road originating from a single entry on the northern boundary will provide a complete circuit of the Estate. Access to most erven will be provided from the connecting culs-de-sac, although a minimum number of stands will have access directly from the primary loop (most of these will be located furthest from the site entrance for minimal interference from traffic).
A 20-meter reserve along the culs-de-sac and the loop road will feature a cohesive planting programme to ensure a secluded, private character throughout the Estate and to direct views down the slope to the lagoon or the open parkland. The ends of the culs-de-sac will provide access to the waterfront or to the central open space.
PEDESTRIAN
The walker will be given priority throughout the Estate. Conflict with vehicles will be minimized by locating footpaths along the culs-de-sac and through the vehicle-free central parkland.
Primary and secondary paths in the pedestrian system will connect all residential development with the parkland, the jetty and waterfront, Belvidere House, Belvidere Church, and possibly, a future rail station at the western boundary. Special attention to the detailed design of the pedestrian ways will ensure that both form and materials will be consistent with the overall image of the development.
SERVICES
Electrical services would be located entirely underground for minimal visual intrusion on the natural scene, and substations would be situated in unobtrusive locations. For convenient access, water, sewer, and electricity would be located in common corridors primarily within road reserves.
Instead of the conventional urban approach to street lighting, occasional Victorian-style street lamps will be used for low-level lighting and security, and for visual reinforcement of the period character of the Estate.
An underground pump station will pump sewage from the north-east corner of the site to a self-contained package plant in the north-west reserve space, and wherever possible, the nutrient-rich water would be used for open space irrigation. This would capitalize on a significant site-generated resource and would preclude sewage outfall into the lagoon.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Planning and Design Measures to Reduce Environmental Impact
LANDFORM AND SOILS
- Locate structures where soils and geological characteristics are most favourable for construction.
- Incorporate areas least suitable for construction into the open space/parkland system.
- Locate buildings and roads to enhance existing topographic characteristics of the site.
- Capitalize upon the distinctive landform character of various zones within the site for variety and interest in individual erven.
SURFACE WATER
- Retain existing natural drainageways and incorporate them into the parkland system.
- Design earthworks to provide optimum surface flow to allow groundwater recharge and percolation.
- Design surface drainage systems for natural appearance in form and planting.
- Use retention dams wherever possible to incorporate surface drainage into the aesthetic features of the site.
VEGETATION
- Retain desirable plants on the site.
- Selectively prune and remove trees for improved growth and better views throughout the site.
- Eliminate undesirable alien vegetation from the site.
- Select and plant species for habitat value.
- Design new planting in harmony with the existing woodland character of the site.
- Ensure a high ratio of parkland to development.
STRUCTURES
- Ensure a limited but pleasing design vocabulary to reduce visual clutter and disorganization.
- Establish design treatment in harmony with the woodland character of the site.
- Emphasize natural materials in structures, paving, and site furniture.
- Locate buildings for optimum views of the surrounding area, especially of the lagoon and the hills beyond.
- Locate and design buildings to emphasize the parkland setting and reduce the ‘heat sink’ potential of extensive paved surfaces.
- Locate vehicular circulation routes for minimal intrusion on the site.
- Ensure convenient links between existing circulation routes and new development.
DESIGN GUIDELINES
The detailed design of all components in Belvidere Estate should harmonise with its intended overall image. The historic Belvidere House, soon to be restored and declared a National Monument, will establish the design theme of the Estate. The following guidelines set out important design criteria for elements ranging from structures to stormwater management which, when followed, will result in a visually and functionally cohesive development.
BUIDLINGS
CONCEPT
The basic design concept for new buildings in Belvidere Estate is to retain the character of 19th Century Eastern Cape buildings. The emphasis should be on simplicity, restraint, and refined details.
FORM
- Plan forms:
- rectangular or composite rectangular
- Roofs:
- pitch 35°
- pitch 50°
- Flat roofs (less than 5°) must be completely enclosed by a parapet
- proportion roof height to wall height between 1:1 and 2:1
- Gabled ends:
- Simple
- curved and decorative gables prohibited
- Chimneys:
- usually form part of the gable end
- Building walls:
- clear, plain surfaces
- properly proportioned window and door openings
- Garden walls and fences:
- simple traditional forms
- Courtyard walls:
- clear, plain surfaces
- simple coping
- Sun protection:
- stoeps, shutters, pergolas with planting or canvas awnings
Garden walls and fences
Roof forms shoud be simple
MATERIALS AND FINISHINGS
- Pitched roofs:
- slate
- thatch
- shingles
- traditional-pattern corrugated iron or aluminium painted black, dark green, dark red, or white
- square-cut asbestos tiles, dark grey, or black
- Flat roofs:
- painted traditional-pattern corrugated iron or aluminium
- water-proofed painted concrete
- Chimneys:
- built-in masonry
- Building walls:
- natural stone
- plastered brickwork
- smooth, white-painted or approved pastel colour
- Garden walls:
- plastered and painted white
- Courtyard walls and fences:
- plastered masonry or timber painted white
- Pergolas:
- PAR timber, natural or painted white
- masonry columns must match wall treatment
- Windows:
- timber, natural or painted
- aluminium – anodised black or dark bronze; or white, brown or black epoxy-coated
NOTE: These are general guidelines. The developers have collaborated with consultant architects Smuts and de Kock to prepare a detailed Building Design Manual for all Estate property owners.
ROADS AND PARKING
CONCEPT
Vehicular routes throughout the site would be more than just hard surfaces on which to drive cars. A wide 20 m road reserve would incorporate planting and pedestrian ways to enhance the aesthetic and functional themes of the development, pulling the ‘village green’ into the streets and providing safe places for people to walk.
FORM
- Fits into open parkland setting
- Mountable kerbs for least utilitarian definition between hard surface and walkway/planting
MATERIALS AND FINISHES
- Vehicular surfaces:
- Tarmac (with brick pavers at intersections and pedestrian crossings)
- Mountable kerbing:
- Pre-cast concrete
- Pedestrian crossings:
- Brick pavers
- Parking:
- Interlocking paving units
- Pre-cast concrete wheel stops
SCALE
- Primary loop:
- Paved vehicular surface – 6 m
- Road reserve – 20 m
- Culs-de-sac:
- paved vehicular surface – 5 m
- road reserve – 20 m
- Access drives:
- paved vehicular surface – 3 m
- road reserve – 8 m
- Parking areas:
- bays – 2.5 x 5 m
- aisles – 7.5 m
- access – 5 m
PEDESTRIAN WAYS
CONCEPT
The separation of vehicles and pedestrians, and the integration of footpaths into the entire estate, are primary aims of the proposed circulation system. The walkways would also be designed to reinforce the varied character of open parkland within the site, through planting and surface materials compatible with the natural surroundings.
FORM
- Roadside pavement:
- conform to lay-out and direction of paved roads
- Forested reserve zone:
- appropriate to terrain and soil conditions
- Grassy open space:
- appropriate to setting and intended views
MATERIALS AND FINISHES
- Roadside pavement:
- brick pavers, or grassed with crushed gravel
- Forested reserve:
- crushed gravel
- Grassy open space:
- crushed gravel
- Shoreline:
- Boardwalk to jetty
SCALE
- Open parkland:
- footpaths – 1.5 m to 3 m
- Shoreline/jetty:
- boardwalk – 1.5 m to 3 m
STRUCTURE
- Ramps:
- max slope – 8%
- max length (at 8%) – 9 m
- max slope kerb ramps – 17%
- Stairs:
- max rise between landings – 1.2 m (unprotected exterior stairs)
- max rise between landings – 1.8 m (protected exterior stairs)
- min width (one way) – 1 m
- min width (two way) – 1.8 m (max width should be equal to width of approach walkway; also depends upon intensity of use)
- treads c. 380 mm
- risers c. 150 mm
- riser + tread = 530 mm (+250 mm)
- nosing rounded or chamfered
- cheek walls raised, not recessed
- Handrails
- Diameter – 45mm
- Distance to adjacent walls – 80mm
- Min support capacity – 115kg
- Intermediate handrails – 6 to 9 apart on exceptionally wide stairs
SAFETY
- Appropriate lighting levels
- Non-skid surfaces
PLANTING
CONCEPT
New planting on the estate should capitalize upon and complement the existing desirable vegetation. It should also enhance the layout and forms of structural elements and open parkland and visually unite the various parts of the site.
FORMS
- Suited to various functions and locations
- Roadside planting
- Parkland
- Appropriate to the wooded character of the site
COLOUR/TEXTURE
- Provide for seasonal variation
- Coordinate species for a unified planting theme throughout
LOCATION
- Avoid blocking vehicle sight lines at intersections
- Provide adequate shading, screening of undesirable views, and framing of desirable views
- Thin and prune selectively to open up views of the lagoon and surrounding area
SITE FURNITURE
CONCEPT
The architectural theme established by Belvidere House and echoed in new residential development should be complemented throughout the Estate by compatible site furnishings. This would include elements such as seating, lighting, bollards, signage, and shade structures—all of which should be designed in harmony with the Georgian/Victorian look of the Estate.
FORMS
- Simple forms, refined detail (see building guidelines).
MATERIALS AND FINISHES (see individual items for specific finishes)
- Cast aluminium or iron painted white
- Natural and painted wood
LOCATION AND STRUCTURE
- Seating and shade structures
- Location: In parkland areas to capitalize on view
- Structure: Wrought iron and timber combination
LIGHTNING
- Light Levels
- Pedestrian ways: 10 lux
- Parking areas: 10 lux
- Fixture Heights:
- Walkways: 3 to 4 m
- Materials:
- Cast iron or aluminium
- Obscure glass for reduced cleaning
BOLLARDS
- Location:
- At ends of cul-de-sacs to prevent vehicles from driving into parkland areas at informal parking
- Other places where restriction of vehicular movement is desired
TREE GUARDS
- Location:
- Include tree guards wherever young trees may be subject to abuse
- Structure:
- Diameter: 1m
- Material:
- Treated timber
SINAGE
- Location:
- Group signs into unified systems to prevent clutter
- Position informational signs at major access points and gathering spots
- Incorporate signs into the design of site furniture
- Do not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation
- Typeface:
- Times New Roman
- Height:
- 2 m
- Material:
- Treated timber
LITTER BINS
- Location:
- Convenient to seating areas
- Structure:
- Above-ground openings – 1 meter
- Removable liners
- Weep holes should not drain onto paved surfaces
JETTY
- Location:
-
- At the center of the waterfront parkland area, projecting into the lagoon at 90° to the shoreline
- Structure:
- Designed to harmonize with Belvidere architecture
- Material:
- Treated timber
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
CONCEPT
Hard surfaces within the Estate will increase the volume and velocity of stormwater run-off, thereby increasing the potential for erosion. Stormwater management systems should be aimed at minimizing hazards and inconveniences to users while mitigating undesirable effects on natural drainageways. Surface drainage can also be used to create desirable features such as small dams for waterfowl.
FORM
- Visually unobtrusive in most intensively used areas (e.g., below-grade wherever possible, or co-ordinate open or above-grade components with site furnishings, pedestrian way patterns, and grades).
- Natural-appearing in open spaces wherever possible (e.g., using natural drainage lines, natural swale configurations, and planting to blend into the landscape).
LOCATION AND STRUCTURE
- Location:
- Natural swales should be treated as part of the open parkland system.
- Structure:
- Stabilize outlets from pipes into natural drainage swales.
- Preferred longitudinal slope: 1% to 3%
- Preferred side slope: 1% to 3%
- Locate stormwater lines and compatible services in common trenches
RECOMMENDED VEGETATION
SHRUBS FOR GARDENS
- Abelia
- Azalea
- Berberis spp.
- Brunfelsia calycina
- Callistemon
- Cestrum
- Cistus
- Citharexylum
- Coleonema pulchrum
- Coprosma repens
- Cotoneaster
- Escallonia macrantha
- Euonymus japonicus
- Hebe spp.
- Hibiscus
- Hydrangea
- Hypericum
- Lavandula
- Leptospermum
- Ligustrum
- Pentas lanceolata
- Raphiolepis indica
- Santolina
- Spiraea cantoniensis
- Streptosolen jamesonii
- Viburnum odoratissimum
- Weigela
SHRUBS FOR ESTATE PARKLAND
- Abelia – 1.5m
- Bauhinia galpinii – Pride of the Cape, 3m
- Berberis spp. – 1–3m
- Callistemon citrinus – Bottlebrush, 3m
- Cestrum – 3m
- Cistus – Rock Rose, 1m
- Coleonema pulchrum – Confetti Bush, 1m
- Cotoneaster lacteus – 4m
- Dodonea viscosa – Hop Bush, 3m
- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis – 3m
- Lavandula – Lavender, 1m
- Ligustrum lucidum – Privet, 4m
- Leptospermum scopulorum – Tea Bush, 3m
- Leucospermum – Pin Cushion, 2-3m
- Melaleuca linarifolia – Flax-leafed Paperback, 5m
- Nerium oleander – Oleander, 3m
- Photinia serrulata – Chinese Photinia, 3m
- Plumbago auriculata – Plumbago, 2m
- Protea cynaroides – Giant or King Protea, 2-3m
- Rosemarinus officinalis – Rosemary, 1m
- Russellia juncea – Coral Plant, 1m
- Spartium junceum – Spanish Broom, 2m
- Tecomaria capensis – Cape Honeysuckle, 3m
GROUND COVERS
- Agapanthus – African Lily
- Arctotis – African Daisy
- Bougainvillea spp. – Bougainvillea
- Dietes – Wild Iris
- Erigeron – Fleabane
- Felicia amelloides – Kingfisher Daisy
- Gazania uniflora – Gazania Single Flower
- G. hybrids – Gazania Double Flower
- Hedera – Ivy
- Lantana montevidenses – Trailing Lantana
- Nepeta mussinii – Catmint
- Osteospermum – Trailing Daisy
- Plectranthus grandidentatus – Spurflower
- Vinca major – Periwinkle
- Wedelia trilobata – Wedelia
Also:
- Protea
- Leucospermum – Pin Cushion
- Watsonia bulbs – Watsonia
CLIMBERS
- Doxantha unguis-cati – Cat’s Claw Creeper
- Jasminum polyanthum – Chinese Jasmine
- Lonicera japonica – Honeysuckle
- Phaedranthus buccinatorious – Mexican Blood Trumpet
- Podranea brycei – Zimbabwe Creeper
- Senecio tamoides – Canary Creeper
- Wisteria
PROJECT PERSONNEL
BOARD OF EXECUTORS
Financial Control, Legal and Administrative Matters, Marketing, and Sales.
- GRAY RUTHERFORD
Design Consultant, Marketing and Sales, Project Management of Landscaping and Planting, Implementation of Architectural Standards.
- CLIFFORD HARRIS (PTY) LTD (SUBSIDIARY OF BASIL READ LTD)
Civil Works, Project Management of Engineering Services, Home Building.
- NEL & DE KOCK
Townplanners.
- CHRIS MULDER ASSOCIATES INC
Environmental and Urban Designers and Landscape Architects.
CONSULTANT ARCHITECTS
- SMUTS & DE KOCK – George and Mossel Bay.
- EDGE, HARPER, HOOK & CO. – George and Cape Town.
- COOPER, MESSARIS & LOUW – Johannesburg.
ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS
- OOSTHUIZEN & VAN DER WATT – Consultant Civil Engineers – George.
- FRANK ROBERTSON & CO. – Consultant Electrical Engineers – George.
- VALLEY CONSTRUCTION – Electrical Contractors – Knysna.
- VAN WAART, PAWSON & MAREE – Land Surveyors – Knysna.
- STEFFEN, ROBERTSON & KIRSTEN – Geotechnical (Soil) Engineers – Cape Town.
ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL
- ADRIAN VAN DER BYL – Estate Horticulturalist.
- JOANNE RUTHERFORD – Marketing Co-ordination.
- CREAM ADVERTISING AGENCY – Cape Town.
- FELICITY JERVIS PUBLIC RELATIONS – Cape Town.
