Cape Town: The redevelopment work of Cape Station has finally come to its completion. Now it opens a direct corridor between Strand Street and the Cape Town Railway Station.
The renovation has boasted an unrestricted and pedestrian friendly thoroughfare through a ‘grand entrance’ galleria.
Reportedly, it was the largest project of GVK-Siya Zama’s till date, by value and the largest one in the Western Cape. The construction company has worked diligently around the clock to complete the project and transform the Cape Station into a mixed-use residential and retail space.
The GVK-Siya Zama has also worked earlier for the similar projects in European cities where less desirable spaces are being transformed, after residential and retail offerings. The 77,000m² redevelopment work incorporates a 20-storey, 3000 bed that is purposely built for student accommodation facility. It also consists of 6,700m² retail space and a new world-class public square.
As per the Managing Director of GVK-Siya Zama of Cape Business Unit – Chris Maughan said, “The project had to be complete in time for the 2024 student intake. The 20-storey building required hoisting of some 9,000,000 bricks, which meant many extra hours of crane hook time and additional protection and resources while navigating adverse weather conditions.”
He added that many elements had an industrial look and feel. They had to find ways to retain the architectural features without making the development feel too basic.
Maughan further explained due to the size of the project, the financial consideration played a critical role in product selection and it became increasingly challenging to ensure that the cost-effective products did not distract from aesthetic goals and the envisioned design.
Considerably, the primary focus of the project was the student safety and wellbeing. The development included several study hubs, seven-a-side football fields on the fourth floor of the building and cinema and relaxation areas to create a safe, enjoyable and practical living space.
The Cape Station building also boasts solar and energy efficient appliances that include many safety features, specifically related to the fire compliance.
Managing Director of GVK-Siya Zama added to his statement and said that they are delighted with the phenomenal outcome of the project.
“It showcases our ability to work on large, complex projects within tight budget and time constraints,” said MD Chris Maughan.
Maughan expressed, “We also believe our success is due to our ability to attract the best people in the industry and create a work environment that is supportive and friendly.”
