Recycling Historic Spaces Into New Tourism Attractions
Ai Architects have just completed a highly delicate exercise in revitalising and recycling the historic werf of Rhebokskloof. Here the emphasis was definitely on less is more.
Many additions to the old buildings, which were made in the modern era, were demolished and the unique relationship between the werf and the buildings was re-established. Clean lines and simple tones bring the interiors into balance with their magnificent setting in the agrarian landscape.
The new cycling trails into the Paarl Mountain Reserve start and end under the majestic oaks of the werf at the edge of the shade dappled parkland on the edge of the dam. Here the coffee shop, with its cyber terrace, the restaurant and the wine tasting hall provide a cool respite from the bright sunlight on the granite hills.
The design theme is "Balanced Heritages": The natural heritage, the Agricultural Heritage and the Architectural Heritage in a symbiotic balance to deliver the sustainability of tenure as a working wine farm, the protection of heritage resources and the promotion of sustainable tourism.
For more information contact AiArchitects (Pty) Ltd.
