How Fabian Architects & Make Studio’s The Rose Fits in with Perfect Harmony
On the edge of De Waterkant, the CBD, and the northern fringe of Bo-Kaap, Fabian Architects & Make Studio seized the opportunity to replace a derelict and featureless industrial building with one that injects fresh and vibrant energy into the streetscape. The Rose, positioned at the intersection of these distinguished neighbourhoods rich in cultural history, offers a sense of pink-hued serenity, serving as the perfect base for travellers to the Mother City.
Certain areas possess a distinctive identity, and the hillside neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap evokes sharply focussed images of narrow, cobbled streets lined with colourful houses, while De Waterkant presents a vibrant hub of trendy eateries and upscale local retail options. In crafting a building that stands out yet pays homage to these distinctive surroundings, Fabian Architects & Make Studio have elegantly unveiled The Rose — a structure that testifies to the harmonious interplay between contemporary design and historical resonance, while introducing its own flair.
From brief to brilliance
The site’s narrative dates back to 1878, when historical maps reveal a patchwork of modest terrace houses and small businesses. Fast forward to 2023, after a 14-month construction period, and an investment of R53 million, and the plot had transformed into a brand-new offering for the area.
What began as a straightforward brief for retail space and traditional apartments evolved to address the burgeoning market for short-term rentals. The developers pivoted to incorporate Airbnb-friendly units, creating a mix of two-bedroom flats and studio apartments across seven storeys. Capitalising on Cape Town’s allure, the rooftop pool terrace offers breathtaking views, providing an exquisite highlight for all who come to stay.
The design ethos draws inspiration from the historic row houses that characterise Bo-Kaap. The team, under the guidance of heritage consultant Claire Abrahamse, adeptly navigated the complexities of the Heritage Protection Overlay Zone to ensure that the new structure respects its historical context. It serves a mediating role between neighbouring buildings which range from monolithic glass modernism to contrasting ornate nineteenth-century façades.
The pink perspective
When it came to the building’s exterior, the architects proposed a powder-coated aluminium ‘skin’ to echo Bo-Kaap’s famously vivid aesthetic. While initial discussions leaned towards shades of green, the decision was ultimately made to embrace pink, thus marking The Rose as a distinctive addition to the already iconic colour palette of the surrounding neighbourhood. The exterior features unique pinfinned developments and elegant balustrades, with aluminium panels carefully selected in various shades of pink.
The Rose brings an exuberant energy to its setting, exemplifying how thoughtful design can enhance rather than overshadow its historic surroundings. In a neighbourhood renowned for its colour and character, this pink beauty has found its perfect home, adding its own chapter to a rich architectural story.
This article is an extract from our 2024/25 Coffee Table Edition. Click here to read the full issue.
