Peak Studios by GASS Architecture Studios
The creation of a dialogue between individuals and their context, both physically and metaphysically, is key to the establishment of an identity and is paramount to a student’s developing years. In turn, location and design solutions are critical in unlocking opportunities through access to transport, safe gathering spaces, and an environment that inspires and nurtures. To realise this goal for the students of UCT and CPUT, Growthpoint Student Accommodation Holdings sought out the expertise of GASS Architecture Studios, and the result was the vibrant Peak Studios Student Accommodation.
A repurposed heritage building and additional building in Observatory, Peak Studios consists of nine storeys that house 563 students from UCT and CPUT. When GASS was handed the brief for the project, they were asked to provide a unique brand and student accommodation which allows for an efficient, optimal, and economic design of living units.
Four principles for function
The design approach was informed by four principles that guided architectural solutions: community, sustainability, urban reactivation, and heritage. Situated on the main route of the Jammie Shuttle (the official transport of UCT), the location offers prime access from within the larger context of the Observatory and Salt River areas. Communal green space provides safe and inspiring areas for gathering and exchange — a pivotal aspect of a learning environment, encouraging collaboration and innovation through interaction. Rooted in the city context, activation of the street edge re-establishes the building as a contributing presence. The development feeds directly into the great need for these spaces, serving surrounding private educational institutions. Repurpose, densification, and redevelopment of a previously single-function and closed-off site, this approach adds value to the developing Salt River and Observatory neighbourhoods.
A dialogue of place
By utilising the existing building on the site, the stylistic and architectural presence of the building regenerates the space. The original building was designed to have a face brick plinth with a plastered half-circle staircase and first story. This mixture of face brick and the contrasting lighter textures was influential to the design of the façade. Texture complements the form of the building, creating a sophisticated yet playful architectural language. The stylistic qualities of the past Art Deco style are interpreted through a contemporary lens, creating a clear distinction between the old and new, while being based on the same point of departure. This becomes the link to the past and creates a continuation of the architectural dialogue of place, establishing the unique identity of the building.
Flexible, sustainable living
A critical element when designing student housing is the ‘product’. What is the offering to the student? What is the best product to get into the market to provide a living experience in which students can thrive? Apart from the minimum requirements, how is the product optimised, generous, robust, and unique? To create flexibility of use, loose furniture in communal spaces can be moved and rearranged to allow larger gatherings of up to 200 people inside the building, spilling out to the new open courtyard as well. The existing chapel was opened to create an open-air internal courtyard, transforming it into a space of light and greenery. The various common and shared spaces are contrasted with the privacy of single bedrooms, meeting the different needs of students who live, study, and gather in a variety of social and spatial settings.
Peak Studios achieved Green Building Council of SA (GBCSA) EDGE Certification for both preliminary and completed buildings for environmentally conscious design, achieving the goal of making sustainability part of the driving elements. Specific design decisions that contribute to the sustainable nature and status of the building include domestic hot water being provided through heat pump systems, all landscaped areas being designed with water-wise planting and a cap on irrigation, and smart metering of electricity enables control and management by residents.
Peak Studios is not merely a student residence. It is an example of the dynamic student life necessary for the future. By employing practices of repurposing, sustainability, flexibility, community, and contribution to the surrounding society, GASS proves what is possible when purpose and consideration are at the forefront of architectural design.
Photography by Daniela Zondagh
This article is an extract from our June Issue. Read the full issue here.
