Southernmost Tip of Africa Icon Project, Cape Agulhus

Bernard Oberholzer Landscape Architect and Team

ILASA Merit Award Winner 2019 for Planning and Design Category

This landmark project aims “to establish the southernmost point as a sustainable icon attraction in the Cape Agulhas region by embracing its physical and spiritual attributes” and in so doing, create a memorable destination point for both local and overseas visitors. It seeks to a balance the need for a substantial landmark within the low, rugged coastline so that it harmonises with the wilderness landscape experience and unique sense of place. The design elements include low stone walls that surround the circular paved area wherein a large, sculpted relief Africa map is located. Visitors are guided into the space by a vertical compass “blades” that signal gateway and the compass points shown in the paving assist visitors to orientate themselves. The collaboration between landscape architect, architect and land artist drew on their combined inspiration and in particular the creative impulses of the two land artists. This collaboration enriched the process and pioneered a seamless and cohesive design statement for the R3 037 000 project.

Thanks to ILASA for the permission to use this material https://www.ilasa.co.za/