Local trio win CTICC expansion competition

Yesterday marked the announcement of the design architects for the CTICC expansion project, which will see the centre doubling in capacity over the next three years. Out of 19 teams from around the world who pitched for this extensive project, the victors are a trio of Cape Town based architects chosen for their standout design and experience working on large scale, municipal projects.

Piet Bakker of Stauch Vorster Architects, Mokena Makeka of Makeka Design Lab, and Anya van der Merwe of Van der Merwe Miszewki Architects take on the challenge of designing CTICC2, which will comprise 10 000 square metres of retail space, a hospital, hotel and office tower. Set to be completed by June 2015, the project dovetails with the CTICC’s objective to become the best long-haul international convention centre by 2020.

The Centre – which currently hosts a multitude of events, ranging from small scale company meeting to huge events such as the Design Indaba – will, post expansion, be able hold multiple large events simultaneously, bringing more tourists and business people to the city.

In line with the core mandate of the CTICC, the expansion is set to have substantial economic benefits for Cape Town and the Western Cape. Job creation will increase from the current 7000 to around 10 000 per annum, and the city as a whole will be boosted by the increase in both local and international tourists.

The architectural concept behind the design is entitled “6211” and takes inspiration from the DNA code of the Cape Floristic Kingdom’s unique biodiversity. Incorporated into the building at almost every level – from roof to walls to carpets – the DNA concept will enable the double level facility to serve as a living artwork and place of education that celebrates and raises awareness about humanity.

With a large central foyer and multiple terraces, the architects’ intention is for CTICC2 to have a light, airy and optimistic feel. Flexibility is also paramount, and the centre will need to operate both seamlessly as one building, but also as two when required. When completed, the CTICC will sit in the midst of an urban, pedestrian-friendly hub propelling Cape Town forward as a world-class city.  

More info: www.cticc.co.za