Weathering Resilience
Unit 17 this year focuses on collaborative work with a strong emphasis on composite materials. The selected approach for interventions at Fredman Towers involves the innovative use of natural rocks on the building’s elevations, particularly to investigate the effects of weathering. This choice reflects a commitment to both aesthetic and structural considerations, as natural rocks provide a unique and visually appealing cladding solution while also contributing to the building’s resilience in the face of weathering forces.
In an era of sleek modernity, the proposal to incorporate natural stones and rocks into the architecture of Fredman Towers in Sandton harkens back to the roots of human civilization, inviting us to reconnect with our primal essence. Natural stones, with their unique textures, colors, and patterns, can add a timeless and earthy aesthetic to the sleek, urban landscape of Sandton. In the heart of a bustling metropolis, the use of rocks as architectural elements in Fredman Towers serves not only as a testament to the enduring strength and enduring appeal of the Stone Age’s architectural innovations but also as a celebration of nature’s artistry, forging a harmonious connection between modernity and the primordial past.
