TOP GREEN RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS

Steyn City in Midrand has used energysaving resources in all its buildings from the outset, and thousands of indigenous trees were planted across the sprawling estate filled with birdlife and small wild animals.

Steyn City’s 3,000m2 clubhouse with its grass roofs and thriving plant life has minimal environmental impact. By involving the local Diepsloot and Cosmo City communities in the construction of the clubhouse, the estate also provided local employment.

Balwin Properties is well known for its environmentally conscious building practices, from the use of ecofriendly appliances to sustainable solarsupplemented electricity. Its Kikuyu and The Whisken developments are some of the first in SA to bring more economical and cleaner energy to residents through the introduction of solar energy. CEO Steve Brookes says it is a concept they are looking to roll out in future developments.

“These will be among the first Edge-certified projects to include solar PV technology, offering energy-saving benefits to residents and setting an exciting trend in green homes,” says GBCSA managing executive Grahame Cruickshanks.

Blok’s new development in Sea Point, EIGHTONN, includes a rainwater harvesting and borehole connection and filtration systems that run into water tanks kept in the basement of the building. MD Jacques van Embden says: “This is added to the already efficient glazing, water heating and smart energy products and appliances we always include as fundamentals of a good building and home, ensuring we are working harder to create more sustainable buildings and living habits.”

Tongaat Hulett will bring a new community to life with the soon-tobe-built Ntshongweni Urban Development. This mixed-use precinct is expected to set into motion socioeconomic transformation for the N3 highway area and surrounds. Environmentally sustainable, peoplecentric and strategically located, the innovative design will support the site’s ecology and provide for needs of the people who use it.