SA: Boneyard
Being near the Indian Ocean the nautical references are understandable, yet Boneyard is an exciting new development located in the holiday coastal town of Jeffreys Bay. Commissioned by the Tutalanga Real Economic Empowerment (TREE) Group, the 51-unit development is ideally situated within walking distance of the beach, a business area and other amenities.
Great care was taken in designing this building as it is situated within a traditional building context, surrounded by older buildings. The architects had to design a contemporary building relevant to today’s design language, yet it had to fit within the surrounding context. The result was a four-storey U-shaped building constructed with concrete, face brick, plastered paint, with applications of stainless steel and timber.
Units vary from two-bedrooms to bachelors in this R20 million (2.5 million USD) development that commenced construction in April 2008 andwas recently completed in September 2009.With a name like ‘Boneyard’ for a residential development, a multitude of images can be conjured up. The name has origins and meanings as vast as the ocean that lines the backdrop of this apartment complex, from its surfing connotations to its reference of a place where derelict ships meet their final resting place.
The interiors offer comfort while playing into the holiday / vacationing ambiance of Jeffreys Bay. Great care was taken in choosing the interior fixtures to ensure durability and create a sense of satisfaction, while being cost-conscious without sacrificing residents’ or vacationers’ experience.
Energy Efficiency
In light of heightened environmental awareness, the developers along with other project consultants incorporated a number of ‘green’ energy-efficient applications into Boneyard. Gas stoves were opted for over electrical stoves in cognisance of high electrical expenditure and the increasing demand in the face of the current controversial debate over increasing electricity tariffs. ‘Smart lights’, which activate or deactivate via a timer and motion sensors feature throughout the development.
There are numerous benefits associated with the construction of Boneyard which include a revenue boost of the city of Jeffreys Bay. By providing holiday and permanent accommodation, the residence is increasing local commerce through the residents’ capital spending at the various shops, restaurants and service providers.
In terms of alleviating the national surge in unemployment, the construction and maintenance of the building is creating both temporary and permanent jobs for the city’s residents, proving to be a holistic contribution to the community it serves.
Project Team
| Developer | Tradezilla 168 (Pty) Ltd |
| Architects | Mark Bradshaw |
| Project Manager | Professional Housing Consultants |
| Civil Engineer | BVI Port Elizabeth |
| Principal Contractor | Grandselect |
