THE DESCRIPTION - THE DISTINCTIVE GABLE

 Cape Town's image is uniquely defined by the majesty of Table Mountain and the surrounding two oceans. The city's architecture is a fascinating mosaic of Asian, European and African traditions mixed with modern elements. The farmlands are studded with architecturally unique and aesthetically delightful jewels - traditional Cape Dutch homesteads with proud gables, symmetrical façades, mole brown thatch, and lime washed walls.

Investigate the lives of iconic men of their time: far sighted early Cape governor Simon van der Stel, ruthless imperialist and generous benefactor Cecil John Rhodes, and 'architect of the Empire' Sir Herbert Baker. Uncover different creative periods in Cape history through them and discover their legacies.

 Africa in the 21st-century aspires to integrate its multicultural society, and to accommodate its diverse cultures. Currently the challenge is to transform society via affordable, sustainable accommodation. Hear about the issues from the practitioners and solutions from the visionaries.

SIGNATURE FEATURES
A private visit to Groote Schuur, formerly the prime minister's residence commissioned by Rhodes and designed by Baker in the 'Cape Dutch Baker style'
A behind the scenes tour of the Houses of Parliament
Trace the origins and evolution of the unique Cape Dutch architectural style
A site visit to an award winning, socially relevant design solution
The gorgeous beauty of the Cape, its scenic delights and unforgettable sights.

THE HIGHLIGHTS
The climate and available resources gave birth to a one of a kind vernacular style with an unmistakable feature - the gable, gracefully proportioned and imaginatively crafted. No single origin can be traced. Attempts point to similar features in Holland and Germany, the influence of French Huguenots, comparable structures in other Dutch East Indian ruled territories, the recognised contribution of a few known architects and sculptors and the personal touch of Cape Malay craftsmen. The evolution of Cape Dutch architecture reveals many imported influences, much local ingenuity and letter of the alphabet floor plans.

Each a colossus in his age, three men bequeathed powerful legacies and can be seen as a metaphor for their time.
Simon van der Stel an early governor, was the first to recognise the potential of the Cape as more than a halfway house, and to establish a wine estate as well as expand winegrowing to outlying fertile areas of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl. You’ll experience his far sighted vision when travelling around the Constantia valley and other rural landcapes.

Cecil John Rhodes has been heaped with epithets such as hero of the nation and ruthless imperialist. Both are perspectives of a man who held multiple positions of power at crucial political crossroads, became prime minister of the Cape and ultimately a philanthropist, bequeathing to the nation large tracts of land on the slopes of Table Mountain that include the University of Cape Town, Kirstenbosch Botanic gardens and Groote Schuur.

Herbert Baker is regarded as the most important architect in South African history, whose influence extends well beyond the body of his works. His prodigious output included the governor’s residence in Cape Town, the Union Buildings in Pretoria, more glorification of the empire in New Delhi (in collaboration with Lutyens) and India and Africa House in London. His school of architecture together with his acolytes the Baker Boys, dominated the scene for decades.

Contemporary issues abound including urban pressures and low cost housing demands. Hear from a firm of young professionals who are rising to some of these challenges with sophisticated, socially relevant design, simplicity of construction and affordable materials. Inherited issues linger: such as restitution following apartheid enforced removals and land ownership rights. Follow stories that weave multiple threads together, blending the centuries and the players, and hear some happy endings during your journey around the vibrant cityscape and surrounding countryside.

itinerary

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