Ellipse Waterfall Surface Artwork

Conceptual diagram showing allusion to Highveld landscape

Conceptual diagram showing reference to geometry of the building

Sketch showing principle of surface design as a directional device

Conceptual sketch showing stair condition

Conceptual diagram showing seat concept and allusion to Highveld landscape

Conceptual showing seat an tree environment

Conceptual sketch showing tree and seat environment

3D visualisation showing tree and seat environment

Seats at approach to the entrance of the building

View showing the relationship between the geometry of the surface artwork and the building

The scale of the design is pedestrian-friendly

The approach to the entrance of the building

Tiles ‘climb’ the stairs toward the entrance of the building.

A view showing the steel drawing representing the Highveld landscape cast into the concrete of the seat

View showing the relationship of the steel drawings, tiles and shadows of the trees

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Named the 'Patterned Landscape', the artwork celebrates the public space at various scales—urban, architectural, landscape, and detail. The tiled artwork seamlessly integrates these elements into one cohesive design. It is made up of custom-designed terrazzo tiles and concrete seats, responding directly to the architectural language of the building. The artwork takes into account the prominence of the piazza and its visibility from the upper levels of the tower, taking a pedestrian-friendly approach. The sloping nature of the piazza was considered, with the artwork's pattern designed to reveal itself gradually as pedestrians ascend towards the tower's entrance, akin to a gentle ramp. By referring directly to the elliptical geometry of the building, and in particular its form in plan, the geometric language of the pattern is directly linked to the architectural identity of the building. The surface artwork is a directional device, guiding the pedestrian from the mouth of the piazza to the entrance of the building. The pattern of the surface artwork is at its densest at the mouth of the piazza and opens up as it approaches the building. At a certain point in the piazza, the directional focus of the space changes. The pattern of the surface artwork is balanced between positive and negative space at this point, marking this change.

Acknowledging the regional context, inspiration was drawn from the natural landscape of the Highveld, reflecting its historical and present significance amidst Midrand's built environment, honouring its essence and atmosphere. This reference is particularly evident in the design of the concrete seats. A space for a tree was made at the edge of each seat, creating an environment within the overall environment. The seats allow for the users of the space to feel part of it, and to view the piazza and artwork in a moment of pause. This consideration encourages the user of the space to understand the concept behind the surface artwork, as well as the relationship between the artwork, planted landscaping and building. Line drawings made of mild steel are embedded in the curved facade of the seats. The drawings are an abstract representation of the typical Highveld landscape of which the site is a part. The pattern of the shadow cast by the leaves of the trees brings a geometric layer which speaks to the elliptical pattern of the tiles.