Blower House Complex in Cape Town
SALT Architects undertook the design of the Blower House Complex at the Athlone Wastewater Treatment Works upgrade near Cape Town, South Africa. The site, adjacent to the N2 highway, features historical structures from the decommissioned Athlone Power Station and aged wastewater treatment works. SALT Architects envisions repurposing these structures in their master plan for the site.
The Blower House Complex responds to the client’s brief, aiming to symbolize progress, boost staff morale, optimize flow, and provide observation opportunities. As the initial phase of a planned upgrade, the design integrates with existing infrastructure while setting new material and detailing standards.
The building’s layout, dictated by the site’s civil infrastructure plan, orients its long facade northward. A first-floor gallery celebrates the primary function—the plant—offering views of the blowers and creating a multifunctional space. A brown face brick wall on the first floor reinforces the human scale amid machinery dominance. A covered walkway on the ground floor protects from the elements and guides users to the main entrance, revealing glimpses of internal functions.
all images courtesy of SALT Architects
Strategic Circulation by SALT Architects
Circulation planning considers the 24/7 working schedule of ground staff, placing essential facilities on the ground floor to limit dirt transfer. The first-floor clerical functions are kept separate and accessible after the ground staff don clean outfits. The laboratory, serving both office and ground staff, is strategically located at the furthest end of the gallery.
Materials address the corrosive wastewater environment, with pre-cast concrete window fins inspired by old plant buildings. The fins, turned vertically, provide a surface for glazing without additional frames prone to corrosion. SALT Architects opts for this material solution to create a visually satisfying internal expression, enhancing the identity of the complex.
brick facade
main entrance
pedestrian walkway
main entrance
entrance lobby
first-floor gallery
blower hall
control room
project info:
name: Athlone Wastewater Control Centre and Blower House Complex
architect: SALT Architects | @saltarchitects
location: Cape Town, South Africa
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
