Life as we know it is changing – and if technology and clothing can change at the blink of an eye – then shouldn’t property developments? Now, some of South Africa’s biggest mixed-use developments are evolving into “smart cities” by embracing the latest technology, and we think this is cool, Hello Joburgers!
Europe has been doing this for years, but the now more focused world wide trend towards urbanism is increasing. People want to live, work and play in the same place – a space where they can easily and safely walk to an office, home, restaurant or another amenity. This concept is a mixed-use precinct. When combined with the latest in technology, it becomes a smart city.
New developments are now targeting millennial investors with “smart” features that make a smart city. Walkable and safe precincts, electric car charging stations, precinct-wide WIFI and Fibre to the Home, significantly enhanced 24-hour security, and assistance in your home for a range of emergencies – at the push of a button. This is the future of development.
“Technology is an integral accompaniment to new urbanism as it holds the desirable characteristics of walkable precincts, where residential and office space are combined with gyms, hotels, and a wide variety of upmarket, cocktail bars and restaurants,” shares Nicholas Stopforth, Managing Director of Amdec Property Development.
Say goodbye to ugly high-rise tower blocks with unsightly DSTV dishes dotted about, and instead imagine buildings that offer green design, green spaces, and pedestrianised roads, recycling is madatory – and yet harken back to a feel of traditional, communal village life where all your daily needs are within walking distance.
Amdec have been the brains behind Melrose Arch and and Harbour Arch (opening in Cape Town in 2019) precincts, the Melrose Arch development even has license plate recognition, to ensure increased security for residents.
But more than just focusing on technology, smart cities are focused on sustainability. And in South Africa, these mixed-use, new urbanist precincts are certainly driving the sustainability trend. The world over, developers are under pressure to drastically minimise water usage and incorporate eco-friendly technologies that will benefit the planet in the long-term.
This has resulted in a shift towards water-conscious design and planning – like rainwater and grey water harvesting, dual-flush plumbing systems, and water storage facilities, to name a few.
Great innovations and an interesting look towards the future living trends.
Source: HelloJoburg
