Rocherpan Nature Reserve

Client: Cape Nature
Status: completed 2015

The Rocherpan Nature Reserve, located on a seasonal pan is a spring flower paradise along the Flamingo Route located on the Cape West Coast. The project is comprised of a total renovation of the previously under-utilized tourist cabins on the CapeNature site. Included in the work was the upgrade of 4 existing corrugated iron cottages, 2 new staff houses, storage, parking, new reception, offices and public facilities.

The reserve is located in the coastal plain in the arid Strandveld region which has extremely low annual rainfall (250mm) and no potable ground water. Timber framed, light-weight houses with low curved roofs nestle in the bush and capture rainwater to supply the houses. Simple, passive, low energy, lightweight design principles have been included to provide opportunity for tourists to get close to nature. The new facilities are designed for universal accessibility and allow people of all physical abilities to enjoy the beauty of the landscape in which it is nestled. 

View Video - Rocherpan Nature ReserveView Video - Rocherpan Nature Reserve and Warrior on WheelsView Rocherpan Nature Reserve Article
Boardwalks lead into the sensitive wetland area
Bird hides nestle in the reeds along the edge of the seasonal wetland Bird hides provide close encounters with the variety of birds which migrate along the West coast Image Image Boardwalks lead to communal facilities such as composting toilets and braai areas Gently curving roofs soften the visual impact of the buildings in the landscape Elevated boardwalks minimize the impact of people on the sensitive landscape Upgrade of existing cabins which are nestled in the arid landscape Eco-cabins are simple but comfortable Image Screening provides a diversity of shadows and light conditions on the cabins Image Rainwater harvesting is vital in this arid Strandveld climate