dhk Architects made headlines at the Africa Property Investment (API) Awards held in Cape Town, winning two prestigious accolades for its groundbreaking Longkloof Precinct development. The project secured the title of Best New Mixed-use/Precinct Development, while the four-star Canopy by Hilton hotel within the precinct was named Best New Hotel Development.

Designed for Growthpoint Properties, the Longkloof Precinct in Gardens, Cape Town, showcases 15 years of meticulous planning, innovation and architectural finesse. Spanning six separate sites, this mixed-use precinct exemplifies adaptive reuse principles, seamlessly blending historical preservation with modern design. dhk Architects employed its multidisciplinary expertise to tackle all facets of the project – from heritage-sensitive urban design to hospitality architecture, landscape design and wayfinding systems.

Recognition for design excellence

Pierre Swanepoel, dhk Partner and project leader, reflected on the magnitude of the achievement: ‘This was a long and complex project that pushed the boundaries of design, urban planning and development programming. These awards offer recognition for the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in delivering an exceptional architectural outcome.’

The Longkloof Precinct has revitalised a formerly underutilised area, introducing a mix of new commercial, hospitality and retail amenities. A central urban square, now publicly accessible, serves as the beating heart of the precinct and is designed to foster vibrant pedestrian activity.

The Canopy by Hilton: a key anchor

At the core of this revitalisation is the 4-star Canopy by Hilton hotel, which anchors the precinct with its restaurant overlooking the urban square. The development also includes three levels of basement parking to maintain a spacious, pedestrian-friendly environment.

Derick Henstra, Executive Chairman of dhk Architects, expressed his delight at the achievement: ‘We are thrilled by this recognition. It highlights the dedication of our clients and professional teams to elevate precinct-led design standards in South Africa.’

Elevating urban design standards

The API Awards, which celebrate excellence in Africa’s real estate sector, form part of the two-day summit hosted at The Westin in Cape Town. The accolades underscore dhk Architects’ contributions to the transformation of real estate development and urban design on the continent.