Construction on The Fynbos development is set for completion at the end of next year, with the first apartments ready for occupation in early 2025.

The R1.2-billion building is located in Bree street, in Cape Town’s central business district, with apartment prices starting from R1.15-million.

There will be 689 apartments –  all Airbnb-friendly – over 24 floors.

Multinational group Lurra Capital is the developer and owner. The company says it has wrapped up the demolition of the existing building at the site, and that the excavation and construction of the three-level basement has started.

More importantly, however, is that The Fynbos will be South Africa’s first biophilic building. As such, it will be pursuing a formal Green Star Certification from the Green Building Council of South Africa.

Biophilic design describes an approach to architecture that seeks to connect building occupants more closely to nature. 

Biophilic-designed buildings incorporate aspects such as natural lighting and ventilation, natural landscape features and other, similar elements.

One of the ways in which this will find expression in The Fynbos is through the building’s 1 200 m2 of vertical gardens.

The plants – 30 species of trees and 20 species of shrub – are all indigenous to the Western Cape, with each plant included for its aesthetics and resilience. 

The schematic for how the plants are placed across the structure follows the working in-situ example of Table Mountain, with trees at the base, and lower profile shrubs and cascading plants towards the top. 

This canopy will drape the entire building. 

Trees are to be anchored in place to survive gusts. 

Bigger planters will contain rootspread, which will bonsai the trees. 

A wind study has identified crevices where more elaborate planters can be sheltered.

All plant support and nutrients will be automated, with sensors placed across the system, including root scanners that monitor growth. 

A triple back-up system will provide an unbroken supply of water, with drainage to be carefully monitored.

The vegetation will also act as a soft, absorptive barrier that will assist in natural noise reduction. 

Plants also absorb harmful chemicals and clean the air. 

Inside, climate control is provided by natural layers, as the exterior plants offer a cooling effect, while also providing shade and screening. 

Also, a central heated water system allows for economies of scale, while avoiding individual geysers. 

A rainwater harvesting system will be integrated into the unique balcony design. 

Electricity will be partially supplied by solar panels.

The Fynbos will also feature a ground floor, plant-based restaurant, tea room and botanical bar, a rooftop fitness centre and an organic vegetable market.