Inspired by the peaceful charm of the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, Collins Residential has begun building the remarkable Seaton Estate gatehouse, an outstanding creation that seamlessly blends with the stunning landscape of the area while capturing the spirit of the estate’s unique character.
Designed by acclaimed architect Brent Buchanan from Nsika Architecture & Design, the land-art bridge mirrors the natural rise and fall of the land. Buchanan’s idea for the gatehouse departs from the usual style of estate entrances. He explains, “The Seaton gatehouse will look more like a connected ribbon than a formal gatehouse.” Rather than being imposing, the gatehouse focuses on functionality, weaving together a unified system of roads and walkways. Inspired by the land-art bridges of Europe that enable fauna to traverse busy roadways, this piece of architecture allows people to move through, over and within it.
The upper level links one precinct to the other, effectively offering the “roof” as a pathway guiding pedestrians, cyclists and even horses from one side to the other, while staying connected to the beauty of the landscape. Within the gatehouse, the building provides various essential facilities for managing an estate, including a security office, sales office, management offices and project meeting rooms, and a central mobility hub for residents and visitors.
Murray Collins, Director at Collins Residential says, “Beyond its role as a secure entry and exit point for pedestrians and motorists, the gatehouse breaks traditional moulds, emerging as an imaginative hub that seamlessly marries services, environment, people, and transportation. This integration flows effortlessly through the structure, rendering it an architectural marvel that gracefully traverses a textured landscape.”
With a total of 1100 homes planned for the expansive Seaton development, this landmark structure symbolises not only architectural prowess but also an investment in the future. The careful fusion of landscape and design embodies the essence of Seaton’s exceptional location, elevating the North Coast’s allure and ensuring a future that is both sustainable and inspiring.
In the convergence of architecture and nature, the Seaton Estate gatehouse emerges as a lasting symbol of function with purpose. As the landscape blooms and architectural wonders unfold, the journey to connect community and environment enters a new chapter, brimming with the promise of a vibrant and harmonious future.
Details: To learn more about Seaton Estate and explore it for yourself, book a personalised site tour by visiting www.seatonestate.co.za
Text: Provided on behalf of The Collins Group for Seaton Estate
Images: Renders of the Seaton Estate Gatehouse
