26/01/2026
Global Recognition for Design That Makes Sustainability Visible
Last weekend, Newinbosch, the mixed-use neighbourhood in Stellenbosch, was honoured at the International Property Awards in London, receiving:
Best Sustainable Development in the World
Best Sustainable Development in Africa
Best Mixed-Use Development in Africa
A project by , who drove sustainable principles from concept through to construction phases.
For us as OL architects and urban designers , this recognition of the project affirms a sustainability vision embedded not only in individual buildings, but across the entire precinct. Newinbosch has been planned and delivered as a 6-Star Green Star Sustainable Precinct, with all residential buildings achieving EDGE Advanced certification, setting clear, measurable targets for energy, water and material efficiency.
Architectural design plays a central role in achieving this .
Passive design strategies - including optimal orientation, shading, thermal mass and high-performance building envelopes - significantly reduce energy demand while enhancing everyday comfort.
These building-scale decisions are reinforced by precinct-wide renewable energy systems, water-sensitive urban design and integrated infrastructure that lowers long-term dependence on municipal resources for total supply of services .
Just as important is the spatial and landscape framework.
Walkable streets, compact mixed-use density and strong connections between buildings and public spaces reduce transport impact and encourage daily interaction. Indigenous planting, ecologically carefully managed stormwater systems enhance biodiversity, improve microclimate and strengthen long-term environmental resilience.
We are proud to have worked alongside Similan Group as developer, Ecolution Consulting, the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) and a dedicated professional team - delivering a project where sustainability is not an add-on, but fundamental to the architecture and the urban structure.
