Introducing Stellenbosch Bridge, a significant development in the realm of Innovation Districts, which officially launched on 7 November 2024. Featured in Engineering News and Netwerk24, this project marks an important milestone in creating a forward-thinking innovation ecosystem.

Traditionally, innovation districts have been urban areas where R&D institutions, businesses, and private actors converge to develop integrated strategies for innovation. These areas foster entrepreneurship, attract start-ups, and support business incubators. The Stellenbosch Bridge project adopts and adapts this proven model, focusing on creating a thriving innovation ecosystem with a local context.

At the core of the design is Stellenbosch University, which will establish a LaunchLab to kickstart innovation and attract talent. Osmond Lange has been integral in conceptualising and designing this district. The project incorporates mass timber and cross-laminated timber, which are vital to achieving a Net Zero carbon goal.

The urban design strategy is rooted in placemaking, focusing on creating spaces that promote interaction, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. These spaces, which include housing, office areas, and essential neighbourhood amenities, are designed to be compact, accessible by public transport, and conducive to informal meetups that stimulate innovation.

The design draws inspiration from the Stellenbosch vernacular, with a focus on human scale to reflect the charm of the old town while embracing modern innovation principles.

We look forward to seeing the positive impact of the Stellenbosch Bridge on the local innovation ecosystem and its contribution to sustainable urban development.

Read more about the project:

Engineering News https://lnkd.in/dUaABkbG

Netwerk24 https://lnkd.in/dxtePxEh