Paradox Landscape

A void in networks, break in connections, closed-open space and unsafe terrain – an epicentre of paradoxes and opportunities. As topographically and topologically dynamic landscapes, landfills exist as a unique paradox of public space which is not easily accessible or visible to the public which created them.

The final resting place for most refuse/solid waste, landfills, have become underappreciated and often an overlooked form of public space. The contemporary perception of landfills, and refuse disposal, is that these landscapes should be concealed from public observation. This perception removes the link, and subsequent understanding, of where the waste that they create goes to ‘die’.

Site

Landfills also are integral to archaeological research, acting as layered time capsules containing the timeline of cultures and technology.

They also become landscapes for artists and scientists to study, and extract narratives of the evolution of humanity.

Landfills contain a material and energy resource, which could be harvested and processed in an environmentally constructive way.

This site is situated with the unique location of being able to connect/integrate/affect/respond to townships with rich heritage; proposed townships; congregation of ‘work seekers’; varying topography; residential zones; nature reserves; cultural and heritage sites; protected areas; rivers and wetlands; and refuse disposal terrain – all on or directly adjacent to it.

Mapping

An immersive analysis of the site revealed various unique attributes of the site and its context - most prevalently to my criteria, was a network of curtain manufacturers.

A Gauteng City Region wide study of the various entities involved in curtain manufacture revealed how the Oriental Plaza is the nucleus of this network.