Mapungubwe Interpretation Center- Peter Rich Architects

 

The deesign of the interpretation centre by Peter Rich Architects, is one that respects vernacular and responds to it's context well.

 

According to Designboom, the design was formed from the dramatic geological events which took place at the Limpopo River, when the river changed it's course from flowing into the atlantic ocean to discharging into the indian ocean.

 

 

 

The complex landscape was the inspiration for the complex geometric design.

 



An equalateral triangle in plan creates the ordering of the primary structures which are anchored to their locations. The arches are kept thin by timbrel vaulting construction. These thin arches are an analogy of the past generations of cultures indigenous to the area.

The path is dramatic, linking the building's internal volume to the trees and the lanscape as one progresses through the building. The route continues through the building to the highest point of the site where there is a view of Mapungwe, with the Limpopo in the distance.