A look at the ‘6-star’ lifestyle estate in South Africa’s richest city
Balwin Properties’ Thaba Eco-Village Lifestyle Centre in the south of Johannesburg has just received a 6 Star Green Star Design Rating.
Balwin Properties was delighted to earn its tenth 6 Star Green Star Desing Rating for the Thaba Eco-Village Lifestyle Centre and Montessori School, which is located within the Thaba Eco-Village residential estate in Gauteng.
Apartments in the estate start from R749,000 for one bedroom and R1,349,900 for two bedrooms.
The recognition is awarded by the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA), and also includes a Net Zero Carbon Level 1 Design rating.
“We are thrilled to have 11 of our projects achieving the 6 Star Green Star Design rating—a World Leadership accolade that positions us as leaders in green building,” said Balwin CEO Steve Brookes.
“As South Africa’s foremost residential property developer, we prioritise environmentally responsible practices while delivering high-quality apartments and lifestyle centres to our valued clients.”
Balwin also has 6 Star Green Star Design Rated Lifestyle Centre properties at developments Greenlee, Greenbay, Greencreek, Greenpark, The Reid, Fynbos, The Huntsman, Ballito Hills, and De
Zicht, as well as its head office in Johannesburg.
The Thaba Eco-Lifestyle Centre and Montessori School’s green building strategy focused on several areas: Management, Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ), Energy Efficiency, Transport, Water conservation, Materials, Land Use and Ecology, Emissions Reduction, and innovative practices.
Solid Green Consulting worked with Balwin at all 10 of its Lifestyle Centres and was essential in achieving the project’s high overall score.
Jennifer Dean, Lead Accredited Professional, said the latest project exemplifies green design as a principle promoting greater environmental awareness and behavioural change.
“This project demonstrates how sustainable design is not just an addition but a foundation,” said Dean.
“It showcases how, by prioritising environmental responsibility, we not only create healthier, more vibrant places to live and work in but also inspire future innovations in sustainable development.”
The Lifestyle Centre has wellness and recreational spaces, which serve as a social hub for the surrounding community.
When it comes to sustainable features, the architectural approach aims to connect occupants with nature.
Indigenous xeriscape plants are present to minimise irrigation and promote local biodiversity, complemented by green spaces designed to promote relaxation.
The estate’s facilities include a gym, six ping-pong courts, skateboard parks, a half-basketball court, mini-soccer fields, a kiddies’ play area, bike and hiking trails, and the Thaba Paws dog park.
The project also includes eco-friendly, locally sourced, non-toxic, and recyclable materials that aim to reduce carbon emissions and enhance the building’s durability.
A green roof over part of the Montessori school provides natural insulation, mitigates urban heat, and supports biodiversity while also effectively managing stormwater.
Windows across the estate were placed to maximise views and natural ventilation and minimise reliance on HVAC systems, ensuring the best possible indoor air quality.
Energy-efficient LED lighting with smart controls also reduces electricity usage and high insulation, and Low-E windows help maintain comfortable temperatures with minimal energy consumption.
A solar PV system with a capacity of 66.2 kWp generates an annual production of 111 MWh, which reduces the building’s peak electrical demand.
Water conservation measures also include low-flow fittings, rainwater harvesting, and dual-flush toilets, which are flushed with either rainwater or treated water from a future wastewater treatment plant.
Images of the estate can be found below:
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