University of Mpumalanga - TCRPV Architects

The University of Mpumalanga is based in Mbombela. Our approach to education considers the notion of lifelong learning.

Client Department of Education

Project University of Mpumalanga

Address Mbombela, Mpumalanga

Size Phased 20 000 sqm

Year completed 2019

The University of Mpumalanga is based in Mbombela, South Africa. It was established in 2014, initially accommodating a modest intake of one hundred and forty student. At the time an architectural design competition was held by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) for the establishment of two new South African universities – Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley, and the University of Mpumalanga (UMP)in Mbombela. As one of the four architectural firms selected for the first phase of development of UMP, TCRPV Architect were tasked with the design and construction of three new buildings which included various multi lecture teaching facilities and academic offices.

As specialists in Education facilities TCRPV Architects approach is that real learning will only occur through the active involvement with ones environment and encourage learning to extend beyond the classroom walls to include the whole campus and the greater community. The steeply sloped topography guided the placement and massing of the built forms. Perched along a rocky outcrop, the campus buildings provide sweeping panoramic views over the city and surrounding hillside. Central to TCRPV Architects design was the creation of an integrated mixed-use precinct woven into the existing building fabric of the site, tied together by a public promenade that connects the campus buildings.