Grandi Manufacturing was proud to play a key role in the fabrication of precision steel components for the Green Point Educational Dome—an iconic landmark within Cape Town’s Green Point Urban Park. This visionary structure was conceptualised by Lindie Burskie of the City of Cape Town’s Environmental Management Department and brought to life through the combined expertise of leading architects, engineers, and fabricators.
A one-of-a-kind design
The Green Point Educational Dome is the first of its kind in South Africa—an architectural and engineering marvel that has captured the attention of local and international universities, architects, and public-sector developers seeking sustainable design solutions.
The project team included Derek Kock Architects, HHO Consulting Engineers, Terra+ Landscape Architects, Entsha Construction, and MEWA (Marks Engineering Works Association), who led the timber and structural fabrication. The result is a striking and innovative space that promotes environmental education and community engagement.
Grandi Manufacturing’s contribution
Grandi Manufacturing was brought on board to resolve some of the most technically complex steel fabrication challenges. Our expertise was critical in developing the custom three-dimensional steel guttering system—a set of architectural rainwater channels that seamlessly integrate with the dome’s uniquely curved surfaces. These gutters had to meet strict functional requirements while maintaining the clean lines of the dome’s geometric design.
In collaboration with the MEWA team, we engineered and fabricated bespoke steel elements that would align precisely with the dome’s layered timber and marine plywood skin. All elements were required to conform to the dome’s spherical geometry—no straight lines, no standard fittings. Every component was designed and manufactured with accuracy and efficiency, drawing on over 50 years of Grandi Manufacturing’s experience in architectural metalwork.
Innovative materials and manufacturing methods
The dome’s outer skin is clad in 3CR12 stainless steel sheeting—a corrosion-resistant South African-developed alloy. This material was chosen for its weather resilience and its ability to age naturally, giving the dome its earthy, skin-like patina.
Beneath the steel lies a three-dimensionally curved layer of marine plywood, developed using an innovative cross-laminated technique by MEWA. This approach—combined with laminated poplar timber beams from the Karoo—allowed the dome to be pre-assembled at MEWA’s factory in Darling before being transported and installed on-site in Green Point.
Grandi Manufacturing’s steel elements needed to interface perfectly with this pre-assembled timber framework. Our contribution helped ensure a seamless installation, supporting the structural integrity and visual rhythm of the dome.
A sustainable symbol for public space
The Green Point Educational Dome is more than just a striking piece of architecture—it is a working demonstration of sustainable engineering and collaborative innovation. The surrounding garden, designed by Terra+, includes sensory plants, curved beam pergolas, sculptural seating, and educational installations that invite community interaction.
The entire project was carefully documented and photographed to serve as a case study for future sustainable building techniques, with interest already shown by global engineering and academic institutions.
A legacy of engineering excellence
At Grandi Manufacturing, we are proud to have contributed to this remarkable project. Our involvement in the Green Point Educational Dome reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering technically advanced, aesthetically driven, and environmentally conscious architectural metalwork.
We continue to collaborate with leading architects, engineers, and developers across South Africa—bringing decades of experience to every structure we help build.
