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In July 2008, Palace Technologies Architectural Division was awarded a project to render architectural services for the design and construction of the new Royal Palace in Maseru, following an international architectural competition. Project background: The existing Royal Palace was built some 35 years ago in 1975/76 and its completion and occupation was deliberately intended to coincide with the celebration of the 10th anniversary of Lesotho’s independence. After some years, the building started to show indications of deterioration in the form of cracks that had resulted from settling of the concrete slabs, which required maintenance work to be undertaken. At the time, the funding for full scale maintenance had not been availed except for cosmetic attention to the areas that were public where their Majesties met and performed functions of the Head of State. Following this, the government of Lesotho opted for reconstruction of the dilapidated Royal Palace. The Department of Building Design Services under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport organised an International Architectural Competition, which the Architectural arm of the Palace Technologies was awarded Refined scope of work The overall scope of work was the provision of architectural services for the design and construction of a new palace for the King of Lesotho as well as the investigation and implementation of energy efficient solutions, use of renewable energy and management of water. The proposed project includes mainly four buildings that are the New Palace, Chapel, Guest House and Tennis House. Minor interventions should be carried out around these four buildings in terms of access to the site and landscaping. The proposal makes provision for both the official and private aspects of the project. The various buildings are to reflect their official status, Lesotho, its culture, its people and show its desire for modernity. Traditional elements and symbols are to be integrated in structures that make use of the latest trends, materials and technologies. |
