Growthpoint Properties (JSE:GRT) excelled at this year’s South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) Property Development Awards for Innovative Excellence, securing three prestigious wins, including Overall Best Development. The recognition reinforces Growthpoint’s role in shaping South Africa’s built environment through transformative developments.
Recognition of Excellence
The SAPOA Awards celebrate projects that redefine the property landscape through design, sustainability, functionality, and social impact. Winners represent the best in South African property development. Growthpoint’s achievements this year highlight its ability to deliver projects hat balance commercial value with community benefit.
Two standout projects were honoured:
- Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof – Overall Best Development and Best Mixed-Use Project.
- Thrive @ Crescent Studios, Johannesburg – Best Student Accommodation Project.
Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof
Situated in the historic Longkloof precinct, Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof has revitalised a once landlocked site on the edge of the CBD. The 16,500m² project involved refurbishing five heritage buildings, selective demolitions, and constructing a new 154-key five-star hotel.
Designed with dhk Architects, the development integrates office, retail and hospitality into a vibrant mixed-use hub. Public spaces, pedestrian walkways, cafés, and Longkloof Square have transformed street life and connectivity to the city. Growthpoint replaced surface parking with three underground levels, opening the area for urban activity.
The project is a model of how heritage preservation and modern design can coexist to deliver large-scale urban renewal. SAPOA judges commended its complexity, design quality, and catalytic impact on Cape Town’s city centre.
Thrive @ Crescent Studios
Located near the University of the Witwatersrand, Thrive @ Crescent Studios sets a new standard in student accommodation. The twelve-storey, purpose-built residence provides 871 beds across 351 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units. Each unit features private kitchens and bathrooms, offering independence alongside shared community living.
The development offers more than housing. Students benefit from study zones on every floor, a computer lab, and collaboration rooms, as well as social amenities such as a rooftop entertainment area, gym, laundry, games room, braai areas, and a multi-sport court.
With its modern interiors and balanced mix of academic, social, and lifestyle facilities, Thrive @ Crescent Studios provides a holistic environment where students can live, learn and grow.
A Proud Achievement
Estienne de Klerk, SA CEO of Growthpoint Properties, described the recognition as a tremendous honour, emphasising the company’s commitment to creating developments that add value for investors, tenants, and communities alike. He highlighted the significance of Longkloof’s dual awards, noting the balance of heritage preservation with bold renewal.
As South Africa’s leading real estate investment trust (REIT), Growthpoint has built its reputation on innovation, qualityand sustainability. This year’s awards reaffirm its leadership in shaping the country’s built environment.
“These awards inspire us to keep raising the bar,” said De Klerk. “We remain committed to developing properties that respond to South Africa’s evolving needs while contributing to more liveable, sustainable and inclusive cities.”
