Lesson in blending nature, modern architecture

Andrew Mangwarara

AS you head towards the east along Mutare Road from Harare City Centre, you will find the Management Training Bureau in Msasa.

It is interesting that the training centre is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

Here, the public can go through coaching sessions in business strategy, leadership and entrepreneurship development, among other areas.

Accommodation and meals are offered at this place, which also serves as a venue for both social and corporate events.

The buildings are set against a green background. It is worth noting that the garden uses less water as it incorporates water-wise plants such as cacti and succulents.

A glass structure at the place is adorned with a number of queen palms (arecastrum romanzoffianum), while the weeping fig (ficus benjamina) lines the perimeter fence.

A number of succulents, together with an array of colourful stones, adorn the entrance.

Further exploration of the complex reveals a unique Zimbabwean setting where a number of gazebos mingle with large rocks. One will also find the African stinkwood (Celtics Africana) growing here.

The landscape continues to draw attention as one moves in the yard, where several exotic and indigenous plants make a mark. Talk of the Kenya croton (croton megalocarpon), date palm (phoenix reclinata), the castor oil plant (ricinus communis), the stapelias, the sansevierias and the cypress.At this place, we learn the value of blending nature with modern architecture.

It is not every rock and tree that needs to be removed when you get to a site to build. See what you can preserve for the future. especially if it aligns with your goals.

 

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