WILLIE VOS, CEO of Waterfall City Management Company, speaks to Everything Property about how, as cities expand and adapt to contemporary needs, mixed-use developments are becoming prominent as a strategic response to urban growth, congestion, security concerns, and sustainability challenges.
Vos says that these multifunctional spaces seamlessly blend residential, commercial, and leisure areas, fostering a dynamic environment that redefines urban living, working, and social engagement.
“In South Africa, mixed-use developments are gaining traction, as they create more efficient, sustainable, and vibrant urban environments. This growing popularity stems from increasing urbanisation putting pressure on infrastructure, mobility, and municipal services. Traditional single-use zoning models often contribute to long commutes, economic inefficiencies, and urban fragmentation.”
In contrast, he says, “mixed-use developments integrate various functions into a single, well-planned precinct, reducing reliance on long-distance commuting and offering a more seamless urban experience. Residents, businesses, and visitors benefit from increased convenience, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced quality of life. The demand for such developments is also driven by shifting consumer preferences. Young professionals, empty nesters, and even businesses now prioritise accessibility, security, and connectivity. The ability to live, work, and socialise within a single precinct fosters a sense of community and enhances overall productivity.”
Urban transformation
The CEO comments that mixed-use developments transform modern cityscapes in several ways. “Sustainability and smart infrastructure play a key role, as these developments minimise uncontrolled development and encourage energy-efficient design. For example, Waterfall City integrates green-rated buildings, water-wise landscaping, and waste management initiatives that contribute to long-term sustainability.”
“Economic resilience is another significant advantage, as these developments provide a balance between residential, commercial, and retail spaces. In doing so, mixed-used developments create stable local economies. Businesses benefit from a built-in customer base, while property values remain resilient due to the dynamic nature of these precincts.”
“Security and precinct management are critical factors that set these developments apart. A significant advantage of mixed-use developments is their ability to offer controlled environments with integrated security. At Waterfall City, a combination of biometric access control, CCTV surveillance, and 24-hour patrolling ensures a secure living and working environment. Precinct management is key to maintaining high standards across multiple property uses, ensuring seamless operations and service delivery.”
“Walkability and reduced traffic congestion are also key benefits. Well-planned mixed-use precincts prioritise pedestrian-friendly environments, reducing reliance on private vehicles and easing traffic congestion. With extensive green belts, cycle lanes, parks and more than 35km of hiking and biking tracks, Waterfall City exemplifies this approach, promoting an active, healthy and more sustainable lifestyle.”
Future-proof urban planning
“Underpinning all of this, is future-proofed urban planning. Building a world-class and award-winning mixed-use development like Waterfall City is certainly no small feat, but absolutely attainable with some clever urban design architecture. It requires a masterplan built not only on innovation and foresight, but also adaptability. Such a design framework takes the principles of a smart city into consideration. It features intelligent infrastructure and comprehensive security systems, adopts sustainable practices and delivers seamless connectivity, while also evolving with technological advancements and societal shifts. This integration ensures longevity and continued relevance in an ever-changing urban landscape.”
Changing the inner-city
“While large-scale mixed-use precincts like Waterfall City set a new benchmark for urban living, inner-city revitalisation efforts in the country must also embrace this model to drive positive transformation. Many cities, including Johannesburg and Cape Town, are grappling with urban decay of their CBDs, infrastructure challenges, and spatial inequalities inherited from historical planning policies.”
“The success of mixed-use developments highlights the importance of precinct management in fostering safer, more attractive urban environments. Strategic partnerships between the private sector, municipalities and developers can play a crucial role in unlocking the potential of underutilised inner-city spaces, converting them into thriving live-work-play ecosystems.”
In his view, “South Africa’s urban future depends on embracing strategically designed, integrated, well-managed, and sustainable developments. As cities grow and evolve, mixed-use precincts will be instrumental in shaping resilient, people-centric urban environments that enhance both economic and social well-being.”
He concludes that: “By fostering innovation, security, and sustainability, mixed-use developments like Waterfall City are not only redefining the South African urban landscape but also providing a blueprint for the future of city living. The challenge now lies in scaling these principles across more urban centres to create vibrant, inclusive, and future-ready communities.”
Read about Waterfall City’s World’s Best Masterplan Win at the recent International Property Awards here.
