Architecture That Serves People: SALT Architects Honoured in Paris

SALT Architects PTY Ltd has been named one of the three Project of the Year winners at the Architizer A+Awards ceremony in Paris. The recognition celebrates the Cape Flats Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Plant in South Africa—an infrastructure project that purifies water and helps restore the region’s aquifer while demonstrating the cultural value of thoughtful design.

Elevating Infrastructure Through Architecture

In many cities, essential infrastructure remains hidden and overlooked. The MAR Plant challenges this norm by presenting vital systems with architectural dignity. Built primarily from brick and concrete, the facility showcases how public infrastructure can be functional, visually expressive and socially meaningful.

Operational Details: A System that Purifies and Restores

The Cape Flats MAR Plant forms part of an integrated water strategy designed to secure long-term supply for Cape Town. The system captures stormwater, treats it and recharges the underlying aquifer, contributing to resilience in a climate-affected region. The design reflects SALT Architects’ commitment to clarity, robustness and community-oriented architectural expression.

Economic Impact: Strengthening Water Security

By supporting sustainable aquifer restoration, the MAR Plant reduces dependence on costly alternative water sources. This provides long-term economic benefits for the city, including lower operational costs, increased resilience during drought cycles and more efficient resource management.

Strategic Significance: Architecture as Cultural Stewardship

During the awards ceremony, SALT Directors Gustav Roberts and Jan-Dirk van der Walt highlighted the responsibility architects carry toward culture and community. Their message emphasised that even highly technical spaces deserve identity, care and dignity—reinforcing the idea that infrastructure should serve not only function, but people. The award was presented by Philippe Brocart, Founder of RELEASE [AEC], an event partner for the Paris celebration.