People's property development set to shine in Somerset West

"Property is all about people." This was the unanimous message at a recent lunch hosted by dream-team property development cooperative, Omwieco. Held at the exquisite Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch, the meeting saw Omwieco's three partners, Omnicron, Lazercor and Weihahn, welcoming Investec on board as the financier for their newest project - an all encompassing development in Somerset West that sets new standards in South African community living.

The development site lies on an historical piece of land that was once on the wagon road towards the Hottentots Holland Kloof (now Sir Lowry's Pass). Its position just below the steep mountain slope deemed it the perfect stopover for travellers, and for decades it became famous as a haven for rest before the long trek over the pass.

Says Mark Teuchert, director of Lazercor, "We want to bring communities together and improve movement between Somerset West and surrounding areas. The emphasis is on creating a sustainable space that will be comfortable now, in ten years time and beyond." He adds that excellent urban design is a priority. The team has been working with Comrie + Wilkinson Architects and Urban Designers to ensure three-dimensional urban design and move away from the box-style living that is so often seen in South Africa.