Nexus Waterfall Estate

A four-story installation that plays with light and shadow

Location Johannesburg, South Africa
Client ATTACQ · LYT Architecture
Sector Corporate
Year 2024

Four-story installation that plays with light and shadow throughout the day, creating an ever-changing focal point for this landmark development. The Nexus Waterfall Estate demanded a sculptural centrepiece that would define its identity and set it apart in Johannesburg's competitive commercial landscape.

The Brief

ATTACQ and LYT Architecture envisioned a bold statement piece for the Nexus Waterfall Estate - something that would span four storeys and command attention from every angle. The installation needed to be both architecturally integrated and artistically striking, serving as the building's signature element.

The brief called for a work that would evolve throughout the day, responding to natural light conditions and creating different visual experiences for tenants and visitors at every hour.

Nexus Waterfall Estate installation overview

Our Approach

We designed a multi-storey sculptural installation that harnesses the building's natural light cycle. The work uses layered materials and carefully considered angles to cast shifting shadows and reflections as the sun moves across the sky.

Every element was engineered to create a kinetic visual effect without any moving parts - a static artwork that appears to be in constant motion through its interplay with daylight.

Design detail of the light and shadow installation
Full view of the Nexus installation

The four-story installation viewed from the atrium

The Craft

The scale of this project demanded meticulous engineering and fabrication. Key elements included:

  • Four-storey sculptural installation spanning the building's central atrium
  • Precision-cut materials designed to interact with natural light
  • Shadow patterns that shift throughout the day, creating an ever-changing artwork
  • Structural integration with the building's architecture for seamless installation

The installation was fabricated in sections at our Johannesburg studio before being carefully assembled on-site, requiring close coordination with the building's construction team.

Detail of the Nexus installation craftsmanship

The Impact

The installation has become the defining feature of Nexus Waterfall Estate, transforming what could have been a standard corporate atrium into a dynamic, light-filled art experience that changes character from dawn to dusk.

Project Details

  • Primary material: Precision-cut metalwork with reflective surfaces
  • Structural support: Concealed steel framework integrated into building structure
  • Finish: Custom coatings designed for light interaction and durability
  • Scale: Four-storey vertical span
  • Design & Engineering: 6 weeks
  • Fabrication: 10 weeks
  • On-site Installation: 3 weeks

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