Cape Town mixed-use development the V&A Waterfront has announced its latest initiative, the 147-unit, hospitality-led, “later-living” (retirement) complex, The Bower. This is part of Phase 1 of the Granger Bay development.

“It reflects our confidence in Cape Town’s later-living opportunity, and our belief that ageing well should be supported by service, choice and a strong sense of place,” explained V&A Waterfront CEO Graham Wood. “We have built The Bower around the qualities people value in hotel life — service, warmth and choice — while creating a residential community that allows people to remain independent and connected.”

In addition to amenities such as a gym, movement studio, wellness centre and a restaurant, The Bower will also have a lifestyle manager and wellness staff, including 24-hour nursing support, and a 14-unit memory care centre, should residents require their support. It was so designed as to be able to meet the evolving needs of the residents as they aged. It would also provide curated services and concierge support.

The V-shaped complex will operate on a Life Rights basis, under which the residents would have lifetime occupation without bearing the responsibilities of traditional home ownership. It will possess one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with direct access to the outdoors.

“Every decision was shaped by how residents experience the ocean, the mountain and each other,” affirmed V&A Waterfront development executive Allan Nenguke. “We designed the building around a communal garden so that every apartment enjoys a private outlook while residents remain connected to the community below. Details drawn from Cape Town’s own landscape are worked into the facades themselves, so the building tells the story of its setting.”

The Bower was designed by international architectural firm KPF. The medical support for the residents will be provided by a specialist healthcare partner. The development is situated on Breakwater Boulevard, next to the InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town hotel.

“The Bower is designed to support a more contemporary model of later living,” observed Wood. “Our focus is on independence, wellbeing and the everyday experiences that make life feel considered and connected. The architecture is warm, modern and intuitive; the wellness offering supports longevity and strength; and the personalised services are designed to give residents more time for what they value most, with support available as their needs evolve.”