Blok launches new development in Cape Town's West City precinct

Property developer Blok is digging into its urban roots with the launch of ELEVENONB, its 21st development in the mother city's West City precinct.  

Located on the corner of Buiten and Loop Streets, ELEVENONB's intended site was transformed into an open-air art gallery for the launch event on First Thursday (even with the Cape Town wind doing its thing). The gallery will open to the public for the next three months. 

This long-vacant lot will become a mix of residential, commercial and community spaces once completed in 2027, anchored in the principles of the 15-minute city. The concept, first popularised by urbanist Professor Carlos Moreno, envisions neighbourhoods where daily essentials - such as shops, schools, parks, and workplaces - are accessible within a short walk or cycle, reducing reliance on cars and strengthening local communities.

Urban Mission: Opening the City

ELEVENONB incorporates these design principles to make it easy for residents to live, work and play within walking distance of Cape Town’s much-loved streets such as Bree, Kloof, Long and Loop. 

The development integrates a restored heritage façade and the historic Orphan Lane, which, if realised as envisioned, will bring a renewed sense of connection through thoughtful architecture.

According to Jacques van Embden, CEO of Blok, the West City contains more heritage buildings than any other part of Cape Town, with growing investment aimed at preserving these 40- to 50-year-old modern architectural structures. 

“Every Blok development is a reflection of its neighbourhood,” says Van Embden. “With ELEVENONB, we wanted to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing evolution of the city centre, not by building something that closes itself off, but by creating a building that opens itself to the streets, the people, and the energy of the city.”

What’s less widely known is that Blok has also acquired the site directly across the road from ELEVENONB. Van Embden shared plans for Seven on O to launch in six months. With ownership of both sites flanking Orphan Lane, Blok plans to transform the "forgotten service lane" into a pedestrian-focused public space, lined with retail offerings designed to invite interaction.  "A place where you might meet someone new or simply plug in your earphones and enjoy walking the city," according to Van Embden. 

The two buildings will be connected via a tunnel and bridge, removing cars from the lane to prioritise people and their experience. By enhancing the historic paving and urban design, Blok aims to give this tight, character-filled lane a new identity that further enhances the open-city experience. 

What to expect from mix-use ELEVENONB  

The development comprises 150 apartments on sale (from R1 795 000), offering a mix of studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments and penthouses.

Shared amenities include a gym, co-working space, laundry facilities, 24/7 security, concierge services and back-up power for shared areas, with Fluent managing building operations.

“This part of the city has been waiting for a new story,” says Troy Squires, Head of Marketing at Blok. “ELEVENONB represents our vision to make cities amazing places to live - thinking beyond buildings to consider precincts, neighbourhoods, and how we shape the future of urban living.”