4>
Although 1 Protea Place was designed predominantly for long term value for the developer Zenprop, the needs of Cliffe Decker Hofmeyr were also a major design consideration. As a result, the building now provides the best possible solution to the tenant’s specific requirements. “The intention of the design team was to deliver a contemporary building with crisp, clean lines, for both parties,” says Korina Holley, project architect, Paragon Architects. 1 Protea Place consists of seven parking levels, of which five are underground, and nine office levels which rise above the visible parking podium. “The basic footprint of the building is composed of two towers enclosing a central atrium, set atop the heavier base of the parking levels. The central atrium has east and west facing glass walls. The eastern atrium wall opens up over a water feature, allowing pedestrians to enter the building by crossing the water surface.” Korina continues: “The internal atrium admits generous amounts of natural light into the building and its office plates and provides active awareness of both the interior and exterior environments of the building.” Thus, a very open and airy feel is created within the offices. The atrium wall of the southern tower rakes out towards the centre of the atrium, and adds a dramatic effect to the otherwise rational composition of the two towers. “Strip skylights in the atrium roof provide an ever changing play of light within the atrium volume. The two towers are connected by link bridges spanning across the atrium space. The towers are covered by a large floating roof that soars over the eastern entrance façade,” explains
Its prominent shape makes 1 Protea Place one of the most iconic structures in Sandton. Photo by Andrwe Bell.