DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
Office architecture
2.1
DISCOVERY PLACE
Making bigger better THE CLUB
Atterbury’s new HQ DRIVELINES
Aesthetics meets affordability
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Creativity Takes Courage Saint–Gobain is a proud materials partner to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa and Silo Hotel.
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DECEMBER 2017 JANUARY 2018
natural and artificial,
CONTENTS p10
local and global, familiar and strange. We seek to show how the ordinary can be extraordinary. Giuseppe Lignano, co-founder
p20
LOT-EK, designer of Drivelines [p28]
FIRST DRAFT 08 INTERNATIONAL The new Apple store on Michigan Avenue in Chicago, US, designed with Foster + Partners, creates new connections between the city and the Chicago River.
BLUEPRINT 10 DISCOVERY PLACE The iconic new head office of health, life and shortterm insurance providers Discovery in Sandton, Johannesburg, humanises corporate architecture.
58 DRAWING BOARD What’s new in the world of architecture and design.
17 INVERMARK HOUSE
p17
SAOTA director Stefan Antoni revives a 1969 architectural gem in the leafy suburb of Higgovale, below the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town.
20 THE CLUB Property developer and investor Atterbury’s new Pretoria head office creates an environment for talented people to achieve in and foster growth.
28 DRIVELINES The first large-scale residential container development in South Africa challenges conventional ideas of city living.
EDITORIAL
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THE BRIEF
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ED'S NOTE
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SHELF FOLIO: JOURNAL OF AFRICAN ARCHITECTURE
With three full days of engaging speakers, exhibitions and a film and music festival, the 2018 conference is set to amaze, uplift and motivate delegates to find new ways in which to design a better world. Tickets are available from Webtickets www.africaledexpo.com www.designindaba.com
FOLIO: Journal of Contemporary African Architecture is Africa’s newest, peer reviewed journal of architecture exploring issues, ideas, built projects, criticism and speculative work on a wide range of topics concerning architecture, urbanism and creative practice across Africa and the African diaspora. With twenty-six articles, essays and projects ranging from landscape architecture to poetry-in-motion, FOLIO showcases the work of African architects, practitioners and academics committed to shaping new discourses that define our contemporary built environments.
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traditional office buildings, they are both pioneering examples of the evolution of the workspace. Both Discovery Place and The Club blend aspects of public and corporate life, include shops, restaurants and gyms, and are designed first and foremost with the wellbeing of employees in mind (which, of course, leads to improved productivity). They also both make contributions to the quality of public space around them and their broader urban contexts. But they show that office architecture is certainly not a thing of the past – it’s grown into a hybrid space that reflects a changing economy, new technology and changing values. It’s become human-centred rather than corporatecentred, and that is possibly why they have sidestepped redundancy in a new world. The office is dead; long live the office. Graham
>
21-23 FEBRUARY 2018 DESIGN INDABA CONFERENCE 2018 Artscape Theatre Complex in Cape Town. (Simulcast versions of the conference will take place in Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Potchefstroom and Namibia).
There was a time when you could declare the death of the office building, and still have credibility. Certainly, a particular kind of faceless, hierarchical office block will probably never be built again. But all the predictions of a connected, mobile, decentralised workforce turning office buildings into white elephants have been flawed. While it’s true that all sorts of other spaces have suddenly become productive workplaces, from coffee shops to kitchen tables, the demand for co-working spaces clearly indicates the need for workspaces that provide a certain kind of human interaction. Two of our featured buildings in this issue are office developments – Discovery’s new Sandton headquarters, and Atterbury’s new Pretoria headquarters. Although they might in some ways be unrecognisable as
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The journal is the first publication of GSA Imprints, the publishing ‘arm’ of the Graduate School of Architecture at University of Johannesburg. Edited by Professor Lesley Lokko, Head of School, with an international advisory board and six reviewers, FOLIO will be published annually, with calls for papers going out globally each September. FOLIO is available in Cape Town from The Book Lounge, in Johannesburg from Love Books, Melville and directly from the GSA. It is also available as a free online download from: issuu.com/ foliojournalofafricanarchitecture
INTERNATIONAL
APPLE M ICH IGAN AVE N U E , CH ICAGO, US
Apple Michigan Avenue reconnects Chicago to its river PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
I
nspired by the pulse of Chicago’s artistic energy, Apple has created a new platform for performance in a city charged by music. Located at the intersection of the Chicago River and North Michigan Avenue’s ‘Magnificent Mile’, Apple Michigan Avenue cascades down from Pioneer Court to the river’s edge, creating new connections between the city and the river. The project reflects Apple’s commitment to the cities and communities it inhabits, and is the result of a close collaboration between the design team at Apple led by chief design officer, Sir Jonathan Ive and Angela Ahrendts, senior vice president of Retail and Online Stores and Foster + Partners. Sir Jonathan Ive said, “Apple Michigan Avenue is about removing boundaries between inside and outside, reviving important urban connections within the city. It unites a historic city plaza that had been cut off from the water, giving Chicago a dynamic new arena that flows effortlessly down to the river.”
Pioneer Court is an urban plaza steeped in Chicago history. It is the spot where Point de Sable – the founding father of Chicago – first lived and worked. Apple and the architects worked closely with the City of Chicago and referenced historical records to develop a store design specifically for the site on which it sits. Apple Michigan Avenue sits atop a wide new public stair, created to lead down from the plaza to the river. The gentle descent of levels creates active spaces where people can connect, create, and experience the city and river together. Every design feature serves to minimise the boundary between the city and the Chicago River. Even the building’s 111-by-30 metre carbonfibre roof was designed to be as thin as possible, and the entire structure is supported by four interior pillars
8 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
that allow the 10 metre glass facades to remain unobscured. The stairway transitions seamlessly between the outside and inside. It passes through the building’s walls – dematerialised to pure glass – and connects to the store’s buzzing centre. As the interior steps down to the river, it acts as a seating space around the Forum – the hub of Today at Apple and a live source of creativity, education and entertainment. Stefan Behling, head of studio,
Foster + Partners said, “We fundamentally believe in great urban life, creating new gathering places, and connecting people in an analogue way within an increasingly digital world. The design of Apple Michigan Avenue embodies this in its structure and materiality with a glass wall that dissolves into the background, revealing the only visible element of the building – its floating carbon fibre roof.” www.fosterandpartners.com
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DuraSquare. Striking. Precise. Rectangular. The new bathroom series DuraSquare, blends the precise edges of the rectangular outer form with soft, organically flowing inner contours. Washbasins made from the innovative material DuraCeram® create a look that speaks for itself. Duravit South Africa (Pty) Ltd, 30 Archimedes Road, Kramerville, Sandton, Johannesburg, Telephone +27 (0) 11 555 1220, info@za.duravit.com and at duravit.co.za WWW.LEADINGARCHITECTURE.CO.ZA DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018 9
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Discovery swoops down on Sandton 10 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
PRO J EC T # 1 DISCOVE RY PL ACE
The exterior curves of the façade of Discovery Place not only provide the building’s visual identity, but also provide navigational prompts towards the entrance and the building’s central concourse.
The iconic new head office of health, life and short-term insurance providers Discovery in Sandton, Johannesburg, is the largest single-phase commercial office development in Africa. PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
T
he main design rationale for the swooping curving shapes that characterise the new Discovery building on the corner of Rivonia Road and Katherine Street, diagonally opposite Sandton City, was not its appearance, but the desire to create an environment that is centred on its occupants’ health and well-being. The design, by Boogertman + Partners (with interiors by Paragon Interface) was driven first by Discovery’s values, which found expression in its interior and exterior form. The building comprises three linked office towers which consist of a ground floor, eight office floors and a roof level, which holds Discovery’s sports facilities. It will also offer nine basements with over 5 000 parking bays. The building is wrapped around a series of sunlit atriums that plug into a central concourse, which connects to its urban context by extending the line of Katherine Street as Sandton’s central artery. Among the central requirements for the building were factors such as the need for movement, natural light and the expression of an active lifestyle that characterises Discovery’s ethos. Through a workspace that promotes the wellbeing of its employees, Discovery aims ultimately to provide a better service to its clients, too. The entire ground floor of the building is open to the public, and the first floor includes client interface areas. This area includes 20 retail outlets and service providers, including a Woolworths, a pet shop, a Clicks and even a Home Affairs office. The central concourse was envisioned almost as a public space, like a train station. Each of the two atriums has a distinct character. They’ve been named The Grove and The Park. The Park is vibrant, physical and energetic in character, while The Grove is a focused, reflective, contemplative space. The design of the atriums and skylights results in an abundance of natural light. The building also includes a fully equipped gym, running track, yoga decks and multipurpose courts set in the indigenously landscaped roof and encourage an active lifestyle. Continued next page
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The need for large floorplates was the result of Discovery’s relatively flat corporate structure, and for employees to interact and collaborate easily. The arrangement of the floor plates necessitated a certain density, but, at the same time, agility and flexibility. The large open areas of the workspaces are interspersed with 46 shared pause areas and agile-break-out spaces, including five cantilevered pods protruding into the concourse on various levels from the seven-storey back wall behind the main reception area. The floors thus create a vertical and horizontal matrix. The scale of the building is humanised through its curves, which not only imply movement, but also draw the building’s inhabitants through the space. Visually, they are designed to lead the eye towards
PRO J EC T # 1 DISCOVE RY PL ACE
exterior spaces and natural light, further humanising it and ensuring that people are not presented with seemingly endless corridors and dead ends, which can be intimidating and disorientating. The building itself suggests a caring community, both for employees and clients. Interior details such as the black-and white articulation of the architecture when seen from the atriums below, or the way they are softened with vibrant colouring when seen from above, enhance the effect. The curves were extrapolated to the exterior, where the cantilevered nose of the building, which projects beyond the façade, contributes to its street presence on the urban nexus of Katherine Street and Rivonia Road. The exterior curves also provide visual prompts towards the entrance and central concourse,
Clockwise from top left: The protruding cantilevered nose of the building on the prominent corner of Rivonia Road and Katherine Street gives the building a significant street presence; the central concourse on the ground floor was envisioned as a public space, and is a visual continuation of the precinct’s central artery, Katherine Street; the west atrium is big enough to suspend a Boeing 737 without it touching sides.
12 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
and help pedestrians navigate their way towards the entrance. Beyond that, the building has multiple entry points all around the building – there are 10 reception desks. Street level access was central to the building’s design, and rather than perch the building on a plinth, the architects and developers chose to excavate an extra level because of the importance of creating public access and an urban connection. Discovery Place is the largest new build project to receive a 5 Star Green Star rating by the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA), and the pursuit of this goal was a priority in its design. Features of the new building which have contributed to the rating include energy optimisation through the advanced design features of its envelope and building services. High-efficiency air-
conditioning leverages on an outside air economy cycle and indoor air CO2 monitoring. Added to this is lowenergy lighting, occupant control and daylight optimisation, as well as the building’s standout high-performance double-glazed curtain wall. Grey and rainwater systems, efficient sanitary fittings by Duravit, efficient irrigation system and water-wise landscaping contribute to the building’s optimal water performance. Discovery Place is situated on the highest point in Sandton – a prominent position that makes it an instant landmark. But through its forward-looking ethos, in terms of the wellbeing of its inhabitants and though its sensitivity to its urban context and its sustainable design, it is a landmark project in the field of architecture, too. Continued next page
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PRO J EC T # 1 DISCOVE RY PL ACE
2 800m2
ATRIUM ROOF AREA
4km ALUMINIUM BALUSTRADING
4 500
LED DOWNLIGHTS
10
RECEPTIONS
67 SHARED MEETING ROOMS
5 667
PARKING BAYS PROFESSIONAL TEAM DEVELOPER: Growthpoint Properties Limited DEVELOPER: Zenprop Property Holdings PRINCIPAL AGENT: Morta Project Management ARCHITECT: Boogertman & Partners INTERIOR DESIGN: Paragon Interface QUANTITY SURVEYOR: RLB | Pentad STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: Sotiralis Consulting MECHANICAL ENGINEER: Aurecon Group ELECTRICAL ENGINEER: Conscius Consulting Engineers / Aurecon JV GREEN CONSULTANT: Aurecon Group 33 Fricker Road, Illovo, Johannesburg Tel: +27 (0)11 482 3781 info@paragon.co.za www.paragon.co.za
14 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
Sotiralis Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd Civil & Structural Engineers Tel: +27 (0)12 991 0516 info@sotiralis.co.za www.sotiralis.co.za
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P ROJ EC T #2 I NVE RMARK H OUSE
Mid-century revival
Located in the leafy suburb of Higgovale, set below the iconic Table Mountain, House Invermark overlooks the city and harbour of Cape Town. PHOTOGRAPHY ADAM LETCH AND STEFAN ANTONI
Continued next page
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F
orty-seven years after receiving a medal for excellence, House Invermark, located in Higgovale, Cape Town has been awarded a prestigious Commendation from the Cape Institute for Architecture (CIfA), in recognition of noteworthy contributions to architecture. Respected South African architect Gilbert Colyn originally designed the house for himself in 1969. It was inspired by two iconic modernist houses: Phillip Johnson’s 1949 Glass House and Mies van der Rohe’s 1951 Farnsworth House.
The house was purchased by architect Stefan Antoni, director at SAOTA, in 2013. It had reached a poor state of disrepair and featured numerous inappropriate alterations and additions totally out of character with the language of the building. Had it not been for Antoni’s intervention, it might have faced demolition as its heritage status as being an example of contemporary architecture was not recognised. SAOTA’s careful and sensitive alterations and additions have returned the threatened
Top: Cape Town’s House Invermark was influenced by modernist icons such as Phillip Johnson’s Glass House and Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House. Right and far right: The street interface was substantially redesigned and the swimming pool relocated, freeing the courtyard to become a garden planted with lawn, trees and a new linear water feature.
18 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
building to its original state, enhanced its overall composition and significantly refined the living experience to bring it up to date with contemporary living. In the living area, kitchen, main bedroom and bathrooms, structure and screens were removed to facilitate improved flows associated with contemporary living. Changes were also affected to the exterior spatial configuration involving the relocation of the swimming pool from the darker mountain side to the sunny street
sea view side, providing much needed privacy from the street. This freed the courtyard to become a family garden planted with lawn and a row of Elderlower (Sambucus Nigra) trees running along a new linear water feature. The street interface was also substantially redesigned. These changes have served to significantly augment the experience of the house relative to the landscape. It is noteworthy that when Colyn viewed the house after its completion, he was suitably impressed.
P ROJ EC T #2 I NVE RMARK H OUSE
In the living area, kitchen, main bedroom and bathrooms, the overall composition was refined to suit a contemporary living experience and facilitate improved flows.
The swimming pool was relocated to the sunny side of the house.
Suite 307, The Regent, 19-33 Regent Road, Seapoint, Cape Town, 8005 Tel: +27 (0)21 434 8176 Email: info@m-k.co.za www.moroff-kuhne.com
Unit 14, 10 Pepper Street, Cape Town, 8001 Tel: +27 (0)21 426 0322 Email: admin@sbdscape.co.za www.sbds.co.za
Cell: +27 (0)82 258 9293 Tel: +27 (0)21 791 3951 Fax: +27 (0)21 791 3958 Email: hortinic@netactive.co.za www.nicholaswhitehorn.com
PROFESSIONAL TEAM ARCHITECTS & INTERIOR ARCHITECTS: Gilbert Colyn (1969) and SAOTA PROJECT ARCHITECTS: Stefan Antoni and Leah Johnson QUANTITY SURVEYOR: SBDS CONSULTING ENGINEERS: Morofe & Kühne MAIN CONTRACTOR: Mansfield Construction INTERIOR DESIGN: ARRCC and Home Owner LANDSCAPING: Nicholas Whitehorn
WWW.LEADINGARCHITECTURE.CO.ZA DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018 19
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Atterbury’s new consolidated Gauteng HQ Property developer and investor Atterbury has moved into its new head office, Die Klubhuis, which consolidates its two Gauteng branches into a single, dynamic regional HQ in its very own Pretoria precinct development, The Club. PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
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P ROJ EC T #3 TH E CLU B
The Club precinct includes retail, restaurants and offices, as well as a gym. A futher phase will include residential units, too.
Continued next page
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ARCHITECTS
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P ROJ EC T #3 TH E CLU B
The large canopies that give the building its visual identity create covered urban gathering spaces, which function as extensions of its interiors.
O
ffice consolidation is a growing trend among businesses in South Africa, and Atterbury is developing a number of flagship corporate head offices that facilitate major corporate consolidations. These new office developments are designed to support business and property strategies, create environments for talented people to achieve in, and foster growth, innovation and greater collaboration in optimal performance environments. “Embracing the advantages of consolidation for our own business became a ‘no-brainer’ for Atterbury,” says Louis van der Watt, CEO, Atterbury. Continued next page
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Armond Boshoff, deputy CEO of Atterbury, adds that today’s office arrangements are changing as technology alters the way in which people work. “Atterbury understands that offices are so much more than a company address. They give form to a company’s identity and have the potential to support its success with cost-efficient, flexible and collaborative space that inspires innovation and boosts performance.”
P ROJ EC T #3 TH E CLU B
The Club precinct is home to 14 000m2 vibrant retail, restaurants and offices in Club Retail and Club One. The 5 200m2 Die Klubhuis (Club Two) houses a modern and high-tech 3 300m2 Planet Fitness Megaclub, as well as A-grade offices, including Atterbury’s new HQ. The 10 000m2 Club Three will include The Club Advocates’ Chambers, a medical day hospital of around 5 000m2 and 15 residential
units. This final aspect of the development will be complete in the first quarter of 2018. The Club is designed by architect Tony Hofman and for Atterbury’s new offices he created a building that is unique, dynamic and responsive, ensuring that it is not just any building, but a destination within the precinct. Besides its spectacular facades, which become an extension of its
beautiful interior spaces, it also features large dramatic canopies that create a covered urban gathering space and distinctive entrance to the building. It has a gym running track under its canopies adding to its unique character. This appealing building is highly visible from all sides of the precinct, giving it a significant presence. Continued next page
Above: The interiors of Atterbury’s new regional headquarters might be fitted out in a retro-industrial aesthetic, but they represent efficient modern office space design. Below: Atterbury’s office shares the ‘Club Two’ section of the precinct with a 3 300 m2 Planet Fitness Megaclub, with a distinctive running track under its canopies.
24 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
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P ROJ EC T #3 TH E CLU B
From top: The office includes a number of wooden furniture pieces by David Krynauw, including a dramatic dome in the reception area which functions as think tank or collaborative breakaway space; the boardroom tables and servers were designed by Pierre Cronje; the elevators feature signature vintage-style dials and open lift cars with specially designed wire sides.
Inside, Atterbury’s retroindustrial styled new regional headquarters represent the ultimate in cleverly designed, efficient modern office space, while embracing its heritage and legacy created over the past 23 years. Impeccable attention to detail has been given to all the building’s finishes, including the elevators, which make arriving at Atterbury’s new offices a unique experience. They feature signature vintagestyle elevator dials above the lifts, where you would usually find digital displays. The open lift cars also add to the retro-industrial style, with their specially designed wire sides. The warm, welcoming and inspiring workspace was created by interior architect Gysbert van Graan and the interior decorator Wytske van Wyk. They acquired a number of David Krynauw’s wooden creations for the office, including a lovely dome, destined to become an innovative space, or think tank of sorts, in the reception area. Rina Strutzer was commissioned to create a sculpture representing the African continent and Pierre Cronje once again created Atterbury’s boardroom tables and servers. Of course, the company brought along its ‘team photos’ which have been taken annually since 2006. They are displayed with other Atterbury memorabilia collected since 1994.
15 Uitzicht Office Park, 1 Bellingham Road, Highveld Ext 1, Centurion, Gauteng Tel: +27 (0)12 665 1231 Email: info@gkprojects.co.za www.gkprojects.co.za
PROFESSIONAL TEAM CLIENT: Atterbury Properties ARCHITECTS & PROJECT MANAGERS: Hofman Architects MAIN CONTRACTOR: WBHO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT: Daniel Rebel Landscape Architects ATTERBURY OFFICES INTERIOR DESIGN: Reddeco STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: DG Consultants ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS: RWP QUANTITY SURVEYOR: GKP MECHANICAL ENGINEERS: Axell Consulting FIRE ENGINEER: SFT
26 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
Mall of Africa, Waterfall City
R E T A I L
The Club, Pretoria
OFFICES
INDUSTRIAL
Amrod, Waterfall
Atterbury believes in mutually beneficial partnerships. Associating with the best employees, partners and suppliers ensures everyone benefits together. We believe in a whole that’s bigger than its constituent individual parts. T +27 12 471 1600 space@atterbury.co.za atterbury.co.za
Atterbury, Die Klubhuis Club 2, Corner of Pinaster Avenue and 18th Street Hazelwood, Pretoria
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The graphic pattern on the building’s façade is envisioned as an urban billboard.
PROFESSIONAL TEAM DEVELOPERS: Propertuity ARCHITECTS: LOT-EK LOCAL ARCHITECT: Plans and Works PROJECT MANAGERS: Fox PPC QUANTITY SURVEYOR: Sevenbar OHS MANAGEMENT SERVICES: Frontier SHEQ Consulting TOWN PLANNING: Di Cicco & Buitendag Town Plan Property Consultants GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING: Jones & Wagener LAND SURVEYING: Kirchhoff Professional Surveyors CONSULTING ENGINEERS: DG Consulting; VBK Engineering Systems STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS: Asakheni Consulting Engineers FIRE ENGINEER: Drofnets Consulting Engineers
28 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
P ROJ EC T # 4 D RIVE LI N ES
Thinking out the box Propertuity’s latest project in the Maboneng Precinct in Johannesburg promotes its longstanding ethos of creating innovative spaces that challenge conventional ideas of city living. PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID SOUTHWOOD AND SUPPLIED
D
rivelines – the first large-scale residential container development in South Africa – has been designed to prove that affordable housing can strive to the ideals of both sustainability and a higher aesthetic standard. These imperatives plus a relevant urban solution were the driving force behind the concept, which was conceived and implemented together with award-winning New York based architecture firm and upcycling experts LOT-EK, founded by Giuseppe Lignano and Ada Tolla. The design-forward project comprises a multi-level structure
created from shipping containers. Inspired by the triangular property, the firm envisioned a building that would serve as a ‘billboard’ for Maboneng and for urban housing solutions. As a practice, LOT-EK, is deeply committed to developing new narratives in the built environment, and has established itself first and foremost as an authority on upcycling and the practice of sustainable methods through its innovative projects, which have received international acclaim. To that end, they leverage the technological properties of existing industrial objects to
create something new, addressing issues of environmental responsibility, the realities and challenges of urban living with intelligent methods and a new way of looking at industrial materials and objects. “We specialise in inadvertent elegance and unexpected beauty, in bringing together old and new, generic and specific, natural and artificial, local and global, familiar and strange,” says Lignano. “We seek to show how the ordinary can be extraordinary.” As a rental-only development, Drivelines fills a niche for mobile residents who want a certain
lifestyle experience, but don’t want to own property. “Cities are a platform from which people can connect with each other to explore better ways of living, working and producing,” says Propertuity’s founder and CEO Jonathan Liebmann. Drivelines answers a need for reasonably priced but desirable city living spaces. A particularly relevant application in South Africa where out-ofthe-box building solutions are essential, Drivelines also illustrates the potential for clever design, compact spaces and economical resource management to converge in something original.
Clockwise from top: The units are compact, but full of light and air, with large windows, each with its own outdoor space; the angular shape of the stand inspired the building’s wedge-shaped courtyard; designed cleverly and with a contemporary aesthetic, the development is community focused – built in such a way as to encourage residents to interact with one another.
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KEEP COOL, LIGHT AND QUIET WITH DOUBLE GLAZING Double glazing is the process in which a window is manufactured from two panes of glass, with the space in between filled with dehydrated air or a gas such as xenon or argon. It’s this air or gas that forms the critical layer of insulation against icy-cold as well as blazing-hot weather. It keeps homes cooler in summer by reflecting direct sunlight and reducing heat transfer while allowing maximum light transmission. How does the light management system work? Spectrally selective coated glass allows in more than 70% of visible light, while rejecting more than half of the heat that
would normally enter a building. PG SmartGlass X2, for example, can eliminate up to 86% of the sun’s heat while allowing in natural light. This keeps the interior cooler and therefore saves on air-conditioning. Aside from insulation, PG SmartGlass X2 also acts as an efficient sound barrier. Glass controls noise by reflecting it back towards the source and absorbing the noise energy within the glass. Sound insulation can be further improved, if necessary, by increasing the thickness of the pane, using laminated glass on its own or within a double-glazed unit. www.pgsmartglass.co.za
LOOKING OUT AT WINDOW TRENDS Cobus Lourens from leading window and door manufacturer, Swartland, offers an overview on the latest window trends. TRANSITIONAL LIVING: A major drive in architectural design today is bringing indoor and outdoor spaces together. The general rule of thumb is that the bigger the window, the better, and in this regard, aluminium windows provide the perfect frame. Cobus says, “Arguably, one of the main benefits of aluminium windows and doors, from an aesthetic point of view, is that they boast really slim sightlines. Due to the inherent strength of aluminium as a material, you need less of it to securely hold the glass and hardware in place. As a result, you can fit a lot less frame and include a higher proportion of glass, which provides the most unhindered views to the outdoors.” TURN YOUR WINDOWS INTO DOORS: Replacing a pair of boring double pane windows with sliding doors or a pair of French doors for example, will add vitality to any indoor space by letting in lots more natural light and opening up the space. Cobus adds, “We have such lovely weather in South Africa, and most
transform a home from a dated design, into a true architectural marvel.
homes have access to beautiful outdoor spaces – by replacing a window with a door, you can really take advantage of these aspects by creating a seamless flow between your home’s indoor and outdoor spaces.” A WALL OF WINDOWS: This trend has been making waves for a while now, and there seems no sign of it abating any time soon. Cobus says, “In keeping with the move towards transitional living spaces, a major trend is to replace entire walls with a curtain of windows or large window panels.” He says that while this can be a costly renovation, it can completely
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GOING OR GREEN: In South Africa, the SANS 10400 National Building Regulations have been amended in the form of the XA appendices, in order to further enforce and regulate energy efficient practices in the built environment, with the long-term benefit of reducing overall energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Says Cobus, “By law, the windows you choose must be SANS 10400-XA-compliant, as a new build without compliant windows will not pass the building regulations and will be deemed unfit and hence, illegal. Swartland continuously tests its products to ensure that they are compliant with the National Building Regulations. All Swartland’s windows are SANS 613 certified and compliant. They have all been tested for deflection, structural strength, waterresistance, air-tightness, operating forces, and the best possible energy efficiency.” www.swartland.co.za
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DORMAKABA SOUTH AFRICA OPENS HOTEL DOORS WITH TAP AND GO Access solutions company dormakaba South Africa has designed a secure, accessible and easy-to-use mobile Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) solution for hotels. The solution allows for hotel guests to use their mobile devices as room keys, neatly sidestepping check-in queues and paperwork. Installation is simple and cost-effective, and the result is an enhanced guest experiences and satisfaction alongside increased hotel security. “A mobile device is a convenient and reliable tool for both the hotel and the guest,” says dormakaba’s Sonia Harding. “Guests simply book their accommodation, download the mobile key application and then receive their hotel room key on the app. Once they arrive at their destination, they proceed directly to their room and use their mobile device as they would their key card. No queues, no delays and no unnecessary frustration.” The solution overcomes a complex challenge that impacts most hotels using
the key card system – security. If a key card is lost or stolen, it can be used to access parts of the hotel without anyone realising. However, if the mobile device is lost or stolen, the key can be deactivated remotely. In addition, this mitigates the cost associated with replacing key cards which can become a pricey exercise. Implementing the dormakaba solution is also cost-effective and efficient. The system integrates seamlessly with the hotel locking system, using a cloud-based platform to manage the key allocations and controls. The locks are
compatible with BLE, which means there is no difference in the price of the locking system, the only cost would be the BLE antenna that needs to be fitted on the inside of the lock and the annual licensing fee to host the hotel in the cloud. “The cost is minimal as the client can upgrade their lock just by adding the antenna, and the hardware and operating software used to take advantage of the system are largely the same as legacy systems already in use at most hotels,” adds Harding. “No changes are made to the lock readers – they can read the key cards as they are
WOOD
www.vanacht.co.za
011 708 2488
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ALUMINIUM
RFID compatible, and they have Bluetooth that allows for seamless connectivity using the mobile device. Clients that purchase locks from June 2016 will be automatically BLE compatible.” The dormakaba solution is easy to install, is compatible with legacy software and systems, has a low barrier to entry and sits at an affordable price point. It allows for hotels to modernise and secure infrastructure while providing guests with seamless experiences, improving the user journey and enhancing reputation and ratings. www.dormakaba.com/za-en
uPVC
sales@vanacht.co.za
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Talk to THE SMART ROOF PEOPLE Visit www.globalroofs.co.za or email info@globalroofs.co.za 34 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
KL 700 Plus
KL 700 Plus Clip
The striking new Club 2 Building in Hazelwood, Pretoria, combines modern industrialism and luxury. The curved steel roof, glass faรงade and modern interiors have attracted high profile tenants like Atterbury Properties and Planet Fitness. Hofman Architects designed a portal frame roof structure that has curved sections and is divided by box gutters. There are five sections of the building and the roof indents inwards and outwards to add depth and shading to the Eastern faรงade, which is the main entrance faรงade, of the building. Global Roofing Solutions is proud to have supplied the popular Klip-Tite sheeting for the project. WWW.LEADINGARCHITECTURE.CO.ZA DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018 35
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ESTATE LIVING AND ADDED SECURITY There are two factors that drive the popularity of communal living in South Africa: the natural beauty that provides ample opportunities for estate living and the increasing need for security. Ensuring that your house or unit is safe and that your family enjoys the requisite privacy is not always the responsibility of the estate management or body corporate. Security estates usually implement a combination of security measures, but individual owners are still responsible for the safety of their own homes. Karina Palmer of American Shutters says, “The security and lifestyle benefits of estate living are obvious, but one potential drawback is the loss of privacy. Although the community concept of estate living allows residents free and safe access to the shared areas and facilities, it also puts homes and residents in close proximity impacting on personal privacy. Installing shutters will protect your privacy. With a simple tilt of the louvres, homeowners can obstruct sight lines into their homes without losing views, natural light and fresh air.” The benefits of security shutters over burglar bars are numerous. Security shutters are aesthetically pleasing and offer the same protection against intrusion, if not more. The shutters are powder coated for a corrosion-resistant finish presenting a simple elegance that is not obtrusive and can be installed outside or inside homes. Sliding glass doors are a popular feature for creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, but they are also a favourite target for criminals. Retractable security grilles offer no privacy. Security shutters with operable aluminium louvres maintain security and privacy by closing flush against each other. The shutters are usually installed on the inside of the glass doors which facilitates the tilting of the louvres to check on noises or movements outside. An example of how shutters can provide privacy in a lifestyle estate is American Shutters’ recent installation of custom-made Decowood™ shutters at a home in the Val de Vie Estate in Paarl in the Western Cape. The shutters, installed in the bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas, seamlessly complement the interior design of the home and make the utmost of the natural surroundings. www.americanshutters.co.za
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GIVING ARCHITECTS THE ADVANTAGE WITH NEW FREE-TO-USE BIM In South Africa, GEZE knows that architects typically see doors, windows, facades, security and fire-safety as one of the most complex construction components. This is why GEZE SA has created free-to-use GEZE EZE BIM add-in and play software. It works the way architects do, complemented by specialists who do the work to produce a faster better-quality outcome. “GEZE EZE BIM helps us to reach a resolved solution faster and we have a better view of the expected outcome,” says Neels Fourie, director, LP Architects & Redevelopment Specialists. “We’re able to leverage the expertise of our GEZE architectural ironmongery specialist, to help give our work a distinctive edge.” Warren Wesson, architect associate and head of Building Innovation at Paragon Architects says, “GEZE is first in this space, and I’d like to trial this process on a number of projects that I’ll be working on.” How GEZE EZE BIM works It’s simple, quick and easy. GEZE EZE BIM gives architects more time to spend on design, in decision-making and managing property-owner expectations more precisely. Architects can start by quickly downloading free-to-use GEZE EZE BIM’s add-in and play software which is Autodesk Revit compatible, and experience these features: • Near real-time online communication between the architect and GEZE architectural specialist • Visible progress: specified doors show as green, unspecified doors show as red • Fast image-rich specifications and improved accuracy; updates are automatic Changing the game to put professionals ahead “Our clients in our mobile first markets such as South Africa and Sub-Sahara Africa already know the benefits that modern technology can deliver, and over the last year we’ve seen rapid trial and adoption of new GEZE EZE BIM – it’s working,” says Kevin Diamond, MD GEZE SA. www.gezebim.co.za
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THE IMPORTANCE OF VENTILATION
PU FOAM FILL GAPS AROUND WINDOWS AND DOORS Den Braven PU Foam is a one-component fast-curing construction foam based on moisture curing. It is a fine, cellular polyurethane-based insulation foam containing a safety propellant. It is long-lasting, 100% CFC free, with excellent gap filling capability for industrial and building applications. This very strong cellstructured foam is ideal for filling gaps around windows and door frames, joints between walls, ceilings, floors and gaps around pipes. For a professional finish, Den Braven recommends using the PU Gun Foam and applicator with a regulator, to adjust the foam output, as well as PU Foam Cleaner for dissolving uncured PU Foam. Fix the provided plastic nozzle onto the canister spout and shake the can well. Holding the canister upside down, place the nozzle tip into the joint or gap and gently squeeze the trigger.
Do not overfill the gap because the PU Foam expands into the area, filling and sealing as it cures. Any overflow of foam, once cured, can be cut away with a sharp knife, and may then be painted using a good acrylic-based paint. Use gloves when applying the product. PU Foam Canisters should always be upright and secure when transporting and stored, and handled with care. PU Foam Cleaner dissolves uncured PU Foam. Also available is Fire Protect PU Foam. Den Braven has offices in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and exports to, as well as services, the rest of sub -Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean regions. www.denbraven.co.za
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Natural ventilation refers to the process of supplying and removing air to and from indoor spaces by deliberate natural ventilation strategies, as opposed to mechanical ventilation. Ventilation is important as it regulates the exchange of air to the outside as well as circulation of air within the building. It evacuates stale air, replacing it with cool fresh air from fixed louvres and other openings. Good building ventilation will also assist in maintaining indoor air quality in buildings by limiting the concentration of carbon dioxide and airborne pollutants such as dust, smoke and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Safintra offers a range of locally manufactured architectural and industrial louvres and air vents for a variety of air intake or exhaust applications. All vents and louvres are manufactured from aluminium-zinc coated steel or aluminium, to match the roofing material used, providing maximum corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal. All Safintra products are custom made to your specific requirements. They are not mechanical, and require no power. Features & Benefits: • Available in a variety of colours to complement architectural features • Wide range of fixed louvre shapes available • Various dimensions of ridge and slope mounted ventilators • No operating costs Safintra offers full technical support and advice from project design to installation. It is strongly recommended that an approved installation company is appointed to install any roofing system or component thereof. This includes sheeting, and vents and louvres. www.safintra.co.za
Quality doesn’t fear time. You’re the kind of homeowner who won’t settle for mediocre quality. You also understand that top quality finishes add value to your home. Then Cape Culture, our premium range of wooden windows and doors is for you. With thicker sections, exquisite craftsmanship and superior hardware these windows and doors can be delivered to site, glazed and sealed in a range of beautiful wood finishes, ready for installation. Cape Culture is superior quality that you’ll appreciate as the value of your home does the same.
For more information visit www.swartland.co.za or call us on 086 110 2425
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Need to fill gaps and joints?
PREMIUM DOORS FOR TOP-END VEHICLE MARQUE SHOWROOM
PU FOAM Use PU Foam, the long lasting, 100% CFC free, fine cellular polyurethane based insulation and construction foam for industrial and building applications. This very strong closed cell structured foam is ideal for fixing window and door frames, filling of gaps between walls and ceilings, gaps around pipes and much more. Also available: Fire Protect* PU Foam. To seal small settling cracks and joints between the ceiling and cornice or mouldings and wall where moderate amounts of movement can occur, use either the immediately paintable plastic elastic Wet on Wet, or Acryl W sealant
Green in more ways than one JHB: 011 792 3830 CT: 021 552 9674 DBN: 031 579 2375 Please contact us for further technical product information and technical assistance CooleAd 15057
Door and loading dock equipment specialist, Maxiflex, secured an order to supply and install three stylish fully glazed overhead sectional glass door systems to complement the elegant new showroom of premium brand vehicle dealership, Jaguar Land Rover Waterford, in Johannesburg’s Northern suburb of Fourways. To ensure that the vehicles are clearly visible from the dealership exterior, even when the doors are closed, the front of the showroom was designed to incorporate three massive glass-panelled doors which form the focal point of the dealership’s front façade. Goodbrand Architects specified Crawford fully glazed overhead sectional doors from Maxiflex. The state-ofthe-art design of these door systems presented the perfect solution in terms of aesthetics, maximum light emission, functionality and high efficiency. The Crawford fully glazed doors are designed in Europe specifically for showroom applications to provide maximum light and visibility. In addition to high light admission, the sleek design of the panels gives a high-class presentation that is a perfect fit with modern architecture. “It was imperative for the customer that the doors not only complement but enhance the aesthetic façade of premium showroom where the topend vehicle marques are displayed,” says Maxiflex national sales manager, Dillon van Niekerk. Alongside providing complete visibility when closed both from the outside in and the inside out, the doors also had to allow maximum light into the interior. To ensure that the hardware systems of the up-and-over doors were hidden in a continuously suspended ceiling to further enhance
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aesthetics when the doors are open, Maxiflex modified the doors by installing a high-lift track system. An opening to facilitate maintenance was also included. Efficiency was another important criterion stipulated by the customer. As the Jaguar Land Rover Fourways showroom is fully air-conditioned, it was important to the environmentally responsible customer that the door solution reduces air transmittance. When closed, the EN 12426 (Class 3) accredited Crawford sectional door creates a seal around all four sides of the aperture. By keeping heat, cold, wind and insects out, the automatic doors are instrumental in keeping interior pre-set air-conditioned showroom climate at constant and comfortable temperatures creating a comfortable environment for clients and personnel while consuming less electricity. Van Niekerk adds that with Maxiflex’s membership of the Green Building Council and ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems’ membership of LEED and Breeam, the two companies are perfectly partnered to provide green solutions to meet a wide array of applications. Maxiflex provided the necessary training once the customer took ownership of the doors. Proper training provided by skilled Maxiflex technicians ensures optimal door functioning, performance and efficiency delivering cost savings, long service life and lowest cost of total overall ownership. “We pride ourselves on the fact that we do not supply mere door and dock loading systems,” concludes Van Niekerk. “We have 27 years’ experience in supplying complete turnkey door solutions.” www.maxiflex.co.za
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TRELLIDOR INTRODUCES ALUMINIUM SLIDING SECURITY GATE Trellidor has introduced an aluminium sliding security gate to its range of custom-made burglar proofing options. Made from structural aluminium, it is suitable for highly corrosive environments and is engineered with the hallmark strengthening features that Trellidor products are known for. “This is a streamlined barrier that has no visible rivets, making its exterior smooth and neat. It is designed to open and close smoothly as it is top hung and features excellent quality
barriers are above average in resisting attack using a variety of common tools used by burglars. The Trellidor Aluminium retractable security gate was put through its paces with excellent results. “We use structural aluminium to strengthen this security gate, but it is still light enough to operate easily. It is fitted with a patented Trellidor locking system, which locks internally in three points using one key. The flights on these sliding gates link three uprights together
glass-filled nylon wheels and sealed ball bearings,” says Trellidor marketing and sales director, Peter Rawson. As a responsible security barrier manufacturer, Trellidor ensures that all its barriers undergo strength testing to ensure that its
for easy operation, increased strength and neat stacking.” All Trellidor security barriers are manufactured at the company’s LPCB ISO certified factory. The manufacturing process includes pre-treatment for enhanced corrosion and UV
YOSO WOOD AND ALUMINIUM DOORS
resistance before undergoing powder coating. This helps to retain the quality finish and increases the lifespan of the barriers, making them suitable for both coastal and inland conditions. Trellidor Aluminium Retractable security gate
joins the company’s other lifestyle aluminium security barriers which include Trellidor Rollerstyle shutters, Trellidor Security Shutter, Trellidor Cottage Guard burglar bars and Trellidor Polycarbonate Bar burglar proofing. www.trellidor.co.za
Van Acht offers one of the largest selections of doors in the country and can cater for almost any requirement or budget. Purpose-made doors can be made in a variety of timbers, according to personal choice and design. YOSO Wood and Aluminium Doors are semiexterior doors suitable for infrequent and partial exposure to direct sunshine and rain. An overhang above the door is recommended. YOSO doors can be customised by choosing a variety of aluminium colours and exotic timber options. Aluminium frames can be chosen in black, charcoal, bronze, white, or red. Timber options available include kiaat, teak, rosewood, eucalyptus grandis and marine ply. They are available in standard
sizes of 1 200mm x 2 032mm, 1 500mm x 2 032mm, 1 200mm x 2 380mm. Maximum width is 1800mm, while maximum height is 3 000mm. YOSO doors come standard with frame, hinges, locks and handle. A variety of handles are available in black, silver, bronze and stainless steel. Continuous research and development has enabled Van Acht to manufacture virtually any custom made wooden product as well as expand its range of products available. The expanded range includes V-COAT, Van Acht Glass and Aluminium, uPVC Windows and Doors, YOSO Wood and Aluminium Doors, Marine Ply Garage Doors and Van Acht Frameless Folding Doors, all products that were developed over the last six years. www.vanacht.co.za
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TE RR AFO RCE
L AN DSCAPI N G
TODAY’S PROJECTS SHOULD CONSIDER TOMORROW Sustainable development or building practices are possibly one of the most urgent aspects in the global fight to prevent our resources from running dry, says Holger Rust, director of Terraforce, Cape Town based earth-retaining and erosion-control specialist. One obvious facet of sustainable development involves protecting the natural environment. A balance therefore needs be found between protecting the physical environment and its resources, and using these resources in a way that will allow the earth to continue supporting an acceptable quality of life for human beings, and not, as many wrongly assume, to keep up or ‘sustain’ the current pace of economic productivity to the point of exhaustion. But the word ‘environment’ should not be solely reserved for untouched nature. ‘Man-made’ or ‘man-changed’ environments fall into the same category, simply because they constitute, both in the present and the future, a large part of human existence. This is where environmental aesthetics – aesthetic appreciation of humaninfluenced and human-constructed as well as natural environments – come into play. “We tend to forget that aesthetic consideration of our living or built environments are just as important as saving the rain forests. Human-created environments, such as sewage pipes, impervious concrete-lined
Find a supplier www.terraforce.com
Tel: 021 465 1907
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canals, trash heaps, billboards, tacky neon strip-developments, smokestacks and suburban sprawl – all symbols of environmental degradation – should not be considered as paradigms of aesthetic non-value,� Rust says. The way Terraforce products are designed allows them to support all requirements of sustainable site development. The open horizontal surfaces encourage uninhibited penetration of water, a closed vertical surface structure provides for the maximum amount of soil within the wall (preventing backfill spillage), while the flush-fitting horizontal interlock over the full width of the block allows each retaining wall to be adapted to any existing site condition, whether it is a river bank or existing architectural structures. “Every project tackled with Terraforce products has the potential to be aesthetically pleasing, in both a visual and environmentally protective sense,� adds Rust. So, what do we do to become more aesthetically aware in our building practices? Whenever we alter our natural environment we should ask ourselves this question, “How can I build without causing ugliness somewhere else or at some later time?� Ugliness here means not just visual displeasure or adverse emotional reaction, but also the ugliness from the loss of a natural resource, diversity and even life, according to Rust. www.terraforce.com
LEDVANCE.COM
Light is personal Success the easy way with LEDVANCE® LED luminaires. All the features you need in your daily work: high efficiency, proven quality and easy installation.
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Image by Neil Cummings - June 2015. Creative Commons
Frank Gehry’s architecture is unrivalled in its simple complexity. The Louis Vuitton Foundation in the Bois Du Boulogne, Paris is one of the most remarkable feats of architectural engineering. What made it possible was the use of structural, high-strength duplex stainless steel to support the unique glass sails. As you can see, stainless steel doesn’t have to be bright to be brilliant!
Stainless Steel. It’s Simply Brilliant. Call 011 883 0119 or see sassda.co.za. Your complete stainless information source. 46 LEADINGARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
MSC1711-002 LEAD ARCH
The beauty lies in the design, its genius... in the structural material.
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LOWER LIFECYCLE COSTS – A FUNDAMENTAL YET OFTEN OVERLOOKED STRENGTH OF STAINLESS STEEL The ‘simply brilliant’ look and feel of stainless steel means it has always been associated with top quality construction and finishes. Unfortunately, this presents something of a doubleedged sword since by virtue of its premium nature, it’s also traditionally seen as more expensive in comparison to other initially cheaper options. In the short term, that may well be case but over a 100-year lifespan of a building that is certainly not the case. Realising the need to turn this misperception on its head, the Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association (Sassda) launched its first Lifecycle Costing App in 2016, which has subsequently lifted the lid on the ‘bigger picture’ – namely stainless steel’s ability to ensure far lower overall life cycle costs (LCC). The benefit of the app is that it allows for the real-time calculation of the LCC of stainless steel via an easy to use, pre-programmed calculator. This requires the entry of key top-line data, followed by the simple click of a ‘Calculate’ Button which in turn generates a breakdown of the relevant costs and the ability to e-mail this to the relevant recipients. Sassda executive director, John Tarboton elaborates: “We developed the app specifically because the calculation of the long-term cost benefits is a complicated process – influenced by several complex factors such as the cost of capital, net present value and discounted cash flows. “While engineers do consider these costs, they are not accountants and it became clear that a tool was needed to simplify the process and allow for accurate material cost comparisons over the entire life-cycle of a project. The app therefore assists engineers to calculate total LCC using the standard accountancy principle of discounted cash flow, so that total costs incurred during a life cycle period are reduced to present day values. This allows a realistic comparison to be made of the options available. In terms of material selection, the app also enables potential long-term benefits to be assessed against short-term expediency. To cement the app within the local market, Sassda ran a highly successful LCC competition during 2017, which culminated in the award of a R125 000 prize of a trip to Paris. This tied in with the competition requiring entrants to download the LCC App and calculate the cost savings that could have been achieved if the Eiffel Tower had been constructed out of stainless steel, either 3CR12 or LDX 2101, rather than mild steel. The calculation needed to take the current inflation rate, the cost of capital and the real interest rate into account, together with its ongoing maintenance and painting expenditure. Due to the success of the app’s capabilities, Sassda is considering holding a life-cycle costing competition every two years, to continue proving the value of stainless steel over the long term and strengthen demand for the material in architectural and structural applications.
Net Benefits of Sustainable Construction The graph below illustrates the total life cycle costs of the Eiffel Tower, if it were made today in mild steel, 3CR12 or LDX 2101. The initial costs (material costs + fabrication costs + other installation costs) are shown in 2017 present day value.
Continued next page
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H U L AM I N
It was assumed that in the case of the LDX 2101, the original grey stainless steel surface was required for the life of the tower, meaning that it would require washing every 20 years. In the case of the 3CR12, it was assumed that the original stainless steel surface would be allowed to weather and develop the normal brown patina typical of this lower alloyed grade. This being the case, no washing would be required. The future maintenance costs (painting in the case mild steel and washing in the case of LDX 2101) is the calculated Net Present Value (NPV). The NPV is a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) method used in forecasting the long run desirability of an investment (in this case the initial costs of the Eiffel Tower made from the three materials). Specifically, net present value discounts all expected future cash flows (maintenance costs of the Eiffel Tower) to the present by an expected or minimum rate of return. This expected rate of return is known as the Discount Rate, or Cost of Capital. In the case of net present value analysis, the DCF method takes each future cash flow and reduces the amount by how much of that cash flow represents interest earned if its principal portion were invested at the time the investment originated. Thus, the lowest total Life Cycle Cost is the calculated lowest cost over the life of the Eiffel Tower, taking into account the cost of capital.
The graph above shows over time how the total Life Cycle Costing evolves. Every seven years, the mild steel is painted, while every 20 years the LDX is washed, adding to the total LCC. As can be seen, these steps get smaller as time progresses, demonstrating the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF). What is of particular interest is that mild steel becomes more expensive than 3CR12 after 28 years and more expensive than LDX 2101 after 49 years. The dip seen at the 100-year mark represents the residual scrap value (calculated at NPV) of the material after dismantling costs are taken into account. sassda.co.za
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EXOS.
TIMELESSLY ELEGANT STAINLESS STEEL WASHROOM ACCESSORIES Introducing Franke’s new modular EXOS range of accessories for any new or existing public or semi-public washroom design. The range is sophisticated, high quality, robust, modern, easy to clean and hygienic. Interchangeable fronts made of high quality materials, such as stainless steel and glass, in either black or white, are beautifully designed and can be incorporated individually in any architectural setting. Clear-cut lines, sophisticated shapes and its timeless design make for harmonious proportions. The modular design allows for interchangeable internal workings on soap dispensers, allowing one to convert between foam, liquid and automated versions.
Features and design in harmony. EXOS. accessories by Franke – functionality and performance. Interchangeable fronts made of high quality materials, such as stainless steel and glass, are beautifully designed and can be incorporated individually in any architectural setting.
Stainless steel The use of stainless steel as a basic material for equipment in public and semi-public washrooms is standard for good reason. This well-established material combines a stylish appearance with functionality and durability. It can be perfectly combined and can be harmoniously supplemented with materials such as glass and ceramics. Because of its material properties, stainless steel can take on and reflect the colours of its environment. Stainless steel products can easily be integrated into almost any room. Stainless steel with InoxPlus refinement With Franke’s InoxPlus surface coating, the already easyto-clean stainless steel has been improved once more. And so, annoying finger prints which previously often adhered stubbornly to stainless steel now belong in the past. This is a technology where nano particles interlock with the molecules on the metal surface and thus nestle closely against microscopic imperfections. The results are deep finished, easy to clean, fingerprint-resistant surfaces. Toughened safety glass Single glazed toughened safety glass is a material which, like stainless steel, is distinguished by its timeless character and its ability to be combined with other materials. Glass and stainless steel represent high quality and timeless elegance. In accordance with safety requirements in washrooms Franke only uses toughened safety glass. www.franke.co.za
Clear-cut lines. Sophisticated shapes. The timeless design makes for harmonious proportions.
0861 372 653 | enquiry.fsa@franke.com
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LIGHT STEEL FRAME BUILDING EXCELLENCE DEMONSTRATED IN STEEL AWARDS 2017 Over the years, the prestigious Steel Awards, hosted annually by the Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (Saisc), has been an excellent barometer of the growth of the Light Steel Frame Building (LSFB) in southern Africa. This year was no different. Nineteen projects were entered into the LSFB category by seven leading Southern African Light Steel Frame Building Association (Sasfa) members from seven provinces around the country. The majority – 25% – came from Gauteng, with KZN providing 20% and 15% each from OFS and Eastern Cape. Sasfa director John Barnard says that, while the quantum of entries is an indicator of how the industry is faring, the floor area covered by the entries is a measure of how the industry has transformed since LSFB first became a category in the Steel Awards 10 years ago. It reflects the trend towards larger projects being built using LSF. This year, the LSFB entries comprised 30% residential, 30% community buildings and the rest in office/commercial and industrial projects. “It is pleasing to see the growth in LSFB use in the residential sector,” says Barnard. “Home owners have accepted that LSF buildings appear no different to ‘conventionally’ built structures and that the quality of finishes is typically better. They also realise that LSF is a very costeffective building method.” Barnard says it was interesting how different
entries represented different attributes of LSFB – logistics playing an important role in the more remote projects, low mass being important in the construction of long-span roof trusses, while speed of construction the key for most of the others. There were two joint winners in the MiTek LSFB category at Steel Awards 2017: Summit Place With several two and three storey office buildings at Summit Place, Garsfontein, Pretoria, already successfully clad with LSF façade walls with ETICS external cladding, it was no surprise that architect Boogertman & Partners, decided to use the same solution on the Assupol Building, the 11-storey winning office block in the same development. In most of the earlier Summit Place buildings, the architect specified slanting, gravity defying façade walls. With the Assupol Building, he decided to introduce elegantly curved façade walls, made possible by LSF. This is the first and highest South African high-rise office building where façade walls were constructed with LSF and ETICS external cladding. Saint-Gobain’s ETICS was used for the external cladding, as it is suited to curves, provides a durable external finish as well as insulating the office building to reduce the energy required for heating and cooling over the lifetime of the building. Barnard says that this project amply portrays the
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Summit Place
GLA School Hall
benefits of LSFB. “The façade walls were built quickly and accurately with, for example, all of the 700 pre-made external windows fitting perfectly into the pre-designed openings in the wall panels. The low mass of the LSF and ETICS cladding eased logistics, and made handling on site a lot easier, requiring only a small team of artisans to do the installation. Also, importantly in these circumstances, the low waste factor meant a small operational footprint allowing other trades to work in tandem.” GLA School Hall The main challenge of this Jeffrey’s Bay project was to establish a world class green education facility on a tight budget. This required architect Jacobus Scott to come up with innovative
solutions especially because the owners wanted a multiuse gathering area, which required a long span roof design. “The MiTek Ultra-Span system was perfect in these circumstances. The MiTek team designed and installed a cost-effective solution that not only looks impressive, but also effectively solved design and engineering problems that could never have been overcome with a traditional roofing system,” says Barnard. “This is not the lowest mass per area roof structure, but some clever design captured benefits made possible by high strength low mass steel trusses. From natural ventilation to optimisation of natural light, photo voltaic cells and rainwater harvesting and the recyclability of materials used, LSF made this green structure possible.” www.mitek.co.za
LIGHT GAUGE STEEL The low mass per m2 (between 2-10kg) of this roofing system ensures both savings on the supporting structure as well as on transportation and erection costs whilst also being vermin proof and non-combustible. Large sections of the roof can simply be pre-assembled on the ground and hoisted into position on the walls – making this one of the most viable systems with a large range of applications up to a clear span of 40m. Supported through a substantial network of licensed truss suppliers, Ultra-Span is equally ideal for all local and export applications where it can be pre-assembled or site assembled.
creating the advantage
The non-combustible solution. MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Ext. 34, Halfway House,1685. Midrand (Head Office) Tel: + 27(0) 11 237 8700 Cape Town Tel: 021 905 0244 • Durban Tel: 031 700 6332 • Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 581 7525 email: marketing@mitek.co.za • www.mii.com/southafrica WWW.LEADINGARCHITECTURE.CO.ZA DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018 51 *MiTek Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division of the worldwide MiTek Group.
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VISUAL TRENDS AND TEXTURE With our increasingly urban and digital lifestyles, people are looking to natural habitats for rest and healing. Society is craving raw emotion, unfiltered imperfection, individuality and nonmanufactured resources. There is a clear move towards design that incorporates natural materials, natural light, vegetation, views of
that creating a supportive environment will help society find simplicity among complexity and contribute to people’s wellbeing. Incorporating tactile paint texture into an environment is an excellent way in which to create a unique experience for the occupant’s senses because the space becomes interactive and invites the occupants
scale. It can also communicate a particular design style. For example, we associate modern interiors with glossy materials and minimally textured surfaces. These types of surfaces communicate a sleek and simple design style that often relates to contemporary interiors. Natural earth tones with a pleasing unevenness and
Marroca Textured is a range of textured water based coatings with an earthy natural appearance. The range provides the professional contractor and specifying architect with a complete coatings system. This range of professional products has excellent durability and is weather resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and
nature and other experiences of the natural world in the modern built environment. New-generation architects and designers are aware
using a space to react through their sense of touch. Texture helps to differentiate various objects and surfaces, transform light, and influence
rawness create an image of simple living, which is why Plascon’s Morrocca textured range is on trend and so appealing. Professional
all weather conditions, giving you the assurance of Plascon reliability backed with industry leading quality guarantees. www.plascon.com
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EARTHY AND NATURAL - PLASCON’S PROFESSIONAL MARROCA RANGE OF TEXTURED COATINGS. Plascon is committed to providing our professional partners product solutions that will not only visually enhance their projects but will also provide functional benefits that will extend the life of the building they design and complete.
Professional Marroca Textured is a range of textured water based coatings with an earthy natural appearance. The range provides the professional contractor and specifying architect with a complete coatings system. This range of Professional products has excellent durability and weather resistance, making it ideal for high traffic flow areas and all weather conditions. Giving you the assurance of Plascon reliability backed with our industry leading quality guarantees.
Plascon Designed for Life - because if it does not affect people’s lives, it isn’t Plascon
Our range includes:
Features & Benefits:
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Marroca Rippled Texture
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Marroca Sand Texture
A range of finishes from fine, medium to heavy textures
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Can be tinted into a range of colours
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Marroca Coarse Texture
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Marroca Heavy Texture 1mm
Protects exterior surfaces against breakdown caused by harsh climatic conditions
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Marroca Heavy Texture 2mm
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Improves the water resistance of walls
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Hides minor surface irregularities and disguises repaired areas
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Effectively fills and bridges hairline cracks
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Durable and long lasting
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Low VOC
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Application by brush, roller and trowel
The Professional Marroca textured range holds the Plascon ECOKIND TM approval and can be used for any green building projects.
For more information visit www.plascon.com
PlasconSA
PlasconSA
plasconspaces
Copyright © Kansai Plascon (Pty) Ltd. 2017
PlasconSA
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SURFACING TRENDS 2018 From a design perspective, there has never been so much choice available to architects and interior designers. Ongoing research and development in the Sintered Stone Surface market has meant there is now something to suit any taste and application. From realistic colour palettes and sensitive detailing to silky smooth finishes and subtle texturing, the industry is constantly looking at ways in which to pioneer new colour and refine existing product portfolios. A combination of the latest technology and attention to detail, (coupled with a healthy dose of imagination), is helping to drive innovation within the surfacing industry. Here are the top five predictions for what are set to be the biggest trends in surfacing in 2018.
Back to the Future Nostalgia is nothing new, but across the industry we’ve noticed a revival in appreciation for design classics. Throughout 2017 we noticed an increase in demand for Terrazzo, alongside other vintage stone designs. This playful and colourful stone once so popular, from bank floors to DIY applications, is finding a new lease of life as a chic surface in the home and further afield. Characterised by bold patterning and cosmopolitan sophistication, Terrazzo has resurged in popularity largely thanks to its eco-friendly and lowmaintenance qualities.
Hyper-realism Hyper-realism is a feature which more and more designers are looking for, especially the ability in capturing the authenticity of natural stone. Perfecting Sandstone-style surfaces will be at the heart of this move, as more clients look to incorporate the richlytextured, yellowish stone within their homes.
Turning up the Contrast We have seen contrasts of lighter and darker stone, used judiciously in the kitchen and bathroom space, to create a stylish design statement. We have also noticed opposing textures being used in conjunction to each other with rough sandstone and wood-effect surfaces offsetting polished marbles or smooth cement.
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A Breath of Fresh Air New technology has been driving the development of new applications for exterior and façade surfacing requirements. As more nations look at how urban areas can contribute to addressing pollution, we are seeing partnerships fostered between surfacing manufacturers and clean tech companies. Neolith® by TheSize has recently launched a partnership with NASA off-shoot PURETi, in order to offer architects and specifiers an antipollution surface. PURETi effectively cleans the air through a groundbreaking photocatalytic treatment, offering a green alternative for projects with a sustainability brief. There’s no doubt we’ll be seeing more similar developments as urban areas grow and sustainable/ environmental requirements gain more traction within the construction industry. Ingenious Igneous The depth and contrast offered by igneous rocks such as basalt, obsidian and soapstone, has inspired manufacturers to be adventurous. We expect to see plenty of surfaces which encapsulate beautiful detailing of these ancient stones, including beautiful, complex swirling, deep grains and organic, continuous patterns true to the look and feel of the real thing. www.thesize.es/en/
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Island and Countertop: CALACATTA Silk and CEMENT Alisa M. Circle Residential Project, Costa Mesa (USA). Designed by Lindye Galloway.
www.neolith.com
NEOLITH®, Design, Durability, Versatility, Sustainability. Interior and Exterior applications: Countertops, Cladding, Flooring and Furniture. Resistant to stains, chemicals, extreme temperatures. Light and 100% natural. Maximum format, minimum thickness, different finishes. More than 20 selections available.
CONTACT INFORMATION: TheSize Surfaces South Africa I Caroline Beyleveld I hello@neolith.co.za I 076 771 6739 I www.neolith.co.za
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INNOVATIVE FIT-OUT BOOSTS ‘GREEN’ STATUS OF GE AFRICA INNOVATION CENTRE Architecture, interior design, and spaceplanning practice Paragon was tasked by GE Global Properties to design and fit-out the GE Africa Innovation Centre (GEAIC), the first green- and LEED-certified GE building in Sub-Saharan Africa.
GE opened its first Africanbased innovation centre in Johannesburg earlier this year as part of its investment in developing home-grown solutions for Africa. The R80m facility is the twelfth GE Innovation Centre globally. It is home to GE’s innovation focus across Africa, within its key business sectors of healthcare, aviation, energy, oil and gas, power, and transportation. “A holistic view was adopted for the building. We have arrived at a stage of sustainable design internationally, with the minimum level being quite high. Being more than the sum of its parts, the overall fit-out aims to achieve substantially over and above this minimum level,” Paragon Interface director Claire D’Adorante elaborates. “The vision was to provide accessibility to a healthy environment and internalise this in the workplace,
promoting an integrated and balanced health- and wellnessdriven work environment,” D’Adorante comments. ‘Green’ features include an intelligent building-monitoring system, live on-screen energy/waste and water usage reports, and a world-class VRV air-con system, incorporating high levels of fresh air input and heat recovery systems. The building aims to operate more efficiently than the market average, featuring Xeriscaped gardens and water-efficient planted walls, occupancy-controlled lighting, substantial external views for occupants, acoustically-tested and -designed environments, and efficient water usage. The basement parking includes, showers, bicycles and green leaf vehicles. The building is currently under evaluation for a Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) Green Star 5 Interior As Built rating and LEED Gold As Built.
The fit-out was designed to be a dynamic and versatile multi-floor space, with innovative and mobile structural elements and furniture. The flexible environment fluidly facilitates collaboration, interaction, and innovation for all users. Conceptually the space is informed by an African geometric design language, drawn from African settlements, fabrics, and surfaces. These include abstracted circular, angular, and linear fractal elements, integrated into the structural and aesthetic elements of the Innovation Centre to create a uniquely African, yet global, contemporary corporate spatial design. The overall thought process of the design focused on the use of environmentally-sound materials, acoustics, flexibility, ergonomics, visual comfort, waste management, and water and electricity reduction in the technology used. The engineering teams and various sub-contractors
(HVAC, electrical, wet services) aided the process with regard to specifying and systematising all the elements necessary for high internal air quality, lighting, and thermal comfort. The close collaboration between the architect, client, and professional team, including the Green Star and LEED consultant, guided the process. In addition, main contractor TSK Bartlett also strived to use certified adhesives and sealant products, for example. “We also targeted some elements in the socio-economic category,” D’Adorante reveals. For example, the demountable and glazing supplier sent out specialised technicians from Europe to train the local installation teams on its bespoke products, and their installation, maintenance, and functionality. Additional specialised training included the ceiling contractors on the high-performance ceiling materials used. www.paragon.co.za
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CLASS LEADING ENERGY EFFICIENT VRF SYSTEMS FOR MIDRAND OFFICES Khato Civils and South Zambezi offices don’t just look modern – they also boast modern, energy-efficient Hisense VRF systems. The site comprises two new buildings in the heart of Midrand, Johannesburg. AOS Consulting Engineers were the lead mechanical consultants and Aster International the airconditioning subcontractor. Each commercial office building is over 1 000m2. HVAC Design comprises multiple inverter driven VRF heat recovery systems located at roof level on both buildings, and are routed to first and ground floors via designated shafts on either side of the buildings. The HVAC system is compartmentalised into four systems per building comprising one or two VRF condensers each depending on building thermal load. The offices consist of various perimeter managerial and individual offices with the centre of the floor zoned as an open-plan area with linear work stations as well as meeting rooms, kitchenettes and cafeterias. Each evaporator is controlled via an independent hardwired wall-mounted controller and in turn connected to a centralised controller with a 365-day timer. Open plan areas, kitchenettes and cafeterias are designed with a simple yet sleek wall-mounted controller offering just four functions – on/off, mode, temperature and fan speed – to simplify the user interface. Senior management offices and open plan areas consist of ducted hideaways introducing air-conditioned air through linear slot or conventional plate type constant volume diffusors while individual offices are fitted with 4-Way Blow Compact Cassettes which fit comfortably into a single ceiling tile. Each office has pure individual control via the VRF Heat Recovery system. Users can select desired comfort levels with simultaneous heating and cooling off the central system. Fresh air is supplied through disc valves into each space where required in accordance with SANS10400 requirements. www.hisensevrf.co.za
COMPLEX GEOMETRY BAGS METAL CLADDING AWARD AT SAISC STEEL AWARDS 2017 The striking, winding metal roof of the new terminal building at the Kasane Airport in Botswana was announced as the Winner of the Metal Cladding Award at the SAISC Steel Awards 2017. The awards honour innovative use of steel and innovation in design, fabrication or construction, and technical prowess that is required for realising exemplary steel projects in Africa. Zip-Tek from Global Roofing Solutions was specified for the cladding of this challenging roof design. The curving roof design was especially challenging. The project team and roof cladding manufacturers, Global Roofing Solutions, had to measure and calculate every individual roof
Coulter and Dale Ellitson. The judges agreed that the complex geometry of the Kasane Airport’s new terminal building is what made it stand out from other entries in the category. Judge Dennis White commented, “With cladding being continuously rolled, the profile is parallel. This building, because of its serpentine shape, requires the profile to be fanned. The profile used for this project is a single pan that can be shaped to meet the requirement of curves.” The project team included architects, structural engineers and quantity surveyors from AECOM, with the main contractor being Stefanuti Stocks and Cadcon being appointed as the steelwork
sheet’s curved sections individually to ensure a correct radius for the curved sections. “7 050m2 of Zip-Tek 420 and Chromadek in Dove Grey was supplied for the project. With this roofing solution, hot-dipped galvanised sheets are produced on continuous zinc coating lines to the requirements of ArcelorMittal South Africa’s ISQ standards. What made the new terminal building at Kasane Airport particularly challenging was the use of tapered sheets that were custom designed for the project. The solution that Global Roofing Solutions provided enabled the design team to meet
contractor, structural steel detailer and steel erector. Martin Smith, managing director of Global Roofing Solutions, says that close collaboration with all project stakeholders, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to technical excellence is what brought this project to life. “Designers are becoming increasingly visionary and as leading steel cladding manufacturers, it’s our goal to find ways to make their ideas a reality. Technological advances in steel construction, combined with a deep history in the engineering sector
their aesthetic goal, which was to avoid lines of hip capping on a roof that curved both on plan and elevation,” explains the project team leaders from Global Roof Solutions, Graeme Jefferys, Mark
and a problem-solving attitude, means that virtually anything can be achieved. Congratulations to the entire project team on this award,” comments Smith. www.globalroofs.co.za
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The vibrant design of Menlyn Learning Hub within Menlo Park, Pretoria, has been carefully matched with durable, aesthetically prominent products, among them Corobrik’s latest range of 65mm graphite pavers. This contemporary, fivestorey educational facility – completed in July 2016 –
graphite pavers has proven to be immensely popular across the board and the incorporation of this product into the Menlyn Learning Hub is an exceptionally stunning example of the impact this product can have on the overall appearance of a building,” explained Corobrik’s commercial director, Musa Shangase.
was developed by Feenstra Group who were looking to create an immersive learning environment with capacity to accommodate 2 500 students, with plans to eventually extend for a further 5 500 students at a later stage. To realise their vision of a ‘vibrant and flexible’ facility which conserved the existing green spaces, Feenstra approached architectural firm, Boogertman + Partners, to create the flagship campus in the established Menlo Park neighbourhood. Aimed at increasing the tertiary educational opportunities within the City of Tshwane, the Learning Hub was developed on an old sports’ ground owned by the Nuwe Hoop School. The site is positioned between the manmade suburban area and a natural river system with the building reconnecting these divided areas. The 23 012m2 development includes administration blocks, a canteen area, external piazza
The graphite paver is straight-edged, producing a crisp, modern finish that complements everything from inner-city developments to educational facilities such as this. The unique colour of the paver, which is a subtle combination of earthy browns and muted reds, means the paver can be matched with a vast array of building products that either make this the focal point or allow it to draw the eye towards the building’s design. “Another important consideration in the creation of the graphite paver was its universal design,” explained Shangase. “Smooth surfaces, as opposed to bevelled or rough surfaces, enable individuals with restricted mobility better access to pedestrian spaces. Corobrik developed this paver to have almost no bevel ensuring a universally friendlier movement space.” The 71 500 Corobrik graphite pavers were used throughout the development, on the piazza seating area, along walkways,
Another reason was the inherent durability that is synonymous with all Corobrik’s clay paver ranges. Investing in education means that long-term costs need to be kept to a minimum, which is why Corobrik’s clay pavers remain a popular choice for developers in both the private and public education sector. Despite constant weathering, the graphite pavers will exude that refreshing look because of the colour-fastness of the clay and consistency of colour throughout the full depth of the brick.
range, even in wet conditions, means that students running to and from lectures are just that much safer.” There was an overriding need for the design of Menlyn Learning Hub to tie into the natural environment. This meant the use of indigenous planting and permeable paving in the form of Corobrik’s clay pavers, to allow water to penetrate the surface, replenishing groundwater below. “The earthiness of the graphite paver, in colour, texture and form, makes it the perfect connection between the natural environment
seating area, lecture rooms and a library. It is modern and dynamic in design, suited to the lifestyle of students and educational staff. “Corobrik’s premium range of
as well as around the building’s perimeter. The graphite was selected, in part, because of the colour contrast created against the concrete pavers also used in the development.
“When it comes to educational facilities such as these, one primary consideration is safety,” said Shangase. “The skid-resistance properties of the clay paver
and the physical building,” concluded Shangase. “It is an inspired product that has been beautifully represented in this very inspired design.” www.corobrik.co.za
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PHOTOS: Supplied by Boogertman+Partners
COROBRIK’S GRAPHITE PAVERS ADD TO THE MODERN MENLYN LEARNING HUB
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MODERN TERRAZZO FLOORING REVITALISES HISTORIC KELVIN HALL Flowcrete has worked with the historic Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, Scotland, during a £35 million (about R650 million) refurbishment project to help turn the much-loved building into one of the city’s most exciting entertainment and leisure venues. In 2014, Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Life, Glasgow Museums, the University of Glasgow and the National Library of Scotland formed a partnership to transform the historic site into an exciting new centre of cultural excellence that would showcase museum collections, engage in teaching and research as well as provide a health and fitness centre. With such a demanding client brief and the physical constraints of a listed building, the project’s architects, Page\ Park Architects, worked with the best stakeholder groups and partners to deliver a design solution that would maximise the building’s potential. In a nod to the old exterior, the new design took advantage of the exposed original
stonework and combined it with solid oak, seamless resin terrazzo, decorative tiles and pendant lamps to create a sleek and contemporary zone for visitors to enjoy. In order to provide a high strength screed that could cope with the stresses of heavy foot traffic, Flowcrete supplied 1,750m2 of heavy duty Isocrete K-Screed to ensure a robust floor build-up in the main reception that would be able to withstand Kelvin Hall’s 25 000 weekly visitors. Proprietary additives were incorporated within the screed material, producing an earlier drying time and ensuring that the flooring installation was completed in a faster timescale than a traditional screed system would allow. To achieve a visually appealing floor finish, 1 600m2 of the seamless resin terrazzo system Mondéco Mirrazzo was applied over three floors in the main reception, café, corridors, stairwell and transitional areas in a light silvery grey colour that matched the
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structure’s interior design scheme. In selected areas, an asymmetrical two-tone effect was achieved by applying a darker shade of grey along one side of the corridor that blended seamlessly up the wall. The resin element for the ground floor main corridor included 65m of Mondéco coving running up the wall to a height of 400mm. Mondéco Mirrazzo was also applied to the feature wall in the reception area to a height of 2.2m. Light-reflective aggregates are incorporated within Mondéco Mirrazzo to convey a glittering, luxurious lustre across the floor’s surface. The hard-wearing nature of Flowcrete’s Mondéco range meant that Kelvin Hall’s new floor would retain its aesthetic properties for the long term despite the heavy foot traffic, frequent cleaning, impacts, scuffs, scrapes and stains that it would inevitably be subjected to. The refurbishment project successfully brought
approximately 50% of the building back into use and secured it as one of the nation’s most influential buildings for generations to come. Thanks to the considered approach and high-quality materials used, the historic exhibition hall has been transformed into a 21st century hub of cultural, academic and sporting excellence; providing a new home for its 1.5 million treasures, research and education as well as providing a state-of-the-art health and fitness centre. Since reopening, Kelvin Hall has gone on to win both the Project of the Year title as well as the Tourism and Leisure category at the 2017 RICS Awards, Scotland. Kelvin Hall also won The Judges Award of Merit at the Scottish Property Awards as well as the Best Regeneration Project category at The Herald Property Awards and was shortlisted in this year’s Architect Journal Retrofit Awards. www.flowcretesa.co.za
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FOUR NEW NYLON ADDITIONS TO FAST-GROWING VANGUARD COLLECTION Leading flooring supplier, KBAC Flooring, is now stocking four new additions to the Vanguard Collection of carpets and luxury vinyl tiles. Two of the new ranges are suitable for residential installations, and the other duo for commercial applications. The two new Vanguard Collection brands for domestic installation, Whisky and Tango, are broadloom nylon residential cut pile carpets which, although totally complementary in the neutral colour palette offered, have distinct variances in pricing and application. Stitch and Tweed, on the other hand, are modular flooring brands. Stitch features carpet tiles of 500mm x 500mm, and Tweed, planks that measure 1 200mm x 300mm.
Brandon Park, sales director of KBAC Flooring, says all four new Vanguard Collection brands are easy to clean as they are produced from 100% solution dyed nylon (SDN) which is superior to other carpet types in terms of colour retention, durability and performance. This is largely because of SDN’s innate bleach resistance derived from the fact that pigment is used to colour the yarn as it is extruded, melting the pigment directly into the nylon fibre as it is being made. Vanguard Whisky is a ‘heavy duty residential carpet’ and therefore suitable for areas of the home where there is more foot traffic, or where a plush look is aimed for. Vanguard Tango is the more affordable version of the two new brands
but as both offer the same nine colours, the home-owner could easily mix-and-match the two types of broadloom carpeting in various areas of the house. “Both Vanguard Whisky and Tango nylon carpets now offer the home-owner economic and quality alternatives to polypropylene,” Park added. Dave Keefer, KBAC Flooring business development manager, says the Vanguard Collection’s Stitch and Tweed commercial flooring ranges feature appealing patterns and textures for commercial office installations. “The two new ranges provide an alternative for interior designers who want to break away from striped and linear patterns that require tessellated installation with shapes constantly repeated
without any gaps or overlap,” Keefer explained. “In the development of the new commercial Vanguard Collection, the emphasis was on providing a carpet tile that would have a seamless look and feel once installed,” he added. www.vanguardcollection.co.za
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TAL PLAYS KEY ROLE IN MAJOR WALL FEATURE AT ANSLOW OFFICE PARK
DESIGN CONQUERS THE BATHROOM
TAL products have played a key role in a major large-format tile wall feature in the two atria at the Anslow Office Park, 8 Anslow Lane in Bryanston for GrowthPoint Properties. The ‘retro concrete’ aesthetic effect of the major wall featured in the two triplevolume atria was the vision of architect Boogertman + Partners. Vitrified porcelain tiles, beige and light-grey in colour and in different sizes, varying from a massive 3m x 1m to 300mm x 600mm, were specified. TAL technical supervisor, Sharon Margon explains that, as these were such largeformat tiles, back-buttering of the individual tiles was required to ensure a full contact between the substrate, adhesive and tile. The large size of the tiles meant that tiling contractor Ohlhorst Africa had to manoeuvre them around and onto the scaffolding.
This meant that the workflow between trowelling onto the wall and back-buttering of the tiles had to be absolutely perfect. Adhesive had to be trowelled in a 3m2 area in a single operation. Margon highlights how the different setting times of TAL Goldstar 6 and TAL Goldstar 12 were used to facilitate the tile installation. Wood floated plaster can be a relatively porous substrate, which may absorb the mixing water from the adhesive quite quickly. TAL Goldstar 12 was therefore used for application onto the walls, as its longer open and setting times allowed sufficient time for the large-format tiles to be manoeuvred onto the scaffolding and back-buttered, and also to account for any subtle adjustments once the tile had been placed. The backs of the tiles were back-buttered with TAL Goldstar 6. In this instance, using two
A tile could only be backbuttered once positioned on the scaffolding, or it would have resulted in ‘skinning’ of the adhesive on the ascent and an impaired adhesive bond.
different adhesives was not an issue, Margon points out. “They are both based on high-strength rapid- and quicksetting technology, and as such are fully compatible and,
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Duravit champions a precisely formulated, recognisable and sustainable design idiom which is applied uniformly in all the market regions in which the company operates. At the root of this idiom is the palpable embodiment of the design in elementary, archetypal forms. The design idiom is of such importance to Duravit that it is fundamental to the essence of the company’s brand, along with the highest standards of product quality and comfort-enhancing technology. In the mid-1980s, when the bathroom was still something of an unknown quantity for interior designers, Duravit took a bold step together with product designer Dieter Sieger, claiming ‘design conquers the bathroom’ in an advertising campaign for the complete bathroom range, Giamo. This referred not only to product design per se, but also to the way in which bathrooms can be designed as an integral whole and marketed in a welltargeted manner. Duravit’s 200-year birthday celebration at the Alte Oper in Frankfurt provided a unique joint photo opportunity: Philippe Starck, who revolutionised the bathroom in 1984 with his ‘back to the roots’ idea; sieger design, with a record 24 Duravit design projects to its name in 33 years; EOOS, a design trio boasting a definitive analytical profundity; Kurt Merki Jr, who most recently designed the C.1 tap fitting range; David Nelson, head designer at Foster + Partners; Phoenix Design, represented by Andreas Haug and Tom Schönherr, whose designs combine logic and emotion; Frank Huster, architect, lecturer and lateral thinker; interior designer Christian Werner, whose design is characterised by clear lines and accents without any superficial effects; Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez, who developed DuraStyle, a bathroom programme covering all applications and requirements; and, as the latest recruit from Denmark: Cecilie Manz, with her intuitive understanding of touch and feel and nuances. The unique network of 17 internationally successful designers, architects and their teams continues to develop the Duravit design concept. To date, their collaboration has given rise to 83 product lines and bathroom ranges which have won Duravit well over 160 design prizes and awards. www.duravit.co.za
once combined, form a single adhesive system.” TAL Bond, a modified latex-based additive, was also used as a water placement in the adhesive mix for
enhanced bond strength and flexibility, and to allow for any thermal movements arising from sunlight through the large windows. www.tal.co.za
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GROHE DAWN WATER TECHNOLOGY LAUNCHES FIRST OF ITS KIND MOBILE SHOWROOM IN AFRICA Grohe Dawn Water Technology (GDWT) is breaking the mould when it comes to traditional showroom experiences in Africa by introducing their first mobile showroom. Traditionally, consumers visit their store of choice and engage with sales personnel on the floor to find out more about the products on offer. GDWT, soon to be known as LIXIL Africa, was recently in the news when this Japanese water, housing and urban development giant took over a 100% shareholding in the company. GDWT is proud to introduce the Pro Tour Truck. A concept that originated in Europe, the Pro Tour Truck is in its simplest form a showroom on wheels. The aim is to deliver all the latest GDWT news, products, expertise and services to local audiences around Africa and to offer free expert advice and inspirational ideas for bathroom and kitchen renovations. What is also exciting is that consumers will receive information on the latest industry technologies and they will have the opportunity to view and experience a wide range of products, including fully functional models. “We have been following the Grohe Pro Tour Truck tours very closely around the globe and it is truly a model that works from a trial and educational point of view. Nothing beats a hands-on experience and the Pro Tour Truck brings the product experience directly to you, complete with product experts on hand. As the leading tap manufacturer in Africa, we are pleased to set the pace for future interactions from installers and retailers to end consumers,” says Henk Suelmann, CEO of GDWT. The truck embarked on its first tour from mid-November, starting in Johannesburg and then making its way to the Free State. The truck serves as a showroom, training centre and creates an exclusive venue for key engagements with industry experts and partners. John Westermeyer, chief marketing officer at GDWT said, “As the market continues to evolve, we know the importance of directly engaging with our target audience and what better way than through a visually stunning mobile showroom which is fully kitted out with our top of the range taps, showers, baths and flushing toilets across our various brands.” Visitors can expect to experience the following brands: Grohe, Cobra, Isca, Vaal and Libra. www.grohedawn.co.za
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KOHLER GALLERY BREAKS THE MOULD Global bathroom and kitchen fittings manufacturer Kohler has opened a Gallery in Bryanston, Johannesburg that celebrates South African design leaders and taps into a uniquely South African design discourse. Designed to wow the trade and their clients, the brand-new Kohler Gallery showcases their full bathroom solution offering in a space that incorporates the exceptional work of several of our best local designers. One of the highlights in the Gallery is the brand’s Artist Editions collection of basins with decorative effects in glass, bronze and marble, and is one example of Kohler’s dedication to the preservation and development of craft and bespoke design. Local design highlights in the Gallery: Aureum’s Nicky Levenberg, the prominent Joburg textile designer whose prints are the vibrant base for a range of homeware from scatter cushions to napery, has hand painted an inspired geometric mural for the space, which also features her wallpaper collaboration with Lemon. Studio 19’s Mia Widlake is esteemed for her modern vintage design aesthetic and covetable monochromemetallic product range. This celebrated stylist and designer’s light fittings are hard to miss. Lemon, the Joburg design studio dedicated to procuring and creating exceptional graphics, has installed various artworks and
wallpaper in the Gallery. Wolkberg Casting Studios has pioneered an industrially designed high performance concrete called Limesite, which they apply as surfacing for walls and counters. With that in mind they created a bespoke reception desk, boardroom table and basin display. Applauded for channelling ethnic and cultural graphic symbolism in her contemporary furniture designs, The Urbanative’s Mpho Vackier shows us what modern Africa
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is all about. Her custom designed occasional chairs greet visitors in the Kohler Gallery’s reception area, upholding ‘Africanness’ against a decidedly global backdrop. Burgeoning artist Elonah O’Neil is best known for her magical and captivating masterpieces in paper. For her work at the Gallery, Elonah has created a water inspired custom glass art installation. New to the interior design scene but no stranger to the industry, Copperleaf Studio’s
Kelly Adami, was the design lead of the interior. Her range of luxury mirrors is also on display. Says Kohler Africa’s commercial director, Ronelle Badenhorst, “Our new Kohler Gallery is an inspiring and innovative space. I believe it demonstrates our ongoing dedication to providing the South African design community with a sublime aesthetic and cuttingedge tech.” www.africa.kohler.com
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AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
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Green block making technology for Giba Business Park PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
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iba Business Park, a unique development set in the Giba Valley just outside Westmead in KwaZulu-Natal, has developed its facilities for a variety of its successful businesses using innovative Hydraform block making technology. The Hydraform technology has since proved to be the ideal solution for Giba, not only from a cost perspective, but more importantly in meeting its sustainable ‘green’ business practices. Giba Business Park is a unique development located in the Giba Valley in Hillcrest, Durban, with various factories, buildings, warehouses, open platforms and storage space. It is, however, famous for its diverse nature and outdoor activities, especially because of the popular Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park with biking and hiking trails, complete with a party venue and restaurant. The business park is also home to Giba Storage, which is continuously growing to keep pace with the demand for self-storage in Westmead. Since its opening in 2011, the facility has expanded from 56 to 220 units, with ample space for more future development. Giba has also developed an impressive business park with warehousing and commercial space. To develop structures for an array of facilities in the park, Giba resorted to Hydraform’s innovative block making technology, a solution it has used for the past 10 years with some great results. To date, Giba owns two Hydraform block making machines and a single mixer. ‘Green’ focus
According to CEO Chris Harburn, Giba Business Park, which is also a member of the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA), is built on sustainable green business practices, and the Hydraform system
ticked the right boxes in terms of reducing the park’s carbon footprint. Bear in mind that a Hydraform block is a walling material made of merely three inputs, namely soil, (in their case, waste material) that can be sourced on site, a small amount of cement (about 10%) that provides stability to the blocks, and water. “We actually have correct material in our own quarry, right on our doorstep and the beauty of the Hydraform technology is that you can take the machines anywhere and make use of the in-situ material that is available on the site. There is no carbon foot print created by transporting blocks from outside facilities. You don’t have to import costly material to your site, which also makes it very cost-effective for us,” says Harburn. “The blocks are made from our waste material which further reduces our Carbon footprint. GBCSA has set ambitious targets of the Built Environment being Net Zero by 2050. We are trying to do our bit.” Hydraform interlocking blocks are compatible with Green Building requirements. This bodes well for Giba Business Park’s green focus. The park’s location has largely led to its
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design as a sustainable environment through low impact eco-practices. The property is home to Stockville Quarry, a Decomposed Granite (Gravel) quarry. The quarry occupies only 14ha out of 56ha and this is the area that is being rehabilitated into Giba Business Park. Eleven hectares have been zoned for tourism and the balance, 31ha have been zoned for conservation. In addition, the ‘Environmental Management Plan’ for the quarry is to make sure it is correctly rehabilitated. The overall goal, according to Harburn, is to offer an eco-driven sustainable business park where people from all walks of life can work and play together. Key advantages
Apart from the huge environmentallyfriendly benefit, Hydraform interlocking blocks are famous for their cost efficiency, saving the cost of walling by about 50% compared with conventional blocks. “The overall cost is very cheap compared with normal blocks,” says Harburn. This is largely due to the fact that Hydraform’s technology saves on mortar and plaster costs, as no mortar is used to bond the
blocks together. The blocks have tongue and groove joints that form an interlocking masonry wall. When it comes to plaster you also save since the interlocking wall doesn’t have big gaps that need to be covered with mortar when plastering. You also have an option of not plastering, because the wall looks beautiful even without plaster on it. “The thermal qualities of the solid block also make it ideal for the humid climatic conditions in KwaZulu-Natal,” adds Harburn. Another key benefit is the speedier construction, due to the minimum mortar used. Mortar is only applied before the first course, and after that blocks are just laid on top of each other, without mortar. Meanwhile, Harburn says the training of the local community is also a huge added benefit. Unskilled/ semi-skilled workers are trained to use the simple technology, gaining a significant skill in the process. “It is such a simple process. We make the blocks next to the new structure and when they are sufficiently cured, we start building the walls,” concludes Harburn. www.hydraform.com
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