From modern offices and boutique retailers to stylish homes and large-scale commercial sites, Samsung’s Commercial Air Conditioning range is built to deliver efficient comfort wherever it’s needed. With the ability to connect up to 64 indoor units to a single DVM system, it offers a scalable solution designed for projects of any size.
Evenly circulates air & cools every corner
Catalogue 2023
Comfortably cool, not unpleasantly cold
Bladeless Design
The blades of a conventional 4-way cassette type air conditioner create an unpleasant air flow that feels like a cold draft*. The 360 Cassette has a bladeless design, so cool air disperses gently and descends across the room like a natural wind, making people feel comfortably cool without the sensation of a cold draft on their skin**. As there are no blades to block the air flow, especially at low angles, it expels 25% more air* and spreads it farther, which means you can quickly enjoy a more comfortable environment across a wider area.
Designed to cool every corner evenly, the 360 Cassette features a circular, bladeless outlet that disperses air in all directions, eliminating uncomfortable hot and cold spots often experienced with traditional air conditioners. A built-in Booster Fan ensures airflow remains consistent across a wide area
* Based on internal testing compared to a general 4-way cassette air conditioner.
by releasing cool air parallel to the ceiling, even at low angles. Its elegant circular design complements exposed ceilings and modern interiors, while the intuitive LED display and wireless remote give users full control over direction and airflow strength.
4-way WindFree™ Cassette
Perfect for workspaces and areas with varying occupancy, the 4-way WindFree™ Casette features an optional Motion Detect Sensor that helps reduce energy use by shifting to WindFree™ mode when no movement is detected.
Ducted Units
A check-valve-equipped drain pump prevents backflow, while easily detachable blades allow for quick cleaning and ongoing hygiene. The lightweight construction also simplifies handling and installation, making it a practical choice for busy job sites.
Samsung’s ducted range offers adaptable installation with high-performance results. The MSP Duct features a compact 900 mm width, built-in purification system, and quick access to internal components for simplified servicing. Its optional high lift-up drain pump allows for greater flexibility when planning installation, especially in tight spaces. The Slim Duct, with its discreet 199 mm height, blends seamlessly into low ceilings and concealed areas, offering quiet and efficient airflow without compromising aesthetics.
For larger zones or longer duct runs, the HSP Duct delivers high-capacity performance with built-in intelligence. It automatically adjusts fan speed based on external static pressure, ensuring efficient airflow with minimal noise. Its powerful air volume travels farther and faster, making it ideal for cooling or heating wide or distant areas. With Auto ESP and Easy Tuning, installers save time on manual setup while maintaining consistent comfort. Plus, 3-way service access and a slide-fit cover make it easy to maintain wherever it’s installed
Gareth Griffiths editor@tobuild.co.za
To Build
Gareth note EDITOR’S
September has come and Spring is in the air. We are hopeful. Longer days, shorter nights. It means different things to people living in different regions but for some a glad farewell to months of rainy and overcast conditions. South Africa is spread over seven climatic zones, as far as building design is concerned, so understandably it means different things to different people.
Whatever your climatic zone, To Build is here to coach you through spring and into summer, with some hot ideas to get your property ready for the long days ahead. Our Spring 2025 colour contributions will be your best friend as you plan to get your space ready for year-end. We have timely advice on your outdoor life - entertainment areas, outdoor furniture, accessories, outdoor kitchens, braais and an extensive feature on timber construction. Be informed about your options for wooden decks, entertainment areas, fire regulations and some awesome advice on wood countertops courtesy of the Kitchen Specialists Association.
For business readers, there are insightful legal opinion-pieces regarding the property and construction industries and other professional articles by our esteemed writers. There’s also a hot-off-the-press selection of exciting architectural projects. For example, you can read about how the Vodacom Century City Regional HQ rose again from the ashes, following a serious rooftop electrical-fault fire.
Talking hard construction, one of the most damning reports in the construction industry yet was issued in July by the Council for the Built Environment. It highlights bad errors of judgement and simple non-compliance with the regulations at the tragic multistorey George building site collapse in May 2024, resulting in the loss of 34 lives and many serious injuries. Investigations have led to detailed reports on this topic, but sadly, in the words of esteemed construction health and safety researcher, Prof. John Smallwood: “Construction is challenging, however, competency, accompanied by, among others, strategies, systems, procedures, and protocols, assures healthy, safe, and conforming (quality) infrastructure, buildings, and structures.” Notably, these are all issues of management. When will the industry learn?
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What does it require?
36 Phoenix-like transformation for Vodacom HQ
ENGINEERING
42 Nothing goes to waste in the Mother City
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
44 Large investment in infrastructure boosts eThekwini
ADVERTORIAL: EVA-LAST
50 Choosing the right deck
CONSTRUCTION
52 Progress on the Karreebosch Wind Farm
CONSTRUCTION LEGAL - OPINION
54 Worse than cutting the red tape
CONSTRUCTION CHEMICALS
56 Elevating luxury living in Eye of Africa Estate
ELECTRICAL
58 Earth leakage devices: a critical choice
62 Amanuel Gebremeskel: The man and the job
STEEL ROOFING & CLADDING
64 Steel roofing and cladding –reaching for the sky
INSULATION
68 Balancing sustainability with fire safety and compliance
72 Technical bulletin: SANS 53501-1 migration
ADVERTORIAL: KNAUF INSULATIONS
73 Achieving home energy efficiency through proper insulation
BRICKS AND WALLS
74 Used bricks: Recycle, reuse and repurpose
FLOORING
77 Durable flooring solution for citrus exporter
COATINGS & COLOUR
78 Master the art of colour in Spring 2025
FEATURE: TIMBER
82 Timber 101: Wood and the built environment
TIMBER: KITCHENS
89 Wooden countertops: The basics
HOME AUTOMATION
94 The heart of the conscious home
ADVERTORIAL: FOURWAYS GROUP
96 Precision cooling at Paserene
BATHROOMS
98 Pimp your tiny bathroom - feel joy
GREEN BUILDING: PEOPLE
100 Heralding green culture change
OUTDOOR FEATURE
102 Natural pools: where nature does the work
OUTDOOR FURNITURE
104 Outdoor and patio furniture in SA
DIY GARDENS
108 Get ready for the big summer SA-style
To Build
PUBLISHER
Elroy van Heerden Mays elroy@mediaxpose.co.za
EDITOR (& IMAGING)
Gareth Griffiths editor@tobuild.co.za
SUB-EDITOR
Kim Kay
CONTENT MANAGER
Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Amanuel Gebremeskel & Dennis White
Andrew Dickson Bryan Hack Cebelihle Mthethwa & Alomé Pieterse Des Schnetler
Lucinda Bosch
Joanna Miller
Patty Mulauzi
PJ Veldhuizen
Stephanie Forbes Thabang Byl
Warren Papier
DESIGN & LAYOUT
Shaun van Heerden Mays | Anja Bramley | Tia Arendse
NATIONAL SALES MANAGER
Rene van Heerden rene@mediaxpose.co.za
PROJECT MANAGER
Samantha Morrison samantha@tobuild.co.za
ADVERTISING SALES
Jacqui Marsh jacqui@tobuild.co.za
Lindie van den Abeele lindie@mediaxpose.co.za
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Richard van Staden
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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or omission contained herein. Consequently, no person connected with the publication of this journal will be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any reader as a result of action following statements or opinions expressed herein. The publisher will give consideration to all material submitted, but does not take responsibility for damage or its safe return.
Spoiled for choice at
Decorex 2025
Decorex Cape Town this year raised the bar on their already spectacular showing to the point that it was difficult to decide which stands to feature. In the end it came down to the editor’s walkabout and which stands caught his eye the best!
Stadl Art:
A remarkable display of copper, glass, bakelite, bronze all recycled into art. The Stadl steampunk design atelier says it gives the buyer an opportunity to purchase investment art specifically designed for a very special, innovative art loving group of people. @stadl_art
A&TG Ekasi Bags:
Based in Gugulethu, the A&TG Ekasi Bag company says it is a vibrant gateway to African heritage. The bags are hand crafted using African print fabrics ensuring that each piece is unique. Perfect for holding tools of the trade for architects and designers who are on the move. @antgekasibags
Mink design and collaborators: A model student apartment that glows with colour. @minkdesign_
Ananta Studio with Ald James Vos, Cape Town Municipality:
Ananta says it offers joyful designs that celebrate culture through craft. @studioananta_
Outdoor wedding?
Try this unusual concept by designer hospitality company Kraak of Paarl. Hannes van Kraak says that even a corporate event does not have to have white pleather couches and branded cushions.
Hannes says he grew up on a farm playing with mud, inspiring this unique concept. Well, judging by the ingenious use of mud for table coverings, cutlery handles and chairs, we have to hope the outdoor event does not suffer from a rainshower! Weather notwithstanding, 10/10 for originality. @kraak.co.za
To Build and SA Building Review: Top news of the trade in these sibling architecture, design, engineering and decor magazines from the @MediaXpose publishing stable. Media sponsors at Decorex. @sa_building_review @to_build_publication
Global outdoor
kitchen trends
Spring news: prepare your home for the coming South African summer - outdoors, of courseincluding food preparation areas.
Saurabh Chauhan
Decorative finishes and laminates company Greenlam (www.greenlamsa.com) shares with us how outdoor kitchens have become one of the most sought-after lifestyle features worldwide.
These reflect a growing desire to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. No longer restricted to basic grills, these areas now include fully equipped spaces for cooking, dining, and entertainment that combine functionality with elegant design.
Recent design reports researched by the company show that outdoor kitchens now rank among the top five home improvement investments worldwide, signifying their shift from luxury to mainstream.
“This evolution has driven demand for materials that combine performance and aesthetics. Greenlam Stratus Compact Countertops, engineered for outdoor use, answer this call perfectly,” says a company spokesperson.
Trending: A shift towards outdoor living
Architectural trends worldwide are embracing larger outdoor living spaces. From Mediterranean-inspired terraces to modern urban rooftops, outdoor kitchens now play a key role in home design. This is driven by:
• Lifestyle Integration: Open-plan concepts flow seamlessly from interiors to exteriors.
• Entertaining at Home: Post-pandemic living has placed renewed emphasis on outdoor social spaces.
As outdoor living continues to grow worldwide, design experts anticipate higher demand for engineered surfaces that combine luxury with durability.
The company says its compact countertops meet these needs, providing a weather-proof, low-maintenance solution that complements contemporary outdoor aesthetics.
Internationally, designers are prioritising
• Minimalist lines: Slim, seamless worktops that enhance architectural minimalism.
• Natural textures: Stone and concretelook finishes remain highly popular for outdoor settings.
• Mixed-use zones: Outdoor kitchens integrated with dining bars and lounge areas.
The company believes that its surfaces reflect these trends, providing modern elegance with engineered durability.
EFFICIENT & STYLISH FIREPLACES & BRAAIS WITH MINIMAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Food for thought
At Decorex Cape Town, one stand caught the eye of the outdoorsperson. With a playful yet practical approach, the creators of the Donkey LongTong showed how South Africa’s beloved braai is getting a design-led upgrade.
Forget flimsy braai tools. The Donkey Long Tong (www.donkeylongtong.co.za) is engineered for serious fire-handling, making light work of hot coals and heavy logs. It's a must-have for backyard pitmasters and bushveld chefs alike. The range includes bespoke leather carry bags and various supporting paraphernalia for your braai out of cellphone range, as the supplier puts it. Try it out when you are next in the wilds!
And the name? We won’t spell it out, but it’s got a cheeky play on words written all over it.
Boertjie Boma
Elevate your outdoor cooking with the Boertjie Boma. This durable, versatile braai system features adjustable height, automatic rotating motor, and easy cleanup. Perfect for braais, potjies, and spit braais. Personalise it with engravings for a unique touch.
Price: R2,650.00
082 784 0597 | 012 980 5040
sales@boertjieboma.co.za
Argentinian / Santa Maria designed braais
Crafted with precision, our braais are made from premium mild or stainless steel, ensuring durability and style. Let our master braai designer bring your vision to life - whether you're dreaming of a classic setup or a show-stopping centrepiece. Optional extras are available. Dream it, and we bring it to life. We custom-make to suit your budget.
www.breedtbraais.co.za
072 328 1062
breedtbraais@gmail.com
Beyond function:
Surfaces that tell a story
Innovation, material artistry, and sustainability converge in a Johannesburg studio redefining surface design in South Africa. Through handcrafted finishes and the inventive use of LimesiteTM, Wolkberg Casting Studios is shaping the future of bespoke interiors.
Wolkberg
Interior design by Candice Kessler Lifestyle Consulting
