To Build - Volume 12 l Issue 4

Gareth Griffiths editor@tobuild.co.za

Welcome to our December edition. It’s been an extremely tough year on the whole for the entire design, construction and professional sector but then the effect of the lockdowns and a pandemic-driven economy are still biting deep, as are other factors.

Mohau Mphomela, Executive Director of the Master Builders Association North, recently said in a statement that the hoped for rebound in the economy for 2022 had been severely set back by factors such as the unsettled geopolitical climate and disrupted markets.

Stats SA says that at the end of Q2 this year the construction sector was in the worst shape of all industries and that by September, the industry growth rate was -2.4%, with civil infrastructure projects increasingly delayed. The South African Institution of Civil Engineering 2022 Infrastructure Report Card lists the country as ‘D’ – at risk of failing. Compounding this, there is intimidation, extortion and violence on construction sites, with the added threat of the construction mafia.

However, there have also been cases where growth has been positive, retail has been buoyant and tourists are returning. The V&A Waterfront, one of SA’s prime international and domestic destinations, is reporting a comeback driven by increased retail and tourist spending within its precinct. They have also made considerable investments in ‘futureproofing’ its assets in line with climate change -driven events such as water security, energy security and an immediate and long-term commitment to carbon/energy climate strategies. Read more about their bold plans in the News section of this edition.

Likewise, other developers have reported growth and positive things in the development of multi-unit residential complexes, apartment housing, retail complexes, mixed use/residential precincts or ‘cities’ and sustainably-built warehousing.

Does the phrase, “it is always the darkest just before dawn” still apply? We hope so.

Happy holidays.

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6 Carlton Crescent, Parklands, 7441 | Tel: 021 424 3625 | Fax: 086 270 9693 Email: info@tobuild.co.za | Website: www.mediaxpose.co.za

PUBLISHER

Elroy van Heerden Mays elroy@mediaxpose.co.za

EDITOR (& Imaging)

Gareth Griffiths editor@tobuild.co.za

SUB-EDITOR Tessa O'Hara tessa.ohara@gmail.com

CONTENT MANAGER Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Adv Bryan Hack Digby Wesson Kim Williams Koketso Shabalala Orlando Luis Otto Botha Reinhart Schwendinger Stephanie Forbes Wesley Soule

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

Anja Bramley artwork1@mediaxpose.co.za Shaun van Heerden Mays artwork2@mediaxpose.co.za

MEDIA PARTNERSHIPS

Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Rene van Heerden rene@tobuild.co.za

ADVERTISING SALES

Jacqui Marsh jacqui@tobuild.co.za Lindie van den Abeele lindie@mediaxpose.co.za

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

Jay-Dee van Rensburg digital@mediaxpose.co.za

SOCIAL MEDIA CO-ORDINATORS: Kyla van Heerden social@mediaxpose.co.za Ketsia Makola Kiangebeni ketsia@mediaxpose.co.za

DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS

Shihaam Gyer distribution@mediaxpose.co.za Sherwin Kastoor sherwin@mediaxpose.co.za

WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR

Justin McGregor justin@mediaxpose.co.za

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Shaun van Heerden Mays shaun@mediaxpose.co.za

RECEPTIONIST

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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.

passes away Property icon

Ethical construction and property industry legend, Graham Power, passed away on 14 October 2022.

The founder of Power Construction, and a past president of the South African Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors (SAFCEC), Graham was passionate about the industry and the delivery of critical infrastructure projects within it, but most importantly about its people, says the respected Cape property association, the Western Cape Property Development Forum (WCPDF).

According to the forum, Graham Power had been instrumental in supporting the WCPDF’s call to Premier Alan Winde to establish the previously-named Western Cape Economic War Room, an initiative to address administrative and bureaucratic bottlenecks in the province. He understood

the complexities of property development and the need for the government to unblock the production line.

“Graham has always been a visionary and long-term thinker. The wellbeing of his staff and the community in which the business operates have always been a priority. To this end and through his initiative, the 100-year dream of improving lives in Africa through infrastructure development has been set and has taken shape over the years. In this context it is sad that Graham will not be here to join in the celebrations as we commemorate our 40th anniversary in April 2023,” reads a statement from the shareholders and

directors of Power Group Holdings (Pty) Ltd.

“Currently, Hilton Saven and Johan du Preez are directors of PGH and have been for the last number of years. Together with Graham they have been actively involved in the oversight of the businesses of Power Construction and Power Developments and will continue to do so.”

TO BUILD acknowledges and appreciates the vital role that Graham has played in the construction economy of South Africa, and also in raising the bar for high ethical standards for all business and civil society also.

Global expertise on water heating solutions launches

The Ariston Group, a global leader in sustainable solutions for thermal comfort, has introduced its iconic global brand Ariston in South Africa to replace local brand Heat Tech, which had been part of the group stable for the past eight years.

The Italian multinational group originally entered the South African market in 2014 by acquiring Heat Tech, a well-known and trusted local brand that has steadily grown ever since, says Cosimo Corsini, Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Vice President Middle East, Africa and Asia at Ariston Group.

“Ariston is a leader in the water heating business in over 40 countries in five continents. From here on, all the Group’s products and services in South Africa

will be marketed under the global brand Ariston,” he adds.

Wayne Vertue, Country Manager for Ariston Group in South Africa, explains that the main decision maker for the market is the professional installer – the company’s partner in driving growth – while also remaining conscious of end-users’ needs.

“South African plumbing professionals are constantly looking to serve their customers with easy-to-install and reliable products

made by a renowned and trusted brand, alongside a partner that is close to their economic, technical and after-sales needs,” he says.

As part of the brand repositioning, the company plans to launch the Axios geyser range, designed specifically for South Africa by a combination of global and local specialists and is engineered to bring comfort to the home. This range aims for increased ease of installation, high performance, safety and efficiency.

Good news from

the Mother City

Against the backdrop of increasing investment in sustainable buildings that support the circular economy, Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront is reporting much improved performance in all its property sectors.

The V&A Waterfront, one of the most visited destinations in Cape Town’s domestic and international tourism offering, says it expects a bumper season as local and international visitors are set to return in large numbers. Comparing 2022 to 2021, the precinct’s retail sales indicate a positive growth, predicted to be a match for and possibly surpassing, the figures for 2019. Year 2019 is regarded by many property asset owners as a baseline; a “last normal” before the Covid-19 pandemic hit.

At a media briefing, the V&A Waterfront’s CEO David Green said: “People all over

the world have been restricted for the best part of two years but borders have reopened, air travel is returning, and people are raring to travel. We have experienced a rapid recovery since January 2022, with international tourism increasing every month. We anticipate positive footfall across the V&A Waterfront and a significant increase in our sales as we’re already seeing double digit positive growth in previous months up to now.”

According to Green, “so far this year, retail sales figures have shown a very strong recovery”.

The hard-hit hotel sector is seeing bookings climb and all 15 hotels in the precinct are open, he says. This is significant, since prior to the pandemic, 75% of hotel revenue was driven by international key source markets.

“The return of local and international sporting events such as the recent Rugby World Cup Sevens and World Masters Hockey and the Ocean Race 2022/2023, which stops over in the Mother City in February 2023, as well as leading conference events, are the drivers for this notable recovery for the hotel sector,” he adds.

Gareth Griffiths

Black water treatment plant uses bio-treatment methods.

The commercial building portfolio

Some years back, the V&A Waterfront’s commercial portfolio surpassed its retail portfolio, altering the prior dominance of retail and tourism, hence continued economic recovery is also driving demand for additional office and commercial space which is being accommodated in existing buildings. In recent months, staff occupancy levels have returned to levels close to pre-pandemic as companies appear to opt for a hybrid office/work-from-home system, Green says.

Development, construction and sustainability

During the lockdown, V&A management took the opportunity to upgrade key infrastructure, including changing certain road systems and upgrading drop-and go and e-hailing facilities to improve the overall visitor experience. Key infrastructural developments are:

• construction on the multi-tenanted office building in the Canal District anchored by Investec Bank and scheduled for completion in early 2023;

• this will include the new Caltex/Astron Energy fuel service station, to reopen in November;

• a refresh of the Alfred Mall below the V&A Hotel, including a new welcome plaza to signpost Cape Town;

• the reimagining and redevelopment of the Union Castle Building;

• the international franchise Time Out Market, to open in Cape Town in 2023; and

• the iconic Cape Wheel (ferris wheel) relocated to its new setting overlooking Granger Bay, offering spectacular sea views.

Representing a real commitment to COP goals and to the circular economy, the V&A Waterfront has undertaken some first-in-class sustainability developments which have come on line already, or will do so in the near future.

It has also reduced its grid energy consumption by 47% and invested R40 million in energy-efficiency projects.

Currently, the precinct generates 2MW of renewable energy through solar power and

intends to double this in the next two years, supported by the reroofing of the Victoria Wharf, which is well underway.

The V&A has also invested in essential infrastructure to ensure the precinct is sufficiently immune to the immediate challenge of loadshedding.

“Having all our hotels, restaurants and retailers consistently trading normally throughout load shedding is a competitive advantage, and nothing less than what is expected from a premier destination,” Green adds.

According to Green, construction of a 3.3 megalitre desalination plant in the Pierhead District has commenced and will

Recent news

be completed by the end of 2023 financial year. This will be sufficient to meet the V&A’s daily water requirement and take its water consumption completely off-grid.

“To offset the energy required to operate the plant, we are exploring pyrolysis (biomass power) in line with our goal of using zeroenergy from the grid,” Green adds.

Significantly, the developer also launched a black water treatment plant which will convert 10% to 15% of the precinct’s sewerage water for re-use in irrigation and toilet flushing. Currently the plant is processing 6.5 kl/day, to be expanded to a target of 9 kl/day. This is a milestone in the adoption of this oft-spoken-about technology as the new normal.

The Ridge, in the V&A's Portswood District was the highest rated building as announced at the 2022 Convention of the Green Building Association of SA in November.

Winner: 2022 GBCSA Annual Leadership Awards

Property Owner: V&A Waterfront

The Ridge, 6-Star Green Star Office As Built v1.1

Accredited Professional: Mike Munnik (Arup)

STOP PRESS.

The Ridge, V&A Waterfront was awarded Gold and Bronze in the international WAN Awards 16 November 2022.

Categories:

• Best overall sustainable architecture project globally: GOLD, Architect: Studio MAS.

• Commercial office & studios: Bronze, Architect: Studio MAS.

The Ridge

Sevruga extension

Green Building 15 years of

The Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. It is one of about 70 members of the World Green Building Council (WGBC) and part of a vibrant network.

The 15th birthday was celebrated in October with appropriate fanfare in Gauteng and Cape Town. TO BUILD’s editor had the privilege of being invited to participate in the Cape Town event, consisting of tours within the metropole of recently rated and exceptional Green Star-rated properties, beginning and ending at the V&A Waterfront, where we were hosted.

The CEO of GBCSA, Lisa Reynolds, explained that over the 15 years the organisation had achieved 905 certifications in Africa, across the Green Star, Net Zero, EWP and EDGE certifications.

"In the last year alone 165 buildings were certified which reflects the exponential growth in the adoption of more sustainable building practices.

"The impact of our 905 certifications can be illustrated through the energy and water

savings and carbon reductions achieved as a result of the measures required to achieve the certification. Ninety-one thousand five hundred households worth of annual energy (1 320 million kWh/annum), and 1 220 million litres of potable drinking water will be saved annually, which equates to 1 672 800 people’s daily drinking water needs every year. The 1 590 million kgCO2/annum that will be saved equates to 395 400 cars off the roads every year in terms of kgCO2 equivalent,” she said.

Shortly following the 15-year celebrations came the annual Green Building Convention, held in Century City.

“Our theme for the 15th Green Building Convention – The REGeneration – is aimed at ‘shifting years’ and focused on the regeneration we need in the built environment in this decade of accelerated climate action,” said Reynolds to delegates.

“It is about building a re-generation of people that move beyond sustainability to building regeneratively towards transforming the built environment for people and the planet to thrive. In this time … the adoption of environmentally responsible practice in the property sector has become mainstream, and the vision of being a driving force in the mitigation of climate change has become a reality. To date, we’ve accredited 2 265 professionals via our training and accreditation programmes with 325 students going through the candidate programme,” she added.

TO BUILD will cover some of the content of that Convention in our March 2023 edition.

Celebrating 15 years of the GBCSA, a group consisting of built environment professionals, developers and other members, plus key role players in the founding and management of the GBCSA in the earlier years.

Lisa Reynolds

The company that can! Fourways Group:

From a tiny air-conditioning outlet to industry powerhouse with a global footprint in 17 countries, Fourways Group has made a name for itself as a South African HVAC leader over the past 23 years and is showing no sign of slowing down.

Fourways Group

The 34-storey landmark Foreshore Place in the Cape Town CBD.

When Richard Perry founded Fourways Airconditioning in 1999, the HVAC market was not an easy one to penetrate. It was the turn of the millennium and the world was plagued by Y2K panic. It was feared that the so-called Y2K bug would cause global panic by affecting electrical power and technology, stirring up problems with digital and computerised temperature control systems.

Determined to succeed despite this very real concern, Fourways Airconditioning pushed forward and established a good base in the market, proving that with hard work and self-belief the business could get a toe-hold in the industry and flourish.

Today, Fourways Airconditioning, now trading as Fourways Group, has grown into the largest distributor of Samsung and Alliance air-conditioning products in Southern Africa that services a network of more than 2000 installers, contractors, architects, B2B consultants and consulting engineers. The company has nine offices with warehousing facilities in every major South African province and employs over 200 people. Through this wide logistics network, Fourways Group delivers products and solutions needed by customers where and when they need them.

As Africa’s fast-growing mega-cities began to boom and the necessity for air conditioning became apparent, the Fourways Export division was born. This thriving division caters to all SADC regions, as well as some major African countries that include Namibia, Botswana,

Bringing vision into being

For Richard Perry, the vision for Fourways Group was always to be and remain the number one supplier of air-conditioning units, spares and service in South Africa. That vision has since evolved in tandem with the company. Fourways Group now operates in new markets and boasts a wider catalogue of products and services beyond air conditioning. It provides turnkey solutions in water heating, pool heating, large and small appliances, and electronics, with fast turnaround times for projects of all scopes and sizes.

The Fourways Group product range includes air conditioners, water heat pumps, swimming pool heat pumps, air care products, household appliances and electronics for residential and commercial use. Notable brands distributed include Samsung, Alliance, Philips, Toshiba, Midea retail products, AirQuality MESP filters and Hisense – with several brand products built with innovative technologies; such as Samsung Windfree technology, Alliance

Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia, as well as the Indian Ocean islands. This crossborder service has proven invaluable to building infrastructure in these countries and delivers essential temperature-control solutions that combat their extreme heat climates.

inverter technology that reduces monthly temperature-control electricity consumption by up to 70%, and Alliance water heaters that save two-thirds of daily water-heating costs.

“The big thing that has changed over the years is that technology is getting smarter. This is evident from all the innovations brands are incorporating into the goods they manufacture and control that businesses are rolling out for energy management,” says Richard Perry, Managing Director of Fourways Group.

“At Fourways, we are driven by the modern needs of our customers, by opportunities to build relationships, and to achieve success by helping others grow and succeed. Over the years we have built a large customer base that includes several leading retail chains, banks, hotel groups and other commercial enterprises, as well as universities and government departments,” he continues.

The ultramodern eco-friendly Soweto healthcare hub.

‘Service Is What We Sell’

As Fourways Group clients have come to know, the company prides itself on fast, on-the-spot supply in addition to long-term parts and service backup. These values are built on a deep understanding of how clients operate in different industries.

“We are constantly building on what we do best,” says Perry.

Evidence of this is reflected in the training, technical support, marketing support and dedicated engineering team that assists our clients with the design of complex VRF and commercial systems. Fourways Group also has a one-stop-shop that provides a wide range of ancillary equipment to installers, ranging from copper piping, insulation, brackets and trunking to wire, electrical conduit and complete installation kits.

Fourways Group has a team of expert specialists who are fully integrated into its clients’ businesses. The company’s hands-on approach enables it to provide immediate answers to pressing issues, as well as provide the flexibility and scalability needed to support clients’ changing business requirements. Its impressive project archives consist of the iconic Umhlanga Arch, Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, King Edward VII School, Hazendal Wine Estate and the 34-storey landmark Foreshore Place in the Cape Town CBD, among others.

Taking Customer Satisfaction Further

In 2022 it seems self-evident that businesses should be pushing the envelope in their customer satisfaction experiences; to do otherwise would be to ignore a fundamental law of our world – that people will keep coming back for more. Yet it’s easier to think of times when brands have failed to satisfy, rather than when we have been satisfied. This is where Fourways Group distinguishes itself in industry. It has built an entire ecosystem around service excellence and customer satisfaction.

Its Dealer Portal provides dealers with a private business management tool designed to make operations easier. Features include product-specific CRM, inventory tracking, order management, accounting, invoicing and reporting to name a few. This is making a world of difference to how clients are running their businesses.

Along with Fourways Online, an e-commerce platform that connects installers with consumers, more secure systems for deliveries and collections involving OTP facilities, as well as the newlylaunched Fourways Fourbucks Rewards programme that offers purchase incentives, Fourways Group is raising its bar and the industry’s for customer satisfaction.

Hazendal Wine Estate vintage car showroom.

King Edward VII School in Upper Houghton, Johannesburg.

Fourways cares

Giving back has also been a part of the Fourways Group story. The company plays an active role in the upliftment of disadvantaged communities, the development of its staff and caring for the environment. Fourways Group has served as an associate sponsor of the Hollywoodbets Dolphins since 2018 and has supported the cricket franchise’s feeding scheme, as well as the Imbumba Foundation’s Caring4Girls menstrual hygiene support programme that has empowered over 1.2 million adolescent girls from low-income and low-resource communities.

At the heart of the Fourways Cares philosophy is uplifting its people, achieved by providing development opportunities to staff that their full potential to be reached and career aspirations to be fulfilled. An initiative that stands out is the company’s Owner Drivers Initiative.

It has enabled two long standing staff members, Mike Mudau and Leondard Modise, to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams and start their own specialist delivery businesses, Vhadau Movers (Pty) Ltd and By Grace Deliveries. Each business

specialises in the transportation and delivery of goods, with Fourways Group as their first official client.

The Fourways Group Owner Drivers Initiative provided each new business owner with their first delivery vans, registered their companies and provided them with assistance on how to run a smooth operating business, manage costs and income, and other key skills that contribute to a profitable business, proving Fourways Group to be a business that doesn’t just talk staff empowerment but walks it too.

“Through Fourways Cares, we endeavour to leave a lasting positive impact on our people and the communities in which we operate,” Perry says.

The Fourways Group has come a long way from its tiny air-conditioning outlet. As it remains one of the most popular HVAC businesses in South Africa, one can be sure that in the years to come we will be witnessing more developments and additions to the Fourways Group repertoire, proving it isn’t just an air-conditioning company anymore.

The vision for Fourways Group was always to be and remain the number one supplier of air-conditioning units, spares and service.

FOURWAYS GROUP www.fourwaysgroup.co.za

Reflex Solutions in Dunkeld Gardens, Johannesburg.

Boardwalk Mall precinct brings

a new experience to visitors

Following its grand opening on 22 September 2022, the Boardwalk Mall precinct takes pride of place as a prominent landmark just a few metres from the Blue Flag-awarded Hobie Beach in Gqeberha, formerly Port Elizabeth.

Designed by MDS Architecture, the first phase of Boardwalk Mall opened in March 2022 with a variety of entertainment options and several tenants, who traded while the second phase was being completed.

Pierre Lahaye, MDS Architecture partner, says that Boardwalk Mall is an important part of the overall vision for the precinct, linking with the Sun International Boardwalk Casino and the Boardwalk Hotel.

The owners of the Boardwalk precinct are Sun International and Flanagan &

Gerard; experienced leisure operators combined with developers with a proven track record in retail development and management.

Significant infrastructure and road upgrades formed part of the development and the Boardwalk has been a catalyst for upgrades elsewhere in the Summerstrand area. A residential development, for instance, is under construction. Its architecture is complementary to the Boardwalk precinct and it has pedestrianised access to the area.

Barry Goldman

Sunpark Events Arena

One of the unique attractions of the development is the multi-functional Sunpark arena at the heart of the precinct. The 2 500m2 open arena includes a large screen, a landscaped children’s play area and access for the transportation of equipment for large events.

Activities spill off the edges of the Sunpark, with a number of restaurants overlooking the beach and enjoying access to the open arena.

The Sunpark provides a wow-factor for visitors, one that MDS Architecture celebrates by ensuring the broader precinct and Sunpark are visible from inside the shopping centre. Large windows supplement natural light from clerestory windows, but they also offer views of what’s on offer in the broader Boardwalk precinct.

There are several events on the cards for Sunpark in 2023, including serving as a fan park for the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the Sunpark complements diverse events and conferences hosted by Sun International in the ICC throughout the year.

Contemporary interpretation “Our design is cognizant of integrating into the existing architecture and creating a streetscape that has developed over time. There are several pedestrian access points to the building and to the rest of the

new offerings which serve to integrate the precinct into the urban landscape. It is quite something to be able to step out onto the beautiful beachfront promenade directly from the shopping centre,” says Lahaye.

The contemporary interpretation was achieved with elements like the shape of the roofs and an aesthetic of a refurbished dockside building. The mall is curved, evoking waves and encouraging further exploration beyond what is immediately visible to the eye.

The parking area was redeveloped and now offers over 1 000 parking bays, as well as a dedicated taxi drop-off and pick-up zone.

Industrial chic elements include exposed structural details and tactile materials in the interior. Sculptural elements were introduced to celebrate the ocean, including boat-shaped origami elements which were used as light fittings. The promotional court features a ceiling pattern reminiscent of a giant compass. The bathrooms, which Lahaye says are an important aspect of retail design, are tactile, featuring timber finishes for a contemporary nautical feel.

All these elements combine with metal work, fabric and illumination to both welcome and entice visitors to explore Boardwalk Mall.

Supporting local talent and respecting the environment

The work of local artists is featured at Boardwalk Mall in the public passages and offices, including street art murals with distinctly recognisable elements typical of the region.

Says Lahaye, “The inclusion of local artists is a great way to ensure that the building has context and to build its reputation as a place by the people of Gqeberha for the people of Gqeberha.”

In addition, good environmental principles have been deployed to continuously build up to carbon-neutral developments. Landscaping from the original scheme has been reclaimed, with trees being replanted which had been growing for over a year before the grand opening.

Professional Team

Client: Flanagan and Gerard Sun International

Architect: MDS Architecture

Quantity Surveyor: Aeqium Quantity Surveyors

A new node for flexible gathering

Flexibility is an important design consideration, one which Lahaye says has become more pronounced since the pandemic.

“Designed spaces need to be adaptable so that if plans or circumstances change, the design allows for multiple uses and some agility,” Lahaye says.

The Boardwalk Mall precinct is serving as somewhat of a new town centre for the area. With a direct link to the Nelson Mandela university campus, Summerstrand’s student population has easy pedestrian access to entertainment and shopping.

Boardwalk Mall looks set to continue having a positive impact on local education and art, as well as creating safe and welcoming connections for everyone who lives, works, plays and learns in its immediate surroundings.

Designed spaces need to be adaptable so that if plans or circumstances change, the design allows for multiple uses and some agility,

Structural & Civil Engineer: L&S Consulting Engineers

Electrical Engineer: RWP Consulting Engineers

Mechanical Engineers: GPCE Consulting Engineers

Fire Consultant: SFT Consulting Engineers

Wet Services Consultant: WFP Consulting Engineers

Main Contractor: WBHO

Over the years we have been the trusted roofing partner on many prestigious projects. Scheltema offers a guaranteed installation. This provides peace of mind as our clients receive a workmanship guarantee as well as an installation guarantee backed up by the roll former.

On the Boardwalk Mall project, the product used was well suited for high wind areas as well as corrosive environments. It is imperative on any project that the correct roof sheeting profile and material is selected based on the project location.

Scheltema is now a Level 3 asbestos contractor and can remove all types of asbestos material. The Asbestos Abatement Regulations aim to eliminate the risk to health of asbestos in place with the intention of the complete removal of asbestos roofs within the near future. This means that certain activities are prohibited on asbestos roofs, such as drilling, replacing screws, solar panel installation or “over roofing”. With solar panels or “over-roofing” sheets installed on asbestos roof sheets, inspection of the condition as required by the regulations will be physically restricted, if not totally prevented.

Should you require any assistance with an asbestos roof replacement or have a new roofing project Scheltema will gladly guide any client through this process.

Scheltema & Company, a leading roofing contractor for the past 80 years, is proud to be the contractor of choice on the Boardwalk Mall project.

Regenerative design

at the Helderberg Centre

The Helderberg Environmental Centre is a success story of how alternative construction

and sustainable design thinking can be achieved.

methods

The setting of the reserve on the slopes of the Helderberg, overlooking False Bay, makes it an ideal location to teach communities in and around Somerset West about the Western Cape’s plant and animal kingdom and our impact on it.

Cape Town City' s Executive Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis addressed a launch event in June to showcase the City's investment in this state-of-the-art new green sustainable centre in the Helderberg.

According to Hill-Lewis: “‘The new Helderberg Environmental Centre is truly a magnificent building and provides the perfect setting for the various environmental education programmes the City’s nature reserves offer schools and interest groups.

“This centre provides us with a practical example of what a green City facility can look like. The project has proved just how beneficial implementing green construction practices can be, especially if one considers

the amount of semi-skilled EPWP job opportunities that were created to assist with the material selection and specific green construction techniques”.

Project architect Jacqueline Stow of EBESA Architects, says that the purpose of the new centre is to accommodate the current staff capacity while also providing additional complementary services, including a multipurpose space and twotier roof garden overlooking the existing stage area to the north.

Project team

Client: City of Cape Town

Architect: EBESA Architects

Quantity Surveyor: Narker & Associates

Civil, Structural, Electrical & Mechanical

Engineers: NWE Consulting Engineers

Health & Safety Consultant: Frontline Sheq

Environmental Consultant: Sollito

Landscape Architect: Viridian Consulting

Project Manager: Goal Zero Projects

Main Contractor: The Construction Co.

Credit: City of Cape Town

City of Cape Town, EBESA and Johan Lourens

“In essence, the project brief specified regenerative design methods and required the use of recycled material, including reinforced tyre and rammed-earth technology, as load bearing walls within the building envelope and also the use of eco-brick as internal decorative dividing walls. There is a strong emphasis on passive design interventions to achieve thermal performance during seasonal periods.

“In order to achieve these sustainable goals, we combined conventional and unconventional proven green technology solutions to reduce the carbon emission of the building and encourage a renewable resource thinking approach to the project,” she adds.

The overall project budget was R20.8million and ultimately, practical completion was reached on 1 Dec 2021.

The three wall types at the Centre showcase the principle of carbon burying, according to the City’s planners. The materials that would otherwise become a burden in a landfill were reused and repurposed and given a new life.

This new facility now serves as a carbon sink by sequestering waste. The idea of repurposing and upcycling materials allows this centre to speak to sustainability. In addition, approximately 176 cubic metres of earth and recycled building rubble were used for the rammed earth walls and foundations as well.

Water treatment system

The integrated water treatment system serves the new facility and solves the burden of the waste water generated by the existing facilities. Waste water from the new facility; the nearby restaurant; ablutions; the visitor's centre and rain water are captured and sent to the underground black water treatment system.

The black water treatment system takes waste water and passes it through a four chamber process before being stored in storage tanks for the flushing of toilets in the new facility and existing ablution blocks. This ensures minimum water usage and zero water wastage. The treatment system makes use of bacteria and microorganisms to break down solids and treat the wastewater, a process that mimics nature without releasing harmful nitrates into the atmosphere.

The building has a very unconventional look. Please explain how the various elements of regenerative design fit together to make this building deliver comfort inside, low embodied EC/ EE and also low operational energy usage.

The building is nestled within the existing embankment for two main reasons as a practical solution to the position of the building in relation to the existing buildings found on site. It also embraced the green building principals of using the earth's natural cooling properties once the building was completed. This reduces the need for heating and cooling within the building lowering its energy consumption.

Please explain the role of the rooftop garden. How are the plants irrigated?

The rooftop garden was designed for a few reasons; thermal comfort of the

internal space, access to the roof space for educational purposes and to integrate the building with its natural surroundings. Drip irrigation is used.

We note that an active HVAC system was installed in addition to the passive design methods employed. Can you tell us more about its purpose and design?

The HVAC system was installed and designed for extreme temperature conditions experienced in the Helderberg area, and specifically for the large open space accommodating large school groups. We allowed for cassette units in the offices and boardrooms too. Having said that, we did not target a specific indoor temperature during the design phase.

The tyre wall against the earth embankment as well as the rammed earth wall to the external open facade of

Helderberg nature reserve environmental centre - exterior

TO BUILD spoke to Jacqueline Stow of EBESA Architects to find out more…

the building maintain very good ambient internal climate control. There was no need to dehumidify the internal spaces.

Has there been any operational feedback about the centre through winter?

The building performed very well during winter and the public are very impressed with the building. All that visit it loves the uniqueness of it.

Are there any professionals or suppliers on the project that you would like to acknowledge and what were their contributions?

I would like to acknowledge the City of Cape Town for daring to spearhead buildings like this for the public realm.

About the climate control approaches

Stow says that a passive design intervention is a “second tier overlay component to the project” realised through the introduction of active and passive solar energy storage and heating systems.

“Through these passive design considerations, we were able to use the thermal performance material to control the ambient temperature internally, the recycling of greywater and rainwater harvesting to minimise the end-user energy consumption, fresh water usage and also processing of solid waste generated,” she comments.

A Daikin VRV heat recovery system was specified and installed to air-condition the

office spaces providing simultaneous heating and cooling to the areas where required, to provide the following features:

• VRV heat recovery system with VRT (Variable Refrigerant Temperature control function) allows automatic adjustment of the refrigerant temperature according to the internal building requirements and outdoor weather conditions. This is the most energy efficient solution for the Heldeberg project.

• VAM – Heat Recovery ventilation was chosen as an energy saving solution to provide heating, cooling and moisture recovery to the fresh air supply to the building. This also allows free cooling operation when the indoor temperature is below the set point inside the building.

Design features

According to the City, the design of this holistic and sustainable facility considered a number of components such as:

• Waste

• Functionality

• Ecology

• Thermal impact

• Ground, waste and stormwater impact

• Light pollution

• Reducing carbon emissions

To demonstrate alternative construction methods, the design showcased three approaches where waste was used in the wall construction. The concept for the enclosure is based on two curved walls, one fitting into the other.

Helderberg nature reserve environmental centre

Helderberg nature reserve environmental centre

FOR GOOD Q FOREVER

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Conradie Park, Cape Town.Photo courtesy of Concor.

Create a clean space, with the

Geberit Acanto bathroom series Geberit Acanto bathroom series

Our ‘Design Meets Function’ philosophy is once again embodied in our Acanto bathroom series. Elegantly designed with the known and uncompromising Geberit quality, the Acanto series offers innovative and convenient solutions to saving space in your bathroom. With storage space designed for optimal reach, the Acanto series is designed with diversity, along with special and unusual combination possibilities in mind.

Our ‘Design Meets Function’ philosophy is once again embodied in our Acanto bathroom series. Elegantly designed with the known and uncompromising Geberit quality, the Acanto series offers innovative and convenient solutions to saving space in your bathroom. With storage space designed for optimal reach, the Acanto series is designed with diversity, along with special and unusual combination possibilities in mind.

The complete bathroom series, Geberit Acanto combines a clear design with organic shapes and smart detailed solutions that meet the most diverse requirements and design wishes. The individuality of your lifestyle is matched by Acanto’s diversely modular nature.

Organise your space, with Geberit

Our magnetic storage is wall hung, to help you clear away the clutter. But who has enough space in home, never mind in their bathroom?

For the vast majority of people, the bathroom is not a spacious room. When it comes to designing a new bathroom, people often have high ambitions, and so they should! But the reality often looks somewhat different. Most people require space-saving solutions that are both functional and look good, particularly in the guest WC. That’s why we are developing products that maximise the available space, creating more room for storage.

The organising box can be used to make the washbasin cabinet even more versatile, more neatly arranged and optimised thanks to the modular nature of the storage space in the washbasin cabinet.

The super-sleek Acanto bathroom furniture offers lots of storage space, even in small bathrooms, making it ideal for small floor plans. With the magnet board, you can position storage boxes exactly where you need your cosmetics – and you can change the positions in next to no time.

Benefits of the Acanto bathroom series

• 4.5 litre flush – water-saving toilet flush

• Floor clearance – wall-hung toilets ensure easy floor cleaning

• Moisture-resistant material – bathroom furniture with moisture-resistant, highcompressed three-layer chipboard

• Push-to-open mechanism – handle-free drawers can be opened by pressing lightly on the front

• Quick release WC seat – easily removable WC seats for more convenient cleaning

• Drawers with soft closing – drawers that finish closing silently and by themselves

• Soft-closing – a practical, quiet soft-closing mechanism for the WC seat

• Rimless toilets – rimless toilets ensure easy cleaning and greater hygiene

• Hidden floor fixing – floor-standing WC ceramic appliances are available in a closed version

• Hidden wall fixing – wall-hung WC ceramic appliances are available in a closed version

• Hidden overflow – washbasins without an overflow hole can be combined with the Clou drain and overflow system

Clever functions and products that create space – for those who don’t want to compromise on functionality or storage space.

Sharné Bloem -

regenerative design professional

Sharné Bloem, currently the sustainability consultant at Afrimat Hemp and founder of Team Mahali, is a qualified architect whose formal educational journey has taken her far and wide. Her most recent educational qualification is as a master’s graduate from the Urban Future Studio, Utrecht University, The Netherlands, and the Centre for Sustainability Transitions, Stellenbosch University, South Africa, focusing on green architecture, energy efficiency and experimentation.

Sharné has worked for some dynamic international architectural practices on various exciting international projects, including SOM, Rolfe Judd, PRP and C7 architects. “It was only recently that my journey within resilient architecture became more prominent. I initiated and championed Team Mahali in 2017 for the 2019 Solar Decathlon Africa competition in Morocco. Our design was awarded second place in architecture and a netpositive carbon house design,” she adds.

Team Mahali refers to a multidisciplinary group of professionals passionate about shaping sustainable and inclusive African cities.

“Mahali One project was built in the Green Energy Park, an Urban Living Lab in Benguerir, Morocco. Born from the biomimicry idea of a tree, the overarching roof structure protects the main structure. It creates a passive cooling element of shading, the flexible solar PV panels over, generate energy, whilst rainwater is harvested into a central water feature to connect place and function of the courtyard typology. The bioclimatic architecture elements catch the desert breeze whilst hiding the open spaces from the direct rays of the hot desert sun by managing the retractable external screens and window boxes.

“A playful, colourful, crocheted plastic panel cladding covered the main structures, tying into the circularity of upcycled materials,” she explains.

Sharné Bloem Gareth Griffiths

“On our return from Morocco, this dynamic transdisciplinary team wanted to change the world, and we took part in more competitions and formed a design collective working on various projects,” she adds.

Indeed, the Mahali Hub won the My Clean Green House (MCGH) in 2020, a competition hosted by the City of Cape Town and Green Building Council of SA to bring more awareness to carbon neutrality.

The MCGH hub 2020 was built on a limited budget and tight timelines, and the celebration of simple upcycled materials and aesthetics resulted in a functional and comfortable indoor-outdoor space.

Central is a courtyard with edible vertical gardens. The slatted envelope also acted as a vessel designed to react against the demanding winds and heat conditions in Cape Town.

“The materials used enforced a circular attitude to design and all upcycled materials were connected to the shipping industry in Cape Town, our harbour city”, she explains.

Other projects they have done covered modular design in residential and educational spaces. One of her favourite award-winning social justice projects is an ongoing collaboration with stakeholders and funders to design and install off-grid Smart Labs made from upcycled building materials to mitigate tech poverty in rural schools in South Africa.

However, a recent project has caught the public's attention. Covered in the September edition of TO BUILD, the renovated and expanded commercial and residential building at 84 Harrington Street, Cape Town, has ticked the right sustainability boxes. Feted as the tallest hemp building in the world, 84 Harrington seems to be on an upward trajectory in terms of public awareness and recognition.

“In the flow of carbon neutrality and net-positive ambition, my intrigue with hempcrete started around 2017. I was fascinated by how a building material can not just be carbon neutral but has the

capacity to be carbon negative, and I knew this was something I wanted to explore more.

“At the beginning of 2021, I joined forces with Wolf + Wolf Architects and Afrimat Hemp to understand this phenomenal building material much better by focusing on developing a hempcrete block building system. This also allowed me to experiment and learn hands-on by being part of some pioneering projects such as 84 Harrington street, Cape Town, the highest building in the world where this emerging natural material was used,” Sharné adds.

About the regenerative architecture game

“We are all still learning and experimenting with regenerative architectural principles. The best way to get involved with this exciting process is to be curious, ask questions, and be open to experimentation; if formal learning is the way you want to go, the world is your oyster. Be selective. More and more educational institutions are embracing the complexities of reaching regenerative design. Hand-pick them,” Sharné says.

Intrigued by visions of mud walls, straw containing binder, and recycled bottles sticking out of walls, we asked Sharné if regenerative architecture be made to look “more conventional”?

“Regenerative architecture is not just confined to a handful of progressive folk building a house from recycled plastic bottles. Buildings can be living and consciously designed to improve our lives. I think all the projects mentioned here exemplify how great they can be,“ she comments.

Progress on design and construction using hemp materials can be followed on social media Instagram @teammahali, @wolfandwolfarchitects, and @afrimathemp

What is regenerative architecture?

Where sustainable architecture is “doing better than business as usual”. Some might say that regenerative architecture is the pathway beyond sustainability.

Regenerative architecture is the practice of engaging the natural world as the medium for and generator of architecture. It responds to and utilizes the living and natural systems on a site that become the “building blocks” of the architecture. Regenerative architecture has two focuses; it is an architecture that focuses on conservation and performance through a focused reduction of the environmental impacts of a building.

For Sharné, regenerative architecture and design follows some simple principles.

• Be open to the natural world guiding your design process and aspire to realise net positive benefits in material use and move towards long-term circularity.

• If you make decisions around building materials, let it be guided by what is locally available, something you can upcycle and reuse, or a material that could be net positive such as hempcrete.

• Above all, let your designs improve the air we breathe.

Cement your road ahead

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adjudicator wisely Choose your contract

Adjudication is a regular clause in construction agreements or contracts. This is an aspect of construction contracts that is often neglected and when the clause is invoked, the parties involved in a dispute find themselves in the hands of the wrong adjudicator.

Advocate Bryan Hack

What is adjudication?

Industry body, the ICE-SA, a joint division of the Institution of Civil Engineers and the South African Institution of Civil Engineering defines adjuducation in the context of the South African construction industry as follows:

Adjudication may be defined as an accelerated and cost effective form of dispute resolution that, unlike other means of resolving disputes involving a third party intermediary, the outcome is a

decision by a third party which is binding on the parties in dispute and is final unless and until reviewed by either arbitration of litigation.

Adjudication is not arbitration or litigation. Arbitration is a method of resolving disputes between two or more parties by reference to one or more persons appointed for that purpose, typically in accordance with procedures laid down in the Arbitration Act 42 of 1965. Litigation

is the system by which the advocates representing each side adduce arguments in a Court of law to persuade the tribunal (judge, jury or assessors) that they have the better legal case.

All the standard forms of contract supported by the Construction Industry Development Board contain adjudication procedures. For reference purposes, see CIDB Best Practice Guideline #C3 Adjudication.

The title of this article could also read “chose a wise adjudicator” because a party to a construction agreement will more likely than not be obliged to follow the adjudicator’s decision regardless of how unhappy or aggrieved the party might be.

The Gauteng Division of the High Court1 has recently had cause to consider whether an adjudicator’s decision can be reviewed and found it could not and gave the following reasons at paragraph [44]2 of the judgment:

“I further take notice of the fact that the very nature of the adjudication process carries with it a risk of unfairness, either in the way the adjudication is conducted, or in the result, or both. The need to speedily resolve the dispute and the parties’ entitlement to an answer, increases the risk compared to a hearing, arbitration proceedings, and/or court proceedings. I further take into account that the adjudicator is entitled to take the initiative in ascertaining the facts and the law necessary to determine the dispute. Having regard to the fact that adjudicators are experts in their own field and probably not qualified lawyers increases the risk that they may adopt a procedure that is or might be seen to be unfair. I also accept that our courts are of the opinion that as long as the adjudicator acted generally in accordance with the usual rules of natural justice and without bias and within his terms of reference, his decision is likely to be enforced. “

Adjudication is a regular feature of construction agreements. The Joint Building Contracts Committee Principal Building Agreement is such an example and was the contract used by the parties in the above quoted case.

The purpose of adjudication is to resolve an interim dispute in the course of the execution of the building works. The purpose is to allow a speedy and relatively inexpensive procedure to ensure that the work can continue and not be delayed because of the dispute.

However, if recourse is handed to an arbitrator at such an interim stage, the

works are likely to come to a halt for many months to allow the formal procedures and the hearing in arbitration to take place. As the court said in the quoted paragraph a dispute in the course of the work requires a quick decision which may ultimately be shown not to have been the correct decision, but that risk is outweighed by the advantage of not having the work delayed.

The court expressed this at paragraph [24] as follows :

“The adjudication rules describe adjudication as an accelerated form of dispute resolution in which a neutral third party determines the dispute as an expert and not as an arbitrator, and whose determination is binding unless and until varied or overturned by an arbitration award.”

Advice to contracting parties

The advice I would give is that when entering into a contract, which provides for adjudication, as much care and consideration should go into the choice of adjudicator as is done with price and scope work.

Too often, in my experience, the decision of who to appoint as adjudicator is left to the draftsperson of the contract, without the parties each being certain that they have adequate knowledge of the person nominated and have that they are satisfied that the person has the necessary independence, experience and ability to make a fair and correct decision.

The parties will both be equally bound by that decision and the court is not likely to review any decision taken unless it is satisfied of the existence of very narrow criteria. Primarily, that the adjudicator went outside and beyond the terms of reference, i.e. the exact dispute which the parties had referred for a decision.

Even if the decision is incorrect, either on the facts or the law, a court will not interfere if it is a decision made by the adjudicator.

References

Questions? Drop Adv. Bryan Hack an email on hack@capebar.co.za

1 In FRAMATOME v ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LTD 2021 (2) SA 494 (GJ) which cited with approval the unreported judgment of EKURHULENI WEST COLLEGE v SEGAL which can be found at [2018] ZAGPPHC 662, 29 August 2018; or online at http://www.saflii.org/za/cases/ZAGPPHC/2018/662.html

2 The EKURHULENI WEST COLLEGE v SEGAL judgment

a promise and a possibility? Construction:

SHA Risk Specialists

Koketso Shabalala

The latest Afrimat Construction Index (ACI) revealed that South Africa’s construction sector added to the economy by 4.1% in real terms during Q2 2022, an impressive boost when compared with the marginal 2.4% increase in Q1 2022.

This growth will be further supported by the economic recovery and rebuilding plan announced by President Ramaphosa, which will go a long way in aiding the recovery of the sector and the creation of employment opportunities, writes .

Koketso Shabalala, Underwriting Head of Construction and Single Projects at SHA Risk Specialists, warns that despite the massive positive impact that the plan will have on the sector, it will not come without risks and its own set of challenges.

A key focus of the recovery and restructure plan is around a massive infrastructure rollout through a robust pipeline of infrastructure projects, which is of course positive news for the construction industry. We have already witnessed a surge in optimism from construction companies based on this positive sentiment.

With this growth, comes increased pressure and the expediting of projects. Additionally, the shortening of timelines to deliver projects in a more time-effective manner, which may have an impact on the quality of work delivered and an increase in human error.

The construction and engineering sector has also observed a shrinking workforce and the loss of skilled labour, which may put additional pressure on the existing

workforce when it comes to delivering these pipeline projects timeously and at a high-quality. This means that there will be a greater need for contractors to share work and sub-contract some of their functions on their projects, which will provide smaller to medium contractors with the opportunity to grow and more importantly create employment opportunities within the sector.

Our company has taken note that in the past with some subcontracted work, there is a chance that some of the controls that are present at main contractor level may not necessarily be present at subcontractor level. We may see an increase of defective workmanship claims, injury or damage to third party property during the execution of these expedited projects. With that being said we encourage clients to obtain and maintain the adequate cover not only to satisfy contract requirements but to adequately protect their liability exposures, while implementing the adequate risk management standards that would mitigate any such exposures.

We endeavor to support our clients as best as possible, as we understand that they are in a rebuilding phase. In conclusion, spirits are high in the construction sector, as this sector will be at the center of the rebuilding of the country’s infrastructure and ultimately, the economy too.

Koketso Shabalala

True beauty doesn’t fade with time.

Hydro aluminium garage doors are lightweight, corrosion-resistant and extremely durable, which makes them perfect for coastal areas. They’re also easy to clean and maintain. Available as single or double doors in four attractive colours, Hydro aluminium doors will enhance the kerb appeal of any home. For more info, visit hydrodoors.co.za or call 086 110 2425.

Throw open your doors and embrace

the outdoor living trend

As temperatures rise, so too does our desire to be outside. Warmer weather, pretty flowers and even prettier sunsets coupled with the smell of backyard braais is enough to tempt even the most reclusive outside.

Kim Williams Kim Williams

Barefoot, and carefree, sipping drinks with friends or enjoying garden games with the family, this is what outdoor living is all about and it is so on trend right now. Whether you have a sprawling green garden, a sizable patio to play with, or just a tiny balcony, your outdoor space is a valuable part of your home that should be maximised to its full potential.

Yet, it involves much more than just dotting some cute plant pots around a few deck chairs on the veranda. Only a well thought out design can create a relaxed and inviting outside area that is just as comfortable and stylish as the interiors of your living room. A top Cape Town interior designer and behaviour strategist, Kim Williams (My Yellow Room) shares some clever ways to help you open your outdoor area this summer.

Start with the basics

Before even heading to the nursery or garden centre, sit down and carefully think about how you are going to use your outdoor space and who is going to use it. Are you wanting to do a lot of hosting, for example, and if so, how many people would you be looking to comfortably seat and entertain in your outdoor area?

If you have children or pets, then their preferences need to be taken into consideration too and may mean sectioning off part of the outdoor space for a play area. Don’t be afraid of this; zoning is central to getting the most out of your outdoor space so be open to the idea of separating areas. Things like adding a gazebo at the end of the garden for some privacy and incorporating easy pathways

to access the various spaces from the indoors is very important.

If you want a braai area, then the space around it is just as crucial as the type of braai you select. Although very much a personal choice, a good wood braai with a wood burner on the side is a favourite in our home. We also have a separate freestanding gas braai to give us flexibility of choice, but having the two only works if you have the space for them.

Spend some time understanding what you want from your outdoor space so that it can work best for you, your family, and your lifestyle, and don’t forget to include a quiet area for relaxing and recharging, especially after all those hosting duties!

An outdoor space works best when it feels like an extension of your home, rather than an isolated area, so try and create an easy flow between the two spaces. Consider what colour palettes and finishes you already have in the interior, which could blend well outdoors to tie the two spaces together.

Deepened healing is a huge behavioural trend which I have spoken about at length in the first edition of my report, ‘Behind the Design’. This conscious, inclusive design essentially looks at the desire for humans to always want to be connected to nature and is central to the outdoor living space.

At its core is the reflective need to heal, restore and move towards sustainable design. It focuses on balance between yin and yang and masculinity and femininity, to ensure that the space feels grounded and esoteric but also facilitates a natural way for people to connect in that space. Consider what elements you can add to foster the calming feel of nature.

Blendinandcreate flow

Be weatherwise with accessories

Having enough seating and shelter from the elements is crucial in any outdoor space. The aim of an outdoor space is to keep the area feeling spacious and light, so don’t put too much in it. Transparent ghost or polycarb chairs in different colours are a great practical outdoor solution and can be changed very easily from season to season. Chair Crazy has some great products from Spain and Turkey that can handle the strong South African sun.

For colour you want something that is soothing to the soul, relaxing and easy on the eye but with a pop of colour to add some excitement and interest. Consider contrasting textured fabrics in plain colours on large sofas, with bolder shades and patterned prints on individual chairs and cushions. It is essential that you select proper outdoor fabrics with a good ultraviolet makeup. Hertex, Home Fabrics and Eshanima Fabrics have a huge array of options.

From a décor perspective, this is where you can properly express elements of deepened healing. Consider adding repurposed or repaired items of furniture, previously loved design pieces in soft curves and shapes, and evocative pieces of artwork.

For more tips from Kim Williams, sign-up for her blog at www.kimwilliams.co.za or follow her on Facebook and Instagram @kim_williams_design.

Outdoor living:

Patio furniture

Summer’s here! You dream of those lazy leisure days spent at the pool or sitting around a firepit swapping stories with friends. Here are some ideas about having and organising your own outdoor entertainment area and furnishing it with the latest in patio furniture.

Gareth Griffiths

Gareth Griffiths

Trends come and go, but there are always those general rules that go with making the right choice in patio furniture. With this in mind, I took a camera and visited a large patio furniture warehouse at a wellknown Century City mall.

My thanks to the Patio Warehouse friendly sales team.

Colour and grounding

When deciding on patio furniture, you're not limited to neutral colors or the natural tones of wood. Wicker, wood, and metal pieces now come in a wide variety of colourful finishes.

Experts suggest that you look for furnishings that play up colors found in your landscaping, your home's exterior, or your other outdoor decor.

Top tips:

• A DIY paint job can quickly perk up patio furniture with any hue to get the right colour.

• Reserve brighter and bolder colours for cushions and accent pieces. These items will likely be used for a shorter service life, and are less expensive to replace.

• Ground patio furniture by placing it on an all-weather carpet. Textile advancements in recent years have brought many quick-drying outdoor rugs to the market. Outdoor carpets are soft underfoot and rich in texture, so using one rug will lend the comfort of indoors to your patio or deck.

• Choose a color and pattern that coordinates with your other furniture and decor to tie your outdoor space together. Make sure it's rated for outdoor use before buying as the water must run through it and it must not break down in the sun.

Furniture material choices

Plastic resin chairs or side tables may look amazing in the store and will keep their good looks for a year or two out in the sun, but in time they'll become brittle and lose their vibrant colouring. The same can apply to certain wood products and wicker pieces. Shop with care, checking consumer reports and reviews before making a big purchase. If you're sticking to a budget, plan to splurge on items that will be used most often, such as comfortable patio seating or a durable dining table.

When shopping for reliable patio sets, it’s often a good idea to go with durable outdoor furniture made from cast iron, wrought iron, or aluminium. Iron contributes to the durability of furniture, especially if it features rust-resistant powder coating. Aluminium outdoor furniture sets are naturally rust-resistant and can last a long time.

However, there are certain composite plasticbased materials that are made to last the distance in time. Make sure you check that they come with a comparable warranty.

And above all, remember: Goedkoop is duurkoop.

Pick all-weather outdoor cushions and pillows and pack them away The elements in South Africa are very harsh. Whether you live at the coast or inland. Soft items take a real beating. Make sure you make a plan to pack them away, especially overnight when the weather threatens. An outdoor storage box works like a treat and can also be used to hold cooler boxes and towels.

Check it out first

When shopping for patio chairs and sofas, do take a seat before buying. Patio furniture will likely be used regularly, especially during the warmer months, so it's essential that the seating is comfortable.

You and your guests will be less likely to enjoy your patio if you’ve set it up with uncomfortable furniture. Look for pieces with backs and plush cushions on the seats or cozy up metal and wood furniture with fluffy pillows for the utmost comfort. Check that all the fabrics are weather-resistant to prevent colour-fading or mildew growth.

A final but often neglected thing: Consider the stability of your patio furniture in high wind. If you live in a wind-prone area, choose heavier items that will not blow into glass windows or the pool.

Reserve brighter and bolder colours for cushions and accent pieces.

EGGER ‘Interior Match’:

Designed to be together

Wood-based materials manufacturer, EGGER, combines decor from furniture and interior design as well as flooring for the first time, making design even easier for its customers.

EGGER Holzwerkstoffe

With ‘Interior Match’, EGGER shows what is possible in the combination of furniture and flooring. The decor selection combines decors from the Decorative Collection 202022 (which has been extended until the end of 2023) for furniture and interior design with the PRO Flooring Collection 2021.

The theme of mix & match has dominated interior designs for some time now. The combination of colours, materials and surfaces gives room for creativity and individuality. This can be realised particularly well in trendy open residential, living and working areas.

With the blurring of boundaries and the lack of spatial demarcation of functional areas, new demands are being placed on flooring and interior design.

"With all the design freedom, coordinated fixed points contribute the desired visual harmony," says Klaus Monhoff, Head of Decor and Design Management at the EGGER Group.

Harmony in designs

In ‘Interior Match’, a distinction is made between the same decor solutions and those that are colour-coordinated. In ‘Decor Match’, floors as well as furniture and interior design products are available in the same decor with different surface textures*. Customers can choose the same decor for floors, doors, the kitchen worktop or complete furniture, thus bringing harmony to their designs. Colour Match’ features decors that are colour-coordinated.

"The total of 30 decors includes many new introductions from both collections. They have been selected so that they can be

used in a variety of ways. Fronts, worktops or entire pieces of furniture can easily be combined with the floor. Whether striking or understated - there is something for every style in 'Interior Match'," explains Ayla Schwarzmayr, Decor Management Expert Flooring.

Authentic decors are currently popular. This applies both to woodgrains, which come

amazingly close to the original in terms of look and feel, and to classic installation patterns such as parquet or floorboard looks. The wood reproductions in the ‘Interior Match’ range from natural, simple looks to rustic and striking themes. Vintage decors with coloured inclusions that set accents are also in demand.

www.egger.com/interior-match

About EGGER

The family company, founded in 1961, employs approximately 10 800 people. In 20 plants across the world, it produces an extensive product range of wood-based materials (chipboard, OSB and MDF board) as well as timber. EGGER products are found in countless areas of private and public life, including kitchens, bathrooms, offices, living rooms and bedrooms.

* Slight deviations between furniture and flooring decors are possible due to different surface finishes. REPRODUCTION: All our shown and mentioned decors are reproductions.

The ‘Colour Match’ shows colour-coordinated decors. The matching of flooring and furniture creates harmony in the mix & match theme. Furniture: H3326 ST28 Grey Beige Gladstone Oak | Flooring: EPL202 Grey Beige Arcani Oak

All our shown and mentioned decors are reproductions. Slight deviations between furniture and flooring decors are possible due to different surface finishes.

Designed to be together

How to design furniture and flooring in harmony.

interior match

With “Interior Match”, you benefit from harmonious combination options for furniture and flooring. The decor selection combines the EGGER Decorative Collection with the EGGER PRO Flooring Collection 2021+. You can choose between matching decors and colour-coordinated wood and material looks.

Featured decor: Worktop H1344 ST32 Cognac Brown Sherman Oak, Laminate Flooring EPL184 Cognac Brown Sherman Oak

» More details on Interior Match at www.egger.com/interior-match

Beautiful and budget-friendly

kitchen worktops

While granite and engineered stone kitchen countertops are perceived as opulent and nearly indestructible, they also come with a hefty price tag. Thankfully, high-pressure laminates (HPL) and melamine-faced boards (MFB) have come a long way since they were first popularised in the 1950s and the 1960s. Today’s offerings are far more durable and the designs more realistic and luxurious than the products available previously.

PG Bison

“Kitchen countertops tend to take a beating and can often show age more quickly than other surfaces around the home,” says Jason Wells, Brand & Marketing at PG Bison.

“People are understandably cautious when choosing their worktops as these surfaces need to stand the test of time and be moisture-, scuff- and germ-resistant. But many people aren’t aware about the innovations and technologies that have been developed in recent years in woodbased panel products.”

With improvements in digital scanning and printing, as well as in manufacturing, the designs and colours available in HPL and MFB boards have become ultra-realistic, with options that capture the look of marble, granite, stone and timber, as well as solid

colours, in a diverse range to suit every taste.

However, Wells says that often, the biggest concern that people have is moistureresistance.

“Many of us have seen chipped and swollen worktops in older kitchens,” he says. “But, with products like PG Bison’s Formica LifeSeal Worktops, it all comes down to correct installation to ensure minimal risk of swelling caused by water penetration. Plus, our proprietary LifeSeal strip, supplied on all Formica LifeSeal Worktops products, stops water that has trickled down the front edge of the counter, from penetrating the worktop core from the underside. This gives you an extra layer of protection where it’s needed most.”

Proper protection

To ensure that no water seeps through any gaps (like where the worktop meets the wall; or between butt joints and inside the cut-outs for sinks and stove tops), Well says a water sealant (such as marine varnish or enamel paint) should be applied in a dabbing motion to the exposed core material of the worktop to create a proper seal.

“Applying two coats of the sealant, with appropriate drying time in between, effectively stops water ingress,” he says. “If you seal all exposed edges, your countertops should last for decades. To keep them in tip-top shape, regularly wipe down surfaces with a wet cloth and mild soap. There’s no need to reseal or polish these countertops, especially since furniture polish can leave a sticky residue. These worktops are designed to be low maintenance.”

Hygienic for high-traffic surfaces

Wells says that another little-known fact is that laminate surfaces are one of only four worksurfaces permitted in clinical environments because of their hygiene properties, which makes them perfect for kitchens too.

“Thanks to the laminate manufacturing process, these products have what’s called a closed surface. This means there are no microscopic openings in the surface where germs can take up residence, making it the perfect solution for healthy, germ-free kitchens.”

In 2022, popular options in PG Bison’s Formica LifeSeal Worktops range include Woodland Fusion, Saxon Oak or Brooklyn Loft in the textured range; or Kristall, Catalan, Rosetta, Aquila or Tucana in the gloss range.

“Formica LifeSeal Worktops are also locally manufactured and therefore positively contribute to the South African economy. In addition, local production helps to manage the price point and ensure the product is readily available from all leading board retailers,” Wells concludes. “You get a stylish, international look without needing to pay heavy import duties and long-distance transport costs.”

Young designers

rise to the fore

In 2021, the Kitchen Specialists Association (KSA) embarked on a project to engage the minds and imagination of design students and to ignite in them a passion for kitchen design as a specialised sector of design. Stephanie Forbes of the KSA updates us with the latest news on this project.

KSA Kitchen Design Project

Stephanie Forbes

In collaboration with the Interior Design Institute SA (IID), the KSA reached out to tertiary institutions offering interior design qualifications. On assessment of what was being offered as far as kitchen design was concerned, we realised that there was much we could add to help build a better understanding of the technicalities of kitchen design, as well as build the understanding of material and costings.

The KSA’s Kitchen Design Project was developed with the aim of giving the students a true kitchen design experience and equipping them with knowledge and skills that could make them employable in the kitchen industry.

We started in 2021 with eight tertiary institutions. In 2022 we had 10 institutions with 16 campuses sign up

for the project. Second and third year students opt to take on the project for a special credit. The projects are marked by the lecturers and then submitted to the KSA for constructive critical comment. Each submission is carefully reviewed by the KSA and given indepth feedback. Assessment of the 70 projects submitted to the KSA this year is currently underway.

In 2021, the students were challenged to take on one of two design briefs. The first was to design a kitchen made up of cost-effective adaptive furniture that would allow an RDP housing space to move easily from a kitchen, to a learning space, to a living space.

It was vital the students focused on cost-effective materials and construction. The challenge was to accomplish good adaptive design at an affordable price.

Twobriefsdesign for 2021

The second brief was to design for a middle-income family whose ailing mother had moved in with them. The kitchen had to be hardwearing and the design had to facilitate the projected deterioration of the mother’s mobility, strength, and reach.

Cheri-lee Cloete

Lihle Zubane

Mikhaeel Dudan Greenside

Construction and challengesupgradefor 2022

Our 2022 briefs focused on construction challenges. The first brief was for a retired couple buying an older heritage house, who wanted to upgrade the kitchen to embrace their love of a modern aesthetic while retaining and respecting the original features of an old coal stove, bay windows and pressed steel ceilings.

Here the students needed to marry the old with the new and research how to work with pressed steel ceilings, what type of coal stove might have existed in the timeline of the original home, and how to incorporate the stove's features. Incorporating the bay windows while still facilitating access to them and not wasting space, was also a challenge.

The second brief needed a good understanding of ergonomics and space. The students had to design for a couple living in a loft apartment. The kitchen space had a double volume roof with exposed beams and no ceiling. There was a large bank of windows on two of the walls and an unusual nib in the one remaining wall. The clients they were designing for loved dining and entertaining and the challenge here was to design a kitchen space that could facilitate entertaining and cooking with little wall space. Innovative storage solutions were a must for this brief.

Internship with a KSA member

We

In

Students with the top designs are offered an internship with a KSA member kitchen company. Our members have shown great support of this project and are enthusiastic to assist young designers get a leg up and into the industry. For two of the designers who accepted an internship in 2021, this has led to full time employment with the KSA member.

will be excited to embrace the top designers from the 2022 project and these should be announced at the end of November – please watch our social media.

2023 we look forward to working with the IID again and hope that the tertiaries will continue to work with us: the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Johannesburg, Durban University of Technology, Tshwane University of Technology, Greenside Design Centre, Inscape, Design Time, Vega, Nelson Mandela University and Potchefstroom Academy.

Dana Gamble

Jenna Wedgewood

A durable, sustainable structure can only be achieved by thinking in terms of systems rather than products, which is why the MAPEI building line is extended by introducing new, cutting-edge systems and materials with the aim of supplying solutions for every type of problem encountered on site.

With over 80 years experience in the industry and backed by our established world class R&D infrastructure & resources, the MAPEI Building Line has been developed to meet the most stringent requirements and provide the most advanced protection for any concrete, on any site worldwide.

Downsizing?

Colour makes your living space look larger

As the beginning of a new year fast approaches, analysts and experts share the next hottest trends that architects, designers and property owners can expect to inform trends in a range of industries – from tech to clothing, travel, décor and more as they apply to home design, renovation, and DIY.

Plascon Plascon

Colour is a key part of making your room look bigger than it actually is. Along with arranging furniture differently, creative lighting and the use of mirrors, the smart usage of colour can do wonders. So, how do you make a room look bigger with colour?

Use lighter colours

The most straightforward way to expand the visual space of your room is to paint it in a lighter colour. While dark shades tend to absorb light and make the room feel closed in, a light wall enhances natural light and makes spaces feel more open. Soft tones like off-whites, beiges, light blues and light greens fit the description and are softer and more welcoming than harsher pure whites and bright colours.

For a neutral yet welcoming look, try shades like Antique Petal, Moon Beam, Evening Mist and Frothy Milk, or brighten things up with light blues and greens like Ella's Eyes, California Dreaming, Green Glass, Cactus Pete and West Coast Mist. Light, more neutral colours like these are also easy to work with when it comes to furniture and decor.

A darker accent wall

creates depth

Interestingly enough, despite the rule that painting a room in dark colours makes it look smaller, painting one accent wall in a dark colour can actually be very effective in creating depth and making the room look bigger. Darker accent walls also add to the decorative appeal of a room without being overpowering.

When picking a feature wall colour you’ll want to start with a colour palette that suits your style — don’t pick a deep orange accent wall if you don’t want your room to be centred around the colour. Colours like deep navy blues, rich greens, dark greys and charcoal black are perfect for making a statement and adding depth without drawing too much attention.

Plascon’s moody Oceanos colour is a mix of greens and blues, while Monsoon Lagoon is a rich green so dark it carries the sophistication of black without sacrificing the beauty of the green. Alternatively, classic dark greys and charcoal blacks like Tribeca Corner and Graphite Aluminium are always perfect choices for modern and minimalistic accent walls.

Use one colour for a seamless flow

One last helpful trick for making your rooms look bigger than they are is to paint your walls, ceilings and skirting board all in one light colour to make the room look seamlessly big. If you want to take it a step further you can even paint your ceilings and trims in a lighter colour!

Colour has the incredible ability to transform any room without having to change space or furniture. Even if you don’t have that much space it doesn’t mean you can’t create the illusion that you do.

For more advice on what colours are best to use where, and why, contact the specialists at email colouradvice@kansaiplascon.co.za

in Midrand get 6 Star Green rating Refurbished facilities

Refurbishing a building provides opportunities for companies to make their buildings more efficient, increase sustainable measures and improve the work experience for staff. Firmenich, in line with its global commitment to three strategic streams; acting on climate change, embracing nature and caring about people, have taken bold and considered steps in delivering an exceptional facility which has received a Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) 6 Star Green Star Interiors rating.

Tetris Design and Build

Firmenich worked with the Tétris Design and Build team to deliver a holistic solution that considered the entire ecosystem of a workspace. The final solution places the employee experience and wellbeing at the centre of an upgraded building that includes improved energy efficiency, rainwater harvesting, quality air supply, access to natural light, and views of landscaped gardens.

A 6 Star Green Star rating is a notable achievement, underscoring an organisation’s commitment to future proofing its business where climate change and resource availability are key considerations for long-term success.

Natural light

An initial workplace strategy, assessment of technical laboratory requirements and a light study resulted in 85% of employees seated within seven metres of natural light. Laboratory technicians have views outdoors, meeting rooms are filled with daylight, and an extended glass and steel atrium provides a muchneeded staff informal meeting, connecting and eating area.

Energy and water solutions

A 75% reduction in municipal power use through the installation of 110KW photovoltaic roof panels with battery storage ensures continuous productivity despite power outages. This saving is combined with a 67% reduction in reliance on municipal water achieved through collecting and processing rainwater from the roof and parking.

Water collected is stored in a 100 000-litre underground tank before being pumped into a 5 000-litre tank above the ground and then through reverse osmosis treatment to generate potable water for staff.

Air quality

Air quality in the work environment is core to Firmenich achieving a healthy workspace and is essential in a space dedicated to producing tastes and fragrances. Positive and negative air flows are engineered to ensure that smells stay inside laboratories and don't extend beyond these areas.

The HVAC system distributes fresh air throughout the space, and CO2 monitors continually measure air quality. Awareness of power and water usage levels and air quality are all tracked through smart meters and communicated internally to create awareness about the use and conservation of natural resources.

Aesthetic comfort

Aesthetic comfort is added to the efficiency of the refurbished building through open-plan workspaces with informal seating and collaboration areas marked with bold wallpapers and patterns that identify different divisions' workspaces.

While aligning with the company's global brand guidelines, there is also a strong use of pattern and geometry informed by local African shweshwe fabrics to anchor the project in its regional context. The connection to nature and clean air is continued through the addition of large planter boxes that provide screening in open areas and custom-made plant features that fill the hallways and the double-volume reception area. Staff can also access an outdoor deck under the shade of large trees in the landscaped gardens for work breaks.

A truly sustainable solution

The final result is a revitalised office for the Firmenich business that sets a benchmark for a rigorous approach that considers every detail towards improving the overall performance of a building and the comfort and wellbeing of the teams working within them – a truly sustainable solution.

“The refurbished offices and manufacturing laboratories in Midrand demonstrate Firmenich’s excellent support for their employees’ health and well-being and their businesses’ performance. The Tétris goal of creating environments where innovation, connection and community thrive was paramount in every detail of the project. We are thrilled that our collective efforts resulted in a 6 Star Green Star rating,” says Ryan O’Donavan, Tétris Project Manager.

Black & White

from Firenze

from Firenze

Marioni

We’ve curated a few black and white designs for this summer (the winter in Europe) to get your creative juices flowing. The photos and designs are by Marioni (www.marioni.it), a company with a proud Florentine history since 1966, when they first started design and production using ceramic materials.

This

season: Black and White Black and white furnishing accessories are dedicated to those who love a sober and sophisticated style at the same time, whether it relates to the living or the working space.

The combination of these two colours recalls a modern and contemporary design and gives the environment an attractive graphic look. The contrasting statement between the brightness of white and the shadows of black also expresses elegance and refinement, minimalism and luxury at the same time, says the designer.

The various Marioni concepts displayed include objects such as lamps, tables, armchairs, consoles and desks, and are easily inserted into multiple contexts and express all the craftsmanship of Made in Italy in their workmanship and in the preciousness of the selected materials.

Ever-fashionable Florence is the home of much of the world’s design thinking. Indeed, who does it better than the Italians in setting trends?

What will 2023 bring? Renovation trends…

As the beginning of a new year fast approaches, analysts and experts share the next hottest trends that architects, designers and property owners can expect to inform trends in a range of industries – from tech to clothing, travel, décor and more as they apply to home design, renovation, and DIY.

people looking at fresh and additional ways to adopt more sustainable principles in their homes. In this light we will continue to see new and innovative “green” products hitting the shelves in hardware stores.

Examples include products like the Waterform smart water management systems, which make rainwater harvesting easy and hassle free. All the components of these systems are also manufactured from recycled waste diverted from oceans and landfills. Greywater systems will also be in demand as South Africans attempt to reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible.

Another example of a product that will see more demand in the coming year is the Thermo-Solutions roof insulation which is manufactured from recycled plastic drinking bottles. Each Thermo-Solutions Roof Insulation roll averages around 360 bottles per roll that would have ended up in landfill. Having a well-insulated home also means that you require less energy to heat and cool the space.

Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware, a leading independent hardware retailer, shares some insights on what South Africans can expect in 2023 when it comes to DIY, home maintenance, upgrades, and renovating.

Orlando Luis

Things heat up for solar energy

In keeping with going green, but also now a massively growing trend in SA due to loadshedding, 2023 will see more homes install solar energy systems. Solar lighting is a renewable source of light that is reliable and saves you money in the long run.

In terms of product development, we will continue to see new solutions coming to market – enhancing the selection already on offer in terms of outdoor and sensor lighting, rechargeable light bulbs, portable lighting, etc. Likewise, solar geysers will become increasingly popular for the same reasons.

Staying with the trend of reducing demand on the electricity grid, I believe 2023 will continue to see a spike in the number of households changing their geysers to tankless water heaters, which only heat as needed, as opposed to keeping a reservoir of water hot for long periods of time, as geysers do – these are very energy efficient and save on costs. Gas alternatives will also be in demand.

Cost (cutting) is key

RENOVATION TRENDS

Generating innovative new solutions

Generators will remain a much-desired purchase for South Africans in 2023 due to ongoing power cuts. In response to this demand, manufacturers such as Red Rhino are creating innovative new options such as the silent dual fuel inverter gas generator, which uses either LP gas or petrol and is silent when in use, and so is an option for those living in townhouse complexes and even apartments with balconies or patios.

Unattached and

–cordless tools power ahead

Tool trends continue to see everything go cordless and this will remain the case in 2023. Going battery powered means getting rid of the hassle of plugs and long extension cords when working with power tools – plus if your batteries are charged you can continue to work through loadshedding.

Most power tools work off the same 18V battery platform and these batteries are interchangeable. From impact drills to circular saws, glue guns to screwdrivers – these are all available in cordless versions and most new power tools entering the market are cordless. This even includes power tools for gardening such as hedge trimmers, chainsaws and even lawn mowers.

Overall, trends in consumer buying habits have shown that price is key, and manufacturers will need to be sure to keep bringing products to market in 2023 that meet the needs of the budget conscious.

For example, we have seen brands such as Plascon and Dulux developing cheaper to midrange paint solutions that are doing well amongst the selection.

More South Africans doing it for themselves

2023 will also see more South Africans embracing DIY, and in particular, women, who are tapping into the consumer trend towards increasing self-resilience and reliance.

Smart homes will remain a bright idea

Another exciting home trend for 2023 will see more people creating smart homes which are automated and controlled via the home-owners’ smart devices.

At Brights we have already seen a spike in demand for such products, and the Xiaomi range of home automation devices continues to grow in popularity. Automated homes are also more environmentally friendly as lights and appliances can be programmed to switch off when not in use, saving on electricity and reducing the load on the grid.

The DIY movement allows people to save money, get the job done quickly without waiting for a contractor, and provides a wonderful sense of accomplishment at a job self-done. At Brights we have made a point of welcoming and assisting women who come into our stores – and even have a special ladiesonly rewards card for our female customers, and look forward to this as a growing trend in 2023.

Brights hardware stores have on-site experts branches and an online store. Visit www.brights.co.za

uncomplicated

POLES (Metal marker)

S AW N TI M BE R ( I n k st amp )

The detail in these diagrams assists proper drainage of moisture that may be absorbed by a wooden pole. A structural engineer must be consulted for detailed structural requirements.

OOSE T H E C O RR E C T HA Z ARD (H )

L A S S

H igh Ha z ar d : P r olong e d immersion in sea water (Marine piling, jetty cross-bracing, landing steps, retaining walls etc.)

H6 -

H5 -

H igh Ha z ar d : Ou ts id e i n contact with heavy wet soil or in fresh water (piling, substructure for walkways & jetties, vineyards etc.)

CR OSS CU

T E ND S

H4 -

H igh Ha z ar d : Ou ts id e i n ground, subject to periodic wetting and leaching (fencing and structural posts, landscaping, stakes, pergolas, etc).

H3 -

M od erate Ha z ar d : Ou ts id e a bo ve ground, subject to periodic wetting and leaching (cladding, decking, stairs, balustrades, log homes, etc).

A ll mac hining,

Low Ha z ar d : In s id e a bo v e ground, protected from wetting and leaching (roof trusses, framing, panelling, laminated .

H2 -

e (exc luding g r ound c on tact) .

Planning your outdoor entertainment area

One of the things you will be hoping to do this summer is to get some serious R&R at the pool or in the garden, without having to jump into the car to travel kilometers to an outside venue in the traffic and burning lots of fuel.

Robin Schultz and Gareth Griffiths Gareth Griffiths

Sounds right?

So, with our array of friendly experts, we’ve made it easy for you to plan your place for some serious home R&R time, without the hassle of travel. Some suggestions you can implement right away and others, such as hardscaping and minor construction work, might need a little time to get ready for 2023.

Timber construction and timber fixtures are a vital part of any outdoor recreational plans. We’ve got plenty of sunshine aplenty, but we also have weather, which means seasonal rain showers and wind! This suggests that screens, timber walls and pergolas, possibly covered, are going to feature in your plans at some point.

This designer built-in day bed/informal seating located on a rooftop garden was made in matching decking boards, incorporating a lovely planter decorated with and hand painted artwork.

Here’s what you can do

Given the range of different climates across South Africa, outdoor feature expert Robin Schultz (www. contourdecks.co.za) , suggests that you consider these most important things before site work begins:

• Decide on your floor levels required. A level area is better than a stepped or sloped level, almost always.

• Only apply decking to the areas that you will use regularly.

• Think of the traffic flow that you would like to create.

• If the area is small, allow for movable furnishings.

• Watch out for large pot plants; never place them in direct contact with decking.

• Only deal with contractors with a proven reputation. Ask around and ask the right questions!

Trends to watch

High-rise apartment buildings or hotels with green roofs are a growing trend, as architects strive towards cool roofs and developers seek to improve their value proposition for guests or investors.

Instead of using the rooftop for the placement of “ugly” building machinery and other equipment, forward thinking developers are making that space – which generally contains much cleaner air quality than the lower levels – available to building residents. Rooftop gardens, rooftop patio areas, swimming pools and outdoor cooking areas are all among the exciting mix of features planned for city dwellers.

The most popular outdoor features commissioned by property owners:

• Privacy screens

• Windbreak screens

• Covers for unsightly pool filtration equipment

• Bench style perimeter boxed seating

High-rise apartment, Green Point Cape Town; timber decking, cladding and tiles complement each other at the plunge pool.

The advantages of timber fixtures vs concrete and paving?

1. Timber is lightweight in comparison to steel or concrete based elements and can be dismantled and moved.

2. Timber is a circular economy material. Most timber used enters its lifecycle in use as a building material with a negative embodied carbon content.

3. Avoid using heavy concrete type furnishings in direct contact with decking as moisture accumulation invites bacterial degradation of the hardwood

4. Hardwood timber is a scarce commodity and is largely dictated by availability and quality. The cost is determined largely by the demand. Garapa is the most sought after at this time, says Schultz.

Composites: An option to timber Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) is an engineered building product made up of a mix of wood fibre, plastics, bonding agents and colourants. The composite is formulated to combat harsh weather environments to last a long time with very little hassle or upkeep, although routine cleaning is still required.

Rooftop swimming pool area, timber decking and preformed loungers at Station House Apartment/Hotel, Fresnaye .

Natural pools

A new and exciting lifestyle trend in home gardens and other landscapes is the installation of natural pools or ponds. A natural pool is a type of constructed wetland that is implemented to purify and store water safely and effectively. Natural pools and ponds have also been placed in gardens and landscapes to provide beautiful and sustainable natural swimming pools.

South Africans are fortunate to have lovely hot summers that are perfect for lazy days in the pool. However, we also live in a semi-arid, water scarce country. A typical residential swimming pool can hold anything from 20 000 to 80 000 litres of water. On the Highveld, a pool can lose up to 2m of water a year from evaporation, while in hotter, more arid regions up to 3.5m of water can be lost. So, how can you enjoy the luxury of a swimming pool while remaining water wise?

Natural pools are eco-friendly and do not require the use of chemicals. Integrated into the surrounding environment, natural pools act as mini-ecosystems and can provide a habitat to a number of aquatic plants and animals. Besides providing an opportunity for the swimmer to indulge in pure, chemical-free dips, the natural pool can become a beautiful feature of any contemporary garden.

Natural pools use the concept of wetland or river ecosystems. Indigenous aquatic vegetation and simple filtration systems are used to clean the water. Beneficial micro-organisms are inoculated into the filter system to break down waste, which is then absorbed by the roots of the aquatic plants. As a result, there are no food sources to facilitate the growth of algae.

Natural ponds provide a number of benefits, such as:

• Providing a habitat for aquatic birds and animals.

• Extended storage of water for irrigation.

• Low cost due to low maintenance and operational costs.

• Removal of chemicals and heavy metals from water.

Maintenance of natural pools is easy - simply clearing the filter of leaves and other debris and pruning the natural vegetation once a month is enough to successfully maintain a functioning natural pool.

To reduce the costs of filling the pool with potable water, as one does with conventional pools, the efficient filtering and cleansing that occurs in a natural pool means that rainwater can be harvested to supply the pool. By using harvested water and solar-powered filter systems a natural pool can literally be taken ‘off the grid’!

Natural pools and constructed wetlands are just an example of how we can rely on nature to enhance our lives.

and eat it Have your garden

Everyone has that one patch of lawn that is a waste of space, or not optimally used. There is, however, a practical solution at hand that not only will turn that space into something fulfilling and productive, but also make a contribution to a greener and more sustainable world. The owner of Soil Scopes, Wesley Soule tells us all about it.

Wesley Soule

Wesley Soule

Having garden space with a lawn is normal these days but it never used to be. Back in earlier centuries, the only people who could afford lawns were wealthy landowners. It was a form of status. Later, as the shift to convenience stores and modern agriculture started, the popularity of lawns grew and often the lawns replaced previously productive vegetable and fruit gardens, which people looked after to grow food sustainably and sometimes sell when they had abundant harvests.

As more people begin to realise the problem with the way our food is grown, coupled with rising prices at the stores, there has been a resurgence in home gardening to provide food.

Here’s how to achieve this

Select your spot – Converting an unused lawn area into a productive space requires ample sunlight. Consider the locations available in your garden, does that area get enough sunlight? First, consider which direction the sun rises and sets.

South-facing is usually recommended but what about the trees around your property? Consider the shade cast by trees and whether the south facing space gets enough light. Aim to have at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light on a summer's day to maximise your productivity.

Design the beds – Raised beds are easier to work with as they give you control of the height of the bed which means less bending down. Consider the size of your beds based on your space and budget, the wood material is often the most expensive part of the process.

Also, consider what material you plan to use; wood or metal are the most common. Wood is often more affordable but won't last as long. Beware of treated wood which contains potentially harmful compounds that affect the soil health or untreated wood which will not last many seasons; lining the inside of the wood with plastic will prevent these issues.

When creating your design be sure to leave space to walk between beds and keep the width of the beds' something that you can reach across to make gardening easier.

Fill the beds – Filling your raised beds with bought compost becomes very expensive, so consider this solution: Using a variety of organic matter can provide long-term nutrients to the soil as well as fill the raised beds. Things like rotting logs, leaves, sticks, grass or other general garden waste should be added to the bottom of the bed before you add your compost.

Fill only the top 20% with your compost as the starting place for your plants. The organic material below will break down slowly and provide long-term nutrients for your soil. After the first season, the level of your raised bed will decrease but you can always top it up when needed. Take care of your soil and your soil will take care of your plants.

Planting – This is the fun part! Sowing seeds or buying seedlings are great ways to get the raised beds looking green and luscious. When selecting what crops to grow consider a few things, seasonality, if the crop grows well in your area and watering requirements.

Consider a mix of quick-growing lettuces and herbs along with some slower-growing crops like carrots and leeks. Having a constant supply of food is extremely rewarding.

Lastly, experiment! Try crops you haven't grown before and enjoy the experience of watching something grow you've never seen before.

Turning your old worn-out lawn into a productive garden space is simple. Growing healthy food while spending time outside will improve your mental and physical health. So what are you waiting for?

Design the perfect

sustainable bathroom

Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in the way we think and act, leading to changes in the way that we live. As a rule, the home offers great potential for optimisation that sees a positive impact on both the environment and the energy bill.

hansgrohe

Measures can also be implemented in the bathroom to help us live more sustainably and protect important resources. As recently as October 26th 2022, South Africa’s National Water & Sanitation Department has urged citizens to use water sparingly as water levels continue to drop*. In Germany, the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection is currently running the "80 million together for energy change" consumer campaign, which highlights the energy-saving potential of clever technologies in the bathroom.

Globally-acclaimed bathroom and kitchens solutions designer and manufacturer, hansgrohe, says that using a water-saving hand-held shower, such as their Raindance Select S, with EcoSmart technology and a flow rate of just 8.5 litres per minute, can save around 1 541 kWh in one year**. This is equivalent to 8% of the total energy consumption of a four-person household. EcoSmart and CoolStart products also reduce hot water-related

energy consumption, as less total water consumption means less hot water consumption.

Smart showering

The company’s EcoSmart hand-held showers feature a special flow control. Only around 8.5 litres of water per minute flow through the specially developed, innovative spray nozzles. The showering pleasure is nevertheless convincing: thanks to fine spray types such as the pleasant PowderRain spray, the amount of water is used particularly efficiently and cleverly.

Simply installed, they are easy on the environment and on your wallet in no time at all. Thanks to their timeless design and availability in various finishes, the EcoSmart variants of the Pulsify Select S, Raindance Select E and Crometta hand-held showers fit harmoniously into different bathroom styles. This also visually maintains the feel-good atmosphere in one’s bathroom retreat.

Basin mixers done right

Designed by Phoenix Design, the Vernis range is a newcomer since 2021 as Vernis Blend and Vernis Shape.

The Blend’s slender, cylindrical body flows gently into the spout just like the water it carries, harmoniously between handle and spout. The Shape features a more symmetrical, square design, with precise edges. With built-in EcoSmart technology, they cut down on energy and water usage, a good environmentally-friendly choice and also money saving in the long term.

Then, the Vivenis range portrays the beauty and simplicity of a clear mountain spring in harmony with nature - a delicate handle with the extremely wide, flat spout emphasising simplicity. The innovative aerator with AirPower technology aerates the outflowing water.

The WaterfallStream creates gentle and full-bodied water droplets. Most importantly, the EcoSmart technology ensures a base consumption rate of five liters per minute. Vivenis faucets are available in chrome, matt black, and matt white.

With several water-conscious choices available, you can create “the bathroom of your dreams, reducing water wastage hence saving money and helping the environment”, says the company.

* https://www.gov.za/speeches/water-and-sanitationurges-south-africa-use-water-sparingly-water-levelscontinue-drop-26

**Energieverbrauch für Warmwasser und Heizung: 18.000 kWh pro Jahr https://www.eon.de/de/pk/ erdgas/gasverbrauch.html

EcoSmart tech in the Vernis range uses less energy and water

EcoSmart hand-held shower with a special flow control

Drills, drills and

those holes we need

Selecting the correct drill bits for the job is crucial. Using the incorrect drill bit is dangerous and will damage the bit, say the experts.

Austria Digby Wesson, Diggers DIY

It’s also not easy to select the correct drill bit, especially when drilling into metals. To avoid this problem, ask the experts.

Being a DIYer for the past 50 years, I have set myself up with a huge tool collection to do every DIY job, but only after years of never having the right tool for the job. Drills and drill bits are important and used for most DIY jobs,

so I surrounded myself with a broad range of the best drilling machines, in fact far too many for any one DIYer. This was mainly due to the innovative technology for the cordless, and electric drills and my addiction for power drills. If something new came out I would have to have it. I also researched all the brands and did several courses on drills and more importantly, drill bits.

Having the right drill bits is very important

The problem is having a vast range of fancy drills is not the most important part of drilling, as I learnt many years ago. Having the right drill bits is far more important. Ten years ago, I was introduced to Alpen(1) and this is when I was amazed at what was available in the way of specialist drill bits.

I invested in a large range of the best drill bits, as well as a selection of specialist bits to drill into almost every type of material. I also invested in a top of the range drill bit sharpener, the Drill Doctor 700, after being told this was the only drill sharpener accepted and approved by the experts.

Recently, I was drilling into some metal tops for my ground light covers, selecting my best Alpen high speed metal bits, using the right speed, and the best drilling fluid, and starting with a smaller bit. Even after changing drills I hardly made any progress. So, I called the tool expert at Vermont Sales and an Alpen drill bit guru said I should try the Alpen Profi MultiCut as they have tungsten carbide tips and are multi-purpose bits. Using the drill fluid and the Alpen Profi MultiCut bits, the drilling was like drilling into butter!

Alpen

Drilling tips and valuable information

• Selecting the right drill bit for the material you are drilling is key.

Extremely

versatile and perfect for

precise problem drilling

The Alpen Profi MultiCut Tungsten Carbide Multi-Purpose Red bits are truly remarkable. A set of these is certainly a must for every DIYer, workshop and the service industry as they are extremely versatile and perfect for precise problem drilling. They will drill into any material, be it tiles, natural stone, metal, wood, granite, concrete, and plastics. They are diamond ground with an ultra-sharp tungsten carbide tip suited for the toughest metal. They also have a patented 4-step profile. The bits and bit sets are available in various lengths up to 400mm, as well as a selection of shanks, cylindrical, 1/4" hexagonal and SDS-plus.

All Alpen drill bits are also approved by the PGM international mark that has been established worldwide as a mark of safety and quality for hammer drill bits (SDS drill bits) and rotary/percussion drill bits. The PGM mark is granted to manufacturers only.

• Never put huge pressure behind the power drill; let the drill bit do the work. Do not force the power tool.

• If the drill bit is sticking it could be that there is too much weight behind the drill. You can also use a drilling fluid.

• Check your drill bit is not blunt.

• Invest in a drill sizing template for drilling and sizing drill bits, screws and bolts.

• Drilling smaller pilot holes is a clever idea.

• Use a tile bit to start drilling into tiles and place masking tape on all the marks.

Notes:

(1) Alpen Austria has the largest range of drill bits, to suit all types of drilling into all types of materials, the group spends a huge amount on research and development on their specialist drill bit range. Most retailers can give you advice and the official agents in South Africa for Alpen Drill Bits, Vermont Sales (www.vermontsales.co.za) will go out of their way to assist you.

Selecting the correct power drill is important and there is a massive selection available. Select a power drill that has it all; normal drilling, hammer action, the latest battery technology if you go cordless, and a well-known brand.

NowaBatten is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional timber and steel used for decking substructure material. It is comprised of 100% recycled mixed plastics providing a corrosion resistant, maintenance-free alternative to traditional materials.

Nowa Tech encourages the use of materials for the substructure framework that will last at least as long as Nowa Tech PVC Composite decking planks. Too often, we have seen the premature corrosion and failure of inferior and incorrectly installed materials resulting in additional unnecessary repair costs.

Why NowaBatten?

We have all seen the waste pickers on dustbin collection day. Not only are waste pickers extremely organised and educated about the appearance of various types of plastics and other recyclables, but they also play an essential role in the economy of developing countries as a whole.

Using our 100% recycled plastic NowaBatten assists these informal waste collectors, resulting in wider collection networks, with a mandate for the collection of additional or new types of post-consumer waste – all resulting in employment opportunities.

South Africa produces over 2.4 million tons of plastic waste annually. South Africa’s

latest recycling figures, published by Plastics SA in 2018, reported an input recycling rate of 46.3% for all plastic products, making South Africa a world leader in mechanical recycling.

Material properties

NowaBatten is environmentally friendly, maintenance-free and impervious to insects and fungi. Our 100% recycled plastic alternative to timber is waterproof and will not rot or rust. Preservative treatment before use is not required as our NowaBatten profiles will not crack or splinter.

NowaBatten is resistant to most fuels, acids, oils and chemicals and is extremely easy to clean using a high pressure washer.

The absence of timber in its composition does mean the material itself is not weight-bearing. Additional supports and a combination of materials can be used to achieve the required structural strength.

Nowa Batten profiles

NowaBatten is extremely versatile and available in various profiles. For decking and cladding framework, we recommend the following profiles:

• 100x35x3500mm NowaBatten13

• 70x38x3600mm NowaBatten25

PV home

systems explained

By October 2022, over 81 days of loadshedding hours had occurred, more than in 2021 and 2020 combined. Many small office and house owners are faced with confusing options as to what to do about it. We asked a local installer of high quality home electricity backup and solar systems to offer some advice. Reinhart Schwendinger is the owner of SOVRN Energy (www.sovrn.co.za), based in Cape Town.

It’s best to focus on the positive reasons for investing in Solar PV, through own production, storage and consumption. The driver shouldn't only be mitigating load shedding there being many more reasons to do so, eg. using ‘green energy’ and being more eco-friendly, safety and security are all good drivers.

Notably, solar PV & backup/storage energy is not for everyone. It is not easy to buy good value unless you are well informed.

Using the right team

I recommend that you find a great installation team, ensure they are registered PV Greencard (1) holders and work with qualified and motivated electricians.

Study their work, read their online reviews, even call past clients. Then commit to the project and please be patient; as demand has currently outstripped supply but it should not be at the expense of safety nor quality.

Reinhart Schwendinger Reinhart Schwendinger

On the roof … Reinhart Schwendinger and team member, registered electrician, Mikael Terblanche.

Options and investment costs

As an installer of Meister quality installations integrated in the electrical DB of the home or small office, my advice is slanted towards high end products, but for good reasons if you believe in investing in quality long-term energy security solutions. However since Eskom introduced Stage 6 loadshedding it soon become everyone’s problem. Below are options to help you tailor your personal solution to your budget.

1. Backup power only

The cost is around R10 000 to R20 000 for the small UPS covering 750 to 1800W. In my view for someone who only needs the basics covered like the WiFi router, laptop, TV, phone charger and a lamp, using a simple stand-alone 'box type' UPS for around R10 000 will work well enough.

This is a small box on trolley wheels that stays plugged in from which you run an extension leading to your equipment. It's cheap and works provided quality equipment is chosen. Note that deep cycle (gel) batteries used in these don't last much more than 1000 cycles from three to five years (depth of discharge dependent), and replacement cost is about R2 500 apiece.

You can spend even less (around R1500) if you only need to support your DC powered WiFi router and optical network terminal fibre devices, but do also buy some LED lamps (around R280/each).

2. UPS/Backup power only - no solar

For an investment of R50 000 to R100 000, UPS only (no solar) for supporting the medium load 3 000W to 5 000W, to cover more than just the basics, I recommend entry level pure sine wave inverters coupled with Lithium batteries. This is the preferred size for over 3 000 cycles and a better long-term investment than deep cycle batteries. They are integrated into the building's electrical distribution board (DB) in UPS mode and run all the basics as well as selected plugs and lights, even the refrigerator and freezer. This is a good option on a budget where a quality solution is required.

3. Approaching a solar PV system

For an investment of R100 000 to R180 000, UPS/backup/storage for a medium to large load 5 000W-8 000W requirement, a system that is 'solar enabled’ is recommended. This suits larger loads with room for expansion to include solar PV for daytime consumption and harvesting of solar power for self-storage. A fitout of solar PV on the roof could be added at a cost of approximately R80 000.

Premium inverters are used that offer easy addition of solar PV for your own production at a later stage (perfect phase 2 project when required). In the meantime, you have power when it's needed and later when and where possible, have the option to invest in your own production equipment without much hassle.

In summary, a well installed solar PV can be added to the above 'solar enabled' UPS/backup/storage system making a workable solution for a total investment cost of R180 000.

4. Full solar PV and backup/storage

For a more substantial investment, consider a R300 000 to R500 000 high-quality solar PV and backup/storage handling large 6 000W+ loads. The Meister solutions that we provide are built using German made inverters (e.g. SMA) and the best Lithium (e.g. BYD) battery tech available.

These solutions are for larger homes, or small businesses with fairly steady loads, where solar PV is used directly during the day to power devices and charge the batteries for overnight use. This is an amazing feature.

References

(1) The PV GreenCard Programme focuses on education, skills development, and training to build installer capacity as well as improve standards development and compliance in line with international best practice. www.pvgreencard.co.za

Picture Credit: Thermo Fires

Quality indoor braais

by Thermo Fires

At Thermo Fires you can find one of the most extensive ranges of locally manufactured indoor and outdoor braais. We are a family-owned, designer and manufacturer of quality and bespoke braais.

Our hottest seller at the moment is our professional range of built-in braais. This range has been designed to have modern, clean lines. When closed, the single door makes a statement, no matter what your design aesthetic is, whether mild steel (black) or brushed stainless steel. When opened but not needed, the door slides neatly out of the way underneath the ashpan but is easily pulled out to be used as a workspace. Our deluxe range incorporates double doors that are closed with turn-knobs to do away with any rattling noises.

Built-in braais

Both ranges are available in five sizes –from 800mm to 1 800mm wide, as well as bespoke sizes. Units larger than 1.2m include a second polished stainless-steel grid that is height-adjustable separately, without having to move the coal maker.

Combination built-in braais

Also available in both ranges, is an extensive range of standard combination braais – a single braai divided in wood-burning and gas sections. Available in 19 sizes and options, as well as bespoke sizes – from 1 200mm to 2 250mm wide, incorporating either a three-, four- or five-burner gas BBQ (also available without the BBQ).

Spit braais

We have three standard size spit braais available in both ranges. Included in the unit you will find a separate spit box, heavy-duty motor and a polished stainless steel spit rod.

Double-sided built-in braais

These braais give you the best of both worlds. Installed in the outer wall of your home –between the inside and outside – you can choose whether to braai indoors or outdoors.

Freestanding braais

The first to manufacture a braai with double-skinned sides to keep the outside cooler to the touch, our freestanding braais are supplied on a closed cabinet, with 2.4m flues, turbo cowl and ceiling plate. This allows the braai to be installed like a freestanding fireplace, getting rid of messy building work, and you’re able to braai within 24 hours. These braais are available in three standard sizes and can also be ordered as a combination or a spit braai.

Outdoor braais

Thermo manufactures a range of mild steel, 3CR12 and 304 stainless steel portable braais, available with or without a coal maker and dust cover.

All braais in any range and style are available in mild steel, 3CR12, 304 stainless steel or a combination of materials, i.e., a mild steel braai with a brushed stainless-steel façade.

Steel Awards 2022 Inspiring SAISC

Innovation, ingenuity and a sense of community within the steel construction industry were showcased on the evening of 13 October, when participants across the local steel value chain gathered to attend the highlight of the annual steel industry calendar.

SAISC

The SAISC Steel Awards 2022, which demonstrates excellence in the use of steel in construction, was the first in-person Steel Awards held since 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. The 2022 Awards very effectively highlighted how the local steel sector has triumphed over adversity in the past two years; as well as showcasing a

typically South African ‘can-do’ approach to the challenges endured during this time.

Steel Awards 2022 overall winner, the Benguela General Treatment

Overall winner

The SAISC Annual Awards judges were unanimous in their praise of the overall winner (also the winner of the Mining category), the floating Benguela General Treatment Plant mining facility, aboard the ‘Benguela Gem’, the world’s most advanced diamond recovery vessel.

“This project stood out in a number of different ways, and presented a first in the history of the Steel Awards: it operates off-shore, and is floating rather than being stationary and anchored, a truly distinctive applicant within the awards categories. It was designed in Norway and Poland, built in Romania and fitted out by De Beers Marine South Africa,” Gebremeskel advises.

“From the vessel arriving at the end of September 2021 with an empty deck, it sailed again in December 2021 with a fully operational mine onboard. It is an exceptional showcase of the use and applications of steel featuring South African design, fabrication and construction for an international client,” he adds.

This year’s awards introduced more categories, and consequently an increased number of winning entries, than in recent years.

“The reasoning behind this was to honour a broader spectrum of awards entrants. We wanted to cater to all possible role-players within the steel construction industry’s varied landscape”, says SAISC’s Denise Sherman.

The 2022 Steel Awards ceremony took place at Emperor’s Palace, Gauteng. According to SAISC CEO, Amanuel Gebremeske, “A number of high-quality, truly excellent projects have been showcased at this year’s annual Steel Awards, and I believe this is a testimony to our character as a nation, as well as the value which the SAISC brings to the local steel construction industry. The SAISC is one of only six steel institutes around the world, and has a long history as a ‘steel sector sage’: a custodian of technical knowledge, an educational resource and a trusted authority .”

This year’s Awards are a tribute to the much-loved former CEO, the late Paolo Trinchero, who did so much for South Africa’s steel industry.

Automotive

• Ford Package E: as part of a R3 billion investment by vehicle manufacturer Ford, an automotive assembly plant was erected in Rosslyn, Pretoria as part of the company’s high-volume export programme. The project used extensive steel supplies and comprised a 12 400m² warehouse, 14.6m in height. The project was completed ahead of schedule, despite the Covid-19 pandemic and related supply challenges.

The Steel Awards Category winners are as follows:

Agri-Industrial & Best Project Eastern Cape

• Woodridge Packhouse: this project presents an interesting form, clever use of natural light and a design which allows for natural ventilation, saving on energy costs.

Woodridge Packhouse

Ford Package E

Plant mining facility, onboard the ‘Benguela Gem’, the world’s most advanced diamond recovery vessel (aerial view)

Mining & Best Project Western Cape

• Benguela Gem Treatment Plant: this project not only won the Mining category but the 2022 Steel Awards overall (see above).

Residential and Best Project Gauteng

• House Vingos: the innovative use of steel combined with all the other elements of construction, delivers a statement piece of architecture and a warm, welcoming family home.

Sports Facilities

• KES Aquatic Centre: while retaining the heritage component of the previous swimming pool complex, the roof structure is of particular interest: an apex running diagonally across the structure, requiring meticulous attention to ensure leak proof sealing.

Community Enrichment

• Gary Kirsten Sports Centre, Khayelitsha: featuring ease of construction and sustainable materials, this structure also has the capacity to extend if need be.

Regional Awards: Other

• Best Project Limpopo, Freshmark Polokwane: the project, carried out for the Freshmark distribution centre in Polokwane, made use of particularly innovative cladding, atypical of a warehouse building, and technically challenging to achieve. The result was aesthetically pleasing, with a design element of curved bullnoses from roof to cladding.

• Best Export Project, New Biox Plant in Zimbabwe: this technically challenging structural framing project entailed detailing, fabricating and constructing a gold processing Biox plant. The primary objective thereof was to provide access to the various areas of the Biox plant and to its piping support system.

Sculptural/Architectural

• Eastgate Solar Trees: in addition to their aesthetically-pleasing design and how this cleverly reflects a renewable energy focus, the access to the site during the construction phase was challenging, making for a complicated and challenging installation process.

Light Steel Frame (LSF) Building

• Jubilee Hospital: at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the innovative use of light steel framing in this field hospital in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria, allowed for the addition of a significant number of hospital beds to increase existing capacity.

Metal Cladding and Roofing

• KES Aquatic Centre: this project won both the Metal Cladding and Roofing, and the Sports Facilities categories.

Tubular Steel & Best Project KwaZulu-Natal

• Babanango Travellers Camp: this innovative tourist accommodation is situated within the Babanango game reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal. A number of interesting technical details included reconciling complex issues regarding the use of different materials of construction and geometrical factors, to achieve the project’s architectural objective: roofing reflecting shapes used in traditional African shields.

Polokwane DC, SLT Architects

BIOX plant

Eastgate Solar Trees Jubilee Hospital

House Vingos

Cool roofs –

for the hot summer!

TYPICAL DATA AND DEEMED-TO-SATISFY THICKNESSES

As per SANS1044-XA: 2021

And, the hotter the home, the harder the air conditioner has to work. But it's more than that. Refrigerators and other cooling devices have to work harder, also, leaving you with a huge electricity bill.

Even if a house is insulated, an effort may be required to increase the cooling efficiency and energy savings in the home or office. The Bureau of Standards recently released an updated standard relating to energy efficiency in the home or other buildings. SANS10400-XA:2021 describes in detail exactly what layer of thickness of what insulation will be required to meet a deemed to satisfy thermal resistance above the ceiling. Check that yours actually complies. If it does not, the chances are it is not working.

“An ideal insulation under such conditions is Thermguard Cellulose Fibre Insulation. We offer the full service. Once you sign with us, we come and install on time as agreed and we are quick and efficient. We have thousands of highly satisfied customers; home owners, developers and builders,” says the company, Thermguard ( www. thermguard.co.za) in a press release. According to a California-based blogger, Don: "An uninsulated roof space in the summer is like an oven heating up the rest of your home from the top down. Insulation can reduce how hot it gets up there but, more importantly, it prevents heat from spreading to the rest of the house, resulting in a 20-60% energy savings."

Don should know. He lives in Sacramento, one of the hottest places in summer in California.

Description

Energy Zones

Zones 1, 2, 4, 6 & 7 3 5 5H

Minimum required Total R-value(m².K/W) 3,7 3,7 3,7 2,7

Minimum Total R-value (m².K/W) of other roof and ceiling materials 0.30 - 0.35 0.30 - 0.35 0.36 – 0.48 0.36 – 0.48

Estimated minimum added R-value of insulation(m².K/W) 3,35 3,35 3,22 2,35

Generic thermal conductivity values

Recommended thickness in mm of cellulose insulation to be used equivalent to R-value required.

Cellulose insulation type Density kg/m³ Thermal conductivity W/(m.K) mm mm mm mm

Cellulose fibre bonded 30 0.038 130 130 130 90

Cellulose fibre loose-fill 27.5 0.040 135 135 135 100

Table based on TIPSASA SANS10400-XA:2021 Thermal Insulation Guide

In addition, suggests the blog, a property owner could be making extra work for your HVAC (air conditioning) system if the building owner has non-complying insulation, or no insulation, in the following hotspot areas of the building:

Interior walls: Keeping hot air from transferring between rooms helps maintain a cooler internal temperature throughout your house — and your HVAC system won’t have to work nearly as hard to keep your house cool.

Around ductwork: If your ducts pass through a roof space or an outside wall, you’re losing precious cool air. Insulating your ductwork can help prevent this and significantly lessen the load on your HVAC unit, which equates to lower energy bills.

Garage walls: Similar to houses, uninsulated attached garages heat up like crazy in the summer — and the heat can transfer into your home through the roof space, the shared

wall or through the interleading door. While you can certainly insulate all four walls of a garage, even just insulating the wall shared with your interior living spaces can make a big difference in your home’s overall efficiency.

Windows and doors: Fixing or filling any cracks and spaces between walls and windows or door frames can prevent hot summer air from heating up your cool home oasis. You’ll also want to consider installing window seals to achieve the tightest seal possible, or with the right budget, join the swing to double glazing.

Ceiling insulation can reduce how hot it gets up there but, more importantly, it prevents heat from spreading to the rest of the house, resulting in a 20-60% energy savings. Thermguard Cellulose Fibre Ceiling Insulation is a passive form of cooling. Therefore, it works even when the national grid is off.

An uninsulated roof cavity in the summer is like "an oven heating up the rest of your home from the top down".

TIPSASA & Thermguard

Case study: Toyota Material Handling

remarkable new floor products have been developed locally and one has been used for the first time on a project, explains Sika SA in this case study.

Toyota Material Handling, forming part of CFAO Equipment South Africa in Gqeberha found that its business outgrew its facilities over the last two years. To avoid continuous off-site rentals and to facilitate further expansion caused by market demand, they opted for a new purpose-built factory that houses all departments under one roof.

Given the nature of the business and the workshop requirements, it was necessary that the new floor be hardwearing and resistant to impact, oil, and battery acid spills. To combat these and ensure the longevity of the concrete floors, they decided on a densifier product in their service bays, engineering shops, battery storage and tyre fitment department.

Recently released to the market are Sikafloor® CureHard LI, a lithium silicate liquid hardener and densifier of fresh and hardening power-trowelled or polished concrete surfaces; and Sikafloor® CureHard GL, a sealing lithium silicate based crystalline agent with high gloss finish. Sika representative, John Zehmke, provided the product and technical support to the main contractor on the project, Rand Civils.

Although easy to apply, Sikafloor® CureHard GL may only be applied by experienced professionals trained in its use. As such, they contracted Chris Howes Construction and collectively set out to protect and enhance the look of the new floor at Toyota Material Handling, which was done over a period of 10 days in July 2022.

Sikafloor® CureHard GL is a water-soluble agent used for sealing and additional curing of existing power-trowelled or polished/ grinded concrete surfaces. It improves the durability and the tightness of concrete surfaces by penetrating its texture, where it initiates a chemical reaction and subsequent crystallisation of reaction products which results in the filling of the concrete surface pores.

Acrylic dispersion fills surface pores and thus reduces the absorption of the concrete during the first days after application. The treatment also leaves a high silk gloss on the surface, thereby enhancing the appearance of concrete floors. Further advantages of the product include dust reduction, it is solventfree, odourless and treated surfaces are much easier to clean.

Prior to application of Sikafloor® CureHard GL, a mechanical scrubber, using only water, was used to softly wash the concrete floor. The floor was allowed to dry before one coat of the product was applied with a microfibre mop. Since the ideal drying time is 24 hours, this first coat was allowed to dry overnight. A second coat of the product was applied in the same manner, and again given 24 hours to dry.

Despite the difficulties of using a new product that was still in the process of being launched to the market, the professional and proper application of the product resulted in a freshly protected existing concrete floor with a beautiful light glossy finish.

When asked if they were satisfied with the product, the Toyota Material Handling GM, Neil Westraadt replied, “Yes, absolutely. Besides the great aesthetic look, we are very pleased with the new flooring!”

We are certain that all those involved in the project would agree that the floor is as proud of itself as we are of the product!

Two

The name to know for intelligently

optimised air comfort

There’s no question that Samsung air conditioners have made a huge mark on the HVAC industry, both globally and locally in South Africa. In the areas of product innovation, quality, and efficiency, coupled with long-term consumer satisfaction, Samsung has overshadowed many of its competitors during the past two decades, pioneering the evolution of digital air solutions and introducing WindFree™ technology.

Be it for commercial buildings or residential homes, it’s a no-brainer that you can’t go wrong with Samsung. Such was the thought process for HVAC contractors, Airtech Services when it took on the mammoth challenge of providing air conditioning installation assistance for a house built from scratch at Blair Atholl Golf & Equestrian Estate in Gauteng.

The house was near completion when building contractors realised, they had made the unfortunate mishap of failing to make provision for air conditioning. At that stage of construction, several AC specialists had been called on for assistance, each declaring and confirming that it was impossible to incorporate air conditioning this late due to the building design.

That was until Raymond ProutJones, Director of Airtech Services arrived. The team assessed the floorplan and with a little out-ofthe-box thinking drafted a creative multi-split design solution that would solve the problem.

Fourways Group came on board to assist Airtech by providing a fleet of quality Samsung air conditioners of varying models to suit the different interior spaces. Phase 1 of the installation was carried out in the living area. It included 2 Samsung 36000 BTU Medium Static Pressure (MSP) Ducted Inverter aircons. MSP Ducted Inverter units have compact dimensions to ensure easy fitment where space is small or limited but still provide powerful airflow and power-saving capabilities so the

Fourways Group Fourways Group

house can keep energy bills down and save money.

Phase 2 was executed in the bedrooms, study, and cinema room. This critical phase featured 2 Samsung FJM outdoor systems, Ducted Inverter units and a WindFree™ Wall-Mount unit.

• 1 Samsung 48000 BTU MSP Ducted Inverter unit for the main bedroom.

• Bedrooms 2, 3 and 4 each have the Samsung LSP Ducted Inverter 12000 BTU models. All 3 models are connected to the first FJM system.

• The second FJM system is connected to 2 LSP Ducted Inverter 12000 BTU units for the 5th bedroom and the cinema room, and the WindFree™ Wall-Mount 12000 BTU in the study.

The LSP Ducted Inverter units were selected due to their slim and compact design. They were installed to suit the various rooms, allowing them to blend in while providing powerful cooling and heating performance.

One can feel unproductive and lethargic when there’s poor indoor air quality coupled with cold drafts and loud operating noises. Airtech considered these pain points when reaching the study room thus they selected the FJM WindFree™ Wall-Mount inverter unit. WindFree™ cooling technology creates a gentle airflow that's evenly distributed through thousands of micro holes. People in the room feel almost no wind - just comfortable cool air. The low-speed WindFree™ cools the study area with less noise, so there is no disturbance.

The flexibility of an FJM system means that you can have multiple indoor units connected to a singular outdoor. It is a durable system that reduces energy consumption, saves space, and runs quietly to create a comfortable atmosphere to relax.

The Airtech team worked tirelessly to install this “out of the box” solution and did a wonderful job. The client was more than satisfied with the design, installation, and effectiveness of the systems installed. There's no question that Samsung air conditioners are among the most technologically advanced and well-built units on the market. With a wide variety of models to choose from, there's a Samsung air conditioner to suit any home.

Opinion: What you should know before investing in solar PV

As the South African government looks for solutions to the country’s electricity crisis, significant emphasis has been placed on households and businesses investing in solar panels as a way of reducing the pressure on the national power grid. This opinion article by Otto Botha, a managing director at the WACO Africa group (www.wacoafrica.co.za), spells out the installation safety issues.

WACO Africa Otto Botha

While the drive towards harnessing solar power should be supported, there are certain key regulatory and legislative considerations that homeowners must take into account before investing in solar panels, as running foul of the law could prove to be a very costly exercise.

Homeowners should be aware that the installation of solar panels is governed by the National Building Regulations, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act, and the Construction Regulations, which are three main pieces of legislation that are applicable to this process. Homeowners must understand that the installation of solar panels is deemed to be construction work, meaning that there are certain legal obligations on the contractor carrying out the work, as well as on the client – the homeowner – that must be adhered to.

As solar panels are typically installed on top of a roof, most of the installation work is undertaken at height, placing the onus on the homeowner to appoint a contractor that has the necessary competencies, training and resources to carry out this type of work safely.

Working at height

Working at height also means that the aspect of safety becomes a key consideration, with the OHS Act requiring people who work at height to be certified medically fit for this type of work. Additionally, the contractor must be able to prove that his workers have undergone the required training for working at heights and for installing solar panels, as well as ensure that safe access to the roof is provided, along with the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as safety harness attached to hook points, or lifelines. The hook points are also important considerations and while most homes do not have them, a temporary system will have to be installed by a person deemed to be ‘competent’ under the Act.

Likewise, the installation of solar panels may require the erection of some form of scaffolding, itself triggering a few requirements in terms of the relevant regulations.

This ensures that workers can get themselves and the equipment they are installing safely up and down the structure they are working on. Ordinary scaffolds are deemed to satisfy standards, which means

that they do not need an engineer to do a design or provide a drawing.

While the regulations around solar panel installation may seem daunting, noncompliance could be costly. In terms of the OHS Act, it is a legal responsibility of every employer (homeowner) to ensure the Act is complied with by every person in their employ, meaning the homeowner must ensure the contractor and all employees are compliant with applicable legislation. Failure to do this means they could be liable for fines.

Currently, changes to the OHS Act are on the cards and will provide for fines and worse penalties for various contraventions, as well as the issuing of spot fines of up to R50 000 per contravention, applicable to both the client and contractor.

Advice to homeowners

Homeowners are thus advised to use reputable contractors, who have been in business for at least two years and have a proven track record. It is important to ask for references and check that they are legitimate, and thus avoid expensive mistakes.

Shift to clean air technology:

Nature’s solution

As commercial property owners and managers look for every available competitive edge to attract and retain good tenants, great indoor air quality (IAQ) has become more than just a compelling sales point. UV-C disinfection systems are not only delivering cleaner, healthier air, but can reduce energy costs by up to 25%.

SFI Group

“South African commercial property is struggling to regain Covid losses and owners and managers are facing an almost catch-22 situation. With weak demand and oversupply, finding compelling differentiation, such as a healthier work environment, must be weighed up against the investment required to install or upgrade indoor air quality systems. However, when that investment shows itself to lower operating costs with a rapid ROI, the decision to move to UV-C is a simple one,” says Edward Hector, MD of the SFI Group

Nature’s solution delivers powerful results

The UV-C wavelength of the sun, blocked by the ozone layer, has more than twice the energy of UV-A and UV-B radiation and it is easily absorbed by organic substances, rapidly destroying molecular bonds.

UV-C can be used to safely eliminate and prevent the build up of organic material on coils, drain pans, and interior air-handling surfaces inside air conditioners. It improves airflow and can maintain and even return heat-transfer levels to ‘as-built’ capacity, delivering solid improvements on HVAC system efficiencies.

In turn, clean systems reduce odours, as well as allergens or pathogens in airstreams, improving indoor air quality (IAQ) and facilitating wellness. Being a green technology it also eliminates the chemical and mechanical (water) cleaning required for the regular cleaning of coils, helping to reduce waste disposal issues.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 30% of all commercial buildings have significant IAQ problems. In particular, ventilation systems have been implicated in the spread of infections and pollutants. In addition, WHO analysis found zoonotic outbreaks on the African continent have increased by 63% from 2012 to 2022 compared to the previous decade.

“This cleaner environment means less energy is needed to provide the necessary amount of cooling and airflow to maintain system energy efficiency. We have found that UV-C installed, even in older systems, reduces energy use by 10-25% on average. What’s more, efficient air-handling units not only save energy, they reduce carbon footprints which has a big impact when it comes to accreditation and environmental reporting ,” says Hector.

The bottom line

Green technologies, such as UV-C, have quickly demonstrated their business worth and the MSCI South Africa Green Annual Property Index shows that for 2021, green-certified offices showed a total return of 2.2% – 170bps above the non-certified offices’ return of 0.5%. What’s more, since the index’s inception six years ago, green certified offices outperformed the non-certified sample by 19.1%. The report also shows the clear link between green-certified buildings and investment performance as well as lower vacancy rates, lower operating costs, and higher net operating income.

U-values measure a cooling coil’s thermal performance within an HVAC system. The higher the value, the more efficient the operation.

“In a recent case study of an office block, we saw annual chilled water volume reduced from 28,849 to 18,507 tonnes – a reduction of 35.85 percent. Our client saw

an annual savings of R10 000 for a single coil,” Hector shares.

TO BUILD asked Hector how the system works and how it integrates with conventional HVAC systems.

“A UVGI system can be installed in new HVAC installations or retrofitted to existing systems. Dimensions of the cooling coil and the allowable space for installation are taken, and a configuration derived from a computer simulation. This simulation outputs a recommended UV-C lighting layout which ensures that even the furthest corner of the cooling coil receives a minimum irradiation intensity as recommended by ASHRAE.

“This layout determines the quantity, arrangement, and size of UV lamps to be used, and would be accompanied by lamp reflectors to increase the intensity of the UV-C light onto the cooling coil. These lamps are application-specific with a twoyear lifespan for 24/7 use, and have quartz

cases to ensure resilience to damage and UV-transparency.

“With a UVGI system installed that has been specified in this manner, AHU cooling coils are devoid of all microbial activity (as proven by swab-sample test after just a month), especially the insulating biofilm. This leads to reduced chilled water requirements, reduced energy requirements, and keeps the AHU in pristine condition. This system also affords a degree of airstream cleaning by irradiating microbes that pass by it. The energy consumption of these lamps are no more than a typical fluorescent lamp of equivalent size, and one can deem the consumption to be negligible compared to the energy saving it leads to in HVAC units.

“Safety for operators is always paramount, and safeguards are always put in place for these persons and that allow it to be integrated into building management systems (BMS) for monitoring,” Hector concludes.

Studio Steyl was established in SA in 2015, by Sarel and Natalie Steyl to design and build bespoke and custom cabinetry and furniture – with a special, personal touch.

At Studio Steyl clients are assisted from the design stage through to the finished product, ensuring a custom-built item that every client needs.

Sarel Steyl is a qualified, passionate and dedicated cabinet maker trained under the best German masters in Namibia where he was born. 32 years later he and his designer wife, Natalie, create custom pieces that are unique and beautiful.

From kitchens and built-in cabinetry to furniture and décor items, custom mirror antiquing and destressing, to gaming tables with 3D designed inlays – Studio Steyl can do it all!

Sarel is one of the only wood turners in SA specialising in large-scale turning and gives back by teaching the younger generation and hosting monthly socials for those both versed and new in the art of wood turning.

Alliance is one of South Africa’s fastest-growing brands in the air-conditioning and water-heating field. Trusted by millions for high standards of quality, reliability and value for money, Alliance products are manufactured to deliver superior performance and innovation excellence that exceed customer expectations time and time again. The Alliance range includes air conditioning systems, swimming pool heat pumps, water heat pumps and air fryers, all backed by impeccable service and customer care that have become synonymous with the name, Alliance.