Issue No. 001/2014 | Ksh.300 | Tsh.5600 | Ush.8600
REVIEWING ARCHITECTURE IN KENYA AND THE REGION
Main Feature: Sustainable Design of Strathmore Business School Profile: Architect Steve Oundo Exhibition: CIBEX east Africa - 11th - 13th February 2014 Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
www.buildesign.co.ke
1
2
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
CONTENTS 05 | OPINION
Battling quacks in the profession
08 | MAIN FEATURE Green Technology - Retrofit for resilience: Strathmore Business School
14 | SPECIAL FEATURE Green Building Design Strategies in East Africa
18 | PROFILE Featured Architect - Steve Oundo
24 | WATER A smart way to all the water you need – Premier Water
28 | ADVERTORIALS GROHE SPA - Turning every bathroom into a feel-good space
30 | DID YOU KNOW? Interesting facts Petroleum Gas
about
Liquefied
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
3
Editorial Editor: Martin Tairo tairo@architecturekenya.com Editorial Wendy Kinya Assistant: wendy@architecturekenya.com Marketing Felister Mugambi Executive: felister@architecturekenya.com Layout Lawrence Odawa Design: odacitysolutions@gmail.com Photography George Ogutu geopixmedia@gmail.com Advertising: Tel: (+254)722387110 (+254)720 650898 (+254)725 075993 Publisher: Architecture Kenya Media Ltd Suite 16, 5th floor, Vision Plaza P.O.Box. 60540, 00200, Nairobi Info@architecturekenya.com Copyright:
Architecture Kenya Media Ltd
DISCLAIMER No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form or stored on a retrieval system without the permission of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors that may appear or for any consequences of using the information contained herein.
H
appy New Year! The BUILDesign
environment sectors who are major players in
through some basic sustainable design strategies
magazine team is glad that you are still
CIBEX. The BUILDesign Magazine shall have a
and we have interrogated the Strathmore
following the features and stories in
stand at the exhibition and would be at hand to
Business School’s approach to sustainable
Kenya’s leading architectural review magazine.
assist those who shall attend. See you there.
design.
We have come a long way and we have every
Towards the end of 2013, a story about an
Our featured architect is a familiar face in
one of you to thank.
‘architect’ hawking building plans in the streets
the profession, Architect Steven Oundo, who
CIBEX
East
for
of Nairobi hit the headlines. The reactions were
was AAK Chairman and who is currently the
and
varied from the public and professionals circles.
Chairman of NCA and APSEA.
Energy in Eastern and Central Africa, shall be
We have revisited this story in this issue of the
We do hope you enjoy the reading and welcome
held between 11th and 13th February 2013 at
magazine and bring to you the feelings and
you to contribute on topical issues and further
the Kenyatta International Conference Centre.
reactions of some members of the profession.
debate in the profession. Get in touch with us
This event, with over 170 exhibitors, is a must
On sustainable design, environmental design
through info@architecturekenya.com.
attend for players in the architectural and built
specialist and architect, Kimeu Musau, takes us
Construction,
4
Africa,
the
main
Infrastructure,
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
event
Building
Battling Quacks in the Profession
T
SOCIAL MEDIA TALK
he Standard Group had in December
place if other professionals in various fields
the article was not spared either and was
ran a story titled, ‘Fredrick Ochieng,
were accessible and affordable like him.”
accused of sheer ignorance and writing
Architect who hawks building plans
Another reader had this to say, “You are a
about a profession without doing proper
on the streets’.
patriotic and determined intellectual out
research.
The story was received with mixed
to demystify technology and knowledge.
Professional bodies like BORAQS and AAK
reactions.
Keep it up.” Many others left their contacts
were also blamed for laxity in dealing with
The layman viewed this man as a hero,
for the street ‘architect’ to reach them and
the issue of quacks who at the moment
congratulating him for his good work
render his services.
seem to be handling a substantial volume
in ensuring that this service reaches the
In professional social media circles for
of construction works within and outside
‘normal mwananchi’ on the streets of
architects, engineers and other consultants
the city.
Nairobi.
in the built environment, it was a different
Here below we sample some of the
One reader noted, “A great man is one who
reaction. Some reacted with rage and
reactions;
makes others great. Kenya would be a great
others with a lot of disgust. The writer of
Ngugi Mwito: It is an insult to all architects
and AAK collaboration is done. If it is to
think they can be architects.
to use the title ‘architect’ in connection with
minimize the pandemic, it needs to begin
Mwalyo Ndulu: AAK that ought to be in
this story.
with the decay in illegal building approvals
charge of building practitioners welfare
Eric Njunu: On whose behest is this
to streamlining the city planning and
should come out strong and voice their
‘architect’ plying his trade for? A wise
urban design visions. Then a Ministry led
concerns to the necessary authorities. This is
Architect recently to me that getting
distribution of Architects that would put
a clear manifestation that our architectural
projects is about lobbying, this is a clear
to shame the type of developments that
societies have lost moral authority of their
demonstration that the fight has been taken
appear in disadvantaged areas. If you fill up
existence and exposed the professional
to the gutter.
the cracks, less people will slip through to
lives of their members to ridicule. Our
Andrew Em: It’s a free market, willing buyer
create their own rules.
organization has not been sensitizing the
willing seller. Let clients get what they pay
Chad Chwiri: Doctors have The Hippocratic
public (including the journalist, the editor
for. Any professional worth the title should
Oath to fortify their profession from acts
and the media house) on who an architect
not be scared of quacks, especially when
of misdemeanor. Maybe it is time the
is and what role they play during building
relevant regulatory bodies have failed.
profession of Architecture had its equivalent
process. It will serve us good if we get
Stephen Munderu: Whoever wrote that
of the Oath. This is stooping too low, and
a balance sheet that indicates revenue,
article is naive. Ignorance is one of our
a person who can go to such heights is
expenditure and the list of resources
toughest battles. But let’s look closer into
definitely not fit to call himself/herself an
including
this
Architect.
BORAQS and AAK for us to understand their
wrong? Are we protecting the image
Mwangi Mugo: I have seen guys putting up
limitations. We also need to take an active
(glamour) of the profession or its ethics? Are
advertisements selling plans. I have raised
role in appointment of the individuals in
we protecting the society? That Frederick is
this matter with BORAQS but nothing was
both organizations and may be review the
talking about some other architect (probably
done.
mode of appointment of BORAQS executive
a registered one) making a case for perfect
Zainab Jalalkhan: We need our professional
members to a delegate conference.
defence! Anyway, I have a problem with the
bodies to protect us from quacks just as
Dennis Nganga: We need to deal with the
low fees.
doctors do. This profession must not be
quacks fast before a wholesale shop for
Michael Muriuki: There is not much to say
opened up to anyone who somehow learns
plans is opened along Biashara Street with
than a strong Nairobi County Government
how to use architectural software and they
retailers on Tom Mboya Street.
particular
scenario. What’s
really
Join the discussions on our social media handles
Architecture Kenya
human
resource
for
both
@Kenarchitect Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
5
CIBEX East Africa
CIBEX East Africa is the main Event for
largely be the
 result of investment by
industry. Availability of sufficient, reliable
Construction, Infrastucture, Building and
governments into housing, roads and civil
and affordable energy is crucial for the
Energy in Central- and Eastern Africa
works.
functioning of the economies of the East
with
international
The construction industries in Kenya,
African region.
exhibitors. The Expo will take place in the
Uganda and Tanzania are primarily driven
As a service and productive sector, energy
Kenyatta International Conference Centre
by government initiatives to eliminate
plays a catalytic role in stimulating
(KICC), Nairobi.
urban slums.
investments
Cooperation with various governments
Infrastructure is one the most critical
productivity. Energy supply and energy
will attract decision makers in the public
enablers of a successful regional integration,
access have, therefore, been integrated
sector as well as cooperation with regional
taking into account its importance in
into the EAC Development Strategy the
associations will attract many participants
facilitating
trade,
focus of which is the supply of sufficient,
from the private business sector.
agriculture, tourism and the movement of
reliable, cost effective and environmentally
About the Market
labor and/or other resources. Outlining in
friendly energy through promotion of both
The construction industry in East Africa is
greater detail the need for co-operation in
renewable and non-renewable energy
expected to expand in value to $9.3-billion
infrastructure and services within the EAC,
sources.
over the next six years as investment
the EAC Development Strategy underscores
Kenya Federation of Masterbuilders have
increases, a new research report asserts.
the importance of infrastructure, noting the
given their official support to CIBEX East
Research by global consultancy Frost &
catalytic role it plays in the functioning of
Africa 2014.
Sullivan pegs the current value of East
economies.
The Architecture Kenya Media Ltd are the
Africa’s construction industry at $6-billion,
Energy is essential in the running of daily
and notes that the expected increase will
domestic
6
approximately
170
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
activities
activities
such
and
as
operation
of
and
higher
levels
of
official media partners of CIBEX East Africa, 2014.
Welcome to the East and Central Africa´s event on Construction, Infrastructure, Building and Energy – An international trade show MadE In GERManY!
at Register noW .com ca ri af st ea www.cibex
Leading east african construction association incl.
Major east and Central african projects will be
the east africa Community, the east african Busi-
highlighted at the CIBeX COnFerenCe which
ness Council as well as the Kenyan Government,
consist Green teCHnOLOGY, saFetY On COnst-
the Kenya national Construction authority and Ke-
ruCtIOn sItes, FOrM WOrK teCHnOLOGY, CItY
nya Federation of Masterbuilders are inviting you
traFFIC & COnJuCtIOn.
to the upcoming CIBeX east africa which opens its doors on 11th February 2014! Welcome the only
new projects like tHe neW naIrOBI aIrPOrt
official German government pavilion within east
terMInaL, tHe LaPsset PrOJeCt, stanDarD
africa with about 20 companies and meet with a
GauGe raILWaY and LaMu WInD POWer will be
German investor delegation. Further european
presented by government experts.
and east africa´s leading exhibitors will speak with their counterparts about construction, energy and
REGISTER today as exhibitor or ensure your con-
infrastructure solution in nairobi.
ference entry!
PRoducT GRouPS: Building & Construction Heavy Machinery, equipment & technology Infrastructure | environment | energy
VEnuE: Kenyatta International Conference Center TRadE VISIToRS: Governments, institutions, organizations and private enterprises
11th – 13th February 2014 (annual) 10:00 am – 6:00 pm daily www.cibexeastafrica.com Our Partners:
REPUBLIC OF KENYA MINISTRY OF TRADE
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
7
Business School 8
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
The client wanted a building for the purpose of serving an overwhelming need for world-class executive training in Africa.
The need for energy conservation, in these
requirements against the need to conserve
days of scarcity of resources, cannot be
energy.
gainsaid. Ironically though, many architects, designers and developers do not give
This feat has been achieved with high lev-
proper consideration to energy efficiency
els of success at the Strathmore Business
during design of the buildings. The build-
School. The school was awarded the Best
ings orientation, massing and finishing are
Green Building Development in Africa
usually dictated by factors such as land, its
by the African Real Estate and Housing
formation and structure and the aesthetic
Finance (AREHF) academy awards in
requirements of the client.
March 2012. The awards were designed to appreciate those who have put in mea-
However, all is not lost as a middle ground
surable efforts in boosting the real estate
can always be achieved, one which
and housing finance market in the African
balances the site and client demanding
region. Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
9
| The Brief
T
he client wanted a building
rooms and breakout areas.
spill-out balcony, library completely fitted
for the purpose of serving an
The building features a dramatic Atrium.
with indoor air quality designed to meet
overwhelming need for world-
This is known as the soul of the building
LEED standards with optimum relative
class executive training in Africa. The
as everything revolves around this space.
air changes controlled using evaporative
building was required to have ultra
It is multidimensional as it can be used
cooling air units situated at the top of the
modern facilities and have the capacity to
as an auditorium, graduation court or
building.
accommodate up to 800 executives.
cinema. It has 12 tiered, breakout areas,
The building has four storeys and a
each of which can seat 10 people on
basement.
break-out mode & up to 20 on auditorium
The internal partitions in classrooms are
mode and circulation spine. It features two
flexible and can adapt depending on the
giant waterfalls and a tensile structured
teaching style and need to ensure that the
glass roof curtain wall system.
students get the maximum out of their
The building also features an auditorium,
lecturer and each other in discussion
chapel, dining area with a lounge and a
10
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
| Construction of MSB
The MSB lay out and foundations were
Another feature of the building is extensive
constructed using well shaped stone with
The windows are made of aluminium
use of natural ventilation through windows
no exterior finish. Curtain-walling was
frame and 6mm clear glass panels. They
which can be opened. The roof is a slab
carried out using 12mm clear glass. The
are set into the wall to provide further
structure with a coating of polyethene and
windows are aluminium framed fitted
shading by the walls and roof overhang.
tar, with a polished aluminium top foil
with 6mm clear glass. The entire floor is
Integration of day lighting into the building
finish to maximize the reflectivity of solar
of porcelain and ceramic tiles while the
has been achieved through use of 12mm
radiation and thus minimize heat gain on
interior is of cement and plaster finish.
clear glass curtain walling system.
the slab.
The MSB covers 4,570 square metres and
The Western faรงade of the building is
The main source of energy is electricity
has four storeys and a basement. The main
shaded by a neighbouring building while
from the national grid. The building is
building mass is oriented in the North-
the Eastern side has roof overhangs and set
also supplied by a stand by generator for
South direction presenting minimal direct
in windows which permit minimal solar
emergency loads in case of mains power
solar radiation onto the building faรงade.
radiation into the building.
cuts. Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
11
| Inspiring details
T
lighting fixtures that are close to the
storage tanks where it is treated before
he building has Building
windows when sufficient natural lighting
being pumped to the various water taps
Management Systems integrated
is available. It also disables all lighting
in the building. An estimated 90% of
into it to control the resource
in individual rooms when the motion
water needs for the building are met
utilization. User defined control-
detectors indicate that the area has been
using the harvested rain water.
programming was used to define the
vacated.
functioning of the various components
Provisions have been made for
such as motion detectors, power cards
Use of energy efficient fluorescent tube
evaporative cooling ducting in the whole
and lighting control.
lighting with electronic ballast adds to
building. The systems have however only
the host of other energy saving measures
been deployed at the basement due to
employed in the design.
the sufficient natural ventilation and high
Lighting control system is directly affected by the building envelope
indoor air quality in the other spaces in
designs. The system uses room
Rainwater from the building roof is
orientation and time of day to disable
harvested into underground water
12
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
the building
| Ground floor plan
| Cross Section
| Consultants Architect – Lexicon + Ion Quantity Surveyor – Tandem & Stark Civil/Structural Engineer – Apex Consulting Mechanical/Electrical Engineer – Asahi Consulting Main Contractor – Mavji Construction Co. Ltd Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
13
Sustainable building design strategies in East Africa | By Musau Kimeu
S
ince the mid 1980’s, towns in East
principles. The governments could give
should also put emphasis on Sustainable
Africa have seen a rise in construction
tax rebates as incentive to developers of
Architecture.
of heavily air conditioned glass
green buildings or offer cash incentives to
cladded buildings which were originally
green building developers as is the case in
In East Africa, there has been no pressure to
mostly developed in the temperate climates
Malaysia as well as enact legislation and
achieve meaningful construction of green
of the northern hemisphere, in particular
put in place policies on green building
buildings. Nearly everyone has failed
Europe and North America.
practice.
to lead in this front and what we have
These glass buildings are now proving to
The banking sector too should join in by
The region needs to pursue a systematic
be uneconomical even in Europe, and the
offering incentives in the form of lower
strategy of using sustainable building
cooling loads they generate in the tropics
interest rates to developers of green
techniques.
are ridiculously wasteful.
buildings. This will go a long way in
witnessed is sporadic individual efforts.
creating the right atmosphere to spur
In order to actively promote and implement
We must realise that the importance of
sustainable building boom in the region.
sustainable building construction in the
environmentally friendly buildings has
UN-Habitat, AAK and other like minded
region, it is important to understand
never been more central to both the
organisations should actively take a leading
what building green entails. Below is an
economic and environmental welfare of
role in educating the East African people
illustrated check-list of green building
the East Africa countries.
why building green is the only way out of
design strategies that should be included
the environmental crisis being witnessed
in any project so as to achieve sustainable
today.
or environmentally conscious buildings.
Governments should take the leading role to facilitate and encourage best environmental practice.
Selective application of a few of the Leading architectural practices in the region
strategies will not result in a green building.
should be at the forefront in designing All new government buildings should be
environmentally friendly buildings.
For prevention of heat gain and provision
environmentally friendly and should be
Architectural programs and curriculae
of cooling, apply the first nine strategies
good case studies for “green� building
in our local Schools of Architecture
14
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
your
toilets, stores, ducts etc) on the East and West
neutral) building that is capable of generating
buildings such that the long axis is along the
facing facades to act as heat buffers from
enough green energy to meet all its energy
East-West axis.
strong solar radiation.
demands during the day and at night. Here
2. Design buildings that are narrow in plan.
8. Have minimal window openings. It is
• Use of solar power harvested using
This helps to achieve maximum natural
recommended that all buildings located
transparent photovoltaic panels mounted
lighting penetration into the buildings and also
within the tropics, the East African countries
on the ground or used as roof cover and
good cross - ventilation. In situations where
included should have minimal window
hot water solar heating panels. The project’s
a narrow building plan is not achievable,
openings. Fully glazed buildings are not
outdoor walkways could be lit using solar
courtyards and atria could be used to aid in
recommended for tropical climates. If glass
powered street lights.
provision of natural lighting and.
cladded buildings are built within the tropics,
• Use of wind energy to generate electricity.
then all the glass must be fully sun-shaded
•
against direct sun shine throughout the day.
biodegradable waste generated within the
1.
Buildings
orientation:
Design
several strategies could be employed:-
3. Sun-shade all glazed areas. This should
Use
of
biogas
produced
from
the
project, especially projects in the outskirts
be realised by use of vertical and horizontal sun-shading elements, deep roof overhangs,
9. Use external finishes that are smooth and
of urban areas and rural based projects e.g.
balconies, perforated timber screens etc.
light coloured to reduce solar heat absorption
waste from farm produce and also from toilet
e.g. roof cover consisting of brilliant white
waste.
4. Use natural ventilation to provide cooling.
coloured g.c.i or aluminium-zinc sheets etc 12. Rainwater harvesting
This should be elaborately done throughout the
building
using
operable
windows,
10. Choice of materials
Rainwater should be harvested from the building roofs and its water used for cleaning, flushing toilets and watering plants etc. 13. Sanitation Use environmentally friendly toilets and sewerage system e.g. bio-digesters, oxidation ponds etc. Toilet waste from the project can be used to produce biogas for cooking and manure. Waste water from wash hand basins (WHBs) and showers can be treated and reused as grey water in flushing of toilets. Sanitary fittings that are water efficient e.g. waterless urinals taps with proximity sensors should be encouraged to reduce water consumption. 14. Solid waste management The solid waste generated within the project should be sorted out and the biodegradable waste used to produce biogas whereas the
thermal chimneys, metal/timber louvered
Your building should use locally available
fenestrations etc.
materials, with low embodied energy, with
non-biodegradable waste is recycled.
none or minimal maintenance, materials that
15. Landscaping
5. Use high thermal mass on walls (thick
are sustainably harvested, non-toxic, those
The proposed developments should be
walls). All external walls should be at least
with minimal internal pollution and damage
landscaped with well-chosen native trees and
200mm thick.
to health and those which are easy to re-cycle
shrubs etc that require minimal irrigation
or to re-use.
using portable water.
South facing walls as they receive less solar
11. Renewable energy
The author is an Architect and an environmental design expect.
radiation.
Every building should generate and use
6. Place window openings on the North and
renewable energy to power its operations. The 7. Locate building services (like lifts, lobbies,
target should be a net zero energy (carbon Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
15
16
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
17
| FEATURED ARCHITECT By Wendy Kinya
Arch. Steve Odundo Evident from his story, Steve commands an exclusive multi-tasking ability. But besides that, he is also a social capital with an outstanding credit of people’s skill.
A
rchitect Steven B. W. Oundo
its pursuit.
is a familiar name in the built
Upon
environment fraternity.
Architecture from the University of Nairobi
Architectural Association of Kenya - AAK
Born in 1971, the 42 year old architect is
in 1997, Steve sought to sell his final year
Steve was elected the Hon. Registrar of the
an epitome of what opportunities career/
project (a state of the art trade exhibition
Architects Chapter in 2001 and later as
profession can instigate for a bold and
centre)
Company
the Hon. Secretary in 2003. In 2005, he
passionate individual. He has handled
contracted, hence hiring him for the
was elected the vice chair of the chapter.
every blow of life with courage, turning
project.
In 2007, Steve was elected as the Vice
challenges into opportunities and ensuring
After working with Free Mark for 8 months,
Chair of AAK and in 2009, he became the
a breath of change in everything that comes
Steven left and joined Trioscape Architects
chairman until March 2013. He was the
to his hold.
as an assistant architect in late 1997. He sat
longest serving chairman in the history of
Arch. Steven is a born leader. Not just
for his professional exams with BORAQS in
the association.
because he falls in the premier category
1999 and was registered as an architect in
Remarkable milestones in his tenure
within the academic scope, but also
2000 becoming a corporate member with
include
because
major
AAK the same year. In 2000, Steve became
of professionals from paying for single
transformation in the built industry through
a partner at Trioscape and then a director
business permit to the local government, a
the various positions he has held up-to-
later in 2005 when Trioscape became a
regulation that was granted by the Act of
date.
limited company.
Parliament after over ten years of advocacy
But just how has Steve visualized his
Besides architectural practice, Steven has
i.e. from the year 2000 to the year 2010.
quick growth in the industry? His love
distinguished himself as a professional
Steven also advocated for the elimination of
for challenges was his magnet into
through fundamental involvement in the
financial proposals for consultants during
architecture. He was told how challenging
revolution of the construction industry. He
procurement
the career would be and that led him into
has served in senior capacities in the AAK,
regulated by the Act of Parliament. The
18
he
has
spearheaded
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
BORAQS, EAIA, AUA, CAA, APSEA and
graduating
which
with
Free
Bachelor
Mark
of
NCA just to mention but a few.
spearheading
of
the
professional
exemption
services,
| Executive courtesy
With former Speaker Kenneth Marende
With former Dep. Prime Minister, Moses Mudavadi
The AAK team led by Arch. Steven Oundo after paying a courtesy call to former president Mwai Kibaki
With former lands minister James Orengo
regulation has ensured that consultants
other issues.
the common perspective of professional
only compete on technical proposals
Following this initiative, he was nominated
fee being expensive. They managed to get
upon which contracts are awarded for
for the National Honors Award and
22 constituencies to submit their projects
consultancy services and not professional
received the Order of the Grand Warrior
before the end of last parliament. These
fees
This
(OGW) honors from H.E. The President for
projects are still ongoing.
culminated in the issuance of circular from
as
otherwise
stipulated.
distinguished service to the profession and
He was also instrumental in digitalization
PPOA in February 2012 which demanded
the nation.
of architectural and structural drawing
that professionals should not bid for less
In the chair capacity again, Steve proposed
submissions
than the minimums specified in their
to parliament to identify one project per
local
various Acts that touch on professional
constituency upon which AAK members
collaboration between the Nairobi City
fees.
would offer their professional services on
Council (presently the Nairobi City County)
During his term also, Steven organized a
probono basis with CDF meeting direct
and the AAK. Today, submissions are done
meeting of the Governing Council of the
expenses of the projects. The aim of this
online – a move that has cut out quarks and
Association with His Excellency President
proposal was to show value for consultation,
ensured that only legitimate consultants
Mwai Kibaki in October 2010 where they
quality, money and time in execution of
registered by their respective registration
discussed developmental projects among
construction projects as well as demystify
boards can submit their drawings for
for
authority.
approval He
by
spearheaded
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
the this
19
Cardinal Otunga Plaza
approval
incidences
He has also been treasurer and vice president
of collapsing of buildings occasioned
hence
reducing
of East African Institute of Architects (EAIA)
by supervision by non professionals in
and served in different capacities at the
developments.
Commonwealth Association of Architects
Another memorable event in his tenure
where he participated in the accreditation
is the Annual International Society of
of University of Nairobi and Jomo Kenyatta
Urban and Regional Planners (ISOCARP)
University of Agriculture and Technology.
Conference held at KICC in 2010. The
He is currently the chairman of the
conference attracted over 1000 participants
National Construction Authority NCA) and
from all over the world, recording the most
the Association of Professional Societies in
successful attendance in the history of
East Africa (APSEA).
ISOCARP. Steve has also been a member of the Board of Registration for Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS) serving in various capacities and chaired the Africa Union of Architects (AUA) committee on Architecture and Culture between 2008 and 2011. 20
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
‘And when he has done all these, he will study law – just for the title of the ‘learned friend’
ACK St James offices, Buruburu
| Some of his works Luna Villas, Nairobi
Trioscape Planning Services LTD
S
teve is also a practicing architect and a director of Trioscape Planning Services Ltd since 2000.
In that regard, he holds signature to several architectural projects which the firm has been involved in. We chose to look at the Cardinal Otunga Plaza which is the most notable of them all. The building sits at the intersection of Koinange and Kaunda streets, next to the bell tower of the Holy Family Minor Basilica, east of Teleposta towers with City hall on its south and Catholic Parochial Primary School on its north. The Catholic Church wanted a building that would house all the operations of the Archdiocese of Nairobi. The brief required a modern outlook of the building with a historical impression of traditional
architecture.
balancing time between office operations
The Trioscape Team responded to the brief
and public service in the many professional
by introducing Doric columns in the main
bodies he serves in without spreading
entrance facade, a classic order of the old
himself too thin.
Greek Architecture believed to convey a
Evident from his story, Steve commands the
statement of authority in the structure. They
rare multi-tasking ability. But besides that,
also mimicked the use of large horizontal
his greatest wealth is his social capital and
keys to give an impression of the traditional
networking skills where he is able to access
large stone architecture.
and knock on the doors of practically all
The project was completed in 2013. It was
the who-is-who in this country. You will
named after late Cardinal Maurice Otunga
also be right to say that he can handle
who came up with the original idea of the
pressure and still deliver. Such capacity
project in the 1970’s.
coupled with fearless pursuit of people’s
Steve has had his share of challenges in
agenda lays a firm foundation for a possible
life, the major one was losing his wife in
presidential candidate in the near future!
2010 when their last born son was barely
You never know!
a year old. Steve has however managed
And when he has done all this, he will
through the difficult times with the support
study law – just for the title of the ‘learned
of his family.
friend’
Career wise, his major challenge is
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
21
The National Construction Authority
A
bbreviated as NCA, the parastatal was established in 2012 to oversee the construction industry and coordinate development in the country. The Authority comprises of fourteen Board members drawn from the infrastructure 22
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
sector at large. They include the Chair and the Vice chair, representation of the Principal Secretary(or designated officer) from key infrastructure Ministries, representation of private institutions; the Architectural Association of Kenya(AAK), Institute of Engineers in Kenya(IEK), Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya(IQSK) and the Law Society of Kenya(LSK). The Board also consists of members from contractor associations; the Kenya Federation of Master Builders (KFMB), Roads and Civil Engineering Contractor’s Association (RACECA) and Kenya Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors(KABCEC). The Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer of the Authority also sits as an ex officio member on the Board. Under its mission, to regulate and coordinate construction industry for sustainable social and economic development, the National Construction Authority overall mandate in the industry includes: Advising and making recommendations to the Minister on matters affecting or connected with the construction industry. Undertaking or commissioning research into any matter relating to the construction industry.
»» Promoting and stimulating the development, improvement and expansion of the construction industry. »» Prescribing the qualifications or other attributes required for registration as a contractor under the Act. »» Assisting in exportation of construction services connected to the construction industry. »» Promoting and ensuring quality assurance in the construction industry. »» Initiating and maintaining a construction industry information system. »» Promoting, reviewing and co- coordinating training programmes organized by accredited training centers for skilled construction workers. »» Accrediting and registering contractors and regulating their professional undertakings. »» Accrediting and certifying skilled construction workers and construction site supervisors. »» Developing and publishing a code of conduct for the construction industry.
“The Act”
T
he National Construction Authority Act No. 41 of 2011 establishes the parastatal as a government agency
with incidental powers of a corporate body placed under the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development. It
champions
quality
assurance
management, expansion and improvement across the industry. Prior to the Act, infrastructure Ministries dealt
with
registration
of
contractors
according to their various classes of works. Notably, the Act consolidates the registration process whereby contractors of all classes of works register under one body thereby countering the various challenges and frustrations of numerous registrations with the involved Ministries. The Act illustrates the blueprint for regulation to be undertaken by NCA in execution of its mandate. According to Section 5 of the Act, the Authority in reference to its core functions is established as the body dealing with the trainings and registrations thereby
cementing its authoritative status in the
investigating officers who are endowed
construction industry.
with the powers to carry out inspection
Section 15 of the Act states that a contractor
and investigation of any offence on
shall not carry on the business of a
the construction site. This creates a
contractor unless the person is registered
monitoring tool and hence compliance to
by the Board under this Act. The section
professionalism.
also sets a heavy penalty of Kshs.
The Act also creates an Appeals Board
1 million or three years imprisonment for
in which an aggrieved contractor/person
all said persons who breach this provision.
has the right to address his/her grievance
The Act stipulates that the Authority will
by appealing against the decision of the
carry out the registration exercise twice
Board of the Authority in their inquiry
a year i.e. January/June and publish the
deliberations.
particulars of all registered contractors in
consists of a panel of three Members; an
the Kenya Gazette and the Registrar shall
Advocate from the Attorney General’s
generate the register of contractors.
office (Chairperson), nominee from the
The Act also endows the Cabinet Secretary
Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a
with the power to impose a construction
professional with technical knowledge of
levy in the industry of which funds shall
the construction industry.
vest with the Authority. It prescribes
Since its inauguration on 4th July 2012,
collection of the levy as”an amount not
the Authority has made purposeful studies
exceeding an equivalent of 0.5% of the
towards execution of its mandate with its
value of any contract whose value exceeds
priority being to register all construction
five million shillings.”
firms in the country as a prelude to
The Act provides the Board of the Authority,
regulation of their activities. Foundational
on its own volition, and members of the
steps have also been instituted to prepare
public, the ability to address any complaints
for the regulations.
or evidence of professional malpractices
Establishment of the National Construction
by contractors. After investigation and due
Authority is a triumph for the construction
dispute procedure has been undertaken, the
industry with unparalleled potential and
Board has the powers to caution, penalize,
opportunity for growth and impact in line
suspend and deregister contractors found
with Kenya Vision 2030.
The
Appeals
Board
liable. Of particular note, the Act appoints
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
23
A Smart Way To All The Water You Need Premier Water
T
ap water is a rare commodity
the client satisfaction before condemning
Mr. Kamau.
in many places in Kenya today.
it as dry.
“As a previous client and now the Sales
Availability
however
“While drilling some areas in Kenya can be
and Marketing Manager for Premier Water
remains a significant factor to consider
quite challenging, Nairobi region is full of
Solutions, I can comfortably call on Premier
when purchasing or leasing a property.
potential. Nairobi being a regional aquifer
Water Solutions to provide a complete line
Due to unreliable supply by authorities,
has no record of a dry borehole despite
of borehole drilling options professionally.
boreholes have become a popular solution
the varying quantities. It is all about the
It is not just about getting the job done,
to the water problem. This is where Premier
geology,” said Mr. Kamau.
the quality of our deliveries invite more
Water Solutions comes in.
Depending on the depth and geological
prospects while our commitment to the
Drilling a borehole starts with getting all the
formation, the actual drilling can take two
highest standards of integrity sustain
necessary approvals from Water Resources
to five days.
relationships with our clients. Premier
Management Authority (WARMA) and
Retrieving the water and storing it is the
Water Solutions is that ultimate one-stop
National
Management
next step. Premier Water Solutions offers
center,” stated Elsie Ekabten.
Authority (NEMA). The administrative team
various pumping solutions but highly
Expanding its operations in Kenya, Premier
at Premier Water Solutions is always at
recommends solar pumps due to their
Water Solutions has also drilled boreholes
hand to obtain these for you.
low maintenance costs. “The solar system
in Southern Sudan and Rwanda. “We
“All you need to give us are copies of your
has a long life expectancy of over twenty
believe in and have created liaisons
Certificate of Incorporation or ID, PIN
years and its technology ensures good
with independent experts, professional
certificate and a title deed of the property
performance even with low sunlight”, adds
associations,
you want to drill in. We can get you all
Mr. Kamau.
companies such as Tuskys Supermarkets in
the required approvals and permits in at
To control the pumping cost, water storage
Kenya that operate our Premier Water Refill
least six weeks”, says Evelyn Nyamai, an
systems are essential. Premier Water
Stations,” said Mr. Kamau. “These liaisons
Associate at Premier Water.
Solutions fabricates Steel Tanks and can
bring a pool of experts and state-of-art
With vast experience in borehole drilling,
work with the client’s preferred PVC Water
technologies that Premier Water Solutions
Premier Water Solutions is responding to
Tank if it meets Premier Standards. Steel
draws from in providing exceptional
the need of conveniently accessible and
Towers, Power/Control House cum Towers
professional services and the highest
affordable clean water.
and Water Kiosks include some of Premier
quality of clean affordable drinking water”
According to Premier Water Solutions’ CEO
Water Solutions’ products. Water Towers
he continued to explain.
Waiganjo Kamau, there is no guarantee to
are a reliable way to generate enough
the quantity or quality of water. It is possible
pressure to get the water to where one wants
to also hit a dry well but they work on to
it. “Expect exceptional workmanship,” said
24
of
water
Environmental
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
local
and
international
Premier Water Solutions is located at N. Airport Rd. Warehouses, Block D, Shreeji Rd. Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya. For more information feel free to call +254 724 238 955, +254 738 970 243 or email: info@premierwater.co.ke.
Premier Water SOLUTIONS
We Got Water! 1. Do you have an unreliable water source? 2. Do you have a shallow or contaminated borehole? 3. Do you need water for residential, commercial, school or farm use? GET A BOREHOLE.
Premier Water Solutions is the ultimate one-stop center for water related services. We provide: 1. Borehole Drilling and Rehabilitation 2. Water Tanks and Towers 3. Solar Pumps, Panels and Controls 4. Water Vending/Refill Stations 5. UV and Reverse Osmosis Purification Systems Best rates and Fast delivery. CALL US TODAY FOR A QUOTE.
Premier Water CLEARLY THE PUREST
PREMIER WATER SOLUTIONS LTD. HEAD OFFICE: N. Airport Rd. Warehouses Block D. Shreeji Rd. Embakasi, Nairobi. Web: www.premierwater.co.ke Email: info@premierwater.co.ke Tel: 0724 238 955/ 0738 970 243. Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
25
Rising Up Against Kenneth Kinyua Quacks The Kimathi Street Building Plans Hawker
T
he standard newspaper recently published an article regarding an ‘architect’ who ‘hawks building
plans on the streets’. The article, written by Pkemoi Ng’enoh caught the attention of
building
professionals,
particularly
architects who were surprised by the unprofessionalism by both the journalist and the hawker. It turns out the journalist didn’t perfectly do
‘A quack not only interferes with the architectural profession, but also endangers the lives of the buildings’ occupants through substandard structural designs’ 26
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
his research before publishing the article on a national newspaper. Pkemoi Ngenoh ludicrously used the term ‘architect’ to describe Fredrick Ochieng’, a diploma graduate who allegedly hawks the building plans on the streets. To many architects, this passed as just a humorous article on a quack using the streets to do his illicit trade. Unfortunately, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, this alone creates ripples in the building industry. The hawker attracts a substantial number of clients, who coincidentally claim that architects are too expensive to
Scene of a collapsed building in Nairobi
approach. To many people, architects are
who want to declare themselves architects
building projects.
only suitable for large building projects
simply because they can use design
Unfortunately,
usually initiated by investors and NGOs.
software.
proven to be ineffective in completely
Consequently, they opt to consult quacks
To most clients, the only way to get rid of
protecting
who
the quacks is reducing the architectural
quantity surveyors. They should therefore
architects for the ordinary wananchi’.
fees per project. To an individual who
lobby for more legislations and efficacious
Such quacks claim that they can produce
perfectly
of
enforcement strategies. A good start would
full architectural and structural drawings at
design and building, the architectural
be borrowing a leaf from the contractors
a fee not exceeding Kshs 30,000. They even
fees stipulated by BORAQS are very fair.
who oversaw the National Construction
go ahead to produce bills of quantities,
Secondly, regardless of how cheap one
Authority Act Number 41 of 2011. It
particularly to clients who need building
prices a service or product, there will
established
mortgages. What’s more surprising is the
always be cheaper, poor imitations. Quacks
Authority, a board which ensures quality
fact that these quack drawings are approved
will always be there regardless of the fees
in the building industry. Additionally, it
by local authorities. Some use credentials
requested by professional architects on
awards certificates to proficient contractors
of registered architects and engineers while
their projects. Therefore, reducing the fees
and impose charges and/fees on quack
others simply bribe the local authority
is not an option at all.
construction workers and contractors.
personnel for approvals.
The only effectual way of permanently
A quack not only interferes with the
Most architects are aware of the existence of
getting rid of quacks and preserving the
architectural profession, but also endangers
quacks. As of now however, there are very
dignity of architecture is through legislation
the lives of the buildings’ occupants
few legislations and measures which have
and enforcement. Currently, one of the
through substandard structural designs.
been taken to scrap them off. Based on the
legislations which protect architects is the
The legislation should therefore seek to
current successes of quacks, the trade may
Architects and Quantity Surveyors Act
impose heavy fines and jail sentences to
develop and flourish in the coming years.
Cap525 which stipulates the requirements
people found to be conducting illicit trades
Soon the hawkers may go off the streets
of being registered as a professional
in the pretence of being architects and/or
to open quack firms and attract corporate
architect in Kenya. Another one is the fact
structural engineers.
clients with their ‘extremely reasonable’
that local authorities are only required to
-------------------------------------
prices. Measures should be taken now to
approve building plans done by registered
weed them out and discourage people
architects before the commencement of
mask
themselves
as
‘affordable
understands
the
process
these
architects,
the
legislations engineers
National
have and
Construction
The author is a fourth year architecture student at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
27
GROHE Turning Every Bathroom Into a Feel-Good Space
GROHE SPA™ Features New Forms and Functions
T
he world of premium bathrooms
and preferences. To make the most of the
designate an additional Recreation Zone
continues to evolve. Those seeking
available space, it is recommended that the
with a reclining chair or a chaise longue.
to pamper their bodies and minds
bathroom is divided into four zones:
with varied water treatments are now
A bathroom layout providing for these zones Preparation
Zone
offered an even greater choice of options for
The
around
the
will create a personalised environment
transforming their bathroom into a personal
washbasin is used for cleansing and getting
which appeals to all the senses and delivers
spa. For an even more relaxing experience,
ready for the day.
unique experiences - right at home, around
greater well-being and pleasurable water
the clock and at any occasion.
experience all round, GROHE has added
In contrast, the Rejuvenation Zone centres
a number of exciting new products to its
on the shower which refreshes and
GROHE SPA™ range.
revitalises the body.
Flowing forms GROHE SPA™ leaves no wish unanswered
GROHE
SPA™
means
maximising
The bathtub forms the centre of the
when it comes to outfitting and accessorising
your bathroom’s potential by creating a
Relaxation Zone where people can relax
a dream bathroom. The first decision to be
carefully customised wellness oasis which
their bodies and minds.
taken relates to the design style. GROHE
can be adapted to the shape of the room and also tailored to your personal needs 28
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
SPA™ faucets and fittings come in lozenge, Space permitting, it is a good idea to
square and round design styles for all areas
of the bathroom, and many items in the
showers, waterfall spouts, shower sets
range can be combined to create stylishly
and shower systems with thermostats are
coordinated environments.
just some of the many different options
Personalised wellness treatments can be
to choose from when creating a fully
created using GROHE SPA™ F-digital
personalised shower space.
Deluxe - from Chromatherapy based on
Customised
and
highly
functional
solutions
Showering has never been this enjoyable.
coloured lighting to suit the mood of the Variety
is
also
what
GROHE
moment to Aquatherapy using steam for
Whatever look is preferred, matching
Power&Soul™ is all about. This line of
gentle skin cleansing, to Audiotherapy
GROHE SPA™ water fittings are available
showers features a convenient spray
providing musical accompaniment or
to complement any bathroom. From
pattern selector on the back of the shower
a natural sound ambiance. A docking
exposed to concealed fittings, from
face. Simply push a button to select one
station with an Apple iPod Touch 4G
single-lever mixers to two-handle faucets,
of four spray patterns or one of seven
connection permits easy control of all
from mechanical to digital controls, from
possible mixed patterns to switch from
module functions - i.e. coloured and
wall-mounted to free-standing fillers, from
a caressing to a bubbly shower, from a
dimmable LED lights, music and the
coloured to chrome-plated finishes - the
stress relieving to a massaging treatment.
intensity of steam - using the GROHE
variety offered by GROHE SPA™ allows
A highlight of German engineering is
SPA™ app.
for a totally personalised solution. This is
the GROHE Bokoma Spray™ which
true not only for the faucets but also for
projects a contracting and expanding
GROHE SPA™ is now more personalised
the showers. Hand sprays, body sprays,
circular spray pattern onto the skin for a
than ever.
overhead showers and ceiling-mounted
particularly relaxing shower experience.
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
29
Liquified Petroleum Gas
Many
architects
and
engineers
have
specified LPG in their projects; whether this could be for servicing of large residential developments from a centralized system
Did you know? •
accumulate in cellar, pits, drains etc. •
gases used as fuel in heating appliances and vehicles.
•
that it may be cold enough to cause
Our specialist columnist, Satyan Bhalla, who is also director of a leading supplier of commercial catering equipment that has been in the industry for over 40 years, is giving us some interesting facts about LPG that we may have not known. 30
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
Vaporization can cool equipment so cold burns
•
LPG forms a flammable mixture with air in concentrations of between 2% and 10%. It can therefore, be a fire and explosion hazard if stored or used
arising
from
travel back to the source of the leak. •
At very high concentrations when mixed with air, vapour is an anesthetic
LPG in liquid form can cause severe vaporization
mixtures
from the point of escape and flame can
and subsequently an asphyxiant by
cold burns to the skin owing to rapid
Gas, is a flammable mixture of hydrocarbon
Vapour/air
leakages may be ignited some distance
LPG is approximately twice as heavy to the lowest possible level and may
projects that have massive use of LPG in LPG, also known as Liquified Petroleum
•
as air when in gas form and will fall
or most commonly in hotel and hospitality their operations.
incorrectly.
diluting the available oxygen. •
A vessel that has contained LPG in nominally empty but may still contain LPG
vapour
and
be
potentially
dangerous. Therefore, treat all LPG vessels as if they were full.
Speed Drive
CONTROL
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014
31
32
Buildesign Magazine | January 2014