FEATURES
panels were used in combination with a steel structure and fullheight glazed façades to enhance the interaction with the natural environment and promote biophilia. The sustainability measures which were applied transcend to wellness principles, with the aim of creating (Below): The entrance to the training laboratories.
Evening light reflects on the phosphorus stones embedded in the floor.
“THE CREATIVITY OF THE DESIGN LIES IN ITS FUNCTIONALITY, WITH AN IMPRESSIVE EXTERNAL ENVELOPE.”
ideal interactive learning, research and testing facilities in an openarchitecture, fully immersive, worldclass institution. ARC Architects, with Anton de Jongh at the helm and Marié Smit as lead architect on the project, was given the brief to develop a facility that could operate as both a learning and testing facility in an all-inclusive design. “The result was a facility that makes a significant impact,” says
Steyn. The creativity of the design lies in its functionality, with an impressive external envelope and meticulously designed flow patterns, reminiscent of a machine. “The University of Pretoria, together with the SA Roads Agency Ltd, the Council for Scientific & Industrial Research and York Timbers, as the stakeholders in this facility, are more than satisfied with the innovative end result,” adds Steyn.
Workstations for students.
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SOUTH AFRICAN BUILDER JULY 2021
