To Build - Issue 17 - March 2016 - June 20106

To Build Handbook

Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior Décor

COP21 Tintswalo ‘Phoenix’ rises from the ashes Beyond the braai Imagined in concrete

issue 17 | March 2016 - June 2016

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foreword Traditionally, at the time of writing this piece, I would have begun with New Year greetings for the year ahead. However, by the time you read this we will be well into 2016. That said, I hope your year already has a solid foundation to build on (in build speak). I think that TO BUILD’S first issue for the year is a good time and place for new perspectives, and to build appropriate awareness about the Council for the Built Environment (CBE) and its activities for our colleagues in the built environment.

The core business of the CBE is highly regulatory in nature, promulgating the CBE Act 43 of 2000. In keeping with the political, social and economic landscape of South Africa, the CBE aims for transformation to permeate all of its programmes to correctly reflect the demographics of the country.

It works directly with the professional councils to promote the registration of professionals in the built environment sector. Like with all other sectors, professional registration enhances the integrity of the sector.

In the arena of education and training, the CBE aims to make a difference from as early as high school with a Maths and Science support programme to improve performance in these gateway subjects to careers in the built environment.

There are workplace training programmes for tertiary interns to complete their qualification, and for candidates preparing for professional registration. The CBE also plays a watchdog role in the accreditation of built environment institutions and courses. For the public, the CBE is an ‘ombudsman’ for anyone aggrieved with a decision of any of the professional councils.

In keeping with the motto of ‘for a better built environment’, the CBE continuously undertakes research to improve and enhance the built environment and provide informed positions to Government on critical areas of interest. Forging partnerships and collaborations with other countries is also undertaken to make the sector credible and well regulated within the continent and beyond.

Here’s to progress in the built environment, one brick at a time.

Warm regards Isaac Nkosi Chairperson: Council for the Built Environment

www.tobuild.co.za

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PUBLISHER

MEDIA XPOSE Excellence in exposure Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior Décor

/tobuildpublication

www.tobuild.co.za

Tel: +27 21 424 3625 | Fax: +27 86 516 7277 PO Box 15165, Vlaeberg, 8018 EDITOR Gareth Griffiths editor@tobuild.co.za SUB EDITOR Emma Dawson emma@ediwrite.co.za PROJECT MANAGER Elroy van Heerden elroy@tobuild.co.za

To Build Handbook

Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior Décor

COP21 Tintswalo ‘Phoenix’ rises from the ashes Beyond the braai Imagined in concrete

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Adv Bryan Hack Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty Daniel van der Merwe Gareth Griffiths Imaging Irina Mink (Photo) Prof. John Smallwood Simon Berry Tamara Oberholster Tintswalo Atlantic / Kirsty Coetzee DESIGN & LAYOUT CDC Design carla@cdcdesign.co.za SALES MANAGER Sarina Afonso sarina@mediaxpose.co.za

issue 17 | March 2016 - June 2016

ADVERTISING SALES Rene van Heerden rene@tobuild.co.za Mercia Fürnsinn mercia@tobuild.co.za

Issue 17 • Mar 2016 - Jun 2016

CONTENT MANAGER Melanie Taylor artwork@mediaxpose.co.za FINANCIAL DIRECTOR Shaun Mays shaun@mediaxpose.co.za

COVER ART: MITEK

ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT Melany Smith accounts1@mediaxpose.co.za DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Janine Mays distribution@mediaxpose.co.za

PRINTED BY Paarl Media Paarl www.paarlmedia.co.za 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.

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contents issue17 March 2016-June 2016

Foreword Editor’s Note Cover Story: MiTek Lead Story News & Views Editor’s Choice Out & About Student Designs Notes Page Advertisers’ Index

2 10 12 18, 19, 20, 21 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 30, 31 152, 153 154, 155 156 158

DIVISIONS Professions

Architects Construction & Contractors Construction Health & Safety Designers Interior & Exterior Developers Engineering Landscaping Legal Opinion

34 38 44 47 49 55 57 59 61

Building Systems Automation Bathrooms Ceilings & Partitions Electrical Floors

65 66 78 80 82

Kitchens Roofing Lighting Doors & Windows Walls & Cladding

85 91 93 95 97

Materials Adhesives Bricks & Paving Cement & Concrete Insulation Timber & Decking Coatings

103 106 109 112 114 118

Services Air Conditioning Furniture Ground Engineering Plumbing & Reticulation

121 123 124 129

Green Building Green Designs COP21 Biomass Energy Cost Effective Green HVAC Heritage Architecture Recycling

132 135 138 140 144 146 149

28 19 6

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contents issue17 March 2016-June 2016

MiTek Top-Hat profiles ...................................12 September for Safety – Safetember ..........17 Tintswalo ‘Phoenix’ rises from the ashes ...............................................18 News & Views ........................................22 – 28 Editor’s Choice ......................................31 – 31 Thomashoff + Partner Architects ................34 AfriSam-SAIA Awards ....................................37 Cycling to site – Qhubeka ...........................38 Concrete elements – Western Cape ........41 Leading H&S professional speaks tough .................................................44 18 Years of project excellence ...................47 Pan-African investment strategy ................49 ADvTECH School for Modderfontein .........51 Redevelopment in Bryanston .....................53 Using the cloud..............................................55 Double solution..............................................57 A word on arbitration ...................................59 Business interruption a chief threat ............61 Home automation ........................................65 Trust is the new X-Factor ...............................66 The oasis that is your bathroom ..................68 Prestigious project supports water saving ..................................................71 Vandalism-proof public sanitary room equipment ...........................................74 Long lasting local solutions for local buildings ..........................................78 Power plant modular production ..............80 The latest tile trends for 2016 .......................82

Commentary from KSA ................................85 Beyond the braai – building an outdoor kitchen.......................................88 Cooler roofs for a greener future................91 Italy sheds light...............................................93 No longer a fad .............................................95 Smart products at a good price ................97 Following designs by nature........................99 Rising to the African challenge ................103 New Swellendam primary school ............106 Imagined in concrete ................................109 Insulation for multi-residence development schemes and retrofits...........................................................112 Global certification for timber treatment .....................................................114 One-component mortar and adhesive primer ..........................................118 Fixing leaks the easy way ..........................121 Unique business spaces and designs ......123 Sinking foundations .....................................124 Creating confidence by adhering to standards .................................................129 First for EDGE in SA.......................................132 Chartered professions at COP21..............135 Biomass plant launches in Cape..............138 Green buildings not expensive .................140 Getting students into hot water! ..............144 Heritage building makeover .....................146 Plastics industry good for green................149

34 93 8

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ed’s letter Welcome to TO BUILD’S 17th edition, which focuses on a special ‘bring it home’ theme.

Against a background of the need to do business differently in South Africa to mitigate the effects of climate change and financial pressures caused by a depreciating currency, we asked readers and advertisers to tell us about their distinctive design concepts, products and services that they have introduced to meet these challenges for business and the built environment as we know it.

We’ve had an interesting response from our contributors, including many local solutions for local conditions, and suggestions for keeping equipment in service by fixing what is broken – rather than replacing it – as well as retrofitting and refurbishing, and doing things differently to achieve economy of scale. Steven Covey called it the 3rd Way. When people from different jobs get together to tackle problems imaginatively and with commitment to a new approach.

From where we stand in the first quarter of 2016, it seems set to be a challenging year. Let us hope that we can rise to the challenge by thinking differently as South Africans and by realising we are all in this together.

Regards Gareth Griffiths editor@tobuild.co.za www.tobuild.co.za

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COVER STORY MITEK

MiTek Top-Hat profiles TO BUILD is proud to have MiTek as its front cover advertiser for this edition. Being a front cover advertiser gives suppliers a big voice in the market and the esteem of its customers, allowing the effective communication of products or services.

About MiTek With a Gauteng manufacturing facility and regional offices in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Durban, MiTek is well placed to supply the building industry with the wide range of timber connectors for both roof truss manufacturers and hardware merchants. The company excels in three areas: integrated software packages, fully-designed builders’ products that are manufactured in accordance with Dekra ISO9001:2008 certification specifications, and its people. It is noteworthy to mention that many MiTek employees have been with the company for more than 25 years.

The chosen product profile for TO BUILD covers the advantages of utilising the company’s high-performing MiTek Top-Hat profiles.

USBAT – 20mm Top Hat profile Usage: As ceiling brandering (max 1 400mm truss spacing), or as tile battens (max 830mm truss spacing).

Advantages/benefits: Although the discounted price is still higher than the timber equivalent of 38x38 (Gr5) – there are numerous additional advantages: • Lighter on transport and less in volume (1m3 = 8 333m vs timber 38x38 = 692m) = transport cost reduction per metre of product – approximately 50% saving.

• Less wastage – approximately 5% saving (minimum).

• Storage space saving – approximately 60% saving.

• Labour saving in loading/offloading time – approximately 60%.

USP0.5G – 40mm Top-Hat profile Usage: As purlin, diagonal brace, runner, or tilting fillet (tiled roofs), (max 1 400mm truss spacing).

Advantages/benefits: • The discounted price competes with the timber equivalent of 50x76 (Gr5).

• Lighter on transport and less in volume (1m3 = 2 493m vs timber 50x76 = 263m) = transport cost reduction per metre of product – approximately 50% saving.

• Less wastage – approximately 5% saving (minimum).

• Storage space saving – approximately 60% saving.

• Labour saving in loading/offloading time – approximately 60%.

• Suitable for truss spacing of 1 400mm c/c for sheeting = increase in truss spacing of 16%.

• Simplified and faster fixing to timber truss – no purlin clips required (this is an important aspect to consider when comparing steel purlin with roofzip screw vs timber purlin with purlin clip and drive screw – the provided price has taken all this into account).

Specifications and Guidelines

Usage: As a runner, diagonal brace (with limitations), or as tile battens (max 1 100mm truss spacing).

Guidelines for the applications of the three Top-Hat profiles are highlighted on the following pages. Note that these only apply to the company’s own branded products and are not generic guidelines.

Advantages/benefits: • The discounted price competes with the timber equivalent of 38x76 (Gr5).

• Lighter on transport and less in volume

MiTek South Africa T +27 (0) 11 237 8700 E marketing@mitek.co.za W www.mitek.co.za

USBAT25G – 25mm Top-Hat profile

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(1m3 = 3 996m vs timber 38x76 = 346m) = transport cost reduction per metre of product – approximately 50% saving.

• Less wastage – approximately 5% saving (minimum).

• Storage space saving – approximately 60% saving.

• Labour saving in loading/offloading time – approximately 60%.

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MITEK COVER STORY

Engineering Guidelines for MiTek Top Hat Profiles Product: 20mm Top-Hat Available only from MiTek

Application as:

Code: USBAT

Tile batten (max 830mm truss spacing)

Fixing to: • Timber

1. For pitch 20° or less 1 x Permfix 35mm on top flange.

At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Permfix 35mm at top and bottom flange.

2. For pitch over 20° 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Permfix 35mm at top and bottom flange.

3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

• Steel

1. For pitch 20° or less 1 x Tek 8x13 on top flange. At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Tek 8x13 at top and bottom flange.

2. For pitch over 20° 1 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange. At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Tek 8x13 at top and bottom flange.

3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

Application as:

Ceiling brandering (max 1 400mm truss spacing)

Fixing to: • Timber

• Steel

1. Always 1 x Permfix 35mm on both flanges 2. Splices – see tile batten application.

1. Always 1 x Tek 8x13 on both flanges.

2. Splices – see tile batten application.

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COVER STORY MITEK

Engineering Guidelines for MiTek Top Hat Profiles Product: 25mm Top-Hat Available only from MiTek

Application as:

Code: USBAT25

Tile batten (max 830mm truss spacing)

Fixing to: • Timber

• Steel

Application as:

1. For pitch 20° or less 1 x Permfix 35mm on top flange. At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Permfix 35mm at top and bottom flange.

2. For pitch over 20° 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Permfix 35mm at top and bottom flange.

3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

1. For Pitch 20° or less 1 x Tek 8x13 on top flange. At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Tek 8x13 at top and bottom flange.

2. For pitch over 20° 1 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange. At eaves, gable and apex 1 x Tek 8x13 at top and bottom flange.

3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

Runner (on web or Bot Chord on truss spacing max 1 400mm c/c – not to be used with bracing frames)

Fixing to: • Timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.

2. Splices – see tile batten application.

• Steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.

2. Splices – see tile batten application.

Application as:

Web cross-bracing (on web runners at max truss spacing of 830mm c/c – not to be used with bracing frames)

Fixing to: • Timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.

2. Splices – see tile batten application.

• Steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.

2. Splices – see tile batten application.

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MITEK COVER STORY

Engineering Guidelines for MiTek Top Hat Profiles Product: 40mm Top-Hat Available only from MiTek

Application as:

Code: USP0.5

Tilting fillet (on tiled roofs with 20mm or 25mm tile battens – see relevant max truss spacing for tile battens)

Fixing to: • Timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.

2. Splices – see Purlin application.

• Steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.

2. Splices – see Purlin application.

Application as:

Purlin (on sheeted roofs or metal tile roofs – max truss spacing 1 400mm c/c)

Fixing to: • Timber • Steel

Application as:

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.

2. At eaves, gables and apex – always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges (plus additional brace strap) * (*) only required in high-wind load category.

3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 12x20 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.

2. At eaves and gables – always 2 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.

3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Tek 12x20 on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 12x20 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

Runner or diagonal brace (on all roofs – max truss spacing 1 400mm c/c)

Fixing to: • Timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.

2. Splices – see Purlin application.

• Steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.

2. Splices – see Purlin application.

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FEM ADVERTORIAL

SEPTEMBER for SAFETY SAFETEMBER The 2014 safety statistics recently released by the Federated Mutual Assurance Company (FEM) have revealed a shocking surge in motor vehicle accident (MVA) fatalities in the construction sector, to 48% of the total fatalities for the sector.

“This figure is a shock for the construction industry as a whole,” said FEM MD Thelma Pugh. “And most, if not all, of these so called ‘accidents’ are avoidable.”

“In view of the staggering nature of these figures, FEM and their partners have initiated an awareness programme designed to encourage organisations to enhance their drivers’ skills and to create a culture of road safety to ensure that their workers and all those who drive vehicles remain safe on our roads,” continued Pugh.

A team, comprising top management from FEM, health and safety specialists from the South African Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors and Master Builders Association, is working in close collaboration on the development of this programme.

“It is the combined intention, through this programme, to encourage organisations to take construction health and safety awareness – with particular emphasis on defensive driver training – to a new level and to keep it there, thereby significantly reducing these events over the next 24 months, if not sooner,” said Pugh.

It is generally acknowledged by those active in the construction sector that many MVA fatalities are as a result of workers being transported, often to and from the construction or work-site, on open trucks or

bakkies which then become involved in accidents.

Other driver-related aspects to be addressed through the programme will include substance abuse; sharing of information; sub-contractor safety; driving habits and advisories; and elimination of cell phone usage when driving – texting in particular – to name a few.

The programme, dubbed “Safetember”, will be communicated across a wide range of media, functions and events, and will hinge around encouraging organisations to use driver training and awareness. Captains of the industry and exemplary companies will also be invited to publicly pledge their support and commitment to the programme.

Development of Safetember is presently in its embryonic state, and will be communicated at the MBSA Congress in September this year.

Should you have meaningful suggestions to share with the development team you are encouraged to email Isobel Devane at FEM: IsobelDe@fema.co.za

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LEAD STORY TINTSWALO REBUILD

Tintswalo ‘Phoenix’ rises from the ashes With flames dropping down the western side of the Silvermine section of the Table Mountain National Park ‘like a 10km wave of lava’ into the residential areas of Noordhoek, Chapman’s Peak and Hout Bay residents at the Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge were evacuated at 03:00 in the early hours of March 2, 2015*.

Their evacuation was just in time because by daylight the lodge was burned. At a distance of 900m down from Chapman’s Peak, and on a steep incline with limited manoeuvrability, fighting this aspect of the fire was a serious challenge for Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services (CTFRS) personnel, who were supported by a National Sea Rescue Institute vessel from the ocean. One of the experienced firefighters, Frank Forbay, received severe injuries to his hands and face by an exploding LPG canister near the galley while he struggled to keep the fire at bay. He was forced to avoid the inferno by climbing into a Jacuzzi.

slopes were not to be touched. Therefore, the lodge was built around the milkwoods, and under them in some instances. Master timber builder, Keith Rudd concurs: ‘There were many instances where the architectural drawings that formed the plans for the original lodge were inaccurate. As the builder, I often had to resort to on-site solutions by changing plans to cater for branches of trees that could not be cut, roofs that were too high, and walls that were inadvertently planned in the way of a tree.’

Ryno adds: ‘The old lodge, completed in 2008, was chic but had loads of character. However, the new

Photo by: Irina Mink, friend of Tintswalo

The fire’s aftermath

Before Tintswalo Atlantic General Manager, Ryno du Rand, speaks passionately about the building of the original lodge. ‘The lodge was built on property leased from the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), which means that permissions and environmental approvals had to come from that body and from the civic authorities. When the original lodge was built it was mandatory that minimal disruption occurred to the indigenous vegetation, and the highly-threatened species of milkwood trees that were growing on the

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lodge is uber-chic in my opinion. We have amazing guests who kept supporting us despite our closure during the restoration.’

Ryno explained the events following the night before and morning of the fire which consumed the main part of the Lodge. ‘Guests were evacuated once we realised that the lodge was in the path of the fire. We are a timber frame – very few bricks and little mortar – so highly threatened by fire,’ he admits. ‘The CTFRS people were amazing. Supported by water-bombing helicopters, they were able to prevent the fire from

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TINTSWALO REBUILD LEAD STORY

Photos by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

consuming the entire lodge. We lost the main part of the lodge, but the three front accommodation units on the Hout Bay side and the Presidential Suite were saved from the flames. However, they were damaged by heat and smoke.’ He explains that because of the lodge’s stilts, the fire spread to these units by burning the vegetation beneath the wooden floors.

Tintswalo Atlantic is a boutique 5-star accommodation establishment that offers 10 freestanding rooms for two people, and one Presidential Suit that accommodates four people in style. It stretches along a fragile section of Atlantic coast across the bay from the Hout Bay Sentinel, and nestles some 100m beneath Chapman’s Peak Drive.

In an excerpt from her blog some weeks after the fire, Gaye Corbett, Owner of Tinstswalo Lodges wrote: ‘We received final confirmation that our three-hundredyear old milkwood trees were dead and, for safety reasons, had to be removed. This was a huge blow as they not only provided the lodge with welcome shade but also gave a wonderful atmosphere of being tucked right into the forest. However, we do have to look for the bright side of any situation and, in this case, it is that we will now be able to build a little quicker as we do not have to plan around the trees. It will give us a bit more space, and we will just have to find another way to provide that peaceful shade that we used to have from the afternoon sun.’

What is remarkable about the rebuild of the lodge is the short time in which it was done – five months if you take into account that the first month was used to get preparation and reports completed. But also

remarkable because of the helpfulness of many Hout Bay locals and other Capetonians. This included a generous donation of indigenous trees.

The Tintswalo Property Group is fortunate to have the services of both a professional quantity surveyor and architect on its executive team. These, together with the personal interest and energy of their CFO and Co-Founder, Gaye Corbett, gave impetus to the rebuild.

Keith Rudd, a timber frame builder with many years’ experience had built the original lodge. Shortly after handing over the lodge in 2008, Keith and his wife, Rosemary, retired to the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal where, unsurprisingly, he built their new home. Following the fire, the owners of the Tintswalo Atlantic were unanimous in their resolve to replicate the original lodge as closely as possible, while taking the opportunity to make the main building slightly bigger following the sad demise of the milkwood trees. So, they approached Rudd and by April he was out of retirement and on site.

At this stage the site had been completely cleaned and bulldozed to one-foot deep to ensure that traces of the products of the fire and the odours were removed. Rudd was able to find six of his original team – local people from the Masipumelele township near Fish Hoek – and a team of six timber-frame carpenters (from KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga) who previously worked for him. They were brought to Cape Town and housed in temporary accommodation on site. ‘We worked long days and over the weekends to finish the job,’ Keith says. Indeed, the construction was completed by September 30.

Photos by

Larger deck area and closer to sea.

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Photos by

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LEAD STORY TINTSWALO REBUILD ‘Oriented strand board sourced from sustainable forests was extensively used in the rebuild to brace and sheath the timber frame structure, to build the sub floors, and sheath the roof structure,’ Keith explains. Fabrication was all done on site, with the raw materials being carried down a 900m steep and narrow slope by hand from a short-wheel-base truck in the parking area above. Outdoor cladding was fashioned from fibre cement weather board.

The new lodge’s main building was raised up by close to 1m above its original floor, and new retaining walls and gabion work was built to help hold back the sea and stabilise the stony beach shoreline where it laps underneath the main deck structure.

Replanting

recreate what we had, due to the uniqueness of each of the old pieces. However we have aimed to retain the same atmosphere, while trying to bring in new elements too. Returning guests will see similarities as well as some refreshing changes, like the wonderful new fabrics. We felt the pressure to recreate the (same) space, as there was an expectation from our supporters who loved the former Tintswalo Atlantic very much’. A significant feature is the reclaimed wood from the dead milkwood trees, which has been repurposed to create pieces of the lodge’s interior. ‘We were introduced to artists Craig and Grant, from Forrest Creations, who did the work’, says Gaye Corbett. * Source: ‘The Cape Aflame – Cape Town’s Dance with Fire’ – SA Media Services, 2015.

The relandscaping saw 750 indigenous trees donated

by Just Trees (www.justtrees.co.za) and replanted on the site. New milkwood trees were planted to replace those that had perished.

Miraculously, there has been a rebirth of certain of the burned milkwood trees, which are showing green foliage on charred branches.

Interior The redesign of the lodge’s interior was by a team consisting of Tintswalo Lodges co-owners, Gaye Corbett and Lisa Goosen, and also original designer Caroline Wright, from Spatial Concepts. ‘It was impossible to

Burned milkwoods regenerating

Photos by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

New decor but reminiscent of the ‘old lodge’. The bar counter in the background is made from reclaimed milkwood timber.

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TINTSWALO REBUILD LEAD STORY

Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge: The place

Photo by: David GE Smith

Perched above a pebbled beach at the foot of Chapman’s Peak, and overlooking the Cape’s iconic Sentinel mountain, Tintswalo Atlantic sits sheltered by the Table Mountain National Park. As the only hotel permitted to operate within the boundaries of this word-renowned National Heritage Site, the lodge enjoys the very best of magnificent, panoramic ocean views and access to the natural beauty found along the mountainside’s winding hiking trails.

Luxury rooms for guests

With ten beautifully-appointed suites and one regal Presidential Suite – all of which have been freshly refurbished from floor to ceiling – the lodge offers the luxuries of a world-class hotel, with personalised service and attention to detail. Managed by dedicated staff, Tintswalo Atlantic offers guests nothing less than true Tintswalo hospitality from the moment visitors arrive at this seaside paradise.

While guests may never want to leave, a voyage out to the quaint Hout Bay village market is well worth the time for a sampling of typical Western Cape ethnicity. No less exciting is a picturesque drive to the nearby Cape Winelands for an unforgettable wine-tasting adventure, completed by platters of rich cheeses and fresh fruit.

With the vibrant city of Cape Town just a short and scenic drive away, guests can also embark on a suburban adventure into the heart of one of South Africa’s most exciting and eclectic cultures. However, for those who’d prefer to remain immersed in the lap of luxury, Tintswalo Atlantic makes for the perfect setting to while away time and stress, with nothing but the rolling ocean, delicious food, impeccable service and perhaps a good book.

Although, it has been said on more than one occasion that the unrivalled ocean views make it quite impossible to read anything, being surrounded by so much beauty just begging to be taken in!

Delicious food and impeccable service

Enjoy sundowners on the deck beside the heated saltwater pool, and glean cooking tips from the charming Executive Chef, who prepares decadent meals in the state-of-the-art, open-plan interactive kitchen. Paired with local wines sourced from nearby vineyards, dining at Tintswalo Atlantic is a special occasion in itself.

Nature-lovers will be equally delighted to find themselves of the doorstep of one of South Africa’s most biologically rich locations, the Table Mountain National Park. Home to the world’s rarest and most beautiful fynbos, the hiking trails are a treat for avid botanists and a photographer’s dream.

Having been described as the most dramatic and romantic destination in Southern Africa, Tintswalo Atlantic promises to remain an idyllic location to rejuvenate oneself, away from the stresses and distractions of modern living.

Tintswalo Atlantic Chapman’s Peak Drive T +27 (0) 21 201 0025 T +27 (0)11 300 8888 E Res3@tintswalo.com W www.tintswalo.com issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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FROM THE TRADE NEWS & VIEWS

Consequences for construction contracts The Minister of Public Works recently published, for public comment, proposed amendments to the Regulations of the Construction Industry Development Board Act. If promulgated, these could potentially have significant consequences for the South African construction industry.

Sonia de Vries, a Director in the Construction & Engineering Practice at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr law firm, says that the proposed amendments appear to be addressing a criticism of the industry in respect of perceived funding by the contractor (and subcontractors) of the employer’s construction project. This funding would take place because of inhibited cash flow between them as a consequence of disputes or if the contractor’s payment was conditional upon the employer being paid.

‘The proposed amendments prohibit these “pay-whenpaid” provisions and contemplate a speedy resolution of any dispute that, if otherwise left unresolved, may see contractors (and subcontractors) financing construction projects by not having been paid for work done whilst the dispute resolution is underway,’ she notes.

The construction industry is still largely governed by the common law principles of contract law, which gives one the right to freedom of contract. However, de Vries notes that the proposal is significant in effect and consequence, as the ability to freely contract could be curtailed and parties exposed to a potentially unrealistic and unworkable adjudication process. ‘In principle, the objective of the proposed amendments appears to be beneficial for the construction industry,’ she concludes.

Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr T +27 (0) 11 562 1892 E sonia.devries@dlacdh.com

Dates for Decorex Cape Town

A comprehensive showcase of the latest décor and design trends, products and services kicks off on April 29 and runs for four days, until May 2, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Follow the event on Facebook at Decorex SA. In keeping with its theme, ‘Take it Home, Make it Home’, the Cape Town exhibition promises visitors infinite ideas and inspiration for their interior and exterior spaces. Covering every aspect of the home and offering the ultimate shopping experience, this year’s theme taps into the very latest global design and décor trends. Providing everything the homeowner needs to renovate, restore, build or decorate a home, Decorex Cape Town will be a one-stop shop for all things house, be it requirements for DIY or decorating, for building or furnishing, for creating a state-of-the-art kitchen or a blissful bathroom.

Photo by: Plascon

The Cape Town component of SA’s leading décor, design and lifestyle exhibition once again promises to be the destination of choice for those intent on turning a house into a home.

New to the show will be the Décor & DIY Theatre offering a series of talks and interactive advicesharing platforms that will arm visitors with a complete arsenal of fresh decorating know-how.

A trade-focused day will take place on April 29, 2016.

Decorex E decorexsa@ThebeReed.co.za W www.decorex.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE TRADE

Photo by: Den Braven

The new signage

Sealants supplier talks big Den Braven Acryl-W – bigger than ever on a bold road sign.

Internationally renowned Den Braven Sealants, supplier of sealants and adhesives throughout sub-Saharan Africa, has ‘gone big’ with its new office signage.

Taking advantage of its head office facing the busy N1 Western bypass and Malibongwe Drive in Johannesburg, Den Braven decided to make a statement by erecting a six-meter high replica of an Acryl-W

cartridge, one of its top selling products, on the front of the building. The same size PU expansion foam canister greets visitors who arrive at the office from Joyce Street in Randburg.

Den Braven W www.denbraven.co.za

Critical problems with certification The South African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association (SAPPMA) has warned members that it is currently experiencing critical problems with the SABS in terms of product certification – a situation that could impact the certification of plastic pipes in the short to medium term.

According to Jan Venter, Chief Executive Officer of SAPPMA, many of the root causes of the current problems with the SABS in terms of product certification have been pointed out to the SABS over the years.

‘It is our vision to create absolute quality, trust and integrity throughout the value chain of the Southern African plastics pipe industry. To this end, SAPPMA has been interacting with the SABS for many years in terms of standards and product quality, and as part of a joint effort to weed out inferior quality plastic piping systems,’ Venter notes.

According to SAPPMA there has been growing concerns over certain procedures followed in the SABS certification process. These issues were discussed recently at an open meeting that was held between SAPPMA members and the SABS, during which specific concerns were raised and

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recommendations made to alleviate the certification problems in the short and medium term. However, the situation has deteriorated in recent months and has now reached a point where it could be potentially crippling to this industry.

‘We refuse to compromise on quality or lower our standards and we wish to assure pipe users that the SAPPMA mark of approval is still valid and now more relevant than ever before. In addition, SAPPMA is investigating alternative solutions to the current problems and will keep the market informed,’ Venter concludes.

SAPPMA W www.sappma.co.za

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FROM THE TRADE NEWS & VIEWS

Green building conference Great minds set to gather at the 10th annual Green Building Conference in Tshwane.

South Africa’s capital, the City of Tshwane, will be the site of national and international knowledge sharing when it hosts the 10th annual Green Building Conference from June 1 to 2, 2016. The focus at Green Building16 will be on leap-frogging straight to the latest thinking, innovations, and technologies, enabling built environment designers to imagine and construct higher performing healthier buildings now and into the future.

The longest running conference of its kind in South Africa, the Green Building Conference forms part of Sustainability Week 2016, a platform where authorities from across the continent and beyond, together with private sector investors, business operators, professionals, and researchers, examine their respective areas from a sustainability perspective, whether economic, social or environmental, and exchange ideas on how to improve and encourage sustainable development among cities.

‘Promoting self-sufficiency, as the challenge to supply electricity, water, and waste services in cities grows daily, is a key strategy to building resilience and ensuring low-cost futures for citizens. We need to reimagine how our human settlements are planned, designed, and managed,’ says Llewellyn van Wyk, chairperson of the Green Building Conference, and Principal Researcher in Building Science and Technology at the Council for Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR).

Green Building Conference and Sustainability Week W www.sustainabilityweek.co.za

Registration for the Green Building Conference and Sustainability Week is open. Register online.

Dates: Registration at event from May 31 and conference from 1 to June 2, 2016 Venue: CSIR International Convention Centre

Cape Town city transfers more than 14 200 title deeds The City of Cape Town is rapidly eradicating the backlog that exists with title deed transfers linked to older housing projects. More than half of the approximately 25 000 historic title deeds that were identified for transfer in 2012 have been completed.

The City will now be intensifying its efforts to address the remaining 10 000 transfers.

Because these transfers relate to older housing projects, the process is made more difficult because each case has to be addressed individually. It could also involve a combination of factors that have prevented beneficiaries from receiving title deeds, such as unsigned sale agreements or untraceable beneficiaries.

‘Our efforts to finalise the transfer of historic title deeds are, of course, over and above the transfer

of deeds pertaining to recent or current housing projects. It is estimated that approximately 900 000 South Africans who reside in government-subsidised housing are not in possession of title deed documents that indicate formal ownership of a property. Formal ownership is a means of unlocking economic opportunities,’ says the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Benedicta van Minnen.

City of Cape Town T + 27 (0) 21 400 1307 W www.capetown.gov.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE TRADE

Rendering: Pam Golding

Set high on a crest, the four exclusive villas of 500m2 each are on two levels with elevated covered terraces and deep verandas for seclusion and wind protection.

High demand in KZN North Coast The Minister of Public Works recently published, for public comment, proposed amendments to the Regulations of the Construction Industry Development Board Act. If promulgated, these could potentially have significant consequences for the South African construction industry.

Property in the northern strip of KZN along the coastal belt from Durban North and uMhlanga, through to the burgeoning Sibaya node and Umdloti, is still booming despite the global sentiment being one of caution and instability according to an established property franchise.

According to Carol Reynolds, Pam Golding Properties Area Principal for Durban Coastal, the property market in this growth node is extremely buoyant, driven by huge demand from both local buyers and up-country investors. ‘The KZN lifestyle is highly sought after and, with its idyllic year round climate and excellent schools, people are flocking to his northern belt to relocate or retire.

‘Others, including many Johannesburg families, are choosing to uproot and relocate – with the major breadwinner commuting via the conveniently positioned King Shaka International Airport while enjoying the commercial benefits of a lucrative Gauteng career combined with the lifestyle benefits of living in this part of KZN province. With the first node of Sibaya being released into the market, and the hype that has surrounded its release, the demand for this region cannot be overstated.

‘The market is seeking security, convenience and lifestyle, and this is exactly what developers in uMhlanga and Sibaya are delivering in spades. Pam Golding Properties is currently marketing no less than five developments in this high-demand node, and we see an ongoing influx of people into the area because uMhlanga has always been regarded as a blue chip property investment node, and increasingly so as this

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entire north coast corridor grows and also expands northwards.’

Additionally, Umdloti has been put on the map. As Sibaya mushrooms, so the gap between uMhlanga and Umdloti has been bridged, with Umdloti becoming even more popular than ever. Pam Golding Properties has just released an exclusive development in prime Bellamont Road in Umdloti, comprising four luxury homes in a private enclave.

‘The views from this elevated development sweep across the ocean towards Durban in the south and in the direction of Ballito in the north, and this opportunity will soon become a distant memory as buyers line up to secure themselves a piece of prime property in one of the fastest growth nodes in the country. Position is everything in real estate, and a secure luxury development with top-quality finishes in a prime address with panoramic sea views is always a safe investment,’ says Reynolds.

The new development, 90a Bellamont, is already 50% sold, and the benchmark for prices in this area will increase. ‘Proximity to the airport and to uMhlanga, coupled with the beautiful beaches that Umdloti offers, have made this coastal village highly desirable. We are seeing more and more Gauteng investors moving into the area, and this trend is set to continue as Sibaya unfolds.’

Pam Golding Properties T + 27 (0) 31 561 5300 E umhlangarocks@pamgolding.co.za

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FROM THE TRADE NEWS & VIEWS

Listed property outperforms South African listed property once again outclassed bonds, cash and equities in 2015.

According to figures from Catalyst Fund Managers, listed property returned 7.99% to its investors followed by cash (6.46%), equities (5.13%) and bonds (-3.93%) Commenting on the sector’s top performance, SA REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) Association Chairman, Laurence Rapp, says: ‘Despite a tough operating environment and the brutal turmoil that hit local markets in December, the SA REIT sector continued its excellent track record of outperformance for investors in 2015.’

Despite its standing as the best performing asset class of 2015, listed property’s returns were somewhat lower than in recent years after it, and other sectors, took a nasty knock in December when capital markets responded to what has been coined ‘Nenegate’. As the market was rocked by the news, listed property dropped around 10% in two days. It later recovered to some extent. Despite these gains, listed property still lost 6.12%. Prior to that event, listed property was both leading other asset classes

and also outperforming market expectations.

Rapp notes that while the limp local economy will put all sectors under pressure in 2016, the listed property sector is already ahead in its quest to find greater value for investors by entering new markets and subsectors. ‘International and sectoral diversification has been a growing trend in the sector for some years now, and certainly dominated strategies in 2015,’ says Rapp. This focus is likely to continue in 2016.

The sector will come together for the SA REIT Conference 2016 on March 17, which takes place at The Maslow in Sandton Central, with limited seats still available. Contact www.sareit.com/conference.php.

SA REIT Association T +27 (0) 11 783 2201 W www.sareit.com

Retail Asset Manager appointment

Photo by: Redefine

Redefine Properties has appointed Antoinette Coetzee to the position of Retail Asset Manager.

She has held the position of retail analyst at the company for the past three years.

Antoinette Coetzee brings with her a firm grounding in listed equity analysis in the retail, beverage and luxury goods sectors, and will now oversee the management of Redefine’s vast retail portfolio. Her new responsibilities include strategic planning for the retail property portfolio, with a dedicated focus on driving increased returns and exploiting opportunities to reduce risk and improve the retail portfolio.

Andrew Konig, CEO of Redefine Properties, says: ‘For the past three years Coetzee has been a key member of our property management team and we believe that her valuable research skills and broad retail knowledge will add value to our retail portfolio.’

Before joining Redefine, Coetzee (33) spent eight years as a buy-side and sell-side analyst. She holds a BCom (Hons) in Investment Management from the Rand Afrikaans University (now known as the University of Johannesburg).

When not overseeing Redefine’s retail footprint, Coetzee enjoys a good Irish whiskey, travel, yoga and photography.

Redefine T +27 860 333463 W www.redefine.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE TRADE

Photo by: Segen

Leading UK PV company launches locally The UK’s largest wholesale distributor of solar photovoltaic (PV) products has announced the launch of a new and innovative business in Johannesburg, South Africa.

UK company, Segen Ltd has been in operation since 2005 and currently employs over 85 highly skilled members of staff in its businesses in Germany, UK and now South Africa with the launch of SegenSolar (Pty) Ltd. Segen Ltd is a major player in the UK PV market and remains strongly positioned with a market share of more than 35% of the British Solar PV market.

Segen Ltd’s expertise and experience will enable SegenSolar (Pty) Ltd to offer an unrivalled service to its carefully selected and therefore prestige customer base in South Africa according to a company spokesperson.

The new company will offer a select range of quality, proven Solar PV products for PV off – grid, grid tied, hybrid, back-up and storage solutions. In

addition, its groundbreaking, reliable, and easy to use on-line trade portal that has been developed and refined over the years will be available to clients.

The company clams that this online portal will allow trading customers in South Africa to design a Solar PV system and obtain a detailed breakdown of the components required for that system within minutes, see real time stock levels, order any product/ system 24/7, make payments and manage customer accounts, obtain delivery confirmation, and keep up to date with the latest industry news, technology and product updates, special offers and see events and training.

SegenSolar (Pty) Ltd T +33 90 00 133 E Sidonie.wood@segen.co.za

Questions about product photography You spend a fortune on advertising and in getting editorial, but does your photography let you down?

Ensure you provide TO BUILD and your clients with the best possible photographs to complement your editorial, project profile, or advertisement.

For free advice, contact the editor, Gareth Griffiths. Full professional service and lessons also available. Have camera, will travel! Info: www.professionalphotoshoots.co.za

T +27 (0)21 680 5245

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EDITOR’S CHOICE PROMISING PRODUCTS

Peace of mind for buyers Would you buy a car without a warranty to cover unexpected breakdowns or defects? The same applies to a home. Now a local insurer has the solution.

Photo by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Every year thousands of homes are traded between buyers and sellers without any guarantee that the properties are free of defects. A defect could be a hidden flaw, weakness or imperfection that a seller knows about, but the buyer cannot discover through reasonable inspection. Defects can cost a small fortune to fix, not to mention an incredibly expensive and frustrating legal process if there’s any reasonable doubt that the seller did not fully disclose the known defects.

Hollard’s Home Warranty solution is a South African first that addresses these challenges. It provides the buyer with the peace of mind and security that comes with a warranty backed by a professional property

inspection, makes the property for sale instantly more marketable for the seller, and sends any possibility of buyer’s remorse packing. The Hollard Home Warranty is available directly from Hollard, or it can be requested via your estate agent. The policy is unique in that the cost can be included in the sale price of the property.

Hollard Lee-Ann Dobrescu T +27 (0) 11 351 1306 E Lee-AnnH@hollard.co.za W www.hollard.co.za

Osmotic cementitious mortar Mapei South Africa is known for its impressive range of waterproofing products and solutions, not least of which is Planiseal 88, formerly known as Idrosilex Pronto, a mortar with comprehensive waterproofing capabilities. This osmotic cementitious mortar has an array of applications that range from underground masonries to swimming pools and irrigation channels.

It has been developed to coat concrete surfaces, come into contact with drinking water, waterproof masonry and concrete structures, and assures complete moisture control alongside easy application and implementation.

‘The performance of Planiseal 88 is compliant

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with regulations and EU standards and comes with the Mapei South Africa seal of surety,’ says Paul Nieuwoudt, Mapei South Africa’s Product Manager for Building Systems. ‘The range has impressive scope with the ability to repair underground masonries in situations where there is negative pressure up to one atmosphere. It’s also ideal for waterproofing basins, reservoirs, and concrete or masonry tanks that contain drinking water.’

Mapei South Africa T +27 (0) 11 552 8476

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PROMISING PRODUCTS EDITOR’S CHOICE

UPM ProFi design decking in SA In November 2015, UPM ProFi and NPP launched a new ProFi deck collection at the Green Building convention thanks to its PEFC certification. The collection includes two types of decking – the Design deck range and the Loggia deck range. Design deck is available in seven colours – Autumn Brown, Chestnut Brown, Stone Grey, Pearl Grey, Silver Green and Sunny Beige.

The principle polymer used in UPM ProFi is highperformance polypropylene. Impact resistance in both hot and cold climates, it is exceptionally strong and the deck surface has better scratch resistance than other

composite decks that feature a polyethylene composite surface. Despite this, the deck has a natural, almost soft feel to it.

UPM ProFi deck boards are made from at least 50% recycled materials and backed by a comprehensive guarantee. The high-quality cellulose fibres and plastics are surplus by-products in self-adhesive label manufacture. All raw materials are non-toxic and harmless to the environment. No PVC is used.

UPM W www.upmprofi.com

Leader in water tech for Africa Patented in 160 countries, the company’s technology is also revolutionising the international energy and water market via its industrial applications for sustainable cooling of thermal power and industrial plants, and lowcost water desalination and purification.

The technology considerably reduces reverse osmosis costs, providing low cost desalination solutions. Also, applications for water treatment processes for the mining industry, and the direct infiltration of water into aquifers.

Crystal Lagoons W www.crystal-lagoons.com

Photo by: Photo by Crystal Lagoons

The much-anticipated entry of the world leader in water innovation and technology into the South African and African markets is set to trigger a real estate revolution on the continent.

In a breakthrough announcement for Africa, the multinational innovation and technology company, Crystal Lagoons, has set its sights on the African continent. The worldwide meteoric expansion of Crystal Lagoons’ innovation is revolutionising the international real estate market. With an ever-expanding international presence, this award-winning firm has over 300 urban, tourist, public and industrial projects in different stages of development in 60 countries.

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DĂŠcor

PROFESSIONS Architects.........................................34 Construction & Contractors...............................38 Construction Health & Safety..............................................44 Designers Interior & Exterior....... 47 Developers........................................49 Engineering......................................55 Landscaping....................................57 Legal..................................................59 Opinion ............................................61

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PROFESSIONS ARCHITECTS

Thomashoff + partner Architects Winner of a Gauteng Institute for Architecture Award 2015, Thomashoff + partner Architects (TPA) is registered with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession, the South African Institute of Architects, and the Green Building Council of South Africa.

The Last Glass House

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The bottom terrace to the west is the most private – the double volume bedroom suite opens onto the garden under a large oak tree. Note the repurposed shipping containers in the background.

‘The residential structure is 5m wide and 42m long and consists of a single open plan space, that contains most of the required functional areas,’ Karlien explains. ‘We achieved different hierarchies of privacy via vertical separation and made use of a split-level configuration. There is a media room hidden behind the wall inside the house,’ she adds.

Photo by: RP van Wyk

Karlien Thomashoff describes the project that was a GIFA award winner in the past year: ‘The Last Glass House is situated on the rocky outcrop of the Westcliff Ridge with a view to the west through existing electricity pylons over a valley with Auckland Park and Melville in the background.’ The brief was simple: A dwelling for an artist, a bedroom suite with an ensuite bathroom, a kitchen, dining area, lounge area, study area, and a guest room facility. Ancillary facilities include a swimming pool, staff quarters, and storage.

‘The design is inspired by the rich history of Johannesburg – the goldmines and its industry, and the essential functionality of the industrial buildings in central Johannesburg. A key characteristic is the use of mass-manufactured steel fenestration. We were inspired by the galvanised steel electricity pylons located in a municipal servitude a few metres from the site,’ she says.

The site drops approximately six metres from east to west. The project concept was a series of interrelated spaces, defined by elements such as retaining walls, the horizontal planes of the terraces, and glass walls. Significant spaces contain major landscape elements, such as a massive century-old oak tree, the pool, a landscaped mass of natural grass, and a landscaped earth berm.

Photo by: RP van Wyk

The practice aims to produce well-designed, environmentally-appropriate designs that contribute positively to the built environment. Each project is an individual response to the unique and specific opportunities presented, the client’s brief, climate, context and site conditions.

The partners, Fritz and Karlien Thomashoff, are backed by a motivated professional team. Projects include space planning implementation, healthcare design, educational and institutional projects, large sport facilities, urban design frameworks, and road infrastructure design. Clients are from both the private and public sectors. Noteworthy projects include:

The Last Glass House

‘The design results in an application of steel where the focus is not only on the structural aspects of the material but on the integration of visual and aesthetic possibilities inherent in the characteristics of steel as material,’ explains Karlien.

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Photo by: K Rogers

ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONS

A comfortable, familiar, aspirational home that also represents a changing world that is increasingly more concerned with energy consumption, flexibility and efficiency.

Site connections and welding were kept to a minimum. All parts were cut, drilled and prepared at the factory off-site. They were hot-dip galvanised and finally transported from Centurion to Johannesburg.

The complete structure was assembled in two weeks on site.

The construction of the intricate folded shape of the roof and east elevation posed a unique challenge.

The roof profile was shaped by non-repeating but regular portal frames, each slightly different and detailed separately by the engineer.

In the demolitions, the street interface of the houses was opened up, and secondary outside spaces created to function as rooms, increasing visibility and exposure to the street, and imminently suitable to Pretoria’s warm climate.

‘This development stands starkly in contrast to other recent developments in the area, which have been designed in an introverted form and have little contact with the public realm. The project is ongoing with refinement to follow in the coming year,’ Karlien explains.

New project: 16th Street Village, Hazelwood Pretoria

Stand 47, Monaghan Farm

Photo by: Chris Wilkinson

Hazelwood in Pretoria is located in the centre of Menlyn, Waterkloof and Brooklyn. This project is located adjacent to the planned municipal BRT route, and has been designed with a focus on tapping into the pedestrian scale experience. Existing structures and large, established trees were retained, while selective demolition of unsuitable parts of the houses was undertaken.

Stand 47 is an upmarket family home that demonstrates what can be achieved with considered design and contemporary building materials.

A leading objective was to positively influence various preconceptions regarding the use of light steel and related energy-efficient building materials in the local residential sector. The importance of comfort, familiarity, aspiration, and status cannot be underestimated in the residential sector. As such, much consideration was given to comfort, despite the materials used. ‘People don’t generally want to live in “machines” regardless of how well they perform,’ Karlien adds. ‘A home is where the heart is, so we set out to build a home that would deliver upon this premise.’

Thomashoff + partner Architects T +27 (0) 12 341 4508 E info@thomashoffstudio.co.za W www.thomashoffstudio.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONS

AfriSam-SAIA Awards – have you entered?

The bi-annual 2015/2016 Sustainable Architecture + Innovation Awards recognise contributions that bring sustainable innovation to human living environments through an integrated approach to communities, planning, design, architecture, building practice, natural systems and technology.

This year, two new award categories have been added, significantly expanding South Africa’s most important built environment sustainability awards.

The two mainstay categories of Sustainable Architecture and Research in Sustainability are now joined by Sustainable Products and Technology, and Sustainable Social Programmes. This means that a full scope of visionaries working in the field of sustainable architecture, construction and innovation will now be recognised by the prestigious awards presented bi-annually by AfriSam and the South African Institute of Architects (SAIA).

‘The role of architects and their project partners in ensuring South Africa plays its part in the global journey to sustainability is really emphasised by these awards. It is also testament of the fact that we are now in a new era that recognises that sustainable design has to be an integral part of the building industry from the very start of a project,’ comments AfriSam’s CEO, Stephan Olivier.

‘The emphasis is no longer on just the architecture and building practice,’ adds Kevin Bingham, Vice President of SAIA. ‘It is now on the ongoing collaboration and innovation of these two key stakeholders working with communities, natural systems, technology and planning across all levels.

This is the only way to bring sustainable innovation to inhabitable environments.’

The broadening, to four categories, of the scope of the 2015/2016 AfriSam-SAIA Awards for Sustainable Architecture + Innovation is in step with important advances in South Africa and globally. Both SAIA and AfriSam support this global shift – SAIA by encouraging its members to incorporate sustainability in building design at an early stage, and AfriSam by its commitment to sustaining the environment through responsible manufacturing processes.

All four categories are geared towards the

Photo by: Paragon

Entries are free of charge and still open, until March 24, for 2015/2016 Sustainable Architecture + Innovation Awards.

Alexander Forbes building 2014 awards

recognition of regenerative whole systems design.

Project entries are required to demonstrate their positive impact through the embodiment of sound sustainable practices, carrying the hallmarks of great architectural or social design, and demonstrating innovative thinking in the field of sustainability.

Project emphasis: • Harmonise the use of resources with the conservation and strengthening of ecosystems (natural, social, human, financial, infrastructure).

• Address the dignity of people through the creation of a socio-economic environment that is inclusionary, humane, self-sustaining, maximises the financial viability and impact, acknowledges lifecycle cost efficiency during and post the implementation process, and contributes towards and develops an ongoing regenerative future.

• Enhance the architectural landscape and contextual urban environment.

To support this, four key criteria will be considered by the adjudicators – harmonisation, people upliftment, evolutionary paradigm, and place-making performance.

4 Sustainable Architecture + Innovation Awards W www.sustainabledesign.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTORS

Cycling to site – Qhubeka

By Tamara Oberholster

Transport is a fundamental element of development. Without mobility, people struggle to access healthcare, education and work. One easy way to address this challenge is through bicycles, which is what a global NGO seeks to do.

Impact of bicycles Riding a bicycle increases a person’s carrying capacity by five times. This means that many people using Qhubeka Buffalo Bicycles, which are specially designed for heavy loads and rough terrain, build bicycle micro enterprises.

For example, after earning their bicycles through a Qhubeka project to collect recyclable waste or grow indigenous trees, many enterprising residents of Somalia Park in Gauteng have put their bicycles to good use by becoming impromptu ‘bicycle merchants’. These include potato growers and merchants, flour merchants, and scrap metal collectors. The bicycle is designed to carry up to 250kg, 100kg of which can be loaded on the carrier rack, which is also ideal for carrying heavy tools.

Bicycles also allow people to travel faster and more safely than if they were walking. Over the same period

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Photo by: Qhubeka

According to the South African National Household Travel Survey (2013), one in five workers in South Africa walks to work – that’s three million people.

Furthermore, over 60% of learners walk to school – some 11 million children.

Sarah Phaweni, Qhubeka Executive Director, explains that Qhubeka is a Nguni word that means ‘to carry on’, ‘to progress’ or ‘to move forward’. Qhubeka helps people move forward by giving them bicycles in return for work done to improve communities, the environment or academic results.

In South Africa, Qhubeka is World Bicycle Relief’s programme – a global non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing education, health and economic opportunities by providing simple, sustainable transportation. Since its launch in 2005, World Bicycle Relief has delivered more than 250 000 specially-designed, locally-assembled bicycles to people in need.

Qhubeka Buffalo bike

of time, a person riding a bicycle can travel four times the distance and, for every 16km travelled, a bicycle saves three hours of valuable time. This is one of the reasons that York Timbers decided to offer 100 of its workers the chance to purchase a Qhubeka Buffalo Bicycle, paying 50% of the purchase price for these bicycles, while employees contributed the other 50%.

Case history York Timbers is a South African forest products enterprise that employs 5 000 people (directly and indirectly). Many of these employees work shifts and walk to Yorks’ sites. Using bicycles, the workers are now able to get to work faster and save the money previously used on public transport.

Qhubeka Buffalo Bicycles are also popular with individuals looking to assist employees with a form of transport. For example, Andy Masters purchased a bicycle for Robert, his gardener, to thank him for his help renovating his home.

About Buffalo Bicycles The Buffalo Bicycles is designed by World Bicycle Relief in Chicago, USA, and tested and assembled

issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTORS PROFESSIONS

Photo by: Qhubeka

Partnering with Qhubeka

Scrap Metal Merchant

in South Africa where close attention is paid to enduser feedback and rigorous quality control. Qhubeka is committed to providing the highest quality, most durable bicycles in Africa, and constantly innovates and improves products to meet users’ needs.

With heavy gauge steel tube frames, the Buffalo Bicycle is aptly named. The heavy gauge spokes and steel rims, specified to 150kg per wheel, and the durable weather-proof coaster brake are other features that make this beast so tough and ideal for construction workers, among others.

Each Qhubeka Buffalo Bicycle comes with a helmet, a pump and a cable-lock, and a small tool for basic maintenance. To ensure that bicycle owners have access to a local, qualified repair service, Qhubeka has developed a Field Mechanics Training Programme to accompany bicycle

Qhubeka is a registered Public Benefit Organisation (PBO number: 930/048/293), which means that South African donations to Qhubeka are exempt from donations tax in terms of section 56(1)(h) of the Income Tax Act No 58 of 1962. Therefore, Qhubeka issues Section 18a certificates for all donations made.

To claim a deduction for the donation and avoid paying donations tax on it, companies can donate up to 10% of taxable income to PBOs in a given year. To donate funds towards bicycles for Qhubeka programme participants that work to earn them, visit www.qhubeka.org.

Qhubeka is also able to assist organisations in terms of the socio-economic development and enterprise development portions of their CSI and BEE requirements. Contact info@ qhubeka.org for more information. distribution. For every 500 bicycles distributed into a community, Qhubeka trains at least one mechanic in that community, which also helps to create new jobs. Mechanics are trained in bicycle assembly, maintenance and repair, as well as basic business, marketing and management skills.

Where to purchase Qhubeka Buffalo Bicycles are available to purchase for R2 750 each and are delivered to major centres within South Africa.

Setting up and running programmes such as bicycle distribution events and project support infrastructure requires substantial resources, and a percentage of the bicycle price contributes towards the cost of the programme logistics.

Photo by: York Timbers

Ed’s Note: The question is, will South African contractors buy into such programmes and supply not only a secure bike park infrastructure on site, but consider financing options for staff?

York Timbers presents bicycle

Qhubeka T +27 (0) 11 467 8726 E info@qhubeka.org W www.qhubeka.org issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTORS PROFESSIONS

Concrete elements – a first for Western Cape township development A specialised supplier has supplied concrete elements for the Western Cape’s first multi-storey, load-bearing reinforced concrete block masonry development.

Photos by: Topfloor

Topfloor, an Echo Group member company, has supplied over 16 000m² of prestressed hollowcore concrete flooring slabs for the construction of Langa Formal Township, the Western Cape’s first multi-storey, loadbearing reinforced concrete blockmasonry development. Eighteen low-income rental apartment blocks are being built by main contractor, Power Construction Group, which formed an integral part of the project’s architectural and engineering development teams.

Last year, the homes were built for the City of Cape Town on the Cape Flats just off the N2.

Each block houses twenty-five 35m² apartments comprising two bedrooms, a kitchen/lounge, a bathroom and a balcony. Moreover, insulated roofing and solar heating are included to meet conservation requirements and reduce the cost of living for the occupants.

In addition to the hollow-core concrete flooring slabs, the supplier also provided the project with precast staircases. Other precast concrete elements include high-strength concrete blocks, modular precast concrete doorframes and windows, and polyfibre balcony railings.

According to Power Group’s Director, Johnny Moore, precast hollow-core slabs are an integral part of the structural design criteria and saved months in construction time.

‘No shuttering or curing time for wet concrete was required, which meant that other services could begin work as soon as the slabs were installed.

Further time-savers were the smooth soffits and rough finishes on the upper sides of the slabs. This enabled the soffits to be painted without the need for skimming, and made screed bonding on the top sides hassle-free. All of these time-saving advantages meant substantial cost savings for the client.

‘Topfloor was involved in the primary and secondary planning stages, and helped resolve details such as the staircase/slab interfaces and pull-up bars for the reinforcing of the walkway balustrades,’ Moore explains.

An aerial view of the Langa Formal Township housing development.

The Langa buildings have been designed to comply with seismic codes, which means that Topfloor had to provide pre-cut openings for seismic-stress connections. In addition, Topfloor supplied cut-outs for plumbing ducts.

Topfloor’s General Manager, Wessel Prinsloo, refers to the advantage of using hollow-core flooring with its superior thermal and sound insulation properties. ‘A well-managed factory environment also ensures high and consistent quality levels.’

The professional team that initiated Langa’s design concept was led by Dieter Boessow of Architect Associates. Together with Power Construction’s project engineers and consulting engineers, Aurecon, and independent construction consultant, Günter Koch, they succeeded in setting a new standard and establishing a new trend in cost-effective economic housing delivery in the Western Cape.

Moore adds the economic benefits gained from this project point the way forward in labour-intensive skills development and job- creation potential.

Johnny Moore, Power Group T +27 (0) 21 907 1300 Wessel Prinsloo, Topfloor T +27 (0) 21 951 7700 issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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PROFESSIONS CONSTRUCTION HEALTH & SAFETY

Leading H&S professional speaks tough ‘There are no accidents, only failures of management. You don’t need to understand what went wrong (after an incident). You just need to do the job right the first time. And the South African construction industry does not know how to do the job right the first time,’ says eminent construction health and safety (H&S) researcher, Professor John Smallwood, Professor of Construction Management at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.

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Flirting with disaster Prof Smallwood suggests that this is the normal approach of the South African construction industry.

‘This is what our industry does every day,’ he says. He points to the Tongaat Mall collapse of November 2013 as an example of a catastrophic event that is ‘mindblowing’. In support of this assertion, the KwaZuluNatal Masterbuilders Association has established an informal accident register and has been attempting to log the occurrence of accidents nationally in an attempt to enable an overview of the nature and extent of the problem.

Photo by: North Coast Courier

Smallwood presented a keynote address to post graduate construction industry students and construction industry fellow professionals at the 9th Construction Industries Development Board (CIDB) Post Graduate Conference hosted by UCT and CPUT. His research presentation was entitled, ‘Exploratory Study – Preventing The Collapse of Reinforced Concrete (RC) Structures, Support Work & Formwork During Construction’.

According to Smallwood, little has changed in the industry since the CIDB’s status report of 2009.

In fact, the Department of Labour (DOL) visits construction sites and confirms that more than 50% of them were continuing to be non-compliant despite the issuing of notices. South Africa has an unacceptably high disabling industry rate of 0.98, and the industry’s fatality rate per 100 000 workers is 25.5. This is substantially higher than in developed countries. ‘Why should this be?’ asks Smallwood. ‘Just because we’re a third-world country? We use first-world equipment, after all, and the consequences of incorrect handling of this equipment is the same in the first and third world’s,’ he maintains.

According to Smallwood, his latest research into the failure of RC structures, support work, and form work, is part of a journey he has undertaken since 1997. However, he muses as to whether this journey will end. The October 1996 collapse at a Pretoria North shopping centre seemed to be the beginning of the all-too-common occurrence of slab collapses, deck collapses, and support work collapses. ‘Unless the construction industry makes a fundamental paradigm shift, accidents will continue to happen, and the journey will not end,’ he adds.

Professor Smallwood

Tongaat Mall collapse 2015.

But the problems in the industry are multidimensional. ‘Professionals don’t care what they specify. Ask the average engineer what the weight of a standard 1m-long precast concrete kerb is and he won’t be able to tell you. But they specify it.’

The influence of clients, the culture in the industry – especially of shifting responsibility, and thereby the blame when things go wrong – and negative

issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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CONSTRUCTION HEALTH & SAFETY PROFESSIONS economic cycles, encourage the migration of unqualified and untrained people into the industry (including from the funeral business!) who work together to reinforce the impression of a backward industry using stone-age processes.

Accidents, or rather failures of management, are seen as a breakdown in the five functions of management – planning, organising, leading, controlling, and coordinating – suggesting that the industry is failing because management is failing, or the process of quality management is not in place.

Smallwood urges the industry to conduct hazard assessments and practice risk management. In particular, he refers to paying close attention to low-probability, but high-impact events, such as the Tongaat Mall, and the July 1998 Inyaka Bridge Collapse.

Management is urged to conduct (what Gary Klein refers to in the HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW in 2007) pre-mortems during the planning phase. In their book, THINK LIKE A FREAK, authors Levitt and Dubner argue that managers are not confronting failure. They argue that ‘failure can be your friend’, but in the construction world Smallwood urges that the pre-mortem process be applied during the planning phase to a scenario where a construction project has failed, and then work back to the scenarios and reasons and involve the entire design team.

‘Putting it simply, there is a lack of respect for people in the South African construction industry.

What can we learn from elsewhere in the world?’ He points to a very different culture in Cuba where there is respect for workers, and calls for South African workers to also be treated with respect. For example, professionals should develop ‘consciousness and mindfulness’ when visiting a site. On site, they need to ‘see things’ that might affect people’s H&S. A paradigm consistent with this could be ‘I am my brother or sister’s keeper’.

• • • • • • •

Supervision Quality management H&S management Risk management Planning and H&S planning in various forms Integration of design and construction The construction work permit However, given that the traditional three project parameters – quality, cost, and time – are perceived to be more important than H&S to respondents’ organisations, it can be concluded that the industry is collectively perpetuating the paradigm to the detriment of H&S.

Recommendations: • That conformance to requirements is the key (including approvals of plans by the relevant authorities).

• Such recommendations be scientifically evolved and communicated.

• A prerequisite being that the required competencies exist, which can only be assured through a formal registration process, including that of contractors.

• Ideally, multi-stakeholder project H&S, quality, and risk plans should be evolved, and design and construction must be integrated.

• Thereafter, general construction management and H&S planning must be a hallmark of all projects.

• Finally, optimum management and supervision to ensure execution of such planning.

Ed’s Note: TO BUILD acknowledges and expresses gratitude for the media-friendly approach shown by the Chair of the 9th CIDB Postgraduate Conference, and to Professor Abimbola Windapo, and her colleagues, for giving the editor access to conference proceedings to report on Prof Smallwood’s address.

Conclusions As per the executive summary of Professor Smallwood’s report, the conclusions are that the following elements are all important – as clusters – or individually, relative to preventing the collapse of RC structures during construction: • Competencies • Design • Registration of built environment professionals • Hazard identification and risk assessments (HIRAs) during design and construction

Inquiries: Professor JJ Smallwood Department of Construction Management, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (Nmmu) E john.smallwood@nmmu.ac.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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Photos by: Silken Trap Interiors

DESIGNERS INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PROFESSIONS

18 Years of project excellence Gauteng-based interior designers, Silken Trap, is justifiably proud of its 18 years of project excellence in interior and exterior furnishings.

Silken Trap specialises in manufacturing curtains and soft furnishings in one factory while, in another, customised wrought iron balustrades, furniture, burglar proofing and magnificent interior and exterior gates are made.

Having expanded its network of contacts and suppliers to provide clients with a wider range of services, the company is able to assist each client with as many items as possible without them having to run from one supplier to the next.

‘Once a house has been built or renovated, a client can come to Silken Trap Interiors for almost everything that needs to be done from then on to finish the house. If there is a requirement that we don’t do ourselves, we can at least provide clients with a reliable contact,’ explains Candace Sinclair, a partner in the design practice.

‘Quality is the most important aspect of Silken Trap Interiors – from the quality of the products we endorse to the very high standard of service that we ensure each client receives, and the after-sale service that is so hard to find today. No client is left unhappy or not 100% satisfied,’ she maintains.

The company is based on a small holding near the new Mall of the South where the partners can keep a close eye on the factories. They are able to meet clients at their homes at a convenient time to discuss their requirements, or an appointment can be made at the workroom to discuss and decide on the finer details.

When it comes to curtains, roman blinds and soft furnishings, such as bedding, quilts, cushions and re-upholstery, Silken Traps has a large range of fabric samples that are carefully narrowed down to individual preference after which a detailed quote with pictures of the suggested styles is sent to the potential client within 48 hours.

Once a go-ahead is given, the client is kept upto-date with progress and an installation date and time is set. ‘We never allow an installation to proceed without being supervised by one of the directors or the consultant called out in the initial appointment,’ says Candace.

‘All our projects, from the first form of communication is kept professional and comfortable.

Our clients feel relaxed and at ease working with us.

We don’t judge personal decisions but we do offer practical advice.’

The practice has a noticeable presence on Facebook and interested prospects are invited to visit www.facebook.com/groups/silkentrapinteriors/ to see some recent projects. ‘A large following of clients who have stuck with us for many years are also there,’ Candace concludes.

Silken Trap W www.silkentrap.co.za Mandy Mulder 083 469 3296 Candace Sinclair 084 581 9878 issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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DEVELOPERS

PROFESSIONS

Launching a pan-African investment strategy

Photo by: Growthpoint

South Africa’s largest REIT and a JSE ALSI Top 40 Index company, Growthpoint, has entered a joint venture with Investec Asset Management, partnered by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to launch a pan-African investment strategy.

Norbert Sasse

Growthpoint recently entered into a 50/50 joint venture with global investment management firm, Investec Asset Management to form a new management business that will establish and grow a significant diversified pan-African (excluding South Africa) thirdparty institutional real estate investment vehicle.

In addition to its 50% direct stake in the merger, Growthpoint will invest an initial US$50 million into the vehicle, with IFC also supporting it with a US$40 million investment as an anchor investor. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector in developing countries.

With knowledgeable local teams and offices in 22 African countries, IFC will also provide valuable onthe-ground advisory services as a local partner for the vehicle in line with its mandate.

The US$90 million commitment from Growthpoint and IFC as anchor investors is part of a targeted US$500 million that will be raised for this third-party institutional investment vehicle. It is intended that the additional capital will be raised from qualifying, sophisticated third-party institutional investors, both local and international. While the vehicle won’t be open to public investors, the aim is to grow it to an optimal size for a possible major stock exchange listing in the next five to seven years.

Norbert Sasse, CEO of Growthpoint Properties, comments: ‘Our African strategy has been in the making for some time. We needed the right partners and

expertise to create a powerful platform for pan-African property investment. Growthpoint is thrilled to embark on this venture with Investec Asset Management and IFC to build this into a significant business accessing investment in income-producing pan-African real estate to benefit shareholders and investors.’

The venture leverages the extensive industry, geographic and investment expertise of its partners.

Sasse adds: ‘We believe this model represents a suitable, compelling investment strategy for Growthpoint to access opportunities in African real estate markets. This undertaking allows Growthpoint to further diversify its assets and harness opportunities across the African continent to create sustainable value for our stakeholders.’

John Green, Head, Global Client Group at Investec Asset Management, comments: ‘We believe the African real estate markets are well positioned for a long-term growth phase given the significant supply deficit across the continent. We are excited about this unique partnership as it brings together our panAfrican investment experience with Growthpoint’s industry-leading property investment expertise and the IFC’s deep knowledge of the continent.’

The new venture’s dedicated senior management team has a collective 30 years’ experience in real estate and investment on the African continent and will be led by Thomas Reilly, the previous CEO of Sanlam’s Africa property fund business. With a long history in investment banking, he is also widely respected for his commercial real estate knowledge, his African property investment experience, and his work in multiple African markets. ‘This venture provides a significant opportunity to facilitate the growth and liquidity of real estate as an asset class across the continent,’ says Reilly.

Growthpoint Properties Limited CEO, Norbert Sasse T +27 (0) 11 944 6249 issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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Photo by: ZDSA

DEVELOPERS PROFESSIONS

Ronnie de Klerk (ZDSA), Merice Roopram and Alex Isaakidis (ADvTECH), Anthony Diepenbroek, Du Wenhui and Markus Hermann (ZDSA).

ADvTECH School for Modderfontein Late last year, Zendai Development South Africa (ZDSA), developer for the Modderfontein New City and ADvTECH’s Schools Division, signed an agreement securing the establishment of Founders Hill College in Modderfontein.

The new school (which opened in January this year) initially caters for Grades 0 to 4 and had over 100 students registered for the new academic year. The full offering caters for pupils from Grade 0 to Matric, and will provide as many as 1 500 student spaces across all grades.

Master plan Modderfontein New City’s conceptual master plan outlines several key functional districts including a fully-fledged education precinct that hosts and supports crèche-to-career type institutions preparing students for life beyond matric.

In April 2014, ADvTECH and ZDSA signed an MOU during the Modderfontein New City launch. ‘We made a commitment to build an education precinct when we announced the project and we’re doing just that,’ says Anthony Diepenbroek, ZDSA’s CEO. ‘Schools in our country are more than just bricks and mortar structures — they are about building strong communities so that all children can get the best possible start in life. By investing in the education precinct we are investing in our country’s future,’ adds ADvTECH’s Alex Isaakidis, CEO of the Schools Division.

Founders Hill College forms part of the ADvTECH Academies group of schools affiliated with the ADvTECH Schools Division. While each school retains its own curriculum, identity and ethos, what they have in common is their focus in catering to the needs of their immediate communities.

ADvTECH’s Schools Division has more than 20 years’ experience in school management and successfully owns and operates more than 80 private schools across South Africa and in Botswana with well-known private school brands.

‘Families in Modderfontein will benefit from the new school that ensures their children can continue to receive world-class education in safe, modern and friendly facilities close to their homes,’ says ADvTECH’s Isaakidis.

‘Once completed, the New City will serve a diverse student population at various life stages; we want the community to know that its educational needs for college and career remains top of mind for us,’ says Diepenbroek.

Last September, ZDSA announced its flagship luxury residential project ‘The Centenary’ to be developed as part of Modderfontein New City. The Centenary will cover an area of approximately 12ha and will be developed in phases. Construction is expected to commence in the first quarter of this year with completion programmed for early 2017. Over the next 15 to 20 years the company plans to transform the 1 600ha of land it acquired in 2013 into a smart and sustainable metropolis.

Zendai Development South Africa W www.heartland.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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DEVELOPERS PROFESSIONS

Redevelopment in Bryanston

The three-phase redevelopment of the prime located office park by the Emira Property Fund will more than triple in size to 29 352m2 for GLA office space. As part of the landmark project, Emira is renaming the park Knightsbridge. The Knightsbridge development, located in Sloane Street opposite the Didata Campus, began in November 2015 and is being undertaken in phases with the first of seven new buildings set to be complete in May 2017.

Originally built in the mid-1980s, Emira acquired Knightsbridge Manor in 2003. Despite cosmetic refurbishments, the park’s buildings have dated and are attracting B-grade rentals in an area characterised

by A-grade and P-grade offices.

Geoff Jennett, CEO of Emira Property Fund, comments: ‘Our ground-breaking redevelopment of Knightsbridge supports Emira’s strategy of significantly increasing the value, attractiveness and competitiveness of this excellently-located property.’

The project is portfolio enhancing. In addition, the entire office park is designed to achieve a 4-Star Green Star SA rating from the Green Building Council South Africa, supporting Emira’s principles of responsible investment. Jennett reports that Emira’s Knightsbridge development responds to demand for offices in the Bryanston area. It also leverages the park’s prime location in this growing business hub. Being on Sloane Street, one of Bryanston’s key arterial roads, Knightsbridge has quick access to the N1 highway. The intersection of Sloane Street and William Nicol Drive will also be upgraded with a positive impact on motorists.

Jennett explains: ‘While Emira initially considered an upgrade for the park, it quickly became clear that its complete demolition and redevelopment would be a much better option to boost its value and performance.’

The redevelopment will increase its size by a massive 19 334m2, from its current 9 884m2, and sufficient power has been confirmed for the site.

‘Bryanston is fast becoming the preferred alternative to Sandton for blue-chip businesses

Rendering by: Emira

A major R795-million Knightsbridge redevelopment is being undertaken at the Knightsbridge Manor office park in Bryanston, Johannesburg, to create a P-grade and leading-edge Green Star SA rated office complex.

and large A-grade and P-grade office users,’ says Jennett. Indeed, Bryanston is the fourth largest office node in Johannesburg after the CBD, Sandton and Midrand. It has relatively high office occupancies.

According to SAPOA, Bryanston’s office vacancies were 7.2% for Q4:2015, compared with a national average of 10.5%. P-grade office vacancies are at a low 1.7%. It is also an area that is upgrading and developing, especially around Nicolway Bryanston shopping centre, Ballyclare Drive and Main Road.

New offices are quickly finding tenants.

Features Knightsbridge business park will be defined by quality design, materials and finishes, and will feature standby generators and back-up water supply. This will be complemented by resource-efficient stateof-the-art mechanical and electrical installations, including a chilled water system, lighting sensors, access control, CCTV, and rainwater harvesting for irrigation. It will also have the built-in capacity to place PV panels on the roofs and offer its users generous parking.

While ideal for large corporates, the buildings are designed with flexible floorplates to provide the best size for different kinds of businesses.

Emira Property Fund Geoff Jennett, CEO T +27 (0) 11 028 3100 issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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117 Main Reef Road Technikon, Roodepoort, South Africa T. +27 11 760 6000 | chemplus.co.za E. info@chemplus.co.za

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ENGINEERING PROFESSIONS

Using the cloud

Photo by: Fresh Projects

Basic business principles and cloud-based technology platforms need to be considered if the consulting engineering sector wants to stay afloat. In amongst myriad issues the industry suffers significantly because of a chasm between the actual costs of a project versus the fees derived from scales that are quoted to win business.

Simon Berry

Simon Berry, Director of Fresh Projects, an online business management platform, says that it is critical that consulting engineers rely less on what is now a defunct fee-scale structure and rather find a new technology-driven way to calculate appropriate fees.

‘There are too many consulting engineers who resort to offering heavily discounted project fees against the fee-scale structure, without knowing the actual cost of the project. This effectively reduces profitability to unrealistic lows and makes for an uneven playing field.

It is also dangerous as businesses make losses they are not necessarily aware of when quoting,’ says Berry.

This approach has significant knock-on effects and does not bode well for the future of the industry in terms of general business growth, overall profitability and skills development.

Ask the cloud Understanding that there are time constraints when quoting and pressures to win business, Fresh Projects has developed a cloud-based business management solution that is tailor made for South African built environment professionals. Berry says that it ensures

the financial sustainability of businesses and assists in understanding the real costs of a project. ‘Using the system will immediately enable the business to control its profitability and the engineer to have an accurate benchmark with which to work for future projects.’

According to Berry, getting the costs right is critical as the current trend of massive discounting will continue the downward spiral and result in massive damage to the industry and economy overall. He says that work supply could already be at a dangerous low based on the near completion of projects that started post the 2008 recession. ‘We find it useful to use the civil engineering sector as a business barometer as they tend to lead the rest of the industry. Most projects first start with civils enablement work such as roads, water and sewerage.

This is then followed by other services such as structural, electrical, mechanical and architectural.’

A significant drop seen in the civils sector, coupled with the fee-scale discounting issues will be negative.

‘Not only will there be less work but the income, based on uninformed discounting, will make it nearly impossible to declare any reasonable profits. This will not only kill an industry but also its skills base.’ Berry adds that in a plight to be more fairly remunerated, many engineers move into other sectors or immigrate to get better salaries and growth opportunities. ‘This aggravates an already acute skills shortage within our engineering sector.’

Adding to the uncertainty, he says that the competition commission has been investigating the fee-scale practice for the past five years, which was banned in the United Kingdom over 20 years ago.

‘It is becoming more important that professionals rely less on fee-scales and work out their fees from basic business principles using an online system that makes the process not only seamless, but easy, quick and accurate.’

Fresh Projects W www.freshprojects.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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LANDSCAPING PROFESSIONS

Double solution to drainage and stability problem Engineers specify products that successfully solved a drainage and stability problem for an embankment at a new upmarket Gauteng lakeside development.

Photos by: Kaytech

Located between Pretoria and Centurion is the new Leisure Bay development where two of Kaytech’s top-quality products successfully solved a drainage and stability problem for an embankment. The 56-unit residential complex constructed by Zoned Earth Development Company is uniquely situated overlooking Leisure Bay Lake, a natural dam fed by water from an underground spring.

Since the development is built in a cutting, a retaining wall was crucial to secure a three to four metre embankment left by the excavation. Having noticed a significant amount of water seepage from the embankment, and realising that reinforcement of the fill material behind the retaining wall was vital, GFC Consulting Engineers contacted Christiaan van Wyk at Kaytech for advice. Van Wyk had no hesitation in recommending Flo-Drain and RockGrid PC as the ideal products for the project.

Flo-Drain is a ready-made system consisting of a Flownet drainage core encased in a filter jacket of Kaytech’s renowned bidim geotextile. Supplied in lightweight 30m rolls, Flo-Drain is easy to transport, flexible and simple to install. Varying heights of FloDrain were placed vertically behind the retaining wall and connected to a Geopipe at the base of the fin. No stone was required for this drainage application.

Compared to a conventional aggregate drain, Flo-Drain provides numerous advantages and can be

installed in an array of applications to greatly reduce the water table or to intercept seepage. It is the most economical solution to almost any subsoil drainage problem.

Water pressure relief

For reinforcement and support behind the retaining wall, RockGrid PC 100/100 was installed horizontally in the layer works of the backfill material. This composite reinforcing geotextile consists of a nonwoven layer in conjunction with high tenacity, bi-axially orientated multi-filament polyester yarns, the combination of which guarantees its distinctive characteristics. The nonwoven layer not only provides protection to the high tenacity yarns but vital in-plane drainage capacity to relieve pore water pressure in the fill material. Compared to woven fabrics, polyethylene grids or polypropylene grids, the high tensile modulus of RockGrid PC, provides far superior reinforcement characteristics with minimum creep deformation. It can be installed wherever lowbearing capacity soils are encountered and, being manufactured in South Africa, RockGrid PC is more economical than any imported alternative.

Kaytech W www.kaytech.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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LEGAL PROFESSIONS

A word on arbitration TO BUILD is fortunate to be able to tap into the legal expertise of Advocate Bryan Hack of the Cape Bar who has considerable experience in property and other commercial matters. Adv Hack writes about the importance of choosing the right person in arbitration matters.

Photo by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

• An arbitrator can be selected with his/her own personal knowledge of the issues in dispute.

• Arbitration involves less cost for the process.

• Greater speed – resolution can be achieved more quickly, assuming the parties bind themselves to a speedy outcome.

People in the industry who have experience in participating in an arbitration have, like myself, experienced that those ideals are often not achieved.

Having made these points, I suggest, with due deference to the legal profession, and I trust with a tongue-in-cheek tone, that legal practitioners are not inevitably seeking to achieve the goals of cost efficacy or a speedy resolution of a dispute.

So regrettably it often happens that arbitration becomes even more expensive than litigation and can take the same amount of time. In my experience this happens more often than not because the very first decision made after agreeing to arbitration is not always wisely made – namely, the selection of the arbitrator.

Why is the choice of arbitrator so important?

Advocate BC Hack is a practising advocate and member of the Cape Bar. He graduated from UCT and UNISA with a BALLB, and worked for a prominent building company for a number of years before joining the Cape Bar in 1994.

In keeping with the ‘home grown solutions’ theme of this edition of TO BUILD, this opinion strives to inform the built environment professional of the choice the he or she has in avoiding litigation by instead opting for tailor-making an own ‘in house – local’ dispute resolution process.

The building industry has universally led the way in alternative dispute resolution. The reason for this is not accidental. Indeed, there are three compelling reasons why this has happened:

Particularly when one is conducting an arbitration outside of the formal established arbitration institutions, the arbitrator fulfils a diversity of roles, which include, inter alia: • the role of court registrar • case canagement cudge • interlocutory judicial officer.

There are other roles but the above three are the most significant.

Given this situation, it is therefore imperative that arbitration should achieve the goals of cost efficacy and speedy resolution of the case at hand.

Hence, it is essential that the arbitrator who is chosen and appointed is a person with the necessary skills, knowledge and, most importantly, gravitas to ensure that both the pre-arbitration procedure and the hearing are not unduly delayed or protracted.

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PROFESSIONS LEGAL

Photo by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Gravitas The word gravitas is used intentionally as a single word that encapsulates a number of different characteristics, including: • Describing the qualities of a person who is able to illicit the necessary respect and compliance for his or her directives and rulings from the parties and their legal representatives. In my experience in property and other disputes, that is no easy task.

• The arbitrator of course must primarily be a person who has the necessary knowledge and skills to deal with the nature of the dispute.

• More often than not if the dispute is strictly of a legal nature it is a legal practitioner of some seniority that will be the best appointment.

• If the dispute is of a financial nature, more often than not a quantity surveyor or accountant is the ideal arbitrator, and • If the dispute is centred on the nature of the specification, plans or building works, an ideal arbitrator might very well be an architect or builder.

However, people with these necessary qualifications do not necessarily have experience in the administration of law or legal procedure.

Rules of procedure A singular dispute, for example about the issue of certificates, might solely demand the understanding of

a quantity surveyor who could have had many years’ experience in this arena but lacks the necessary experience to manage and administer dispute resolution procedures. This therefore often results in the exploitation or manipulation of even simple rules of procedure.

Gravitas and procedural knowledge required In considering who your arbitrator is going to be, always take into account that it needs to be a person with the necessary gravitas who will be able to exercise control and authority over the pre-arbitration proceedings.

Of course, this equally applies at the actual hearing where the absence of an arbitrator who can take control of proceedings results in a risk of unnecessary postponements and delays.

Adv Bryan Hack Chambers, Cape Town T +27 (0) 21 423 5441 F +27 (0) 86 260 5295 E hack@capebar.co.za

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OPINION PROFESSIONS

Business interruption – a chief threat The risk landscape for businesses is substantially changing in 2016. While businesses are less concerned about the impact of traditional industrial risks, such as natural catastrophes or fire, they are increasingly worried about the impact of other disruptive events, fierce competition in their markets, and cyber incidents.

These are key findings of the 2016 ALLIANZ RISK BAROMETER, the fifth annual survey on corporate risks published by Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS), which surveyed over 800 risk managers and insurance experts from more than 40 countries.

According to the ALLIANZ RISK BAROMETER, the top three leading risks for businesses in Africa and the Middle East are macroeconomic developments (44%), market developments (44%) and changes in legislation and regulation (32%). Political risks (war, terrorism and upheaval) rank higher than any other region. The area is the only one to rank power blackouts (10th) in the top 10. These risks are appearing for the first time for Africa and the Middle East. Last year’s Africa and Middle East responses were included as part of Europe, Middle East and Africa region.

‘The biggest contraction in global trade since the financial crisis, BRICS and other emerging markets hitting a wall, and a subdued knock-on-effect from the drop in commodity prices help ensure market and macro developments rank highly in this year’s Risk Barometer,’ says Ludovic Subran, Chief Economist at trade credit insurer Euler Hermes, a sister company of AGCS.

South Africa, Brazil, Russia, Nigeria and Malaysia are among those countries that have been negatively affected by cheaper commodity prices. ‘Sectors such as construction, for example, have not done as well as anticipated because of structural difficulties. Further, some sectors, such as machinery and equipment, have seen the collateral damage of plummeting investment in the oil and gas industry,’ Subran adds.

Business interruption (BI) remains the top risk for businesses globally for the fourth year in succession.

However, many companies are concerned that BI losses, which usually result from property damage, will increasingly be driven by cyber-attacks, technical failure or geo-political instability as new ‘non-physical damage’ causes of disruption. Meanwhile, two of the major risers in this year’s ALLIANZ RISK BAROMETER feature in the top three corporate risks for the first time with market developments ranking second and cyber incidents third. Cyber incidents are also cited as the most important long-term risk for companies in the next 10 years. In contrast, natural catastrophes (third in Africa and the Middle East) drops two positions to fourth year-on-year, reflecting the fact that in 2015 losses from natural disasters reached their lowest level since 2009.

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Professions OPINION ‘The corporate risk landscape is changing as many industrial sectors are undergoing a fundamental transformation,’ explains AGCS’s CEO, Chris Fisher Hirs. ‘New technologies, increasing digitalisation and the “Internet of Things” are changing customer behaviour, industrial operations and business models, bringing a wealth of opportunities but also raising awareness of the need for an enterprise-wide response to new challenges. As insurers we need to work together with our corporate clients to help them to address these new realities in a comprehensive manner.’

Challenging market environment More than a third of responses (34%) cited market developments, such as intensified competition or market volatility/stagnation, as one of the three most important business risks in 2016, ranking this new survey category as the second top peril overall.

Market developments are a particular concern in the engineering, financial services, manufacturing, marine and shipping, pharmaceutical and transportation sectors, where this risk ranks among the top three business risks respectively. In addition, this risk ranks as a top two concern in Europe, Asia-Pacific and Africa and the Middle East.

Many businesses in Africa are facing a growing number of challenges that threaten their profitability and possibly also their business models. ‘Businesses constantly have to be on their toes, turning out new products, services or solutions to stay relevant to the customer and to thrive in this rapidly changing and globally competitive environment,’ explains AGCS Africa CEO, Delphine Maïdou. ‘Innovation cycles are rapidly becoming shorter, market entry barriers are coming down, and increasing digitalisation and new “disruptive” technologies have to be adopted quickly while potentially more agile start-ups are entering the game.’ At the same time businesses also have to comply with changing or enforced regulation, increasing safety requirements or import/export restrictions.

incidents were identified as a risk by just 1% of responses in the first Allianz Risk Barometer. Loss of reputation (69%) is the main cause of economic loss for businesses after a cyber-incident, according to responses, followed by business interruption (60%) and liability claims after a data breach (52%).

Companies are increasingly concerned about the growing sophistication of cyber-attacks.

Geo-political instability causing disruption BI remains the top peril in the Allianz Risk Barometer for the fourth year in succession with 38% of responses (30% in Africa and the Middle East).

Indeed, BI losses for businesses are increasing, typically accounting for a much higher proportion of the overall loss than a decade ago and often substantially exceeding the direct property loss, as AGCS insurance claims analysis shows. According to responses, major causes of BI feared most by companies are natural catastrophes (51%), closely followed by fire/explosion (46%). However, according to the survey’s findings, multinational companies are also increasingly worried about the disruptive impact of geo-political instability as war or upheaval could impact their supply chains or their staff or assets could suffer from acts of terrorism.

‘Businesses need to prepare for a wider range of disruptive forces in 2016 and beyond,’ says Axel Theis, Member of the Board of Management, Allianz SE. ‘The increasing impacts of globalisation, digitalisation and technological innovation pose fundamental challenges.’

Specific risk profiles for regions and sectors On top of regional analysis the Allianz Risk Barometer also explores sector-specific risks, for example for manufacturing, marine and shipping and other major industries.

For more information, visit: www.agcs.allianz.com/ insights/white-papers-and-case-studies/allianz-riskbarometer-2016.

Rising sophistication of cyber attacks Another area of increasing concern for businesses globally are cyber incidents, which includes cybercrime or data breaches, but also technical IT failures.

Cyber incidents gained 11 percentage points yearon-year to move from fifth position (fifth in Africa and the Middle East) into the top three risks for the first time (28% of responses). Five years ago, cyber

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Allianz Lesiba Sethoga T +27 (0) 11 214 7948 E Lesiba.Sethoga@allianz.com

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DĂŠcor

BUILDING SYSTEMS Automation......................................65 Bathrooms.......................................66 Ceilings & Partitions......................78 Electrical.........................................80 Floors................................................82 Kitchens.............................................85 Roofing.............................................91 Lighting.............................................93 Doors & Windows..........................95 Walls & Cladding..........................97

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AUTOMATION BUILDING SYSTEMS

Home automation Security and home automation products are not only becoming cheaper, but also a necessity. A systems application expert tells us about his experiences with a remarkably useful but simple system.

Bruce Bodmer travels extensively on business and it is important for him to be in full control of what is happening at his home, 24/7.

‘Knowing that my road-facing garage door or gate is closed or has been accidentally left open is no problem with the simple electronic system I have installed. Using a cell phone command, the system will secure the door or gate and confirm this with a text (SMS) message.

Should my garage door or gate be tampered with, I will immediately be notified by SMS, a siren and a telephone call. There will be no nasty surprises with this simple system in place,’ he explains.

Called GSM Commander (www.gsmcommander. com), the system addresses simple solutions (managing your gate) to more complex solutions (managing the electric fence). Almost anything can be monitored and automated.

Photo by: Bruce Bodmer

Bruce Bodmer

Examples of secure control • The electric fence may be activated and deactivated via SMS. The user can also check to see if it is energised.

• Users can be notified of activations by SMS, after which garden or security lights can be activated and the security company activated to investigate the premises.

• Simple things, such as switching the pool pump on and off, monitoring the alarm system, checking how much electricity you are using, switching the home alarm on and off, and knowing when the home alarm is set, are all easy to implement.

• When a service person or domestic worker arrives at the gate, they may make a cost-free call to a dedicated cell number and if the time of the arrival

is within the rules as defined, the gate will open, the alarm will be switched off, and the house door opened. Then an SMS text message is sent to the home owners that the service provider has arrived at work. The same happens in reverse when the domestic worker or service provider leaves the premises.

Holiday home owners Authorised cell numbers can switch on the fridge, the geyser and the water, and by calling the cell number, can activate and deactivate the home alarm. Should the user forget to switch of the appliances, geyser or water when departing, all that needs to be done is use the cell phone to perform these actions remotely.

Conveniently, when travelling to the holiday home, hot water can be switched on an hour before arrival, ensuring a hot bath or shower awaits the owner upon their arrival.

‘Technically speaking, the system does not use computer networking IP internet so there is no requirement to have a live internet connection.

The control processors are small and can fit into a waterproof box. Backup power systems ensure full functionality in cases of power cuts,’ says Bodmer.

‘Also, the GSM Commander is different to systems based on Arduino. The system has been tried and tested in an industrial environment over five years, pioneered by university academics and has since become a successful business,’ he adds.

‘Design and implementation of domestic solutions involving GSM Commander are undertaken by authorised designers who have in-depth experience,’ Bodmer, himself an IT and electronic specialist, points out. ‘Almost nothing is impossible to automate, from the home, industrial pumps and process control to wine estates and farming hardware. The user truly has total control and peace of mind – via a cell phone.’

Bruce Bodmer C +27 (0) 83 628 0010 issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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BUILDING SYSTEMS BATHROOMS

Trust is the new X-Factor According to a prominent South African sanware company that raises the benchmark on business credibility, trust is the new X-Factor in business.

Trust is an essential asset anywhere in the world, and an annual survey published by Edelman – the 2016 global communications firm – provides the following insights on trust in business: • The trust of the mass population can no longer be taken for granted.

• Business has the best opportunity to bridge the trust chasm.

• Respondents view business (61%) as the institution most trusted to keep pace with rapid change, far more than they do government (41%).

• Business is significantly more trusted than government in 21 out of 28 countries, with large gaps in countries such as South Africa.

Edelman sounded a call for entrepreneurs and business CEOs to focus more on issues of the day, including job creation, company transparency, and involvement in the improvement and development of social economies.

With the rise in consumer uncertainty, it’s comforting to know that renowned companies such as Vaal, Libra and Plexicor Sanware have steadfastly evolved through South Africa’s temperamental economic climate to proudly maintain their positions at the forefront of consumer credibility.

Since their respective inceptions to market, spanning over 60 years, Vaal Libra Plexicor, continues to support ongoing South African consumer demands for value for money, service excellence, job creation, and community development.

‘We have come a long way since trading in the 50s and 60s,’ says Yvonne Müller, Group Marketing Executive of Vaal Libra Plexicor. ‘Our business has seen the rise and fall of the economy, ups and downs of our country’s political position, the introduction and explosion of technology systems, and massive shifts in consumer expectations. Through it all, we believe that we have remained steady in our approach to change, and have always delivered our promise of quality excellence,’ says Müller.

With its commendable track record for job creation, the company has collectively been responsible for the employment of over 2 000 South Africans in the

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last 10 years, while the Group further extends its arm to community initiatives. These have included Vaal’s joint venture projects with QASA, in the development of sanitary solutions for quadriplegic and paraplegic communities.

The company also continues to invest in research and development to ensure its products and solutions comply with current affairs and the overall wellbeing of the environment. As a spearheading example, the company has instituted environmentally sustainable processes, in terms of both product manufacture and factory operations. This includes an on-site crushing plant that results in 80% reuse of rejects and 20% off-site recycling of raw material, heat recovery from kilns used in dryers and ovens, on-site wooden pallet recycling, stack emission monitoring, and dust fall-out monitoring.

With Vaal Libra Plexicor at the cornerstone of authentic brand representation, it is clear the Group is doing its bit to bridge the trust chasm in the market.

The company positions itself as a leader in product innovation and quality sanware manufacturing in South Africa, with installation projects spanning the education, medical, hospitality and residential sectors.

Projects of distinction include: • Fire & Ice Protea Hotel (Pretoria) • Protea Hotel, Sea Point (Cape Town) • Medi Clinic, Centurion (Pretoria) • Bay West Mall (Port Elizabeth) • Melomed Hospital (Tokai) • Radisson Blue Hotels (National) • Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital (Cape Town).

Vaal Sanitaryware T +27 (0) 16 360 6000 W www.vaalsan.co.za

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BUILDING SYSTEMS BATHROOMS

The oasis that is your bathroom The globally operating Geberit Group is the European leader in the field of sanitary products. Geberit operates as an integrated group with a very strong presence in most European countries, providing established good value when it comes to sanitary technology and bathroom ceramics.

Geberit’s production network encompasses 35 production facilities, of which six are located overseas. Headquartered in Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland with more than 12 000 employees in over 40 countries, Geberit generates net sales of CHF2.9 billion and its shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. In 2012, the Geberit share was included in the SMI (Swiss Market Index).

Geberit is highly active in South Africa, offering a wide range of products. It has participated in numerous landmark projects, many of which have been featured in TO BUILD. In keeping with our theme, we asked which products are seen by Geberit as appropriate for our changing architectural landscape.

Kombifix – Concealed cistern

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CleanLine • Design, hygiene and drainage performance are of the utmost importance in wet areas, and customers should choose a drain that addresses all these aspects. The company offers several drainage solutions to suit all styles, budgets and bathroom sizes.

• Shower channels are very popular with their timeless designer lines. However, if you have ever cleaned a conventional shower channel you will know how much dirt and bacteria tends to build up and accumulate under the entire length of the cover, which can often go undetected. In contrast, the new Geberit CleanLine shower channels not only look good but offer an intelligent solution to this hygiene problem.

• The water flows effortlessly along the shower channel to the drain with no hidden places for dirt to accumulate.

What’s more, the short inlet connector cover over the drain section incorporates an integrated comb insert that can be removed and easily cleaned in no time at all.

Photos by: Geberit

• The trend in bathrooms is towards a minimalistic and elegant look where the bathroom is an oasis and sanctuary for relaxation.

Form and function meet creative and beautiful design together with innovative use of space.

• Geberit concealed cisterns play a large role in this trend, which cleverly conceals the plumbing and piping in the wall. A Geberit Kombifix cistern for the wall-hung toilet, together with the Geberit Sigma01 dual flush plate, was used in this bathroom image combining beautiful design with function.

• The Geberit Kombifix is optimally suitable for installation in solid wall constructions and is a

proven, reliable system that is not only space saving, efficient and quiet, but with the factory setting of either 6/3 litre flush option, saves water.

It is compatible with most wall-hung toilets and is simple and practical to install.

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BATHROOMS BUILDING SYSTEMS • Installing a CleanLine shower channel is simple and uncomplicated. The shower channels are versatile and flexible as they can be cut to the required length within the showering area, and can be installed either very close to the wall or in the middle of the shower.

• Every last detail fulfils the requirements for trendsetting sanitary technology – from the stainless steel timeless design to the high discharge rate of the flat trap, the well tested installation and sealing technology, right through to the ease of installation, function and shape of the shower channel itself.

Basin trap • The washbasin trap combines aesthetics with functionality – the water is conducted in a regular and direct stream to the outlet pipe via the integrated hydraulic element, while its automatic selfcleaning function ensures cleanliness at all times.

• The inspired design of the new washbasin trap makes it compatible with any washbasin and every tap.

Omega60 • The new Geberit Omega60 actuator plate is both small and flush with the wall.

• Choose the glass design or one of the metal surfaces to suit your bathroom style.

• The Omega range of cisterns is available in various heights, therefore ideally suited when space is limited.

• The actuator plate can be optionally mounted either on top or in front of the wall.

• Boasting the well-known watersaving dual flush keeps the environment and water resources top of mind.

• Enjoy extra small dimensions that are flush with the wall or tiles.

Omega30 • Small and dynamic, this flush plate has astonishingly small dimensions while maintaining a high quality and water-saving dual flush system.

• Choose from a variety of colours made of highquality plastic.

• Ideal for front or top actuation.

Sigma50 • The Sigma50 is one of Geberit’s most popular flush plates designed by renowned designer, Christoph Behling.

• It is available in many different colour finishes, giving you the option to choose the one that fits your bathroom perfectly.

• In addition, you can choose the customisable Sigma50 flush plate, which gives you the option to simply inlay the material of your choice, whether it is chrome, glass, wood or stone. The only limitation is your imagination. The frameless design of the Sigma50 dual flush actuator plate and its curved, brushed-aluminium buttons add a sophisticated elegance to any contemporary bathroom design.

• The company’s product allows the designer or homeowner the freedom to create a unique bathroom expression, individual to the finest detail.

Geberit systems are extremely quiet, reliable and efficient.

Geberit T +27 (0) 861 FLUSH 1 E sales.za@geberit.com W www.geberit.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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BATHROOMS BUILDING SYSTEMS

Prestigious project supports water saving

Photo by: Cobra Watertech

A local supplier has demonstrated its commitment to the preservation of our natural resources through the design and installation of water- and energy-saving tap and plumbing ware during a major office block refurbishment project in Braamfontein on behalf of the World Wildlife Fund South Africa.

World Wildlife Fund South Africa (WWF-SA) considers its refurbished building – the first retrofitted building in the country to receive a 6-star GBCSA rating as a benchmark in sustainability and green building design. It showcases how innovative, practical and sustainable solutions, combined with creative design flare and lower cost production practices, can be adapted to influence the environmental impacts of a retrofitted structure.

As part of the refurbishment, the kitchen, bathrooms and restroom for people with disabilities were overhauled. Products from Cobra’s Capstan and medical ranges were specified for these rooms, including metering taps and spouts, stop taps, sink mixers, a shower arm and pulsating shower rose, and bottle trap.

‘We are extremely proud to have been a part of this significant project that actively promotes the sustainable use of our natural resources. Despite the strict project budget, we were able to meet WWF-SA’s needs and supply the exact water-saving products required. Working within the confines of an existing structure and retrofitting products in the most sustainable way possible can be tricky, but our technical team rose to the challenge and successfully delivered on the project mandate,’ explains Driena Hoffman, Cobra’s specifications consultant.

‘Through innovative features and smart technology, our 6-star green building in Braamfontein sends a strong message about the importance of the wise use of our resources, as well as celebrating the interconnectedness – of people and of nature – of our natural environment and our built environment. We would not have been able to achieve all this within our very conservative budget without Cobra and other generous sponsors,’ adds Dr Morné du Plessis, CEO of WWF South Africa.

“We did not build our new office, we reconstructed it. We re-used and recycled everything that we could possibly salvage from this old structure. The WWF Braamfontein building ultimately disproves the notion that green buildings are expensive,” says Dr du Plessis.

“Having been acknowledged for this unprecedented achievement, the building stands as a testament to the positive impacts of sustainability that will have a lasting effect, and will seek to encourage the rest of the property sector and other businesses in terms of influencing the way we live and work.”

“Today, this newly renovated platform has become a base from which WWF-SA is able to engage with key stakeholders and conduct its work across South Africa. It also serves as an open invitation to anyone in the area to connect with WWF. With

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BUILDING SYSTEMS BATHROOMS

Photo by: WWF

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Photo by: Cobra Watertech

its luxury boardroom and audio-visual room, both featuring state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, it is the perfect venue for companies, groups or non-profit organisations that need meeting facilities or who wish to connect with colleagues or clients abroad. And by using such technologies, the collective business carbon footprint can be reduced.

“WWF is ultimately all about heritage. Whether it is natural, social, environmental or suburban heritage, WWF cares about conserving those things that are most valuable to South Africans. Our work is not just about conservation or the environment. It is about inspiring people to make the right choices when thinking about living sustainably, and taking care of our planet,” says du Plessis.

Ideally located in a diverse corner of South Africa’s main business city, and contributing to Johannesburg’s rejuvenation initiative, WWF’s Braamfontein building boasts many features focused on the core principles of sustainability.

These include the re-use of 80% the original building materials in the re-design as well as natural ventilation, a closed water recycling system, lightsensitive blinds, various insulation solutions and an indigenous rooftop garden with water-efficient plants that are watered by rainwater.

Richard Duckitt, from Bornman Associates, was the green building consultant and project manager on the development.

Says project architect Simon Cretney, “The whole idea behind constructing the building the way we did – with raw concrete and raw brickwork and re-using

as much as we could – was to work as sustainably as possible. By doing that, WWF would be able to show that they are walking the walk, and talking the talk.”

Construction started in 2012, with the building handed over to WWF at the end of January this year and the application for the 6-star rating process began soon after.

Also see the project-specific article on the WWF building in the Green Building section of this edition of TO BUILD.

Cobra Watertech T 0861 21 21 21 E marketing@cobrawatertech.co.za W www.cobra.co.za

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ADVERTORIAL VIEGA Photo by: Viega

Vandalism-proof public sanitary room equipment Top supplier, Viega, introduces new actuation panels that offer property owners high-quality design for robust environments.

Sanitary facilities in public buildings have especially high traffic, which means high demand for functionality and safety against vandalism. Made from high-quality stainless steel, Visign for Public actuating panels harmoniously fit into the furnishings of public bathrooms with their reduced, simple style, including a flat installation of just 10mm. The stainless steel design guarantees high-level protection against vandalism by ensuring that the actuating panel can’t be removed haphazardly. The brushed or white lacquered smooth surface of the six product variations is simple to clean, contributing to hygiene without neglecting cost-effectiveness.

Available for all concealed cisterns The Visign for Public series is available from the manufacturer for all Visign concealed cisterns. The actuating panels for the single volume flush are designed for mechanical actuation; a Bowden wire unit is included in the delivery scope for the dual-volume flush.

The urinal panel with non-contact infrared technology operates using a battery or mains connection, while a cover panel for cisterns with remote actuation rounds off the series.

Infrared WC actuating panels with manual flush options Two new actuating panels, Visign for Public 5 and Visign for Public 6, activate the flush via infrared technology and guarantee touchless and easy flush control. In addition, the Visign for Public 5 version offers the option of mechanical activation.

Building on Viega’s renowned electric flush technology, the developers combined the new Visign for Public models with an infrared detector. The technology distinguishes two different areas. In the far range – between 45 and 55cm – there is generally an automatic flush. This is only activated after a short time delay when the user leaves the detection area. In the close range, up to about 3cm, the user can activate the flush by simply moving a hand closer to the unit. This is an important function if, for instance, cleaning requires

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an extra flush or when the user enters the facility.

This option to activate the flush, still touchless, is also possible even after each automatic flush.

Additional functions Visign for Public 6 is fitted with a detector that determines required flush volumes. If this additional function is activated, infrared technology activates an automatic full or partial flush volume after a set time delay (full flush volumes: 4.5, 6 or 9 litres). In contrast, Visign for Public 5 offers an additional option for manual flushing – activation at the push of a button – in case of a power cut. For both manual and infrared activation, a full flush is always possible for this model. As with the electronic flush, full flush volumes can be selected for between six and nine litres.

Design All models in the Visign for Public series are hardwearing, fitted with anti-theft features and equipped for the challenges of public sanitary facilities. The smooth surface makes cleaning easier and offers optimal hygiene conditions.

Visign for Public 5 and Visign for Public 6 are made of high-grade stainless steel and available in brushed stainless steel and alpine white. They can be combined with virtually all Viega cisterns and can be retro-fitted in existing cisterns. If there is no power supply, they can also be operated using highperformance batteries. The control unit includes the Viega Hygiene+ function. A flush programme can be activated with an optional programming hand-set and the flush is automatically activated after 24, 72 or 168 hours with three, six or nine litres.

Viega South Africa Harscan Distributors T +27 (0) 11 787 2993 C +27 (0) 82 600 6566 E sales@harscan.co.za W www.viega.com/www.harscan.co.za

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BUILDING SYSTEMS CEILINGS & PARTITIONS

Photos by: Pelican

Long lasting local solutions for local buildings We profile Pelican Systems, a 100% South African company that has been a part of the building industry in South Africa for over 40 years. Pelican’s Denise Gould shares her company’s focus on sourcing and securing quality products for the building industry, and creating brands that will last well into the future.

As a supplier and distributor of interior solutions for commercial and residential buildings, including ceiling, partitioning, opening and flooring systems, Pelican has branches in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, and a network of distributors around the country that supply the company’s products.

Local solutions for local buildings • JUMBO Insulation – By improving the thermal insulation of the building envelope, the total energy consumption of the building is reduced, as are heating and cooling costs. JUMBO Insulation helps to keep ambient temperatures comfortable throughout the year – the building will be warm in winter and cool in summer. JUMBO Insulation is locally manufactured and carries the SABS certification mark, as well as being 100% eco-friendly and completely recyclable. It is non-allergenic, non-irritant and flexible.

• JUMBO Skimming Plaster – A locally-manufactured multipurpose interior gypsum plaster. We created a system that offers the advantages of a superior finish, extreme flexibility, and an increased spreading rate, while maintaining cost effectiveness. In short,

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JUMBO Skimming Plaster simplifies the gypsum plaster procedure to a one-step product that saves money and time. With its concentrated silicate and high-quality raw gypsum, JUMBO Skimming Plaster offers silky smooth finishes that are quick and easy to overcoat with paint. It is also crack and chip resistant, non-combustible and sound deadening.

• 8mm Tapered Edge (TE) JUMBO Plasterboard – With its tapered edge, this product is an industry first. A versatile ceiling board that can be used for a taped and jointed ceiling, a flush plastered ceiling, and a ceiling with an H-strip/cover strip finish. Instead of ordering either a 7mm or a 9mm JUMBO board depending on the ceiling application, 8mm JUMBO TE board can be stocked and used for all plasterboard ceiling applications, including flush plaster grid, steel and timber brandering and bulkhead construction.

Pelican Systems T +27 (0) 31 563 7307 E info@pelican.co.za W www.pelican.co.za

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BUILDING SYSTEMS ELECTRICAL

Power plant modular production process

Efficient Power, a division of Efficient Engineering with a staff of 35 specialists, advises that its process for building self-contained modular power plants designed for remote regions is the first of its kind of this scale. It offers a complete offsite construction solution for abnormal buildings leaving the factory with all internal equipment already installed, fully integrated, tested and cold commissioned. This results in the bare minimum of site work and is set to revolutionise the time, risk and cost involved in these large and complex projects.

‘Mobile substations are not a new concept,’ explains Warwick Jackson, Managing Director of Efficient Power. ‘These were largely built for the wrong reasons and the incorrect type of structures. The construction of brick substation buildings in remote locations presents challenges, including stringent health and safety regulations, access issues, poor productivity, high costs and other logistical concerns.

We realised that the answer to the challenges of building traditional substations on site was to create fully integrated structures off-site.

‘Substation construction has been complicated, costly and time consuming, requiring a large team of expensive specialists on site to complete the fitting and testing of all equipment. This comes at great cost and risk, and completion of the project hinges on the reliability of each of these specialists. In addition, the complex buildings required will actually outlive the equipment they housed in’.

‘Efficient Power solutions are bespoke products designed and built according to exact specifications, around the equipment they house. The highest standards are upheld throughout,’ advises Jackson.

The launch of the new mobile industrial solutions was made possible through the company’s alignment with Efficient Engineering, allowing it to utilise specialist skills from several unrelated industries, bringing together heavy engineering and fabrication with a project execution and technical team to custom

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Photo by: Warwick Jackson

A local manufacturer has created an appropriate solution to address the challenges of building self-contained modular power plants in remote regions.

design each element of the structure. By working with a trusted design and engineering house on a 1 800m³/hour pump station, the company consulted with professional engineers who understand both vibration and thrust issues, and can design solutions to accommodate them.

‘This approach genuinely makes it possible to have a large pump station or substation – equipped with medium voltage switchgear, a motor control centre, and a control and instrumentation room – fully operational within a week of arriving on site.

The newly fabricated mobile building needs to be equipped with every possible piece of equipment.

These are commissioned in the same facility, and test-integrated so that the structure is 100% before being relocated,’ he explains.

The completed structures are then transported to site. They are hydraulically lifted and positioned onto custom-built plinths, where racking and cable work is simply connected. This results in a substation that is ready to provide more than thirty years of service.

The entire process is accomplished in a fraction of the time it would take to construct on site.

‘Efficient Power believes in challenging the norm make a tangible and sustainable difference to the industry in which we operate,’ says Jackson. ‘For this to be successful we need to ensure that we are truly innovative. So we focus on being a solutions driven company as opposed to simply churning out what is the norm.’

Efficient Power Warwick Jackson T +27 (0) 11 928 4800

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BUILDING SYSTEMS FLOORS

The latest tile trends for 2016 A local supplier undertakes an annual pilgrimage to Cersaie; the legendary tile and bathroom ware industry exhibition held in the trendy city of Bologna, Italy.

Every year the Tile Africa team travels to Cersaie – a spectacular show where current and future trends that shape or will soon shape the local industry are showcased to inspire the global market. Cersaie offers the industry a preview of what’s coming in terms of technology, innovation and trends in the tiling and bathroom ware industry.

Liza Watermeyer, Retail and Display Coordinator at Tile Africa, explains that this year two themes seemed to stand out from the thousands of displays on show. Watermeyer dubs these themes ‘Alchemy and Artisanal’.

Alchemy refers to the use of metallic finishes, especially gold. The combination of metallic tones with embossed, textured, relief or patterned surfaces makes for a heady mix of glamour and luxe to products and displays alike.

The Artisanal theme on the other hand, showcased bespoke material with a hand-made appearance. The material is not machine made and has finishes that are distressed, painted, sanded, white-washed, burnt or even waxed. Also part of the artisanal theme is upcycled, recycled and vintage looks.

Top trends in tiles spotted by Tile Africa at Cersaie for 2016 The Look The most prominent tile trend to come from the show was that of Stone Look tiles, particularly marble, in different textured finishes. This marble look varies from the classic, glossy finish in all colours and hues to matt and rougher finishes, including honed and rock-hammered textures. Surface textures in stone and cement looks vary too, which makes it suitable

Photos by: Tile Africa

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FLOORS BUILDING SYSTEMS

for a complete tiling solution used in any application inside or outside the home, including around a pool.

In addition to this stone-look tile, cement- and woodlook tiles continue to be a popular offering, many with painted, washed, patterned, printed or sanded effects on the tile body or in décor effects.

Size and shape Tiles continue to be available in large format in rectangles and square shapes. The brick tile is also a very popular option and is available in all types of looks and finishes that can be used on both walls and floors. Similar to this format is metro or subway wall tiles that can be laid in traditional patterns, such as herringbone and parquet, or they can form part of a range that has three sizes in one colour way.

Geometric shapes remain a popular choice with hexagon shapes being favoured more often than not.

Gables, trapeziums, parallelograms, rhombus and triangular shapes are also gaining popularity.

Colour While neutral greys across the colour spectrum still prevail, these seem to be warming up so that neutrals with yellow and red undertones are making a showing. The Mediterranean colour palette with cool shades in greens and blues juxtaposed with the warm spicy tones of terracotta and brick red are also trending. These can be interlaid with hints of metallic, especially gold.

Top trends in bathrooms at Cersaie for 2016 Bathroom ware shapes Two of the most popular shapes in bathroom ware continue to be the organic, soft round forms and the

straight clean lines of a square, leaner aesthetic. The geometric trend also featured, with some bathroom ware units having a facetted shape.

Finish and colour The natural appeal of matt stoneware in all forms of bathroom ware continues to be a key trend.

The introduction of colour in stoneware is becoming more popular where muted tones, light to mid-greys and black are more popular than the primary colours.

Additionally, a trend to look out for is the combination of various materials and finishes on cabinets and bathroom furniture. Texture and/or relief on wood or board used in the manufacturing of the furniture is prominent and adds interest and a sense of the artisanal theme. Mixing of traditional bathroom ware with metal and wood is also popular.

An exciting trend is that colour is not just restricted to tiles and bathroom accessories anymore; the exhibition revealed that taps and basins with hints of colour, in particular the glint of gold, is on trend.

‘This annual show is an explosion of inspiration and design and it helps Tile Africa to stay up to date with the latest international trends. All the insights and knowledge gained provides us with a strong foundation to conceptualise fresh and on-trend designs, always referencing our South African heritage so as to appeal to our local market,’ Watermeyer concludes.

Tile Africa T +27 0800 002 783 W www.tileafrica.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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KITCHENS BUILDING SYSTEMS

Commentary from KSA The Kitchen Specialists Association (KSA)’s national manager, STEPHANIE FORBES explains why customers should use KSA members for their kitchen requirements.

Below are excerpts from a letter to the KSA requesting help following work carried out by a non-KSA member.

This is one of many letters and phone calls received by the KSA from consumers who have opted to deal with a company that offers no consumer recourse should something go wrong.

KSA’s perspective ‘We like to think that things would have come to a better conclusion had the customer used a KSA member,’ Stephanie says. ‘KSA members are not perfect but they do choose to put third party intervention in place to protect their customers should things go wrong,’ she adds.

‘Had the kitchen company been a KSA member the customer’s first port of call would have been his regional KSA office where he would have completed a KSA dispute registration form giving us full details of the problems he experienced. This form would then have been sent to the member for a response. If a resolution cannot be reached, the KSA coordinates a site inspection using industry experts from within the organisation to ascertain the nature of the problem and possible solutions. It is important to note that the KSA aims to offer mediation as a way for both parties to avoid legal action while complying with the Consumer Protection Act. We do not get involved if legal action has already commenced between the parties,’ Stephanie explains.

KSA members are required to comply with any ruling handed down by the KSA. Should they refuse to do so they risk suspension and even expulsion from the Association. The KSA has the right to advertise this suspension or expulsion on its website, social media and, if needed, the newspapers. It is in every member’s interest to readily comply with a mediation ruling. The mediation ruling dictates what needs to be done to bring the workmanship to the standards displayed in the member’s showroom and to industry expectations for the price charged. It will also specify a time-line for the work to be completed. The aim of the mediation is to bring the issue to a resolution

Letter to KSA

In 2013, part of our planned home renovation was a new kitchen. What should have been one of the more pleasant experiences of the renovation soon became a nightmare that dragged on for more than a year.

The company we used charged us with a breach of contract when we refused to pay the final 10% payment. This was because of a long snag list still existing after eight months of them working on the kitchen.

It was then that we approached the office of the Consumer Protector and the KSA for its ‘nonmember site inspection’ service.

Despite the KSA’s report that revealed R40 000 was required to get the kitchen up to an acceptable standard, the Consumer Protector was only able to get the kitchen company to drop the final payment by about R9 000. We didn’t realise that they could only mediate and don’t have any power to demand financial compensation.

Had we selected a KSA member, we would have had more recourse because your members volunteer to be registered and agree to abide by rulings handed down by the KSA or risk suspension or expulsion. If a KSA member had been appointed, your mediation service and assistance would have been free and we would have had access to your holding account facilities.

In conclusion, I would recommend that customers choose KSA members as the more intelligent option. It will be cheaper and, in the end you are likely to have a good quality product.

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BUILDING SYSTEMS KITCHENS

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Photos by: Kitchens SA

that is fair for both parties, leaving the customer with a completed kitchen of acceptable quality, and the member with fair payment for the work.

Before work commences, the KSA requests that any outstanding funds due to the member by the customer are placed in the KSA’s holding account.

This ensures that the funds are not used to derail the mediation process. The customer retains control of the funds as they can’t be released without his signature, while the member is assured that there are sufficient funds to complete the work. The KSA then works with the member, monitoring the progress of the work and seeing it to conclusion.

‘We try our utmost to ensure that all disputes end well. We are not always successful but nine times out of ten we are,’ Stephanie insists. ‘Over the last 26 years, KSA has offered consumers some form of recourse and support during their kitchen installations.

A new kitchen is costly, and appointing a KSA member is the only way I know of that a consumer can afford themselves some protection. Had this customer used a KSA member, the poor workmanship would have had to be repaired or the member would have risked a public suspension or expulsion with drastic repercussions. The customer would not have been left out of pocket to the tune of R30 000, or with a kitchen with compromised longevity and structural integrity,’ Stephanie concludes.

KSA W www.ksa.co.za E Gauteng@ksa.co.za, kzn@ksa.co.za, capetown@ksa.co.za

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011 394 3008 063-100_TB17_Building Systems.indd 87

info@stonebuilt.co.za

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BUILDING SYSTEMS KITCHENS

Beyond the braai – building an outdoor kitchen Professional writer, TAMARA OBERHOLSTER, shares her outlook on outdoor kitchens with TO BUILD’S readers.

South Africans love their braais and generally make the most of the country’s weather by spending lots of time outdoors. It makes sense then that the international trend towards outdoor kitchens is starting to catch on here too.

According to US company, Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet, the core kitchen zones one needs to consider are hot zones (your cooking appliances and surrounding workspace), dry zones (counter space for food prep, plus cupboard space and storage), wet zones (the sink, surrounding countertop and sinkrelated storage), and cold zones (fridge, freezer and adjacent countertop space).

Location of the kitchen Creating an outdoor kitchen begins with selecting a site. Bear in mind that you’ll need to think about whether the space can be easily connected to your

water and electricity supply and sheltered from the weather. If your outdoor kitchen is within easy reach of your indoor one, you can rely on the latter (for example, using the fridge and freezer there instead of needing separate ones for the outdoor kitchen).

Remember that if you’re planning to build a formal structure (such as a boma), you may need to get council approval. Interior decorator, Nicki Leshnick, notes that another important consideration is how far away the kitchen is from the house (for example, on the patio or at the bottom of the garden?).

Melinda Hardisty, Architect at SVA International, notes that if you are looking to build a new home that includes an outside kitchen, you should let the architect or designer know as early as possible. She advises thinking about how often you will use an outdoor kitchen space, what sort of cooking you will do there (braai/electric/gas/pizza oven) and how many

Photo by: Tamara Oberholster

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KITCHENS Building Systems people you will need to accommodate. ‘Try to avoid gimmicky things that won’t fit your lifestyle. A pizza oven that gets used once a year is a waste of space and money,’ she points out.

Ensure you will have easy access to a sink and adequate light. ‘Cooking in the sunshine is great, but you want to be able to use the space at night too. Creating a deep, covered space for an outdoor kitchen will protect it from adverse weather and enable it to be used year round,’ Hardisty notes.

Also consider ease of use. ‘If it will take you half an hour to unlock doors, set up equipment, clean tables, and carry food out from somewhere else, the chances are high that you will rarely use the space,’ she adds.

Security needs to be considered too, and Hardisty recommends shutters or stack-away doors that are easy to open completely and shut down.

Jerome Kirsten, Managing Director of Essential Kitchens, suggests designing cupboards for outdoor kitchens so that no panels touch the floor. This can be achieved using stainless steel legs to ensure they do not rust outdoors.

‘Hinges and runners are also components of the kitchen that need to be taken into consideration because of the rust factor,’ says Kirsten. These should be made from high quality steel. He recommends also including an under-slung sink, which fits from underneath the worktop and makes it easier to slide things into it from the surface, and granite countertops that won’t fade or warp.

Bear in mind that outdoor kitchens will require regular cleaning and maintenance. But if you entertain outdoors often, the effort is well worth it.

Design considerations Similar design principles apply to all kitchens, whether indoors or out. Keeping the stove, sink and fridge close together allows for the best use of space and ease of use when cooking.

Leshnick points out that if your outdoor kitchen is close to your house or patio, and is undercover, you can make do with just your cooking appliances and a preparation/presentation surface (such as a large island), with a plug point for a warming tray. Washing up and storage can be handled inside.

Tamara Oberholster T +27 (0) 11 467 0478 E tamara@wordchef.co.za W www.wordchef.co.za

About Tamara Oberholster Tamara Oberholster is the founder of Word Chef and truly savours great stories. She loves cooking up creative projects with her clients and bringing flavour to words.

She has worked in advertising, public relations, copy writing and journalism. She has also lectured in journalism, winning a Teaching Excellence Award in 2013 from Midrand Graduate Institute.

Formerly the editor of Banker SA, the official publication of The Banking Association of South Africa, she writes regularly for publications such as Easy DIY and South Africa Deluxe, as well as ghost-writing for a range of prominent business people. She has also contributed to the 2014 Trialogue CSI Handbook, Behind the Green Veil: Reflections on Sustainability (published by the Gordon Institute of Business Science), and Communication that Counts (published by GrantCraft in partnership with Tshikululu).

Her clients include non-profit organisations, media houses and businesses operating in a wide variety of sectors, from wireless telemetry to personal branding, business coaching and wealth management.

She sits on the board of Oasis Haven South Africa, a non-profit organisation and registered child and youth care centre.

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Photo by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

ROOFING BUILDING SYSTEMS

Verde Hotel – legendary environmental performance wins 6 Star rating by GBCSA, including low SRI Clean COLORBONDTM steel roof.

Cooler roofs for a greener future In today’s global environment, TO BUILD asked leading supplier of coated steel roofing products, BlueScope, to comment on the importance of high solar reflectance roofing materials to offset global warming.

Traditionally, light coloured Clean COLORBONDTM steel roofs have reduced the amount of incoming solar radiation absorbed, and have also been highly effective at re-radiating heat, thus leading to a cooler roof and a reduction in energy demand for internal cooling. With the addition of ThermatechTM solar reflectance technology, the company’s darker coloured steel roofing products now also absorb less energy, creating the advantages of a cooler roof and a cooler building, in a similar way to the lighter shaded colours.

The solar reflectance index (SRI) of a roofing product is widely used by green building rating tools to mitigate the so-called urban heat island (UHI) effect. This SRI is a value that incorporates both solar reflectance and thermal emittance in a single value to represent the material’s temperature in the sun.

Hence the SRI quantifies how hot a surface would get relative to standard black and standard white surfaces. A theoretical SRI value of 100 indicates the best performing roofing material meaning the coolest roof.

So for the lighter colour materials, an SRI value of 85 is typified by the company’s African White colour while, on the darker end of the scale, an SRI value of 47 would apply to Armour Grey, which is a considerably darker colour.

ThermatechTM optimises the thermal performance of every colour in the standard Clean COLORBONDTM steel and Clean COLORBONDTM Ultra steel palettes, without changing their appearance. This provides greater thermal comfort all year round while using less energy for air-conditioning and hence mitigating the UHI effect. Furthermore, the outstanding dirt resistance property of Clean COLORBONDTM steel and Clean COLORBONDTM Ultra steel ensures roofs looks newer for longer.

BlueScope Steel Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd Wayne Miller T +27 (0) 21 442 5420 E wayne.miller@bluescopesteel.com issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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LIGHTING BUILDING SYSTEMS

Italy sheds light Lando is an Italian hand-crafted furniture manufacturer that also produces several custom-made lights and lamps, made from porcelain and ceramic. TO BUILD features some of its exquisite electrical lamps for our readers’ enjoyment.

Above: The GB971 1080 porcelain disks are hand-made and threaded on 1080 handtied knots. The light coming from the central light-bulb, combined with the joyous sounds of the disks when the chandelier is moved, render this an extremely emotional piece.

Above: The FA930 chandelier family (in ceramic) is a re-visitation of an original classical piece from the Venetian tradition, which was wrapped in gauze and plastered (just like when an arm is broken) to obtain a new form. By becoming the meringue-looking ghost of itself, an oldfashioned piece becomes eternally contemporary.

Right: The GB971 1080 porcelain disks are hand-made and threaded on 1080 handtied knots. The light coming from the central light-bulb, combined with the joyous sounds of the disks when the chandelier is moved, render this an extremely emotional piece.

In 1976 Lando Leopoldo began working in Rossano Veneto in the province of Vicenza in the north-east of Italy. He founded a small furniture business and, in 2000, the company evolved into Lando Srl. The company’s roots are the production of traditional Umbrian- and Tuscan-style furniture (although not based in these regions), inspired by a careful selection of original pieces from the antique markets, museums and antique shops of Italy. Faithful reproductions of the colours and fascinating vintage styles are made using the same construction methods, the same woods, and the same craftsmanship of the past. A very precise style

that today is still reflected in Antiquariato, the Lando collection that continues this combination of art, skill and passion.

For nearly forty years Lando has been pursuing quality in all its aspects – quality materials, processes and designs. All Lando ceramic and porcelain lighting pieces are designed by Paola Navone.

Lando, Italy T +39 0424 56 65 84 E giacomo@madeinlando.it W www.madeinlando.it issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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LET US F I L L T H E G A P !

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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DOORS & WINDOWS BUILDING SYSTEMS

No longer a fad Cobus Lourens from Swartland shares his insight into how his company is making headway when it comes to sustainability.

Swartland incorporates some of the world’s best standards and practices in operations. In line with this vision, it has embarked on a GRI Sustainability Reporting Process with the aim of increasing communication with stakeholders around transparency and accountability. ‘Our sustainability reports contain key information that provides all stakeholders with the information they require while driving us towards improvement in the businesses key areas. The report inter alia demonstrates Swartland’s vision to become a shining example of sustainability stewardship,’ explains Cobus Lourens from Swartland.

‘Swartland aims to grow the company while reducing relative consumption of natural resources.

We are aware that our own business sustainability is directly linked to the sustainability of our planet and its people. Soon, all organisations will come to the same realisation,’ he says.

Green operations Over a year ago, Swartland invested in four new high-tech computer-controlled kilns that have allowed the company to dramatically increase the amount of timber that can be kiln-dried during any single drying cycle without compromising on the woods optimal moisture content. This process reduces the chances of the wood contracting after production, which in turn improves the quality, stability, durability, and performance of the end product.

Every aspect of these kilns has been designed to be as energy efficient as possible. ‘What makes these kilns so distinctive is their ability to achieve best-in-market energy efficiency through a built-in intelligent energy management system. For example, the system can make small fan adjustments to reduce power usage during peak periods, and it considers the energy available from on-site heating plants,’ Cobus points out. The kilns also boast eco vents that recycle the heat generated during the drying

Photo by: Swartland

GRI report

process, reducing the amount of fuel burned and CO2 emissions given off.

Up to 50% of the water utilised is also recovered and reused, making the entire process much more water efficient. Additionally, the motors and electronics are positioned on the outside of each unit so they aren’t exposed to excessive humidity and heat, which serves to increase the kiln’s lifespan and decrease the overall carbon footprint.

Swartland is committed to reducing waste and one of the ways they achieve this is through its recycling programme. One of the main factors is that timber is easily reused, recycled or broken down into compost after use. As a start, Swartland uses the best woodcuts from trees to create the finest quality windows and doors. Other grade cuts are used in wood laminate products. What’s not used in production, such as excess wood chips, is used to fuel boilers that kiln-dry the wood,’ Lourens adds. In addition, shavings and sawdust are sold to local farmers for chicken bedding.

‘Virtually nothing is wasted,’ he adds.

All the products in Swartland’s KENZO range of aluminium windows and doors, as well as its range of Ready-2-Fit timber wooden windows and doors are SANS 613- and SANS 204-compliant, which means they comply with the necessary local building regulations and are an environmentally-responsible choice.

Swartland T +27 0861 10 24 25 E customerservice@swartland.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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WALLS & CLADDING BUILDING SYSTEMS

Smart products at a good price A Port Elizabeth manufacturer is clearly staying on top of the trends when it comes to interior design and hard landscaping, and has recently added two new tiles to its existing range.

Mimi Rupp, co-owner of SmartStone Port Elizabeth, and Stone etc., comments on the new products saying: ‘Home and commercial property owners are looking to make the most of their space through renovations. The easiest way to update your look is by updating your tiles. A small change can make a big impact, and our new selection does just this.’

Bach cladding

Photo by: Smartstone

Bach cladding is incredibly distinctive and is made from many different-sized squares and rectangles to create a striking modern and contemporary look. It comes in various sizes, and the company recommends that differing sizes are used for the best visual effect. The product is available in all SmartStone Port Elizabeth colours.

Octave cladding According to Rupp, the beautiful texture of the Octave cladding can be enjoyed in and around the home. A symmetric, angular design, which creates various eyecatching effects, makes a statement for modern and contemporary homes. The cladding (900mm in length) is available in all SmartStone Port Elizabeth colours.

About the company Founded in 1980, the original SmartStone concept was to create concrete products that simulate the look and feel of natural stone. However, the company evolved further. The idea of exterior design systems was achieved by creating products with natural textures, others which remained true to concrete, and some that could only be described as ‘authentic’ to Smartstone.

As a consequence, SmartStone has become a generic name in the industry. The company expanded its manufactured product range to include various shape and texture pavers, wall cladding, tiles and landscaping features. The emphasis is to replicate the same natural beauty achieved with real stone, which that is suitable for residential or commercial paving projects and in a cost effective manner.

The company developed a national footprint via a licensee programme that extends throughout South Africa. Outside South African borders, SmartStone concrete products are manufactured in Namibia and Jordan. Products are also sold in Mozambique, Swaziland and Lesotho, while fully-fledged manufacturing plants will soon open in Zimbabwe and Zambia.

SmartStone is a member of the Concrete Manufacturers Association, confirming its commitment to the advancement of paving and concrete products.

SmartStone T +27 (0) 41 366 2216 W www.smartstone.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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Photo by: Revelstone

WALLS & CLADDING BUILDING SYSTEMS

Following designs by nature A local family-owned company produces cast stone products that offer both green and cost advantages.

In August 1993, Revelstone was founded by Andrew Cyprianos who identified a niche in both the domestic and commercial markets for customised cast stone products. The company’s core focus has always been on product innovation and customer service, with a distinct design theme fuelled by its ethos: ‘designed by nature, crafted with passion’.

Jeanine Pomario, Revelstone’s PR and Marketing Manager comments: ‘We are continuously adapting our product ranges to move with the times and keep us up to date with the latest global trends.’ The result of Revelstone’s ongoing investment and innovation is a world-class, cast stone product that can be used as an alternative to real stone; a product that looks authentic in appearance, has both ‘green’ and cost advantages, and can be used by architects, landscapers and home owners to create award-winning buildings, developments, homes and gardens of distinction.

‘The company is still 100% family owned and run, which guarantees that the founding principles are not only maintained, but revitalised as the business grows and develops, thereby ensuring that Revelstone’s ethos and what it has become is not compromised but enhanced,’ Pomario insists.

‘Our latest innovation, which we believe will be extremely helpful to customers and designers, is a new website that offers visitors attractive informative content, innovative ideas and is user friendly. This means that valued customers are able to locate information on products quickly and easily.’

New website features include: • Latest information on new-engineered customdesigned range • Mobile app friendly • Google map link • Newsletter (quarterly) • Updated product image library • Social media platform Revelstone has indeed become a leading manufacturer of top quality custom-cast simulated stone products – designed by locals for local conditions.

Revelstone T +27 (0) 21 761 9739 E Jeanine@revelstone.co.za W www.revelstone.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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MATERIALS Adhesives.........................................103 Bricks & Paving.............................106 Cement & Concrete.....................109 Insulation.......................................112 Timber & Decking...........................114 Coatings.........................................118

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ADHESIVES MATERIALS

Rising to the African challenge

Africa has been called the forgotten continent.

However, Sika has a long history of major investments in this emerging market. Why is this?

Africa is a vast geographical continent with abundant natural resources and huge growth potential. Sika recognises this and wants to be part of it. Today, there are some 1.1-billion people living in Africa, with enormous growth expected over the next generation.

This triggers a big need for infrastructure and housing, both in megacities and in rural areas. The construction sector is reporting high growth rates in most markets.

In particular, Chinese contractors have penetrated the market during the last 10 years, accounting for over 60% of Africa’s total volume of activity.

What does this growth mean specifically for Sika?

To grow in economic terms, Africa needs roads, railway lines, ports, water and energy supplies.

This spells fantastic potential for the construction sector: investments totalling US$380 billion are to be channelled into the transport and energy infrastructure by 2040 alone. Of course, project financing is frequently uncertain, except for the approach taken by the Chinese. These companies usually put together a package deal that includes securing financing against the allocation of natural resources. Sika has the knowhow and superlative brand recognition to enhance its presence in these markets.

How is Sika positioning itself here?

Sika first did business in Africa in 1947. Operating locally in a few countries, the company took over the export approach adopted by many of its European organisations.

The new strategy for Africa has changed this model and focuses on what those countries and customers expect: a local manufacturing presence with local raw materials and local technical support and training.

Markets and countries were identified where Sika can

Photos by: Sika

Africa is a diverse continent of 54 countries with over 2 000 languages and an array of landscapes, and it is ready for development. For Swiss multinational, Sika, it represents huge business potential. Sika’s Africa Area Manager Africa, Jean de Martres, responds to questions about his company’s recently launched Africa Strategy.

Africa Jean de Martres

expand its footprint fast and efficiently. In the past three years we have doubled our production capacities in Africa, with seven new factories coming on stream in Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Kenya, Angola, South Africa, Mozambique and La Réunion. Our local operations now comprise sixteen country organisations.

That’s a very fast past. Will supply chain and operations continue to develop at this speed?

In line with the Sika Strategy 2018, we are aiming to double sales over the next five years, maintaining our current excellent level of profitability. The main focus for 2015 and 2016 is on ensuring the newlyestablished companies’ sales penetration levels, as well as pursuing the development of West, East and Central Africa to cover the main markets. We are already very well positioned in South and North Africa.

Which will be the future boom markets in Africa?

Emerging markets in Africa include new giants such as Nigeria and Ethiopia, the only two African countries projected to exceed 300 million inhabitants by 2030.

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MATERIALS ADHESIVES Mozambique, Tanzania, Algeria, Angola, Ivory Coast, and other medium-sized countries, will also benefit from their natural resources and continue to grow, despite today’s falling oil prices.

What about the competitive situation in Africa?

How is Sika positioned in this regard?

Firstly, we set ourselves apart from the foreign competition in terms of our business model. While many major European players still import their products into Africa, Sika conducts its business locally. This means Sika is present in the respective country with a local subsidiary and, even more importantly, Sika produces and sells locally to ensure its supply chain availability in the respective market.

Secondly, we not only want to sell products, we also want to be a real solution provider for our customers by also offering technical assistance and training. This is crucial for Sika’s development in Africa, and a clear differentiating factor among major foreign competitors.

What obstacles does Sika have to overcome in Africa?

One of our main challenges is human capital and, here especially, to find the right employees who share our values and principles and come with a solid educational and professional background. Sika is not top-down and centralised in approach, but allows its local organisations freedom, giving them a sense of ownership and entrepreneurial spirit. This requires people able to assume responsibilities, take a business-led approach, embrace empowerment

and seize the chance to grow in our organisations.

Identifying, training and coaching these employees is one of our critical success factors in Africa.

Sika’s recent landmark projects in Africa • Lauca Dam in Angola is part of the largest hydropower facility in the country and scheduled for completion in 2017 at a cost of around US$4 billion. The dam will be an impressive 132m high and 1 100m long. Sika is providing mortar, concrete admixtures, sealants and coatings.

• Maputo – the Catembe Bridge (628m long and 137m high) and the 74km ring road. Together estimated to cost around US$1 billion, these two projects will serve to improve the traffic situation in the capital. Here too, Sika is providing mortars, concrete admixtures, sealants and coatings.

One of the company’s Strategy 2018 objectives is the accelerated build-up of the organisation in emerging markets and the expansion of the supply chain footprint to increase sales generated in emerging markets from the present 37% of total sales to 42 to 45% by 2018. Africa is one of the focus regions for the company. In the first six months of 2015, Sika’s sales in the region were up 18%.

Currently the company maintains operations in sixteen countries on the African continent.

Sika W http://zaf.sika.com/

NMC Construction Namibia was awarded the contract to apply Sika Waterbars, SikaSwell S-2, SikaPrimer3N and Sikasil-Pool at the luxury Marula Game Ranch. The waterproofing process commenced with the application of SikaSwell S-2 to the 60m of construction joints on the floor of the pool. Highly economical and easy to apply, SikaSwell S-2 is a one-part polyurethane waterstop that swells in contact with water.

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MATERIALS BRICKS & PAVING

Photos by: Corobrik

New Swellendam primary school is set to excite Bold use of face brick colours that contrast in a striking architectural design have resulted in an eye-catching school building servicing the Railton community in Swellendam, Western Cape.

The R45-million project, which was completed in October 2015, has provided school facilities for up to 1 120 primary school learners. The VRT Pitt Primary School has been welcomed by the local community as the only other primary school in the area is at capacity.

The 31 575m2 level site in Railton was selected by the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works with work completed by Atuba Construction and Miradi Architects.

Opting for environmentally-friendly materials, Miradi Architects selected the Corobrik face brick range, used for the construction of 90% of the 3 672m2 building exterior. Corobrik’s Sandstone Travertine and Tokai Red Travertine face bricks, as well as Cape Stormberg pavers, were used creatively to fashion a structure that is bold in design and colour yet blends comfortably into the surrounding area.

‘Good effect was established by the creative use of the two brick colours,’ explains Knowledge Makombe of Miradi Architects. ‘The main brick used was the Tokai Red Travertine, which was chosen because of

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its rich, balanced colour. The accent colour used was the Cape Stormberg Travertine, selected because of its colour semblance to the stones found on site.’

To this he adds: ‘For texture contrast, stones – which were picked on site by local, unskilled labourers – were used to construct gabion walls, helping to bring the “site” into the actual building.

‘The whole language of taking the site into the building was further enhanced by the use of Cape Stormberg pavers on all the pedestrian walkways,’ says Makombe. ‘The Sandstone Travertine was then used as the main finish inside the hall, with the Cape Stormberg used as an accent finish.’

The school building includes a hall, 30 classrooms, and rooms for administration, art, music, computers, the care-taker and refuse, as well as a kitchen and sports field. As the school is mainly on one level, Makombe explains that they decided to break up the ‘horizontal look’ by creating vertical bands of recesses externally, using the Cape Stormberg pavers in a face brick application.

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BRICKS & PAVING MATERIALS Locally-sourced stones were used to construct gabion walls, helping to bring the ‘site’ into the building.

attributes of clay brick and the sound insulation properties of brick that cocoons learners and educators in quiet teaching and learning environments, and clay brick wall construction presents perfectly for school infrastructure,’ van Niekerk adds.

‘The Cape Stormberg clay pavers used for all pedestrian walkways was also an inspired choice, providing a colourfast and durable skid-resistant surface particularly important for young children.’

Green design aspects A number of green design aspects were incorporated, including sourcing locally-made bricks, with help from Corobrik. Natural lighting was maximised through the use of shaded roof windows to eliminate the need for daytime artificial lighting, and ceiling insulation will reduce loss of heat through the roof in winter, helping ensure classrooms are warmer.

Indigenous trees and shrubs were used for landscaping, while a number of water-saving initiatives – including rainwater harvesting and storm water collection – were incorporated to lower future costs.

‘The selection of Corobrik’s face bricks and pavers has a visually appealing effect, ensuring a lifetime value for the school building, that maintenance cost saving is realised from day one, and a comparatively reduced heating and cooling energy requirement is achieved,’ says Christie van Niekerk, Manager: Corobrik Western Cape.

Thermal modelling studies by the University of Pretoria on day-time occupancy institutional buildings show the superior thermal performance of double-skin clay brick cavity walls and 220mm double-brick ‘solid’ walls for providing the longest periods of thermal comfort compared to insulated lightweight walling.

This translates into some 48% lower energy usage than LSF specified SANS 517 in the Cape Town climatic zone.

‘Add this greater thermal comfort and energy saving of clay brick construction to the fire-resistance

The new VRT Pitt Primary School in Swellendam, Western Cape, was constructed using a vibrant mix of Corobrik’s Sandstone Travertine and Tokai Red Travertine face bricks, as well as Cape Stormberg Travertine pavers.

Summing up, van Niekerk points out: ‘Not only will the warm colours of the face bricks and pavers be enduring over the buildings entire lifecycle but, with the pressure on Government to provide more new schools and social infrastructure and there being only limited funds for a lifetime of maintenance associated with lightweight alternative building technologies such as Light Steel Frame, the choice of face brick construction makes sound economic sense for all infrastructure buildings.

Corobrik Christie van Niekerk T +27 (0) 21 888 2300 W www.corobrik.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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CEMENT & CONCRETE MATERIALS

Imagined in concrete Photos and reporting by Gareth Griffiths Imaging

The PPC Imaginarium category winners were announced recently at a trendy art venue in Cape Town’s CBD. Although there was no award in the architecture category, the other categories sizzled with numerous concepts and designs, including jewellery, sculpture, fashion, film making and industrial design.

South Africa’s richest art and design prize in support of emerging creatives, the Imaginarium Awards (launched in 2014), has raised the bar by superseding its inaugural round last year. ‘The 2015/2016 awards not only garnered unprecedented attention from entrants, with a record number of 698 entries registered, but there has also been a noticeably marked improvement in the standard of the submissions. What’s more, the number of finalists for 2015/2016 has more than doubled that of the initial year of the competition,’ says PPC Imaginarium Awards Director and well-known architect, Daniel van der Merwe.

Eminent panel of judges for Imaginarium 2015/2016 Regional judges included high-profile industry personalities such as Aaron Kohn of MOAD; artist, Stephen Hobbs; Cathy O’Clery from Platform Creative Agency; artist, Wilma Cruise; and others. These judges were tasked with identifying the finalists in each category, based on the strength of their submissions.

To exhibit the amazing collection of entries and celebrate those that have been chosen as finalists, the PPC Imaginarium Awards has mounted a travelling exhibition that will move, courtesy of Stuttafords Van Lines, from Cape Town to Johannesburg and then on to Pretoria in the first half of 2016.

Says van der Merwe: ‘We are extremely thrilled to see the number of expressions of interest increase from last year, but also the exceptional standard of the entries. We can already see that the exhibition of the finalists’ work is going to prove exciting and stimulating for the public. All of this attests to the validity of the PPC Imaginarium Awards and its relevance in the South African art and design context as a platform for promoting emerging talent.’

Daniel van der Merwe with Lauren Shantall (left), and Kim van der Linden (right) at the Awards.

Innovation in concrete is moving across the global fields of design, art and architecture. In South Africa, emerging creatives can be part of this international movement to change the current perception of cement and its applications by way of their designs in the medium of concrete. Local cement giant, PPC Ltd, has risen to the challenge of changing the perception and usage of cement by fostering a space for innovation and trends from within the company.

PPC has a dedicated innovation department that researches and promotes the innovative use of cement and concrete.

As concrete innovation trends show, progressive thinking can indeed transform what seems to be a solid and unchanging medium in a way that surfaces new living solutions for the future. Perhaps, a rising South African designer will indeed be the source of the next big breakthrough. (Source: PPC media)

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MATERIALS CEMENT & CONCRETE

Category winner: Sculpture, by Marina Walsh

Category winner: Fashion, by Hester Erasmus

Category winner: Sculpture, by Janna Kruger

The 2015/2016 exhibit Indeed, the judges must have had a very difficult task.

The field of art and design can be a very subjective one, so TO BUILD’S editor has his own take on the outstanding pieces displayed in the Youngblood Gallery.

Category winners Film: Kyle Goulden with runners-up, Francois Knoetze and Zara Julius Fashion: Hester Erasmus Industrial design: August de Wet with runner-up, Ivan Brown Sculpture: Janna Kruger with runner-up, Esther Pohl Jewellery: Mignon Dauberman.

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A new gin, hand crafted for a ‘new world’ gin drinking experience was presented to guests at the PPC Imaginarium Cape Town function.

Called Cruxland, the gin is made from the highest quality 100% grape spirits infused with nine exotic signature botanicals, including rare Kalahari N’abbas (truffles). The product development process has taken almost three years. ‘We wanted to create a special gin with botanicals typical to South Africa and knew we needed a special ingredient to complement the flavours of the other botanicals,’ says Master Distiller, Pieter de Bod. The gin is complex in taste and extra smooth in finish giving a soft mouth feel and contains no esters and fatty acids that can influence the taste of the botanicals used [Editor pleased to confirm that this is so! – Ed]

Photo by: KWV

PPC Imaginarium Daniel van der Merwe W www.ppcimaginarium.co.za E contact@ppcimaginarium.co.za

Designer gin for designers

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MATERIALS INSULATION

Insulation for multi-residence development schemes and retrofits Energy efficiency and professional installation are key components to any successful insulation job, argues a well-known manufacturer/installer.

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Photo by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Energy efficiency is a key ingredient in the global initiative to combat the effects of global warning that are causing climate change. It is important in mitigating the social, economic and environmental impacts of climate change on the economic growth of developing nations. Energy efficiency is also needed to help stabilise South Africa’s appetite for increased energy usage.

One company, Eco-Insulation, believes itself to be the definitive cost-effective solution for housing projects and retrofits. According to the company’s GM, Richard Ellis: ‘Our promise is energy efficient, on time and on budget. Hence we aim to save the project manager and ultimately the property owner money.

There’s no arguing about that!’

Eco-Insulation believes that there would be no incentive for a landlord to do a refit unless there is a demand for the upgraded space to be energy efficient, or a demand from occupants to lower their operating costs. ‘The best things about our recycled cellulose fibre insulation is that it is an extremely easy and efficient retrofit. The client calls, and we install. As simple as that,’ says Ellis.

Eco-Insulation might be made from fire-retarded recycled newsprint, but this belies the high-tech and robust nature of its performance. The product is both SABS-approved and fire-rated, meaning no spread of fire in the roof where it is installed. Professionally installed, it is rapidly and efficiently pumped into place in the roof, cavity wall or even under the floor.

Because it is professionally and correctly installed, it meets all the specifications prescribed by Tipasa – the Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association SA (www.tipsasa.co.za) – and SANS building codes.

Ellis tells us that the product is ideal for roofing in a multi-home residential development. ‘Rats, mice and other household pests find it very difficult to nest inside a roof that contains Eco-Insulation – in fact they are repelled by it. So this makes the product an ideal solution for low-cost areas where such

Eco-Insulation is pumped into a multi home low cost housing development near Cape Town.

creatures naturally reside and where little prospect for maintenance exits.’

The insulation industry is challenged by the entry of unaccredited low-cost, low-delivery, and new installers. As a voluntary industry association, Tipsasa strives to make a difference but at present new operators in the market are not obliged to join as member companies. In the case of insulation, there is also the ever-present electrical fire hazard above the ceiling where down-lighters are installed.

Eco-Insulation has produced some innovative ways of minimising this risk, but conventional insulation products present a substantial hazard from overheating if down-lighters are not dealt with correctly when undertaking the insulation fitment.

Eco-Insulation T +27 (0) 860 105 231 W www.eco-insulation.co.za

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MATERIALS TIMBER & DECKING

Global certification for timber treatment

With the growing trend towards choosing environmentally compliant products that reduce our carbon footprints, Arch Wood Protection has made its mark in the Western Cape with the commissioning of the first Tanalised® E treatment plant in the province.

As a certified by Ecospecifier product, Tanalised® E is verified globally as an environmentally preferable product. Perfectly positioned in the hub of the Cape Green Belt, in Riversdale, the new Arch Wood treatment plant represents a significant step towards growing the environmentally compliant wood treatment market.

The initiative is a joint venture that is spearheaded by two prominent and established industry players in the Western Cape. Outdoor timber specialist, The Pole Yard, and Elvin Roelofse, who boasts a 25-year professional career in the forestry industry. The two entered into discussions in April last year to introduce environmentally compliant timber options in the Western Cape.

Leeroy Deane from The Pole Yard, explains: ‘When Riversdale Sawmill, which included a CCA treatment plant, came up for sale we knew that this was our opportunity to bring this venture to fruition. We purchased the mill and Arch Wood Protection converted the CCA plant to a Tanalised® E treatment plant, which was commissioned at the end of October 2015.’

To this Elvin Roelofse adds: ‘The long standing 15-year business relationship between The Pole Yard and myself provides a solid foundation for this

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The Riversdale Tanalith® E treatment plant.

Photo by: Arch Wood Protection

A popular wood preservative has been awarded Ecospecifier Global certification, which means that the product has undergone rigorous assessments and is verified as a global environmentally preferable product.

joint venture. We are confident that our combined expertise will grow this business into a substantial local and export market for environmentally compliant wood treatment product options.’

In a rapidly changing environment where eco-sensitive choices are becoming paramount, consumers are looking for wood treatment options. In particular household and children’s wood products, such as jungle gyms, planter boxes and garden furniture, are being scrutinised for safe use.

‘Tanalised® E pressure treated wood contains a copper azole base formulation that does not leave any harmful residues in the soil or water, and poses no risk for use around people, animals, plants and the environment. It is used for structural and decorative timber products for both indoor and outdoor applications to preserve wood against termites, fungal decay and insect borers,’ explains Doug Sayce, General Manager of Arch Wood Protection.

‘The launch of the Riversdale Sawmill’s treatment plant will provide an environmentally responsible wood treatment option to the community and in doing so will embrace the Green Belt ethos of the Western Cape.

We look forward to establishing a market that will promote the green stamp of approval with Tanalised® E wood preservative products,’ concludes Leeroy.

Arch Wood Protection T +27 (0) 39 315 8406 E doug.sayce@lonza.com

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Materials COATINGS

One-component mortar and adhesive primer launched Newly-launched products offer the complete restoration of damaged concrete in sewer trunk lines and sewerage systems, both internally and externally, with ease of use over a variety of applications.

Advanced solutions in concrete waterproofing and protection are available from Mapei South Africa, consisting of highly-specialised products suited to demanding environments. Sewament 3 Primer and Sewament 10 are two such products that promise the complete restoration of damaged concrete in sewer trunk lines and sewerage systems, both internally and externally, easily and in a variety of applications.

Sewerment 10 Sewament 10 is the ideal choice for the restoration of deteriorated concrete in effluent and sewage, and in water purification plants for effluent urban water.

Other applications include: • Interior corrosion-inhibiting lining of concrete tanks that have been damaged.

• Anti-acid and wear-proof lining or reinforced concrete manifolds, construction or reconstruction of impervious coverings, the filling of joints and precast concrete sewerage elements, and filling of joints of poured concrete for tanks and purification manifolds.

Says Paul Nieuwoudt, Mapei South Africa’s Product Manager for Building Systems: ‘It has an exceptionally high level of resistance to the chemical aggression that comes about as a result of the anaerobic fermentation of civil and industrial sewage, which is unusual for a cementitious mortar. This has even been verified by the Department of Microbiology at the Botanic Institute of the University of Hamburg.’

The university subjected Sewament 10 to conditions that were eight times higher than those found in standard sewerage systems. The accelerated tests ran for nine months in biological chambers and the results confirmed the product’s capability in repairing damaged sewerage systems.

The product comes as a powdered mortar with special hydraulic binders, selected graded aggregates, additives and synthetic fibres prepared

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to a specific formula. When blended with water, the consistency is easily workable and can be applied manually or by spray at a maximum thickness of 20mm per layer.

Sewerment 3 When using Sewament 10 manually it is recommended to use Sewament 3 Primer, a one-component cementitious mortar that improves the adhesion of Sewament 10. ‘Sewament 3 must be used as a bonding bridge for manual application in concrete and masonry vaults, walls, and beds in sewer trunk lines,’ Nieuwoudt insists. ‘Water depuration plants and canals for the collection of black water from animal husbandry industries also require its use when manually applying Sewament 10.’

The one-component prepacked mortar is crafted from selected graded aggregates and special additives prepared according to Mapei’s research laboratory formulae. It provides superb adhesion for Sewament 10 and can be applied using a brush once mixed with the requisite amount of water.

Sewament 3 Primer must be applied to a substrate without loose parts and preferably after hydroscarifying to remove dirt, contaminated concrete and rust. Sewament 10 must be used within ten minutes, and be prepared in accordance with its given instructions. Both products require that blending and application guidelines are followed closely to ensure the right end results. Further information is available from the supplier.

Mapei South Africa T +27 (0) 11 552 8476 W www.mapei.co.za

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DĂŠcor

SERVICES Air Conditioning..........................121 Furniture..........................................123 Ground Engineering..................124 Plumbing & Reticulation............129

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Photo by: Wikipedia

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES

Fixing leaks the easy way Leaks in air conditioning systems can often be extremely difficult to find and resolve. With the objective of a neat solution, we turned to a Google search to see what advice the industry provides. TO BUILD came across this handy product advice for maintenance managers or air conditioning service personnel from the very helpful website hosted by Metraclark.

Maintenance staff have traditionally evoked the ire of many employees when the building is simply too hot in summer, too cold in winter, or when cooling systems keep breaking down. Have you ever had one of those irritating leaks on your air-conditioning or refrigeration system that you just can’t find?

You’ve tightened every flare nut in sight and checked every weld or join possible. You’ve depleted the local supermarket’s stock of Sunlight soap and there are still no signs of any bubbles highlighting that annoying leak. Step in ‘Captain’ Cool Seal from Spectroline® – a mini superhero in kit form.

It might not wear a cape or fly like a superhero, but Spectroline® Cool Seal offers a highly effective new approach without the hazards of other products.

It contains no polymers, so it’s free of large, clogforming particles. Cool Seal is chemically engineered to contain many differently sized molecules that collide then clump together at a leak site, stopping the escape of both oil and refrigerant. As an added benefit, the remaining sealant continues to circulate throughout the system, on guard against any future leaks. This makes it ideal as a preventative maintenance aid, stopping leaks before they grow large enough to impact performance.

The Cool Seal injector and hose can be reused many times, with refill cartridges readily available. The injector can overcome system pressures in excess of 450psi, making it ideal for all air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, including high-pressure R-410A systems.

Cool Seal is non-flammable and non-carcinogenic, making it much safer for technicians and those transporting the product. It has a flash point of 252°C, over twice the boiling point of water, and can be safely transported and stored in any climate.

In might not be able to seal that flare nut that you forgot to tighten or that 1 1/8” pipe you forgot to weld, or even the hole in the Titanic but, with an effective, safe formula and a straightforward, proven injection method, Cool Seal becomes the obvious choice for technicians looking to seal small leaks in air-conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Metraclark T +27 (0) 11 620 0300 F +27 (0) 86 299 1558 E enquiry@metraclark.co.za W www.metraclark.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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FURNITURE SERVICES

Increased demand by businesses for innovative office spaces that are conducive to collaboration and team work has seen a massive drive towards local manufacturing, designing and developing products to international standards. A well-known furniture engineer and supplier comments on the office furniture and design industries.

Ditulo Office Furniture Engineers’ CEO, Isla GallowayGaul, highlights that the workplace environment is changing as companies adopt a more holistic approach to doing business and a focus on team integration and participation.

She says: ‘While creative industries, such as advertising, have utilised collaborative spaces for team meetings and brainstorms for many years, their use is now also gaining great traction within the corporate environment. Furniture plays an important role in this regard. Not only do these spaces need to be comfortable and flexible but they also have to carry a high level of acoustics – keeping out disturbing office noises while allowing communication within the space to be projected clearly.’

To this she adds: ‘We work with local architects and interior designers who have an exceptional understanding of today’s workplace and working environments of the future.’

Last November, Ditulo, with shareholders that include Bidvest and AloeCap, hosted a relaunch event at its offices in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. A 30% black female-owned company, it has experienced a significant turnaround in terms of culture, brand and performance over the past year. Galloway-Gaul, who has 25 years’ experience in the industry, stepped into the leadership role during this period.

Compared to the previous financial year, Ditulo’s

Photo by: Ditulo

Unique business spaces. Unique designs.

Isla Galloway-Gaul

turnover increased by 124% in 2015. Its trading profit increased by 327% over the same period.

AloeCap Shareholder and Ditulo Board Director, Tulani Nzimakwe, says: ‘Ditulo is well positioned to provide modern office solutions and to meet our customers’ expectations. The management team is at the cutting edge of the latest trends in office furniture solutions.’

Supplying brands such as Humanscale, Bene, Okamura, and a host of locally-manufactured products, Ditulo’s in-house team of eight has won contracts with some of South Africa’s largest corporations in a very competitive market. The small business has access to two of the largest office furniture factories in South Africa, both of which meet quality management standards, are ISO 2009 accredited, and are part of the BidOffice Furniture Group (owned by Bidvest).

‘Over the last year we have turned Ditulo Office Furniture Engineers into a distinctive and profitable company with a focus on empowerment and meeting the needs of the modern-day workplace, both of which are vital to growing people, skills and businesses,’ Galloway-Gaul concludes.

Ditulo T +27 (0) 11 537 9860 E admin@ditulo.co.za W www.ditulo.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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SERVICES GROUND ENGINEERING

Photos by: Uretek

Sinking foundations and weak base soil?

An Italian ground engineering specialist shares its knowledge with TO BUILD’S readers.

Most readers will be familiar with the sinister cracks that can appear in the corners of walls, around door lintels, in a gable, the floor, or even worse. Why do these occur and how do we treat them? Uretek provides some answers.

Why building subsidence?

• Loss of ground moisture causes building subsidence: Buildings can subside because of a loss of ground moisture brought about by drought conditions where the lack of moisture in ground that has some content of reactive clay causes shrinkage of that substrate. Under the weight of the house, the foundation ground subsides. In addition, nearby trees with extended root systems can also remove water from the foundation ground. Any variations in the level of the water table can also cause shrinkage.

• Leaking water pipes, sewers and drains cause building subsidence: Foundations can be washed out by leakage from buried pipes. Saturation of the foundation ground by liquids flowing at a distance from the building can help saturate the ground and reduce its mechanical

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resistance. The foundation ground cannot uniformly support the load above, leading to differential subsidence. Infiltration of uncontrolled surface water, even in small quantities, can increase the plastic qualities of the foundation material, lowering soil bearing capacity.

• Building subsidence can also be caused by excavations: Excavations that take place next to buildings, especially in non-cohesive ground (sand and gravel), can cause subsidence unless proper precautions are taken. Uretek injections can help to form a cohesive conglomerate to prevent migration of material.

• Inadequate foundations are often the cause of a sunken building: Structural settlement can be caused by an inadequate relationship between the pressure imposed on the foundations and the acceptable ground load. Get this checked by an engineer prior to the beginning works.

• Slow consolidation of cohesive soils is another factor: Cohesive ground consolidates rather slowly to the imposed pressure before reaching equilibrium. Do

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GROUND ENGINEERING SERVICES not underestimate slow ground movements, or overestimate the possible short-term elements.

• Replaced soil is also often the cause of a sunken building: Ground disturbed during construction of a building can lose its supporting properties. Differential settlement resulting from this can cause cracking, which can often take years to become apparent.

Other causes of building subsidence include earthquake and seismic tremors, vibrations caused by heavy road traffic or by machinery, absence of an organised footing system (in old buildings or those having additions or alterations), overloading of ground adjacent to the building (when constructing ornamental gardens), different geological strata in the ground, changes in the volume and direction of water flows (because of works near the affected area), and differences in densification of the foundation ground caused by different levels of consolidation.

The solution is at hand A spokeperson for Uretek says that its Slab Lifting Method is a quick, clean, long lasting solution for sinking concrete foundations and floor slabs.

Expanding patented Uretek resin is injected through 14mm holes, gently raising and restoring the foundations or floors, and stabilising the supporting soil. Most homes foundations can be restored in one day, avoiding the removal of furnishings, appliances or flooring.

The patented Uretek Deep Injection Process is ideal for densifying and re-compacting weak soil at various depths under any built structure, concrete road pavements or bridge approach slabs, by injecting the rapid expanding resin to various depths, thereby increasing the bearing capacity of weak soils and stabilisation of voids.

Uretek’s resin is hydro-insensitive and characterised by its rapid expansion, reaching 90% strength in 15 minutes, making the treated areas readily accessible for normal use. Once set, the resin is totally inert and eco-friendly. Its low viscosity and lubricity allows for easy penetration into soils, while compacting surrounding soils and displacing water without loss of dimensional stability.

Time savings: • 90% faster than average • Depending on the project, work is completed in hours or days instead of weeks or months • Fast installation, curing and clean up

Minimal disruption: • Non-disruptive solution, no digging, no mess • Minimises or eliminates work zone delays • Crews dismantle and remove work zones as they finish daily Cost savings: • Up to 75% less than replacement cost • 10-year material guarantee Predictable results: • 100 000 successful projects worldwide • Precision adjustment to 0.5mm • Hydro-insensitive – displaces under pavement water Safety: • Clean, organised worksite • Professionally trained and certified employees • Environmentally safe, inert product Uretek Geo-Systems (SA) is the local license holder of the Uretek Technologies and operates throughout South Africa and neighbouring countries.

The company specialises in the quick effective solution to subsidence ranging from small residential projects to major soil stabilisation projects. Recent projects include the 650m-long Main Road Clovelly retaining wall in Cape Town, the 52 000m2 Inanda Highway stabilisation project in Durban, and sealing a 90m coffer dam wall on the Tugela river in KwaZuluNatal.

Uretek Geo-Systems (SA) (PTY) Ltd T +27 (0) 11 238 7154 E info@uretek.co.za W www.uretek.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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PLUMBING & RETICULATION SERVICES

Creating confidence by adhering to standards Two recently published SANS 9000 standards belong to the ISO 9000 family of standards, which deal with quality control systems.

The South African Plastic Pipe Manufactures Association (SAPPMA) has welcomed the recent publication of the SANS 9000:2015 Quality Management Systems – Fundamentals and Vocabulary, and SANS 9001:2015 – Requirements.

‘To become the best and remain the best, organisations need a management system that helps them deliver the best products and services for the marketplace while taking into account the needs of the environment in which they work. Some of the foundations for a successful strategy is ISO 9001 for quality management,’ says SAPPMA Chief Executive Officer, Jan Venter.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental membership organisation and the world’s largest developer of voluntary International Standards.

As a member of ISO via the SA Bureau of Standards (SABS), South Africa is one of 162 member countries who are the national standards bodies worldwide. SAPPMA was called upon to advise the SABS when it was considering the adoption of international ISO standards as opposed to our homegrown standards. SAPPMA was able to point out to the SABS that without careful consideration of local conditions the industry could end up with a standard that manufacturers could not test to, and that may also not be fully applicable.

The revised standard that has just been published is a system of policies, procedures and work instructions that controls the processes that ultimately have a direct influence on the quality of products.

Companies that implement this system are subject to audits by accredited organisations such as the SABS. If they meet the minimum criteria of the ISO 9001 standards, they receive accreditation and are allowed to use the ISO 9001 mark on their products and marketing material.

‘Adhering to international standards ensures that locally-manufactured plastic pipes and fittings are

safe, reliable and of good quality. They are strategic tools that help companies reduce costs by minimising waste and errors, and increase productivity. They also help to access new markets, level the playing field for developing countries, and facilitate free and fair global trade,’ Venter explains.

He goes on to clarify that ISO 9000 is a supporting standard to ISO 9001 and that it contains explanations and definitions to some of the concepts and words used in ISO 9001. Companies will therefore not be accredited according to ISO 9000, but only according to ISO 9001.

The new version of ISO 9000 and 9001 is a continuation of the 2008 versions, and reflects the latest changes that were made to ensure the standard is made more encompassing. It is based more on a risk-driven way of thinking than its predecessors.

Where the 2008 version consisted of five main departments, the revised version now has seven main divisions. The new standard also places more emphasis on the context of the company – its culture, environment, values, customers and nature of its business. Additionally, it lists documents and records as ‘documented information’ and no longer differentiates between documents and records.

SAPPMA T +27 (0) 11 314 4021 E Admin@sappma.co.za W www.sappma.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DĂŠcor

GREEN BUILDING Green Designs................................132 COP21...............................................135 Biomass Energy.............................138 COST EFFECTIVE GREEN...................140 HVAC.................................................144 Heritage Architecture................146 Recycling.......................................149

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GREEN BUILDING GREEN DESIGNS

First for EDGE in SA The Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) is certifying the first housing projects in the country using the EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) residential green building tool – currently in its pilot phase and set for a major rollout across SA’s residential property sector.

At the 2015 Green Building Convention in Cape Town, Brian Wilkinson from the GBCSA revealed that the Ravenswood affordable housing development in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, has become the first residential project in Africa to achieve an EDGE Design Certification. The development is led by the affordable housing fund, International Housing Solutions (IHS), that is rolling out a number of residential developments in South Africa, all of which will be EDGE certified.

Created by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group that focuses on the private sector, EDGE was brought to South Africa a year ago by GBCSA. It was launched in September 2014 at the GBCSA’s 7th annual Green Building Convention.

Wilkinson comments: ‘Awarding the first EDGE pilot rating in the country is a significant milestone, not just for the GBCSA and its partners in the programme, but for the South African residential property sector and its journey toward going green and becoming more sustainable. We appeal to the residential property industry to join the movement to change the way homes are built in SA.’ He adds: ‘The Ravenswood development is officially the first residential project to secure an EDGE rating as part of the GBCSA’s piloting of the residential green building tool in South Africa, but two other projects have also since secured EDGE certification. Following this pilot phase, the GBCSA is now ready for a full roll-out of EDGE to residential development across SA.’

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Graham Cruickshanks, EDGE Technical Manager, explains: ‘IHS, the owner of Ravenswood, will work with the GBCSA to achieve EDGE As-Built Certification for this development, which is the second and final stage in the process. According to IHS, the Ravenswood development is predicted to realise a saving of almost R600 000 a year by applying EDGEcertified energy efficiency measures. This translates into an anticipated saving of approximately R3 200 in utility costs for each unit. Total savings annually of 250 000kWH of electricity and more than 10 000Kl of water has been demonstrated in the EDGE design rating of the Ravenswood project.’

According to Myles Kritzinger at IHS, EDGE helped to crunch the numbers to reveal the most affordable path to building green. Located on Trichardts Road in Boksburg, Gauteng, the Ravenswood residential development brings 188 two-bedroom green homes to the market. IHS is acquiring all 188 units in the development as rental stock from RPP Developments.

Efficient energy usage is set to be maximised at Ravenswood through the use of solar hot water collectors and efficient water usage through the installation of smart meters and low-flow bathroom and kitchen fittings. Reduced window-to-wall ratios and roof insulation will also ensure optimal energy efficiency.

Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) T +27 (0) 21 4867919 W www.gbcsa.co.za

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COP21 GREEN BUILDING

Chartered professions take a stand at COP21

‘The built environment has a vital role to play in helping governments meet their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions targets. As a global professional body working in the public interest, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) was in Paris to join stakeholders from governments, industry and civil society to support efforts to reach an agreement,’ explains TC Chetty, South Africa’s country manager for RICS. ‘The commitments made in Paris have farreaching repercussions for the built environment, and the global economy more generally.’

The targets discussed at COP21 last year were of particular significance because world leaders and negotiators had to agree on a new climate deal aimed at curbing the damaging effects of greenhouse gas emissions on the global climate.

‘Buildings are some of the biggest emitters of CO2, accounting for one-third of global greenhouse gasses.

Commercial and residential buildings also account for 40% of the world’s energy consumption. RICS is working with its members in the land, real estate and construction sectors to find solutions across the property lifecycle to support more sustainable business practices.’

Says Sean Tompkins, RICS CEO: ‘The property sector has a huge influence on the global financial system. We wanted to leverage this influence to support the efforts of governments as they negotiated the new climate deal in Paris. RICS is a natural partner for the United Nations, with whom we have previously worked to create a framework for businesses to act more responsibly in relation to their real estate assets. We wanted to build on that relationship by supporting governments as they made adaption and mitigation commitments to curb the effects of climate change.

Governments negotiating at COP21 were under pressure to produce an international climate agreement

Photo by: RICS

COP21: The built environment is crucial to attaining CO2 emissions targets. A registered professionals body joins the dialogue that included governments, industry and civil society groups at COP21 held in Paris late last year.

Sean Tompkins, RICS CEO

that balances environmental ambitions with the global economic realities. RICS – with its global network of professionals in more than 140 countries, and with the international professional standards it is developing with other organisations aimed at giving governments the ‘Confidence to Commit’ – is confident in the knowledge that the progress made towards their commitments to reduce CO2 emissions can be measured through the tools and expertise the organisation provides around the world.

‘COP21 was about commitments for governments as they finalised the climate deal. We wanted to support these efforts by making our own commitment to influence our members, their clients and the wider

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GREEN BUILDING COP21 built environment sector. The commitments we made have an impact well beyond COP21 and must be central to our sector’s response to the challenges posed by climate change,’ says Tompkins.

Global Building and Construction Alliance launched The UN Environmental Programme’s (UNEP) first ever Buildings Day was held on December 3, 2015, in Paris. As part of the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction, RICS aimed to address the impact of buildings on the climate, beyond the actual working of COP21. It therefore joined in the launch of the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction.

RICS TC Chetty, Country Manager for South Africa T +27 (0) 31 7644645 E tcchetty@rics.org W www.rics.org

About COP21 outcomes Envoys from 195 nations agreed an historic pact to set global warming back and defend against its impact.

According to news reports (www.abc.net) the key outcomes of this pact included: Defining climate change as ‘an urgent and potentially irreversible threat to human societies and the planet’, noting with concern that countries’ existing pledges to curb greenhouse-gas emissions would fail to meet targets for curbing planetary warming.

Defining the goal to hold global warming to ‘well below 2°C than pre-Industrial Revolution levels, and to strive for 1.5ºC where possible’.

The global aim is for greenhouse gas emissions that caused climate change to peak ‘as soon as possible’, followed by ‘rapid reductions’.

By the second half of this century, there must be a balance between the emissions from human activity, such as energy production and farming, and the amount that can be captured by carbonabsorbing sinks, such as forests or carbon storage technology.

Developed countries that have polluted for longer, should take the lead by taking on absolute emissions cuts.

Developing nations with a heavy reliance on fossil fuels to support growing populations were encouraged to enhance their efforts and move,

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over time, to cuts. Emissions cuts should be supported by the wealthier nations.

The agreement enters force in 2018 and by then countries should have taken stock of the overall impact of what they are doing to combat global warming – and then reassess their carbon-reduction plans in 2020. Certain countries have submitted their first round of targets for 2025, while others have plans for 2030. Once the agreement takes effect, the collective impact of countries’ efforts will be reviewed at five-year intervals from 2023. Progress should inform countries about updating and enhancing their pledges.

Funding for developing countries to cover the costs of the shift to green energy and prepare for climate change impacts, including drought and storms, will be provided for by developed countries. In this regard, funding will be scaled up with the richer nations reporting every two years on their levels of financial support. The $100 billion per year that these richer countries pledge to muster by 2020 is seen as a minimum floor level and this must be updated by 2025.

Low-lying island nations and poor countries most at risk from climate change-induced sea level rise and other impacts have won recognition of the need for averting, minimising and addressing losses suffered.

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GREEN BUILDING BIOMASS ENERGY

Biomass plant launches in Cape Western Cape Minister of Economic Opportunities, Alan Winde, attended the grand opening of the impressive biomass steam facility at Paarl Media Cape, the flagship plant of Paarl Media.

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Photo by: Sustainable Heating

Last year, renewable energy company, Sustainable Heating, launched its newest Biomass Steam Plant for Paarl Media. By using renewable energy in its print facilities, the customer will witness a staggering amount of electricity and carbon emission savings.

According to Peter Metcalfe, Novus Holdings’ Group Executive: Sales: ‘The company’s print division, Paarl Media, has demonstrated its environmentallysound business practices. We focus on delivering the highest quality work with the least impact on the environment. Novus Holdings does business in a sustainable way and takes energy costs into account.

With constant electricity tariff increases and loadshedding occurrences, the Biomass Boiler reduces production costs in the long run and creates a buffer against electricity inflation, while working towards creating a neutral carbon footprint in developing steam for our gravure press.’

Paul Gorremans, Founder of Sustainable Heating, says that this is their third installation in South Africa, mentioning that the new plant offers numerous benefits and operates on woodchips as opposed to fuel or paraffin. ‘Through the biomass facility we will see approximately 218 000 tons of carbon reduction over 15 years. The plant is 85 to 90% energy efficient, with fuel only used to transport the woodchips.’

The facility at Paarl Media Cape took a mere 17 weeks from inception to completion – a great achievement for Gorremans and his team. ‘It is a team effort – at one point there were 120 workers per day on the construction site to complete the facility.’

The company is funded by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and Mergence, and has long-term agreements with sawmills, pallet factories and manufacturers with wood offcuts.

‘We have a strong untreated wood supply and the efficiency of our machines keep the emissions at the lowest output,’ says Gorremans. ‘The wood ash produced by the plant can also be easily reused to make bricks, and is acceptable for composting.’

Via this project, Sustainable Heating has created over 12 permanent jobs, including boiler artisans

and operators, managers, general helpers, drivers and waste handlers. Each installation supports local entrepreneurs in various fields ranging from waste handling to engineering.

The facility is completely owned and managed by Sustainable Heating where they sell the steam output to Paarl Media Cape for their print manufacturing.

Thanks to this model, the company’s clients experience massive savings in electricity, fuel and carbon emissions. All steam plants can be controlled remotely from a computer or laptop enabling the Sustainable Heating team to tend to any problem, anytime, anywhere. Potential clients include hospitals, fisheries, dairy plants and chemical processors.

Sustainable Heating Paul Gorremans C +27 (0) 72 657 6736 W www.sustainableheating.com

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GREEN BUILDING COST EFFECTIVE GREEN

Vaal Mall Contruction

Springs Mall Aerial

Green buildings need not be expensive It is appropriate that a new three-storey WWF building has received a 6 Star Green Star SA Office Design certification from the Green Building Council of SA (GBCSA).

Giuricich Bros Construction, a leading South African independent and family-owned construction firm, is celebrating its work done on the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) building – South Africa’s ground-breaking new Johannesburg green office building. Completed in 2015, the building in Braamfontein in Johannesburg’s CBD was awarded a 6 Star Green Star SA Office Design rating by the GBCSA. It was designed by architect, Simon Cretney, together with green building consultant, Richard Duckitt from Bornman and Associates.

The new WWF office is one of the group’s latest office developments. Nicky Giuricich, a Director at Giuricich Bros Construction, led this WWF project. He comments: ‘This was both a challenging and hugely rewarding project because of the development’s ambitious green building goals. We tendered for and won the contract for this prestigious construction job in 2012 from the WWF. While it was not a big contract in terms of value, it was of significance because WWF is a high-profile client and the cutting-edge nature of its new green office building.’

He adds: ‘Besides its green building design features, such bigger windows for more natural light, rain water harvesting and a sewage treatment plant on site, what made this project distinctive from a construction point of view is that the old building on the site could not be demolished, but rather

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deconstructed. We had to keep the original façade of the old building and reuse all the old bricks and even the wood in construction of the new building. It was an incredible project to be involved with, and the reuse of materials from the original building was one of the main contributing factors to its green star rating.’

About the contractors Giuricich Bros Construction has increased its presence in the retail development sector by securing the lucrative building contracts for the new 45 000m² Springs Mall at Blue Crane Eco Park, and the 15 000m² expansion of the well-established Vaal Mall.

‘Being the main building contractors on these landmark developments are big feathers in our cap.

We are immensely proud to be involved in these developments, which ended 2015, as a milestone year for the group,’ says Gerard Giuricich, a Director at Giuricich Bros Construction.

About the WWF building ‘We did not build our new office, we reconstructed it. We reused and recycled everything that we could possibly salvage from this century-old structure. The WWF Braamfontein building ultimately disproves the notion that green buildings are expensive,’ says Dr Morné du Plessis, CEO for WWF-SA.

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COST EFFECTIVE GREEN GREEN BUILDING

‘Having been acknowledged for this unprecedented achievement, the building stands as a testament to the positive impacts of sustainability that will have a lasting effect, and will seek to encourage the rest of the property sector and other businesses in terms of influencing the way we live and work.’

Brian Wilkinson, CEO of the GBCSA, affirms: ‘Like us, the WWF team is constantly working towards making a positive change to our fragile environment.

They have taken their mission even further by leading by example in greening and sustainability in the built environment. We have reiterated the economics of green building and provided tangible proof that building green can positively benefit not only people and planet, but profits too.

‘The WWF’s project team had to be aware of both budgets and time frames, but still managed to achieve this impressive 6-Star Green Star SA Design rating, which serves as an example to all building projects who are still debating going green,’ he adds.

The project boasts several systems and strategies in its refurbishment, which resulted in an impressive environmentally innovative and intelligent structure achieving a top overall score of 76 points.

Features include the reuse of 80% of the original building materials in the redesign, as well as natural ventilation, a closed water recycling system, lightsensitive blinds, various insulation solutions, and an indigenous rooftop garden with water-efficient plants that are watered by rainwater. In addition, the premises feature state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, allowing the business’ carbon footprint to be reduced.

The building was handed over to WWF at the end of January 2015 and the application for the Green Star rating submitted soon after.

Features of WWF-SA’s green building: Energy: No artificial cooling capacity exists in the building, with both natural ventilation and forced mechanical ventilation used, as well as sufficient natural light pouring in to reduce energy consumption. The interior is also not covered with tiles, paint or plastering to thermally activate the building and allow it to ‘breathe’.

Water: To reduce the building’s water footprint, features were introduced to curb the reliance on both municipal water and electricity. Water use is reduced through on-site treatment of effluent and this treated water is then re-used in the building.

Waste: By using waste recycling storage areas – with bins available for paper, glass, plastics and general waste on each floor – recycling is strongly encouraged so as to reduce the waste going to landfill.

Transport: As transport is a big contributor to greenhouse gasses, the location was strategically chosen to be close to public transport such as the Gautrain Park Station.

Staff are also encouraged to carpool and use WWF’s low-emission pool cars to get around.

Giuricich Bros Construction T +27 (0) 11 802 5821 W www.giuricich.co.za GBCSA W www.gbcsa.org.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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Photos by: WWF

Morne du Plessis and Vali Moosa

WWF - Green Building

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GREEN BUILDING HVAC

Getting students into hot water!

No, it’s not another #feesmustfall story, but an ingenious solution to a potentially expensive problem, solved by a local energy consulting firm.

Photos by: Fourways Airconditioning

The first 80kW Alliance Heat Pump has been installed at the University of Johannesburg as part of a solution proposed by specialist company, Elemental Energy.

To enable students to live in town near the University of Johannesburg, old grain silos in Newtown have been converted into dwellings, with additional accommodation supplied by steel shipping containers balanced on top of the towers. Hot water was being supplied by a system installed about three years ago, consisting of three 3 000-litre hot water storage tanks heated by an older ‘circulation type’ heat pump. However, it became apparent in the winter of 2015 that the heat pump could not keep up with the hot water demand.

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As the number of students being accommodated increased by some 25%, it became clear that a new solution was needed. One suggested answer was the potentially expensive exercise of installing another 3 000 litre tank – difficult to implement because of the limited space available.

Elemental Energy was called in and, after careful calculations were made, it became clear that the answer was the additional installation of an Alliance ‘direct heating’ Heat Pump, without any extra water storage facility being required. Having installed 42kW Alliance Heat Pumps for the previous five years, Elemental Energy decided to install a new 80kW Alliance Heat Pump – the first one to be installed in South Africa.

A creative approach to the problem of student accommodation.

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HVAC GREEN BUILDING

The compact size of the 80kW Alliance Heat Pump ensured it fitted into the limited space available.

The new 80kW Alliance Heat Pump is halfway up the building.

States Bruce Thomas of Elemental Energy: ‘The main problem with the hot water supply was a peak demand time of around three hours when water temperature dropped. But because of the direct heating-type operation of the Alliance Heat Pump, it can immediately supplement the supply by 1 000 litres of hot water per hour during peak draw time, even during worst-case winter ambient temperatures.

This would rise to approximately 3 000 litres/hour in summer. No additional water storage is necessary – the water is piped directly into the hot water feed to the building providing an ample supply.’

The project was awarded to Elemental Energy on November 2, 2015, and the system commissioned by November 11. ‘As the Heat Pump is situated halfway up the building, we had to use a large crane to get it into position, but the connections to the existing hot water supply were easily made. Post installation monitoring of the hot water consumption and heat pump run times have left us with no doubt that there will be ample hot water available for everyone, even during the coldest winter temperatures,’ concludes Thomas.

Fourways Airconditioning/Alliance Heat Pumps T +27 (0) 11 704 6320 W www.allianceair.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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GREEN BUILDING HERITAGE ARCHITECTURE

Heritage building to get a makeover Although not strictly a green building makeover project, the preservation of a nation’s cultural history is an important aspect of the environment in the broader sense of people, planet and prosperity.

South Africa’s oldest building, the Castle of Good Hope, is being restored by GVK-Siya Zama – a specialist in the construction, renovation and recycling of buildings.

About the Castle The first stone of the Castle of Good Hope – a pentagonal stone fortress – was laid by Commander Zacharias Wagenaer in 1666, and construction was completed in 1679. It replaced the original clay and timber fort called the Fort de Goede Hoop built by Jan van Riebeeck upon his arrival in the Cape of Good Hope in 1652.

Originally it served as a replenishment station for ships passing the treacherous coast around the Cape on long voyages between the Netherlands and the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). The Castle was declared a national monument in 1969, and in 1995 the Military Museum officially opened. Part of the William Fehr Collection, comprising South African-related paintings, prints, drawings, furniture and other objects, has been housed at the Castle for almost half a century. The Castle features five bastions (the projecting parts of a fort, built at an angle to allow defensive fire in several directions), named Leerdam, Buuren, Katzenellenbogen, Nassau and Oranje.

The R84-million project is due to be completed in September 2016 and was commissioned by the Department of Public Works, instructed by the Department of Defence.

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Through the ramparts of the Katzenellenbogen bastion

Over a period of 21 months, the seven buildings within the Castle walls will be repainted and be recarpentered. The deteriorated waterproofing on the roofs and ramparts will be replaced and the stone moat walls and banks will be repaired. The project also includes the refurbishment of murals, renovations to the Dolphin Pool and specialist plaster repairs.

Award winning Architect, Dr Gabriel Fagan, and his wife, Dr Gwen Fagan, who have been involved with the restoration of the Castle and subsequent repair projects since 1969, are the Architects appointed for the project. Their knowledge of heritage work and their dedication to the Castle assist in the sensitive approach to preserving the original fabric.

Specialist Restorer, Jan Corewijn, who researched and restored the original murals during previous restoration attempts on the Castle, will again repair the murals that have been damaged. ‘As dictated by the Dutch interior decorating style of the day, the building featured murals and friezes on its walls.

These were painted over every five years and redecorated with the latest trends from Europe – resulting in several layers. Over the years, some of these have peeled off from the damp. By scraping

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HERITAGE ARCHITECTURE GREEN BUILDING General photography of the Cape Town Castle in this article has been provided by Gareth Griffiths Imaging and is copyright.

The bell tower built 1684

the layers back, we are given a timeline of how the decorating styles changed with time. We have now repainted the original murals and reconstructed the friezes by hand,’ he explains.

‘From the Castle of Good Hope, situated within the garrison over which towers the Table Mountain at a considerable real distance and from the window of my bed-chamber, which overlooks a colonnade built around a spacious pond of water supplied from the head and tail of a spouting dolphin, I begin this letter to my dearest friend…’ This was how, Lady Anne Barnard, the wife of Secretary of the Colony in 1797, described the view from her living quarters.

The pool, which was filled in by the British during the 19th century for use as a parade ground, was excavated and reconstructed in the 1980s. Over the past 30 years, the bottom screed and plaster on the walls have begun to erode, crack and flake because of the use of harsh chemicals in the pool, necessitating the GVK-Siya Zama crew to carry out repairs on this piece of architectural history.

As the building is about 350 years old, specialist methods have to be employed to patch-up the plaster.

This involves removing loose plaster and repairing

it with a weak plaster mix, skimmed over with a lime putty mix and painted with lime wash.

Despite the complexity of the work involved, GVKSiya Zama has hired and trained local people and provided them with jobs for the duration of the project.

To date over 130 people have been employed and trained as painters, bricklayers and carpenters, with 45 undergoing learnerships with the Department of Public Works. In addition, two people have received training as Quantity Surveyors.

According to GVK-Siya Zama Senior Contracts Manager, Dmitri Klaassen, ‘as the Castle of Good Hope is the oldest colonial building in South Africa, it needs to be preserved professionally for future generations to enjoy’.

GVK-Siya Zama T +27 (0) 21 461 6665 W www.siyazama.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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Photo by: Polyco

RECYCLING GREEN BUILDING

Plastics industry does good for green POLYCO, the non-profit Polyolefin Recycling Company, has recently donated 12 branded, yellow wheelie bins and 500 rolls of clear refuse bags to the Oasis Association in Claremont, Cape Town, and the Breede Valley Association for Persons with Disabilities in Worcester.

According to Mandy Naudé, Chief Executive Officer of POLYCO, both of these charities recently submitted applications to them for funding during the organisation’s call for proposals from collectors of post-consumer polyolefin waste. ‘Although they didn’t meet our criteria for project funding support, we recognised the fantastic work they are both doing and decided to donate recycling bins and bags to assist them with the sorting of plastic waste at their recycling depots,’ Mandy says.

The well-known Oasis Association provides services for people with intellectual disabilities, as well as day centres for children and group homes for adults. ‘We run workshops that provide opportunities for the disabled at our centre. By teaching them to assist in the recycling projects by sorting and managing the recycling waste that comes through the door, they learn valuable skills that allow our adults to contribute to the workforce and earn some money,’ explains Blessing Tsiga from the Oasis Association.

The recovery and processing of recyclable or waste materials is Oasis’ largest project. They currently employ 364 workers at the two workshops who, because of the nature of their disability and their need for close supervision, have virtually no prospect of finding employment in the open labour market.

Recycling over 260 tons of waste per month, Oasis has become an important drop-off site for recyclables in the southern suburbs of Cape Town.

The Breede Valley Association for Persons with disabilities (APD) is a welfare organisation that provides developmental social services to all people with disabilities residing in the Breede Valley Municipal area where there is a great need.

Breede Valley APD addressed this need by implementing a recycling project that currently employs 17 people with disabilities. They provide an integrated approach to waste management by dealing with waste in different ways with the aim of reducing the amount of waste that ends up in our landfills, and play their part in saving our environment.

The Workshop Manager at Breede Valley APD, Michelle David, said: ‘With POLYCO donating the six wheelie bins and clear plastic bags for recycling, they have made it easier for people with disabilities to do their daily task.’ She adds that the town of Worcester has become a recycling mecca since 2010 when they started the programme. ‘Members of the community bring their recycling to our premises in large quantities. With the clear recycling bags that POLYCO has donated we can give our fellow recyclers one new bag for each bag they recycle at their homes,’ she concluded.

Polyco T +27 (0) 21 531 0647 W www.polyco.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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OUT & ABOUT TO BUILD’S ROVING EDITOR

Green Building Convention #8 Held early in November 2015, the annual Green Building Convention provided several days of intense interest, challenging concepts and fascinating speakers.

Organisers of the Green Building Convention 2015 could be excused for introducing a left-of-centre speaker in the form of Dr Chris Smith, better known as the Naked Scientist. Based at Cambridge University’s Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), the Naked Scientists are a team of scientists, doctors and communicators who are passionate about helping the general public understand and engage with science, technology and medicine.

Convention MC, Kura Chihota, ably facilitated two days of highly-informative discussions that were clearly planned to tweak the imagination of delegates and provide information about the latest trends, products and solutions in the green building movement.

GBCSA’s CEO and his team were superb in organising an exciting line-up of speakers… The list goes on.

Sustainability thinking Setting the tone for the Convention, keynote speaker, Jochen Zeitz, presented his life’s work (thus far), including taking Puma, the company he founded,

in a sustainable direction some years back when it was yet to become fashionable. Zeitz explained that his nature-focused selection of raw materials used in his shoe brand was way ahead of its time.

Most recently, he’s also noted as the benefactor of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, which is currently under construction in the old grain silo. ‘Business is about longevity … CEOs should look at business as if it were their own from a longevity perspective,’ he says with reference to sustainability.

Cradle to cradle A highly thought-provoking account came from the author of Cradle to Cradle, Professor Michael Braungart from the Netherlands, who challenged conventional thinking about recycling, efficiency versus effectiveness, and carbon neutral. Significantly, he referenced steel’s structural failure under earthquake conditions in past decades because of copper content from post-consumer recycling.

Winners: Highest Rated Building 2015/2016 – Hotel Verde.

David Pollock, Anaia Dos Santos, Bongiswa (Hotel Verde), and Andre Harms (Ecolution Consulting).

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Photos by: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

TO BUILD’S ROVING EDITOR OUT & ABOUT

Jonathan Hanks, Director of Incite Sustainability. ‘Time to open more creative energy. What should business strategy be in the light of sustainability?’

Leonie Joubert, Author of THE HUNGRY SEASON. Food security and climate change – shedding light on inequitable usage of food resources in cities.

Jochen Zeitz, Director: Kering. Building a better brand based on sound sustainability principles.

Dr Chris Smith, the Naked Scientist.

Green Building Council of SA W www.gbcsa.org.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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STUDENTS & AWARDS

GREENOVATE

Green innovators

Greenovate award winners.

The first ever winners of the Greenovate Awards are UCT’s team of Rowan McKenzie, Dijon Ross and Miekie van der Merwe, with supervisor, Saul Nurick.

They focused on the role of the IPD Green Property Indicator in the South African property market.

This team of outstanding young green innovators took home a monetary prize and will be hosted at the GBCSA’s Green Building Convention in 2016 (Convention 2016). Here they will present their research project to property professionals and green leaders from around the country and across the continent, and participate in various green site tours.

The UCT team that took second place, supervised

by Dr Kathy Michell, comprises Alex Demetrious, Daniel Searle and Ken Toplis. They examined urban facilities management and the development of a sustainability rating tool for urban precincts. These students used the Central City Improvement District (CCID) of Cape Town as their case study. They also won a monetary prize for their insightful project and will be hosted at Convention 2016 and join the winning team on the green building tours.

The third placed group of young green thinkers came from University of the Witwatersrand. The team includes Amy McGregor, Thabo Mthuthu and Wardah Peters, and was supervised by Dr Dave Root.

This group of Wits students researched an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) Framework to improve sustainability and green building practice in the construction industry. As with their winners, they will also be hosted at Convention 2016.

Witwatersrand and University of Pretoria in 2015.

Students were challenged to come up with ideas that would result in a research project that promotes a more sustainable built environment. Their projects could be applied to any aspect of a building – design, development, planning, construction, materials – anything that makes the way we live greener and our environmental footprint lighter.

Werner van Antwerpen, Head of Sustainability at Growthpoint Properties, explains: ‘Everyone is a winner when innovation for a greener, healthier, more sustainable environment is nurtured. The university students taking part in the Awards, and the winners in particular, presented pioneering projects. Their smart and inspiring thinking shows how we can drive green building thinking forward to ensure a better, greener future.’

For Awards participants, the benefits go well beyond winning a prize. The programme provides students with an opportunity to work with leading green building thinkers and industry professionals in Greenovate workshops.

Brian Wilkinson, CEO of the GBCSA says: ‘By learning about green building and sustainability early in their careers, the positive impacts this next generation of property professionals will have on our urban environment will hugely benefit all South Africans.’

Why the Awards?

Growthpoint Properties Limited Werner van Antwerpen, Head of Sustainability T +27 (0) 11 944 6282

The Growthpoint Greenovate Awards was piloted at the University of Cape Town, University of the

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Photo by: GBCSA

The Greenovate Awards, sponsored by a leading JSE-listed REIT, recently held its inaugural awards event in conjunction with the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA). The awards recognise innovation linked to environmental challenges.

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COROBRIK-SAIA STUDENTS & AWARDS

Corobrik SAIA Awards of Merit and Excellence

The Corobrik-SAIA Award for Excellence was introduced in 1990 and recognises an exceptional contribution to the field of architecture. The Award of Merit encourages and recognises good design or a significant contribution in the field of architecture.

The Award for Excellence is only made for an exceptional achievement in the field of architecture, and only projects that have received an Award of Merit are eligible for this award.

The Awards programme is structured over a period of two years and is conducted in three stages. In the first year, Awards for Architecture are presented by the various regional institutes affiliated to SAIA. The Corobrik-SAIA Awards of Merit are bestowed in the second year and, thereafter, the Awards for Excellence are announced.

The 2016 Awards were hosted by SAIA at the University of the Witwatersrand during February. A record 66 entries were received into this years’ award programme, bearing testimony to the importance of architecture in South Africa today. At the first day of the event a series of lectures by the awards judges were presented with the objective of reflecting architecture in the past, the present and in the future.

The awards judges Welcomed by SAIA’s CEO, Obert Chakarisa, five adjudicators including a convenor, Kevin Bingham, spoke on a range of subjects relating to the theme: • Mokena Makeka presented data from the World Economic Forum in his talk entitled ‘Architecture and the Future of Cities’. The data highlighted the pressure exerted by fast-growing populations on cities across the globe.

• Professor Paul Kotze, an academic architect, gave a presentation entitled ‘Waiting for the Right Architect’. According to Kotze, the relationship between client and architect and, for that matter, the whole team of professionals and builders who work on a building project, is of the utmost importance.

Photo by: SAIA

The South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) awards programme aims to support, recognise and promote excellence in architecture and to create public awareness and debate on architectural issues.

Musa Shangase, Professor Paul Kotze, Mokena Makeka, Sumien Brink, Obert Chakarisa and Kevin Bingham.

• Kevin Bingham presented ‘Architecture: From Creativity to Painting by Numbers’, during which he questioned creativity in architecture and how the criteria for judging award-winning architecture may have changed over time. He questioned whether or not awards were suited to certain types of building more than others, and suggested that design guidelines, ‘paint by numbers’, have an impact on architectural design.

• Sumien Brink editor-in-chief of VISI design, décor and architecture magazine, gave an insight into the past, present and future of the publication since its inception in 1999. She stressed the importance of the digital offering.

• Musa Shangase, commercial director of Corobrik, the awards sponsor, delivered the final presentation of the afternoon, entitled ‘Affordable for Life’, in which he highlighted the benefits offered by clay brick masonry to the construction industry.

The award winners will be announced on the SAIA website, as well as on TO BUILD’S website at www.tobuild.co.za.

SAIA Debbie Kirk T +27 (0) 11 782 1314 W www.saia.co.za issue 17 www.tobuild.co.za

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NOTES Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DĂŠcor

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