To build issue 19 - November 2016 - February 2017 by Media Xpose

To Build Handbook

Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior Décor

Achieving harmony Refreshingly outdoors Renewables – global status Windows to the world

issue 19 | November 2016 - February 2017

Issue 19 • Nov 2016 - Feb 2017

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foreword Accountability and compliance through certification: Focus on Balustrades

Johan Heyneke, Executive Director

In South Africa’s ever-changing work environment with fly-by-night companies trying to make a quick buck, it is important that all parties involved – the quantity surveyor, architect, engineer and home owner – are protected through certification. Certification is defined as the confirmation that the manufacturer or supplier of a product meets the requirements of accepted practices, legislation, prescribed rules and regulations, or specified standards. Accountability is the obligation of an individual or organisation to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them, and to disclose the results in a transparent manner. Compliance can be defined as a formal procedure by which an accredited or authorised person or agency assesses and verifies the attributes, characteristics, quality, or status of individuals or organisations, goods or services, procedures or processes, or events or situations, in accordance with established requirements or standards.

All balustrades shall be tested SANS 10137:2011 (Ed 4.00): The installation of glazing in buildings. Due to the various types of glazed panels, fixing methods, site conditions and workmanship of the installer, all balustrades shall be tested to prove their design capability and shall also be tested on site to further ensure consistency of workmanship and installation detail. It is therefore not possible to describe ‘rule of thumb’ glass thickness for generic installation methods. • Do you know the standards regarding balustrades? • Are you focussing on aesthetics or safety? • Are you determining your decision solely on price? • Does the manufacturer/installer have certification from a Pr. Eng? Something to think about: In December 2015, a young 18-year-old man lost his life when he fell four storeys through a non-compliant balustrade in Mosselbay. ‘Intentions do not insulate us from the consequences of our actions.’ – Jon D Harrison ‘When I’m at the bottom looking up, the main question may not be “how do I get out of this hole?” In reality, the main question might be “how do I get rid of the shovel that I used to dig it?” – Craig D Lounsbrough AAAMSA T +27 (0) 11 805 5002 E aaamsa@iafica.com W www.aaamsa.co.za 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

Achieving harmony Refreshingly outdoors Renewables – global status Windows to the world

Editorial Contributors Adv Bryan Hack Des Schnetler Daniel van der Merwe Keith Robertson Neil Cameron Photos from Gareth Griffiths Imaging DESIGN & LAYOUT CDC Design carla@cdcdesign.co.za Sales Manager Sarina Afonso sarina@mediaxpose.co.za

issue 19 | November 2016 - February 2017

ADVERTISING SALES Rene van Heerden rene@tobuild.co.za Marketing & Online Advertising Maurisha Niewenhuys marketing@mediaxpose.co.za

Issue 19 • Nov 2016 - Feb 2017

COVER ART: BitDrywall

Content manager Melanie Taylor artwork@mediaxpose.co.za Financial director Shaun Mays shaun@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 issue19 November 2016-February 2017

Foreword 2 Editor’s Note 10 Cover Story: BitDrywall 12, 13 Lead Story 16, 17, 18 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 News & Views Editor’s Choice 26, 27 167, 168, 169 Out & About Student Designs 171, 172 173 Notes Page Advertisers’ Index 175

Divisions PROFESSIONS

Architects 35 Quantity Surveyors 40 Construction & Contractors 42 49 Construction, Health & Safety Interior & Exterior Design & Décor 52 Developers 54 Engineers 58 Landscaping & Landscape Architects 61 Legal 66

BUILDING SYSTEMS Automation 71 Bathrooms 74 Ceilings & Partitions 77 Electrical 81 Floors 83 Kitchens 86

Lighting 88 Roofing 90 Security & Safety 98 Structure 102 Pools & Water Features 105 Walls & Cladding 108 Windows & Doors 110

MATERIALS Adhesives 115 Bricks & Paving 117 Cement & Concrete 124 Coatings 127 Insulation 130 135 Timber & Decking

SERVICES Furniture 138 Plumbing & Reticulation 140 Ground Engineering Services 144 148 Air Conditioning

GREEN BUILDING Green IT Smart Cities 152 Alternative Energy 154 Opinion 158 Alternative Building Methods 161 Green Accreditations 164 Out & About 167 Student Designs 171

128 74

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contents issue19 November 2016-February 2017

BitDrywall – our cover....................................12 Renewables: Global status report...............16 Arrival of an energy star................................17 The mind of a fox...........................................18 Winning equipment hire firm........................20 Split prepaid meter successes.....................20 Africa’s oldest theatre gets refit...................21 REIT posts positive performance..................21 Work begins at restitution site.......................22 Sika Gauteng achieves ISO 9001................22 Steel Awards 2016: Versatility, diversity and innovation..............................23 CBD Transport boost......................................24 Banking on containers..................................24 Portable alcohol breath analysis.................26 Self-healing for concrete cracks.................26 Professionals in recline...................................27 Safety is fundamental in healthcare..........27 Achieving harmony.......................................35 Third place for UCT students.........................40 Cutting-edge profile......................................42 Masterbuilders go to Durban town.............46 The hazards of asbestos................................49 Modern designs for Cape vineyard...........52 Providing another boost for Newtown.......54 Central Square develops.............................55 Africa’s power development......................58 Major city leads the way..............................61 Low-maintenance and water-wise............63 Unpacking the legal side of sustainable development......................66 Going green through boardroom automation.............................71 Refreshingly outdoors....................................74 New dry wall panel........................................77 Masonite Africa is reborn as Evowood.......79 LED’s saving electricity – city by city...........81 Pioneering flooring.........................................83 Steam in the Kitchen.....................................86 Costs are real..................................................88

Vital anti-glare roofing technology now in SA market...........................................90 Case study: Prestigious school capped.....93 Partnering with technology..........................98 Providing vital time to respond..................101 Training courses making their mark...........102 Water play and tech innovation for Africa......................................................105 Enhancements with an old-style theme...........................................108 Windows to the world.................................110 Cracking the problem of wet on wet..........................................................115 New machines for brick manufacturer.............................................117 SAIA Awards – sponsored by top clay brick supplier...........................119 The Paving Warehouse...............................122 Screeding – a leading manufacturer’s tips....................................124 Colours 2017..................................................127 Industry landscape – shift from products to systems...................................130 New ITC-SA board of directors elected...135 Go North........................................................138 Corporates help schools save water........140 Restoring dignity in Diepsloot...................142 Stabilisation underway at Groblersdal Mall....................................144 Case history – saving a sinking home.......145 Singita: A place of cool miracles..............148 Technical innovation for smart cities........152 LPG as an alternative to electricity...........154 Prioritising tangible green building principles......................................158 Looking at alternatives................................161 Green consultant takes the LEED..............164 Homemakers Expo.......................................167 Wits student top in awards.........................171

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ed’s letter Interesting times indeed ‘May you live in interesting times.’

No better phrase than this ancient curse of apocryphal origins sums up the state of our country at the time Edition 19 of To Build is being published. It is challenging and uncomfortable times that allow an opportunity for selfintrospection and for digging deeper into the subconscious to find innovative solutions. And this is certainly a key theme in this edition’s book review about the life and times of Chantell Ilbury, co-author of Mind of a Fox with Clem Sunter. Looking at South Africa’s unfolding socio-political landscape, across which a number of red flags are raised, surely many professionals in the built environment are digging deeper, looking at things differently, and preparing to chart the way forward – all while finding the resources they require to do this. In many respects, South Africa is at a crossroads in terms of renewable energy – one of the themes in this edition. With highly-mixed signals coming from our major parastatal, Eskom, concerning the future of renewable energy and government apparently in crisis regarding so many renegade parastatal affairs, where does that leave the environment? Where does the country sit with regard to South Africa’s commitment to COP21 and to climate change? The future of our green building movement, of renewable energy, and ultimately of fossil fuel reduction, depends on decisive leadership and direction from government. This also includes pinning down exactly where we stand with nuclear energy. While it seems that the state and its organs are gaining a generally-chaotic momentum towards nuclear, what of the possible long-term and highly-negative effects on the future generations of South Africans who have to live in nuclear energy’s aftermath? And just who is calling the shots here? Surely it would be better for South Africa to get into step with the rest of the world and firmly throw its weight behind renewables? These are the questions we ponder as we welcome you to this edition of To Build. Please continue to send us your interesting contributions, opinions and news pieces – as a trade magazine, we are here for you.

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

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COVER STORY BitDrywall

Photos by BitDrywall

BitDrywall – our cover To Build proudly hosts BitDrywall as its front cover advertiser. Here, a spokesperson tells us about the company. In 2009, with a strong affiliation between South African and Latin American partners, BitDrywall was established in the building industry. This came about after identifying a niche in the market for smaller, independent contractors who required ceiling and drywall material. BitDrywall is a dedicated division that was formed within the group to cater for these small- to medium-size companies in need of quality products and best prices. In line with BitDrywall’s mission – to supply versatile ceiling and drywall products at competitive prices – we have grown to become a well-known manufacturer, distributor and supplier to all sectors of the industry in both the private and commercial fields. We are diversified and form part of the BitGroup,

which comprises of BitDrywall and BitPlastics. At BitDrywall, we take pride in our quality products that enable our customers to achieve architectural creativity in their projects. Our products provide interior solutions in every aspect of a building project, and they incorporate unique properties such as fire resistance and sound insulation. We offer a wide range of products incorporating gypsum plasterboards, suspended ceiling systems, partitioning solutions and accessories across various applications. Placing our customers at the heart of everything we do goes beyond providing the best product and system solution. Excellent customer service is paramount too – we seek lasting relationships with our customers who we are proud to call our partners.

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BitDrywall COVER STORY

Plasterboards

Stud and Track

Grid systems

Cornices

Thermal Insulation

Drywall Accessories (Screws & Fiber Tape) BitLiteTM Multipurpose Skim Plaster

“We will also soon be the first African company to branch into South America.”

Mission Our mission is to supply versatile ceiling and drywall products at competitive prices, being an innovative company, and seeking lasting relationships with partners and stakeholders.

Vision Our vision is to expand countrywide, into neighbouring countries and to be the first African company to branch out into South America.

With our experience gained in this market we have entered into a new era of growth, creating an impressive geographical footprint in Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and across our borders into sub-Saharan Africa. We will soon also to be the first African ceiling and partition supplier to branch into South America. We also plan to further expand our network into sub-Saharan Africa. We endeavour to continue striving for excellence in all aspects of our business by committing to being a trusted supply partner that provides solutions for the ever-changing challenges that our customers face in today’s construction industry.

BitDrywall 370 Main Reef Road, Denver, Johannesburg, 2094 T +27 (0) 10 007 3613 E info@bitgroup.co.za W www@bitgroup.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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LEAD STORY Renewables

Renewables: Global status report To Build features highlights from the Renewables Global Status Report 2016 released in June. The Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21) is a multi-stakeholder network. It shares its insight and knowledge, helping the REN21 Secretariat produce its annual Renewables Global Status Report and regional reports. The network currently stands at 700 renewable energy, energy access, and energy efficiency experts. Significantly, the renewable energy industry has grown, despite the large drop in the global cost of commodity fuels. Speaking at the release of the report, Arthouros Zervos, REN21’s Chairman, stated that 2015 (under review) was an extraordinary year for renewable energy. ‘The year culminated with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC) 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, where 195 countries agreed to limit global warming to well below 2°C.’ Excerpts of the report’s highlights include: Overall status Renewables are now established around the world as mainstream sources of energy. Rapid growth, particularly in the power sector, is driven by several factors that include improving cost-competitiveness of renewable technologies; dedicated policy initiatives; better access to financing, energy security and environmental concerns; growing demand for energy in developing and emerging economies; and the need for access to modern energy. Capacity An estimated 147GW (gigawatts) of renewable power capacity was added in 2015, the largest annual increase ever. Renewable heat capacity increased by around 38GWth (gigawattsthermal), and total biofuels production also rose. This growth occurred despite tumbling global prices for all fossil fuels, ongoing fossil fuel subsidies, and other challenges facing renewables including the integration of rising shares of renewable generation, policy and political instability, regulatory barriers and fiscal constraints.

Investment Global investment also climbed to a new record level despite the plunge in fossil fuel prices, the strength of the US dollar (which reduced the dollar value of non-dollar investments), the continued weakness of the European economy, and further declines in per unit costs of wind and solar photovoltaics (PV). For the sixth consecutive year, renewables outpaced fossil fuels for net investment in power capacity additions. Technology In parallel with growth in markets and investments, 2015 saw continued advances in renewable energy technologies, ongoing energy efficiency improvements, increased use of smart grid technologies, and significant progress in hardware and software to support the integration of renewable energy, as well as progress in energy storage development and commercialisation. The year also saw expanded use of heat pumps, which can be an energy-efficient solution for heating and cooling.

Quo Vadis, South Africa? Early in August, Eskom postponed signing a 20-year power purchase agreement ‘until further notice’ with Redstone Solar Thermal Power Project, an independent power producer. The utility said conditions by both parties had not been fulfilled. However, since the ascension to the top office of current Eskom CEO, Brian Molefe, there has been increasing negativity towards the use of renewables, especially PV and concentrated solar power. It would seem that South Africa is once again moving in a different direction to the rest of the world.

REN21 W www.ren21.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/ GSR_2016_Full_Report.pdf

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Photos by Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Renewables LEAD STORY

The Tesla Powerwall on display.

Arrival of an energy star Quietly entering the market over the last 12 months, the legendary Powerwall from Tesla is now available to the South African market via three local distributors. Tesla is the meteoric-rise company founded by former South African, Elon Musk. During April, the company launched its Powerwall amid huge international fanfare in Los Angeles. Tesla Powerwall is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed to store energy at a residential level for load shifting, backup power, and self-consumption of solar power generation. It consists of Tesla’s lithium-ion battery pack, liquid thermal control system, and software that receives dispatch commands from a solar inverter. The unit mounts seamlessly on a wall and may be integrated with the local grid to harness excess power and give customers the flexibility to draw energy from their own reserve. On display recently at various built environment shows around South Africa, our roving editor recently encountered the Powerwall at the stand of national distributor, Rubicon. We asked a few questions of Rubicon’s local reseller – Cape Town Branch Manager, Nick Roche.

Approximately how many units have been sold? Rubicon has sold about 30 units.

What range of units are available and at what pricing? The battery is only available in 6.4kwh but is sold with a complete solar system that can be between 3 and

7kw. A system with 3kw of solar panels and the 5kw SolarEdge inverter typically sells for about R190 000 installed.

Who do you see as your prime target market? Valid proposals are typically, small new or existing (retrofit) commercial or residential properties. We’ve sold to both.

Any further comments about the panel?

Experience is showing the tremendous benefit of the PowerWall when installed in combination with a solar system. We have one installed in our Cape Town showroom and we have now cut our power purchase to about 20% of what it was previously. The Tesla Powerwall battery has been perfectly designed to maximise the excess solar energy generated by your home solar solution. Stored energy is saved for cloudy days or night time, and excess solar energy is fed into the grid. Rubicon supplies a complete solution consisting of PV modules, single inverter for both PV and on-grid storage, Powerwall battery, roof-mounting systems for the panels, and the software monitoring system.

Rubicon SA T +27 (0) 21 555 0570 E salescpt@rubiconsa.com issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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LEAD STORY OPINION

Photos by Ga

Chantell Ilbury speaks at her book launch at the Buitenverwachting Wine Estate.

reth Griffiths

The mind of a fox To Build recently attended the launch of the autobiography about Mind of a Fox’s co-author, Chantell Ilbury. The book was word-smithed by her husband, Daryl Ilbury. From a built-environment perspective Mind of a Fox provides valuable insight into the strategic work done by Ilbury and Clem Sunter for corporate South Africa and the rest of the world – as a duo of ‘foxy’ strategic thinkers. As a major contributor to the South African GDP, the built environment is rightly reflected in much of the thinking behind the duo’s approach of identifying flags and scenarios that could play themselves out as a result of their interactions ‘with the field’. For example, one of the flags that Sunter and Ilbury raised is that of infrastructure – with particular reference to South Africa’s bulk infrastructure, state utilities, and the broader developed environment. At her book launch, Ilbury explained that this infrastructure flag is cloudy – meaning a patchwork of green and red that makes it neither negative or positive. The country’s electricity supply entity has been able to restore capacity shortfalls that led to the infamous load-shedding in 2015. However this may be sustainable in the short term, how does one view the future of parastatal governance and, in the case of Eskom, the apparent nuclear power option fiasco? Writing recently in his News24 column, Sunter stated: ‘Bearing in mind the clockwork flag of climate change ticking away in the background, the quality of water infrastructure and smarter water management systems to reduce consumption are set to become the number one priority in the country’s future.’ (http:// www.news24.com/Columnists/ClemSunter/the-latestsouth-african-flags-and-scenarios-20160801) Likewise, the pockets of excellence flag, which has clear patches of green that include a previouslyreserved and well-developed school education system, also has red patches that include the apartheid-model

education infrastructure that could pull the whole system down should the former model not be replicated in the poorer schools. And the same applies to our tertiary education system. Should government withhold resources from the system, the existing pockets of excellence within that system could dry up and result in a lower standard across the whole infrastructure – denying South Africa from occupying its rightful place at the global business table. However, the book makes a fascinating read as to the evolution of one of the most prominent strategic analysts and thinkers in Africa. Ilbury comes across as someone hugely flexible, who lives in the moment, takes acceptable risks, and is not afraid to head in new directions to seek opportunities. This, according to her, epitomises the mind of the fox – a trait she shares with Sunter and what brought them together as successful business partners.

Current flags as per Chantell Ilbury and Clem Sunter 1. The treatment of corruption 2. Infrastructure – with particular reference to education 3. The anti-establishment flag 4. Style of leadership flag 5. Level of economic freedom flag

Mind of a Fox W www.mindofafox.com

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News & Views

FROM THE TRADE

Winning equipment hire firm

The relationship between Atlas Copco and Talisman Hire was established more than a decade ago and has developed into a successful business partnership. Fouché, who attributes the good relationship between the two companies to the shared synergies of quality products backed by service excellence, says that it is an absolute pleasure doing business with Atlas Copco. Talisman Hire Kya Sand currently carries the Atlas Copco TEX32 heavy-duty pneumatic general demolition breaker that is designed for medium-hard to hard material applications and is also suited for asphalt and concrete breaking.

Photo by Atlas Copco

Atlas Copco Construction Technique recently handed over a RTEX handheld pneumatic breaker to Dries Fouché and Shaun Sirchia, franchise owners of Talisman Hire in Kya Sand, Johannesburg, which they won in a lucky draw during the Talisman Suppliers Day held in August 2016. Atlas Copco Business Line Manager for the Construction Tools Division, Neville Stewart, confirms that this is the fourth year that Construction Technique has supported the annual Talisman Supplier Day through prize sponsorships. ‘The prize we gave away last year was a 7.5kVa generator, a new model in the Atlas Copco range, and was a popular win for the Parklands franchise in Cape Town. In 2014 we sponsored the equally popular electric submersible pump as the lucky draw prize.’

Atlas Copco W www.atlascopcogroup.com

Split prepaid meter successes Prepaid meter conversions in Soweto result in improved revenue collection of R39 million over 12 months. Over a 12-year period Eskom has already seen a R39-million improvement of revenue collection in Soweto after it installed and converted customers to split prepaid meters. The figure is cumulative from the 2014/15 financial year up to 30 June 2016. The revenue collection levels for customers – including Large Power Users (LPU), Prepaid Power Users (PPU) and Small Power Users (SPU) and excluding bulk suppliers – are currently at 48%. Soweto has approximately 181 000 customers, 65% of whom are customers who are on a conventionallybilled metering system and the remainder are on conventional prepaid metering system. ‘We have installed over 41 628 split meters, converted 24 746 to prepaid, and are planning to accelerate the roll out of prepaid meters in Soweto. The conversions

of the meters have also resulted in a gradual increase in sales. Eskom is currently installing prepaid meters in Sandton, Midrand, Soweto, Kagiso and other areas around Gauteng. This is to enable revenue collection and address the corporation’s debt collection challenges There are other added benefits of converting to prepaid including savings on meter readings, improved technical performance, reduced errors resulting from the need to bill customers, and better consumption control that gives customers certainty around monthly costs. This technology eliminates the practice of bill estimation and customer inconvenience, as well as fluctuations in the bill and unhappiness with the account,’ says an Eskom Spokesman.

Eskom W www.eskom.co.za

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FROM THE TRADE News & Views

Africa’s oldest theatre gets refit The PE Opera House, the oldest theatre in Africa’s southern hemisphere, has recently undergone intricate renovations and expansions to transform it from a heritage site into a first-class facility. As the only surviving example of a Victorian Theatre in Africa, a leading specialist in the construction, renovation and recycling of buildings, GVK-Siya Zama, was enlisted to ensure that it would be preserved for future generations to enjoy. When the PE Opera House opened, it was dubbed by press as ‘The finest theatre in all the World’. However, over the course of its 124-year history, the building and a number of its unique elements have decayed. GVK-Siya Zama was tasked with preserving its historic architectural features while, at the same time, expanding its facilities with modern twists. The building, known as the ‘Old Lady’, houses two theatres: The Barn, which is a cabaret venue, and the Main Stage, which was built for ballet, opera and musicals. The upgrade called for the addition of a dedicated foyer space and passenger lift in The Barn, as well as extensions to the theatre. The Main Stage required renovations to its foyer, and internal and external painting, and damp damage repairs. Carpets and wallpapering throughout the building were replaced

and new air-conditioning, lighting, fire detection and ventilation systems were installed to ensure compliance with the latest building and energy regulations. Access for disabled persons was also improved. All of this was carried out while retaining and protecting as much as possible of the fragile original heritage elements – from pressed ceilings and tiles to ornate fretwork. Barend Delport, Regional Managing Director at GVK-Siya Zama, says that some of the most interesting components of the project were the reconstruction of the original gallery floor to increase seating capacity, and the installation of an all-new fire escape route. Delport believes that the revamped PE Opera house now provides PE and its residents with a first-class facility that will attract local and international acts. Once more funds are secured, the ‘Old Lady’ will house a rotating restaurant, modern stage, roof garden and opera school.

GVK-Siya W www.siyazama.co.za

REIT posts positive performance Growthpoint Properties Limited posted distribution growth of 6% for its full year to June 30, 2016, delivering results at the top of its market guidance. Growthpoint Properties Limited boosted its annual distributions to shareholders by 19.8%, for the first time going over R5 billion for the year. Growthpoint also increased its gross revenue by 26.1% and raised its asset value to R112.5 billion. Norbert Sasse, CEO of Growthpoint Properties Limited, attributes the solid set of results to good performance from Growthpoint’s overall investments as a result of maintaining high occupancy levels, achieving strong leasing results, and keeping costs well contained. Growthpoint’s overall expense ratio for its South African portfolio improved slightly from 27.8% to 27.2%. Growing distributions from Growthpoint’s 65.5% holding in Growthpoint Properties Australia (GOZ)

impacted results positively, amplified by slightly improved exchange rates and effective currency hedging. Significantly improved performance from the V&A Waterfront also had a positive effect. Commenting on the results, Sasse says: Volatile financial markets, increasing interest rates, depressed local and global growth, and soft property demand dynamics made things difficult. So this backdrop, we’re pleased to report results slightly ahead of budget that sustain our shareholder returns.’

Growthpoint W www.growthpoint.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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News & Views

From the Trade

Work begins at restitution site Internal works have begun for the first of two property developments on the site of Richmond Park, arguably the biggest land restitution project nationally and certainly in the Western Cape. One of the largest property developments in Cape Town, Richmond Park’s 300 000m2 of greenfields development rights are on an 84ha site that is part of the milestone land restitution settlement. Richmond Park is a multibillion rand mixed-use property development in Milnerton, Cape Town, by major shareholder Atterbury, the leading South African property investor and developer, which partners the Richmond Park Communal Property Association (CPA), Qubic 3 Dimensional Property and Bethel Property. The land is owned by the Richmond Park Community, which was forcibly removed between 1972 and 1984. In 2014, the land transferred back to the Community, some 401 families representing 5 300 people spanning five generations. The Richmond Park Community leased the land to the Richmond

Park Development Company and has a 25% shareholding in the development company. ‘We’re thrilled to announce the first two developments at Richmond Park will be for CTM and Cape Fruit Coolers. These deals have triggered the beginning of the internal services installation and allowed us to appoint Burger and Wallace as the contractor for this portion of the work in Richmond Park,’ says Gerrit van den Berg, who heads Atterbury’s Western Cape operations. The preparation of both sites began on August 1, for completion in March 2017. The top structures are expected to be complete by November 2017 and May 2018 respectively.

Atterbury W www.atterbury.co.za

Sika Gauteng achieves ISO 9001 Sika SA recently announced the award of the ISO 9001 certification for the Sika Gauteng Plant. ‘All Sika factories are required to be ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified as a minimum. Being certified and complying with require standards enables us to operate at and hold ourselves accountable to a higher quality operational and performance level. It gives us and our customers the additional confidence

that we are working towards international levels and standards,’ says Paul Adams, SIKA SA’s Managing Director.

Sika W www.sika.co.za

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From the Trade News & Views

Steel Awards 2016: Versatility, diversity and innovation Address by Paolo Trinchero, CEO of the Southern African Institute of Steel Construction.

The quality of the entries for the annual Steel Awards, hosted by the Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) improves each year and 2016 is no different. This year’s Steel Awards, hosted in partnership with BSi Steel, had 46 entries reflecting steel as the material of choice.

Photo by Denise Sherman

Steel structures of all types are now easily achievable and because of the all-round efficiency and sustainability of the material, it’s no wonder steel is being used more and more. What is encouraging is the broad range of projects received that show sustainability and innovation – from residential houses, commercial projects, and mining and industrial applications to some really innovative other projects. This bodes well for us as we need to ensure that we play in as many sectors of the South African and southern African economies as possible. This year, a number of projects displayed characteristics of a winning industry. They showed innovation in every process from the integration of design, detailing and fabrication to erection using modern CNC equipment and software that our industry has invested in so heavily. The SAISC is passionate about training our next generation so we can continue to take advantage of opportunities in south and southern Africa. We would

like to see the industry working harder on integration and competitiveness as displayed by our winning entries. I thank the entrants who have made this event possible, the judges and the SAISC support team. Having had the privilege of attending most of the site visits and event meetings, one realises the amount of work that goes into making the Steel Awards such a successful event. This year will be recorded as one of enormous challenge for our industry but, as always, we show that we are indeed men and women of steel. I would like to congratulate the winners and encourage our members to continue to participate and grow our industry into the future.

Southern African Institute of Steel Construction T +27 (0) 11 482 7407/9064

Overall winning project team – Tass Engineering and Co.

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News & Views

FROM THE TRADE

CBD Transport boost Sandton Central infrastructure gets a big boost with City of Joburg’s Bus Rapid Transit system, meaning there will be yet another great way to get into and around Sandton Central soon. Expanding its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, The City of Johannesburg will bring Rea Vaya’s fast, convenient and affordable bus service to Sandton Central within the next two years. Boosting all modes of transport and easing traffic flows, the project is also adding improvements to infrastructure in Sandton Central. It adds new bridges, widens main roads, upgrades pavements and signage, improves street lights and signals, and introduces cycling and walking facilities. ‘As the country’s financial hub, each day Sandton Central attracts many people from around the city and beyond for business, tourism, shopping and pleasure. The infrastructure improvement to roads, pavements and public transport that the BRT introduces supports

Sandton Central’s position at the forefront of wellmanaged central business districts,’ says Elaine Jack, City Improvement District Manager of the Sandton Central Management District that manages its public urban spaces. Started in 2009, Rea Vaya already operates between areas such as Parktown, Doornfontein and Soweto. Sandton Central will join this popular service designed to link areas around the city that were previously poorly connected, creating ‘Corridors of Freedom’.

Sandton Central W www.sandtoncentral.co.za

Banking on containers South African bank, FNB, has introduced an innovative mobile banking unit designed to extend banking services to unbanked rural communities.

Photo by First National Bank

Unveiled as another first for South Africa, FNB’s designers have repurposed a humble shipping container by equipping it with state-of-the-art banking infrastructure that includes an ATM, ADT and teller services. The mobile unit was initially intended for the community of Mutale, Limpopo. However, following the natural disaster at Phumlani Mall in Tembisa, it will be temporarily placed in the area to help residents access banking services. Lee-Ann van Zyl, CEO of FNB Points of Presence, points out: ‘South Africa still has a large section of the population that has limited access to banking facilities and we want to turn this around. The first step was to think about an innovative way of delivering a full suite of banking facilities to rural communities in a convenient fashion.’ She adds: ‘We decided to introduce a fullyequipped mobile banking unit that caters for

transactional banking, teller services, an ATM and an ADT, enabling customers to deposit cheques, handle prepaid purchases, open savings and investment accounts, and the option to apply for a loan.’

First National Bank W www.fnb.co.za

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Editor’s Choice

PROMISING PRODUCTS

Portable alcohol breath analysis ALCO-Safe’s Lion 700 Alcometer, a portable breathalyser, is designed for use wherever the use of alcohol poses a threat to health and safety. and safety. By using the new Lion 700 Alcometer, businesses can test the alcohol levels of anyone entering their premises and also take legal action using test readings as valid and accurate evidence in a labour court or CCMA hearing.

Photo by AlcoSafe

ALCO-Safe, a supplier of quality electronic breath alcohol detectors and drug detection equipment and accessories in South Africa, has recently launched the Lion 700 Alcometer, a portable alcohol breath analysis (breathalyser) instrument specifically designed for use in law enforcement, industrial safety, and health and well-being programmes. Alcohol use and abuse in the workplace is a long-standing issue and one that can be addressed by regular testing of employees and visitors entering any business premises, industrial space or anywhere where the use of alcohol poses a threat to health

ALCO-Safe T +27 (0) 12 343 8114

Self-healing for concrete cracks Sika crystallises 100 years of waterproofing experience with the launch of its new SikaWT200 P ‘self-healing’ crystalline admixture. Sika’s latest waterproofing innovation is Sika WT200 P. The benefits of Sika’s WT Series have already been established on significant projects around the world. Sika WT-200 P is a new admixture powder that is added directly to the ready-mix load on the construction vehicle. This crystalline admixture enables concrete cracks to self-heal and therefore block water, even when under extreme hydrostatic pressure; and it will continue to reactivate whenever water is present. The need for such a solution is critical because concrete is a porous material. The many pores or

voids in concrete are created by excess water in the mix that is not used in the chemical reaction that hardens the concrete. Once the concrete is dry, external water finds these pores and seeps through. Sika WT-200 P is packaged in plastic buckets, each containing 6 x 1.75kg bags. These bags are disposable so they can be thrown directly into back of the readymix truck. The dose rate is 1% by weight of cement.

Sika South Africa (Pty) Ltd W www.sika.co.za

Photo by Sika

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PROMISING PRODUCTS Editor’s Choice

Professionals in recline

‘Only distantly related to the hulking loungers of the past, modern motion furniture combines all the comfort you would expect from Dad’s favourite chair, with the chic design elements that will make Mom happy too. Hopefully the same will apply to design professionals,’ says Claire Gibson from La-Z-Boy. She adds: ‘Stylistically speaking, modern motion furniture has become far more streamlined and smaller than traditional models, which not only makes it better looking but also more appropriate for the younger, more urban consumers who don’t necessarily have the space for a large recliner.’ Further upping the design stakes, modern motion furniture features elegant designer accents such as slender armrests, a wide choice of both fabric and leather upholstery, automatic reclining controls, and an array of creature comforts including cup holders and hidden storage.

Photo by La-Z-Boy

According to Claire Gibson from leading motion furniture manufacturer, La-Z-Boy, modern recliners have had a complete feminine makeover.

La-Z-Boy W www.la-z-boy.co.za

Safety is fundamental in healthcare The Besam SL500 door operator from Assa Abloy Entrance Systems is a recommended product for numerous healthcare facilities across South Africa. In addition to exterior entrance applications, this feature-

rich door system is also highly suited for medical theatres. The multi-features of the Besam SL500 operator make this product particularly suited to theatre entrance applications. Together with quality, functionality, convenience and versatility, the ‘nurse function’ of this unique door system operator is key when offering this type of solution through architect specification. Branch Manager, Morgan Adams advises that safety is fundamental in door selection for the healthcare industry.

ASSA W www.assaabloyentrance.com issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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ADVERTORIAL AAAMSA

The AAAMSA Group The Act furthermore empowers the Minister of DTI to declare mandatory standards and has issued the following in respect of safety glazing materials: • Government Gazette # 37631 of 16 May 2014 VC9003 1.1 Regulation B1 Design requirement (Government Gazette # 31084 – 30 May 2008 No. R574) (1) Any building and any structural element or component thereof shall be designed to provide strength, stability, serviceability and durability under all actions which can reasonably be expected to occur in accordance, with accepted principals of structural design, and so that it will not impair the integrity of any other building or property. (2) Any such building shall be so designed that in the event of accidental overloading the structural system will not suffer disastrous or progressive collapse which is disproportionate to the original cause. (3) The requirements of sub regulations (1) and (2) shall be deemed to be satisfied where such building is designed in accordance with SANS 10400-B

1. The legislative/regulatory Environment for Fenestration The National Building Regulations and Building Standards Amendment Act 103 of 1977 (as amended) provides for the promotion of uniformity in the law relating to the erection of buildings in the areas of jurisdiction of Local Authorities; for the prescribing of building standards; and for matters connected therewith. The Regulations under the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 contain inter alia the following sections which influence to the structural design and glazing of Architectural Fenestration Products. In addition, the Act empowers the Minister of the Department of Trade and Industry to publish the National Building Regulations. The current National Building Regulations were published in May 2008 and September 2010 as follows: • Government Gazette #31084 of 30 May 2008 effective 1 October 2008 • Government Gazette #344632 of 9 September 2011 effective 1 November 2011

1.1.1 SANS 10400-B:2012 Edition 3 - The Application of the National Building Regulation Part B: Structural Design This standard states that the Competent Person (Structures), in order to demonstrate that the functional regulations contained in Part B of the National Building Regulations pertaining to the structural system or part thereof are satisfied, shall undertake a rational design in accordance, amongst other, with: SANS 10160 – Basis of Structural Design and Actions for buildings and Industrial Structures SANS 10160 – Part 1: Basis of Structural Design SANS 10160 – Part 2: Self-weight and Imposed loads SANS 10160 – Part 3: Wind Actions We stress therefore that only Competent Persons (Structures) are competent in determining wind actions on Fenestration. This standard furthermore states in paragraph 4.2.1.1. Quote: “The design working life of a building other

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AAAMSA ADVERTORIAL than a category 1 building shall be not less than 30-years in respect of the structural system and non-accessible components, and 15-years for repairable or replaceable components and materials, such as claddings, roofing materials, exterior trims, and integrated components, such as windows and doors. Category 1 buildings may have a design life of not less than 10-years in respect of repairable or replaceable components, provided that provision for upgrading is made at the design stage and such upgrading does not require the removal or dismantling of the existing structure and does not require highly specialized skills to be applied. “Unquote The standard also specifies the minimum service wind actions for roofing and wall elements in dwelling houses in its table 1 recommending a minimum service wind load that is to be applied to doors and windows in external walls as 1000Pa. It follows therefor that any building not being a building in Building Classification H3 and H4 (SANS 10400-A:2010 Edition 3 Table 1) requires the wind load on fenestration (glazing) to be determined by a Competent Person (Structures) registered in terms of the Engineering Professions Act, 2000 (Act No. 46 of 2000) having the necessary experience and training to undertake relevant rational assessments or rational designs. Should the professional Engineer venture into a rational design for glazing his liability for the specification, design and installations of Glazed Architectural Products extend beyond that of the contract to subsequent owners. (Tsimatakopoulos v Hemingway, Isaacs & Coetzee cc and another 1993(4) SA 428 (CPD). It should be noted that a Competent Person (Structures) may execute a rational design for Glazed Architectural Products which is beyond the scope of this Selection Guide. However, this is not often the case, as SANS 10400 Part B states that any rational design of a structural system shall not preclude the use of SANS 10400 Part N (glazing). Therefore, in the normal run of events, the installed Glazed Architectural Products shall meet the requirements of the National Building Regulations. Only strict adherence to relevant South African National Standards during the design, manufacture and installation of Glazed Architectural Products will ensure that the requirements contained in the National Building Regulations are deemed to be satisfied.

1.1.2 Regulation N1 Glazing (Government Gazette #31084 – 30 May 2008 No. R574) (1) Any material used in the glazing of any building shall be of a secure and durable type and shall be fixed in a manner and position that will ensure that it will: afely sustain any wind loads which can (a) S reasonably be expected; (b) N ot allow penetration of water to the interior of the building; and (c) Be apparent, in the case of clear glazing, to any person approaching such glazing. (2) Glass, plastics and organic coated glass shall be selected in order to provide, in the case of human impact, a degree of safety appropriate in relation to(a) The position of the glazed area; and (b) The number and likely behaviour pattern of persons expected to be in close proximity to such glazed area. (3) The requirements of sub regulation (1) and (2) shall be deemed to be satisfied where the glazing material is selected, fixed and marked in accordance with SANS 10400-N. 1.1.2.1 SANS 10400-N:2012 Edition 3.1 – The application of the National Building Regulations Part N: Glazing This standard states that the definition of “Glazing” is Quote “Glass, plastic and organic coated glass fixed in frames in windows, doors and roof lights, or that form doors” Unquote. The definition for “safety glazing material” is given as Quote “material which complies with the requirements of SANS 1263-1 for the performance of safety glazing materials” Unquote The standard offers deemed-to-satisfy tables for the thickness of panes of glass and flat solid polycarbonate sheeting and describes where safety glazing materials shall be used. 1.1.2.2 The Compulsory Specification for safety glass and other Safety Glazing materials – VC 9003 (Government Gazette # 37631 – 16 May 2014 No. R 363) This compulsory specification requires, amongst other, the following:

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ADVERTORIAL AAAMSA • S afety glazing material shall comply with SANS 1263-1: Safety and Security glazing materials for buildings Part 1: Safety performance of glazing materials under human impact • Safety glass and alternative safety glazing materials intended for use in the construction of furniture shall in addition comply with the requirements of SANS 17: Glass and plastics in furniture 1.1.3 R egulation X: Environmental sustainability Regulation XA: Energy Usage in buildings (Government Gazette # 34586 – 9 September 2011 No. R711) XA1 In order to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases buildings, and extensions to buildings in respect of which plans and specifications are to be drawn and submitted in terms of the Act, having A1, A2, A3, A4, C1, C2, E1, E2, E3, E4, F1, F2, F3, G1, H1, H2, H3, H4 and H5 occupancies or building classifications in accordance with regulation A20, excluding garage and storage areas contained within such occupancies, shall be designed and constructed so that they: (a) are capable of using energy efficiently while fulfilling user needs in relation to vertical transport, if any, thermal comfort, lighting and hot water; or (b) having a building envelope and services which facilitate the efficient use of energy appropriate to their function and use, internal environment and geographical location. Equipment and plant required for conducting the business of the occupant shall be excluded from these requirements. XA2 At least 50% (volume fraction) of the annual average hot water heating requirements shall be provided by means other than electrical resistance heating including but not limited to solar heating, heat pumps, heat recovery from other systems or processes and renewable combustible fuel. XA3 The requirements of sub-regulation XA1 shall be deemed to be satisfied when such building is designed and constructed in accordance with the following requirements: (a) has an orientation, shading, services and building envelope in accordance with SANS 10400 Part XA; or (b) is the subject of a rational design by a Competent Person, which demonstrates that the energy usage of such building is equivalent to or better than that which would have been achieved by

compliance with the requirements of SANS 10400XA, or (c) has a theoretical energy usage performance, determined using certified thermal calculation software, less than or equal to that of a reference building in accordance with SANS 10400 XA. 1.1.3.1 SANS 10400:XA 2011 Edition 1 – The application of the National Building Regulation Part X: Environmental sustainability Part XA: Energy Usage in buildings To satisfy the regulatory requirements for fenestration (glazing) this standard refers to SANS 204. Quote”

2. Fenestration 2.1.1.1 Buildings with up to 15% fenestration area to net floor area per storey comply with the minimum energy performance requirements. 2.1.1.2 Buildings with a fenestration area to net floor area per storey that exceeds 15% shall comply with the requirements for fenestration in accordance with SANS 204. 2.1.1.3 All fenestration air infiltration shall be in accordance with SANS 613.” Unquote Author: Hans A Schefferlie AAAMSA Technical Advisor

AAAMSA T +27 (0) 11 805 5002 E aaamsa@iafica.com W www.aaamsa.co.za

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POWER & ELECTRICITY WORLD AFRICA 2017_fcp.indd 1

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior Décor

PROFESSIONS Architects..............................................35 Quantity Surveyors............................ 40 Construction & Contractors..... 42 Construction, Health & Safety...... 49 Interior & Exterior Design & Décor...................................................52 Developers.............................................54 Engineers................................................58 Landscaping & Landscape Architects..............................................61 Legal.........................................................66

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Architecture Professions

Achieving harmony To Build looks at the work of Kristof Basson Architects that has achieved great architecture with honesty and impeccable style in and around the city of Cape Town. Kristof Basson Architects is behind a number of innovative and some technically-challenging projects, including the landmark ‘The Old Biscuit Mill’ and Pyotts Silo redevelopment, the Space Theatre redevelopment in the CBD, SAE Institute at ‘Woodstock Exchange’, the exceptional and fascinating Grand Daddy Hotel Airstream Caravan Roof Deck, and Plascon/Kansai Paint’s Design Centre (formerly the Freeworld Design Centre). Basson’s stamp of design excellence is also firmly in place on a number of highly-successful residential home projects including, most recently, House Spokes, built on a redeveloped residential erf in Gardenia Close, Nova Constantia.

Photos by Cindy Taylor

Photo by Kristof Basson Architects

The Silo at Biscuit Mill

KB Architects – the practice Basson speaks passionately about his practice that was founded in 1994. ‘We believe in ‘Honest Architecture’. By that we mean simplicity in design and by showing materials for what they are,’ he comments. About projects, he adds: ‘Obviously most architects prefer a “new build” where things can be better controlled, but I also have a soft spot for alterations – especially additions to heritage buildings.’ About sustainable design, he maintains: ‘Sustainability is currently the buzz word in all architecture, and rightly so. Normally it costs more initially, with savings in the long run. The challenge is to get the initial costs as low as possible with the best long-term outcome. The simpler the solution, the better.’ This is echoed in the work of many overseas architects including the Australian, Peter Stutchbury, who visits South Africa frequently and shares his approach with highly-receptive audiences.

“We believe in ‘Honest Architecture’. By that we mean simplicity in design and by showing materials for what they are.” Old Biscuit Mill & Silo.

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Professions Architecture

Photo by Kristof BAsson Architects

Photos by Gareth Griffiths

Grand Daddy Hotel.

House Spokes House Spokes, situated at 9 Gardenia Close, Nova Constantia, began with the owner demolishing an old house of little heritage value that required ‘serious attention’ if it were to be retained. According to Basson, the brief was to design a house with large open spaces that make use of the splendid views over the vineyards and also take into account the culvert/stream around the property. The location nudges closely to the Buitenverwachting Wine Estate property and overlooks the most magnificent vineyards presided over by the Constantiaberg, part of Table Mountain in the north-west.

The main contractor was Stewart-Allardice Construction, and the engineering consultant was ADA Consulting Engineers. Notwithstanding its proximity to serious Constantia wine country, the designers chose to be faithful to the mission of their design practice. ‘To replicate the area’s Cape Dutch styles was not an option for us. The concept was to simplify the design so as not to compete with the existing heritage styles nearby. Around the vineyards are a mishmash of housing styles and not wanting to add to this we opted for a neutral design with timber cladding,’ Basson explains.

Photos by Gareth Griffiths

House Spokes

Grand Daddy Hotel.

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Photos by Gareth Griffiths

Architecture Professions

The property’s owner is passionate about Koi and special attention was given to the hardscaping and subsequent layout of the garden to ensure that the water feature, timber deck walkway, bridge and swimming pool are to maximum effect. Indeed, the landscape design by Cape Contour Designs is sensational. Inside this attractive home, the owner’s wife is able to exercise her passion for cooking in an accommodating open-plan kitchen. She has a history in the creative industry and has done interior design on various other projects. According to Basson, ‘she played a positive role in the project and, because of this, we’ve had a creative relationship with a very creative two-way flow of energy between client and architect’. The design and planning of the house was not without its challenges that included: • Major views towards the west that if designed with large unprotected windows would cause considerable heat gain inside the house. ‘To prevent this we used large overhangs, balconies, shutters, sun screens (brise soleil), and double glazing in the design of the house. We also kept as many of the existing trees to protect the house against the western sun. An added advantage was that the sun sets behind the mountains, effectively cutting out much of the light from the sunset.’ • Drainage – The water table on the site is very high and the soil has a high clay content. Therefore, the best solution was to build the house (including pool) on concrete piles with ground beams as designed by Noel de Villiers of ADA Consulting Engineers. Various agricultural drains were installed to drain the high water table.

A very interesting aspect of the home appears to be the use of two suspended elements. The first is very noticeable upon entry into the hallway where a flight of steps is cantilevered from a contrasting sun-dried clay brick wall on the left. The second element is outside above the driveway where the walkway to the front door is covered by a hardwood entrance pergola supported against two walls and suspended from a single steel mast with 13mm stainless steel rigging cable. Because of the odd entrance position from the street, the challenge was to lead the pedestrian naturally to the front door.

Sustainability Given the effective use of natural light inside the home, which also ensures that the views to the north and the west remain visible at all times, a number of additional sustainability features were incorporated: • Sun panels were installed on the roof for the heating of domestic hot water supply in tanks, space heating facilitated by under floor water pipes in all rooms, and pool heating via a heat exchanger with the excess hot water. • Double glazing was installed throughout. • Sun screens and balconies were installed above windows and doors. • LED lamps were installed throughout the project. • An additional layer of insulation, over and above SANS requirements, was installed in the roof space. • Motion sensors were installed in bathrooms to minimise use of lights. • Closed combustion fire places were installed for additional space heating.

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Professions Architecture

Photos by Gareth Griffiths

Major living space features The home offers signature-style crossover city/country living. Downstairs behind the kitchen area is a home theatre with the large TV screen sunken into the custom-made timber wall cladding. Upstairs, the liveability of bedroom areas are enhanced by access to balconies that straddle both the western and northern sides of the home with custom-designed balustrades. The main bedroom, complete with his and hers walk in closets, features an indoor/outdoor bathroom with an al fresco shower and magnificent views over the winelands.

Effective use of timber The property is noteworthy for its awesome use of timber aspects that include: • Hardwood cladding to the double-volume front entrance door. • Solid compound-shaped hardwood frames surrounding certain windows. • Horizontal hardwood screens placed over selected outside walls. • A bridge crossing the koi fish water feature at the front door. • A large covered patio with hardwood slats and multi-wall polycarbonate sheeting to keep the heat at bay without the total loss of natural lighting. • Formal hardwood decking adjacent to the patio leading to the swimming pool on one side and

migrating into a boardwalk curving around the back of a feature koi pond and landscaped designer garden. • The upstairs bedrooms have large balconies bordered with high-end balustrades made of stainless and hardwood stanchions, stainless steel cables and hardwood rails to complement. The timber sub-contractor was Cape-based Contour Decks that made a name for itself through its work on a number of domestic buildings, as well as the Cape Town hotel industry in the CBD and the V&A Waterfront. Commenting on some of the more interesting hardwood features, the company’s owner, Robin Schultz, says: ‘We installed the architect-designed brise soleil above the bedroom windows to assist in the control of heat gain during the summer months. These are manufactured with hardwood slats fixed to and cantilevered off the walls using galvanised mini I-beams. The butt joints are dressed with stainless steel custom-made boots to conceal the gaps required for natural movement of the timber.’

Kristof Basson Architects T +27 (0) 21 424 5887 E Kristof@kbarchitects.co.za W www.kbarchitects.co.za Contour Decks W www.contourdecks.co.za

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ARCHITECTURE - INTERIOR DESIGN - URBAN DESIGN - INDUSTRIAL DESIGN

T: +27 41 581 4765 admin@adarchi.co.za AdendorffArchitects.co.za

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Professions Quantity Surveyors

Third place for UCT students In edition 18 we reported on a group of final-year quantity surveying students and a third-year construction economics and management student who successfully qualified for the final round of the Global Student Challenge.

Her Prestige Worldwide colleague, James Myburgh, adds: ‘What made the Student Challenge interesting was how it was run concurrently to the CIOB Members Forum. Finishing third made the experience worthwhile, and it was a productive week filled with learning and networking opportunities. The CIOB Student Challenge provided some phenomenal insight into the industry on a global level, and we thoroughly enjoyed it.’ Massyn adds that the CIOB International Conference was entitled Constructing the Future – A Global Perspective. ‘Our students had an opportunity to mingle and have informal discussions with leading global professionals who attended the CIOB Member’s Forum,’ he concludes.

Photo by Team Prestige Worldwide (UCT)

The 2016 finals of the Global Student Challenge, run by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), took place in Hong Kong in July. A team of four UCT students was placed in the top six teams, securing a place in the finals. The UCT students formed a virtual company, Prestige Worldwide, that participated in an initial round online using the MERIT3 game developed by Loughborough University. Senior lecturer and group mentor, Mark Massyn shared his report back with TO BUILD. He says that although the challenge was extremely competitive, after hours there was a relaxed and convivial atmosphere where the six student teams freely mixed with each other and also with various CIOB members who came to Hong Kong to participate in a Member’s Forum. ‘The other teams competing in the final were from Glasgow Caledonian University (Glascow), Hong Kong Polytechic University (Hong Kong), Chongqinng University (China), and Bond University and Deakin University (Australia),’ he says. The team fared extremely well and was placed third at the end of the event. ‘The challenge was run over two days and required the teams to prepare eight submissions. In the final round, the teams were only given an hour to make their decisions before submitting, which upped the ante. Caledonian managed to stay in front throughout and the remaining teams fought it out for positions two and three.’ According to Massyn, for a while the UCT team was placed second but Bond University unfortunately made a strong sprint to the finish and overtook the South Africans to second place. ‘Competing in the GSC Final in Hong Kong was a great experience. The time pressure in the final was significant compared to that of the initial rounds. This taught me the importance of quick communication and data processing while being as accurate as possible. Effective communication and teamwork was key,’ says Courtney Meyer.

At the banquet in Hong Kong is Team Prestige Worldwide – Brendan Ardagh, Courtney Meyer, James Myburgh, Alain Alexander, and Mark Massyn (standing).

Chartered Institute of Building – Global Student Challenge W http://gsc.ciob.org University of Cape Town – Construction Economics and Management W www.cons.uct.ac.za

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Professions Construction & Contractors

Cutting-edge profile

First Cut is a leading South African manufacturer and distributor of capital equipment, cutting consumables and precision measuring tools to a broad range of industry sectors from metal and fabrication to meat. Its growth represents a journey that’s seen the company grow from a small blade-sharpening business for Cape Town’s timber industry to a market leader providing total cutting solutions to an enviable portfolio of customers, a nationwide footprint and staff of 240 people. The company is led by Managing Director, Andrew Poole, and CEO, Ian McCrystal. McCrystal reckons that the company’s remarkable growth is largely due to bold strategy at certain milestones and inflection points in the company’s history. ‘In 1998, there was the vertical integration of an import operation with a local manufacturing company. In 2002, these two companies merged to form First Cut and an agreement was formalised with Neill Tools UK to manufacture their products under licence in South Africa. We had to get two competing suppliers to collaborate in the South African market – a bold move that required vision and open mindedness from everyone. Today each company has exponentially grown its respective local market share and we have customers in a variety of vertical industries,’ says McCrystal. Subsequently, the consumables division has pioneered innovation and provided the foundation for First Cut’s diversification and continued success. For users to get the best performance, they also require top-quality cutting machines, which brought about a diversification into capital equipment by acquiring Bandsawing Services in 2002. A later deal with the Everising Machine Company provided a sound base from which to begin selling capital equipment to the structural steel, sheet metal, tube and pipe industries. The capital equipment division continues to grow.

Andrew Poole and Ian McCrystal

Photo by First Cot

First Cut, a leading manufacturer and distributor of capital equipment, celebrates 60 years in the game.

Three sides of the triangle ‘We have a triangular business model – consumable sales, capital equipment sales, and the provision of service and spares,’ adds Poole. Additionally, First Cut’s technicians and sales people strive to get closer to customers to assist their business’ growth. McCrystal points out that a contributing factor to company performance is dedication to quality – ‘we stringently adhere to high standards and ISO 9001 (2008) certification’. Additionally, First Cut excels at fostering excellent long-term relationships with its overseas principals and customers. ‘The strength of these relationships lies in honesty, integrity and openness, qualities we work on developing every day.’ Poole says that First Cut offers South African industry the most advanced technology globally. For example, tube and fibre laser cutting that is up to twice as fast with greater energy efficiency than conventional cutting. ‘Apart from speed and efficiency, fibre laser offers customers greatly-increased versatility, ensuring an excellent return-on-investment.’ These advanced cutting technologies are supported by an expert team that also has the experience and knowledge to sustain growth. The majority of First Cut’s employees have many years, even decades, of service with the company. First Cut invests substantially in training and currently has six apprentices in its employment. ‘In line with our internal tagline and campaign to be “one step better”, we have sound plans for further innovation and diversification, including expanding our engineering offering into the fields of welding and grinding.’

First Cut W www.firstcut.co.za

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Stihl ADVERTORIAL

Diversity that delivers STIHL cut-off machines are the answer to the demands of construction, civil engineering, road construction and emergency rescue crews, cleanly and quickly cutting through asphalt, steel, concrete and pipes. Since 1929, STIHL has maintained its lead in producing top-notch, innovative tools for the forestry sector (it is the world’s top selling chainsaw brand), and has successfully branched out into other markets, including agriculture, construction, landscaping and industrial sectors. STIHL’s machines boast superior balance and comfortable handling with reduced emissions and anti-vibration systems. The new TS 500i Cutquik® is the world’s first hand-held outdoor cut-off machine with an electronically-controlled fuel injection system. Compact, smooth-running and powerful, the TS 500i gets up to speed instantly, with the fuel-injection system making starting easier and eliminating the need for a choke. Similar cutting prowess is demonstrated by the STIHL GS 461 concrete cutter, which makes light work of free-hand and precision-cutting tasks and has an impressive cutting depth. Its manoeuvrability makes it suitable for plunge cutting, working in tight spots, or close up against a 90° corner – ideal for professional users such as builders, plumbers and emergency services personnel. The GS 461 uses low emission, environmentally-friendly 2-MIX engine technology and has an anti-vibration system for added user comfort. The TSA 230 is STIHL’s first battery-powered cut-off saw, with a 230mm abrasive cutting wheel that slices quickly and precisely through steel and metal, concrete, bricks and roof tiles up to 70mm deep. This model is ideal for applications in civil engineering and is a ‘musthave’ for builders and roofers. Compact and light (3.9kg

without a battery), manoeuvrable and powerful, it offers convenience and accessibility thanks to its cordless Lithium-ion battery technology. Quiet and emission-free, the TSA 230 is comfortable to use indoors or outside – its integrated moisture protection means it can operate in wet conditions. The standard-fitted water connection and optimal accessories for attaching to a vacuum cleaner ensure effective dust control when cutting. Used in conjunction with the SE 122 wet/dry vacuum cleaner for professional-grade cleaning, this is a winning combination. STIHL also has a range of high-pressure cleaners for professional-level cleaning under extreme conditions for extended periods, making light work of non-household cleaning jobs. With ergonomic and sturdy designs, the various models from the RE 232 upwards have low-speed engines for long service life, despite the challenging demands of typical cleaning applications. STIHL power tools – the answer to the demanding and diverse needs of home and professional users.

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PRODUCT CATALOGUE Stihl Cut off machines and the TS 500i Cutting edge winners STIHL is the world’s best-selling brand of cut-off machine, and for good reason. These professional and powerful tools are built to specifically meet the challenges of construction work. Reliable, low-maintenance and sturdy, they are full of useful innovations that make work easier. STIHL cut-off machines are specially designed for the toughest cutting tasks. They can slice through asphalt, steel beams, pipes and concrete with ease, offering powerful performance, reliability, user-friendly handling, and environmentally-friendly features. STIHL cut-off machines range from the 3.2kW TS 410 with a 300mm cutting wheel to the 5kW TS 800 with a 400mm cutting wheel. The hottest cut-off on the block is the TS 500i Cutquik®, the world’s first hand-held outdoor cut-off machine with an electronically-controlled fuel-injection system. The fuel-injection system on this 350mm cutoff machine makes starting easier and eliminates the choke – simply set to ‘on’, prime and pull for instant action. Smooth running, high performance, compact and lightweight. The STIHL FW 20 cart turns all hand-held STIHL cut-off saws into easily manoeuvrable cutting machines, ideal for cutting expansion gaps into concrete. With little effort, users can now produce exact edges over long cuts, with depths accurate to the millimetre. The FW 20 includes an attachment kit with a quick-mounting system.

TSA 230 and SE 122 Slices smoothly, dust-free The STIHL TSA 230 is the world’s first batteryoperated cut-off machine with a 230mm cutting wheel. Compact, convenient and lightweight, the TSA 230 quickly slices through roof tiles, bricks, pipes and metal. Additionally, with the traditional STIHL focus on ease-of-use, the TSA 230 starts at the touch of a button. The cordless, emissions-free battery technology of the STIHL TSA 230 opens the door to countless possible applications, both indoors and out. Say goodbye to dust. The TSA 230 comes with a standard-fitted water connection and optional vacuum attachment that ensure optimal dust suppression and allow for clean, dust-free work in both wet and dry applications. Working in an area with no water connection? No problem. The STIHL pressurised water container provides a mobile water supply to STIHL cut-off saws for clean, wet cutting without dust build up. When there’s a professional level clean-up needed, go for the SE 122 wet/dry vacuum cleaner, with speed control, filter cleaning function, quick-release coupling, swivel wheels with locking brake and an all-purpose universal nozzle. Quiet and powerful for a wide range of applications, the SE 122 is capable of cleaning up heavy-duty mess on any job site. With the optional vacuum attachment, the SE 122 quickly and easily attaches to the TSA 230 cut-off machine to deliver effective dust-free cutting.

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Stihl PRODUCT CATALOGUE GS 461 concrete cutter Designed for tight corners The STIHL GS 461 concrete cutter is the ideal complement to your cut-off machine. Putting in wall and window openings, breaking through concrete, stone and masonry or carrying out plunge cutting jobs – no matter what the job, the STIHL GS 461 concrete cutter’s high cutting performance and low weight mean you can get the work done faster and with greater precision. The STIHL GS 461 concrete cutter easily slices through concrete, masonry and ductile cast iron pipes, and its manoeuvrability and smooth handling make it ideal for tightly angled cutting situations and plunge cutting. Powered by environmentally-friendly 2-MIX engine technology for lower emissions, the GS 461 has an effective anti-vibration system for comfortable handling. Special features include deep cutting depth, great power-to-weight ratio, and an ability to quickly cut precise corners. The guide bar matches the machine and has forward-pointing nozzles that supply the chain with water for dust reduction. The GS 461 offers a gutsy performance for the toughest precision cutting tasks.

Professional high-pressure cleaners For extreme dirt-busting Dirt and debris at a construction site are as natural as shavings in a sawmill. STIHL cleaning systems bring the power you need to finish every job right. STIHL professional high-pressure cleaners are designed for very tough cleaning jobs carried out frequently for long periods and often under extreme conditions. Resilient, high performance and ergonomic in design, these dustbusting cleaners are ideal for the toughest professional-grade tasks carried out by farmers, construction workers, municipal teams and forestry crews. Upwards from the RE 232, STIHL high-pressure cleaners have what it takes to blast away heavy-duty dirt and debris.

Augers Feel the earth move STIHL earth augers are an essential piece of equipment for any construction site. With their reliable performance and versatile drilling tools, these robust machines won’t let you down. The STIHL BT 130 earth auger bores quickly and powerfully into the ground thanks to its fuelefficient 4-MIX® engine. Equally as impressive are its vibration-dampening frame, multi-function handle, large comfort cushion and the unique QuickStop drill brake, all of which boost user comfort and make the tool easy to operate. STIHL has a large selection of durable accessories for its augers, ranging from drills with different diameters (40mm to 200mm) for boring to special tools for planting jobs and shaft extensions.

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Professions Construction & Contractors

Photo by Master Builders South Africa

L-R Patrick Roy Mnisi - Executive Director of MBSA, Neil Cloete – Immediate Past President, Hon Minister Jeff Radebe and Bonke Simelane – incoming MBSA President.

Masterbuilders go to Durban town In early September, the South African construction industry addressed issues impacting the sector at this year’s 111th Annual Master Builders South Africa Congress. Under the theme of Building South Africa Together, the Congress took place over two days at the Durban International Convention Centre. Opening the congress was Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Performance, Monitoring, Evaluation and Administration, Hon Minister Jeff Radebe, who talked about ‘Building the South African Economy Through Infrastructure Development’. ‘My presence confirms government’s commitment and speaks to the importance that we attach to your industry as a cog in a bigger wheel – the South African economy,’ he said. Radebe listed some of the achievements resulting from government’s investment in infrastructure of more than R1 billion per working day over the past year. He also elaborated on some on the infrastructure development opportunities available to the private sector, both locally and on the rest of the continent; and highlighted government’s commitment to promoting the growth of SMMEs in the sector as a vehicle for economic growth. The topic was further unpacked during a panel discussion that comprised Hon Minister Jeff Radebe; Themba Dladla, Acting Chief Executive Officer of

Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent; Webster Mfebe, Chief Executive Officer of the South African Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors; Dr Adrian Saville, Chief Strategist at Citadel Asset Management; and Bonke Simelane, the Master Builders SA President. The general consensus among panellists was that sustainable partnerships are needed between national and local government and the building sector to achieve physical infrastructure and contribute to attaining national development goals such as unlocking economic growth, localisation, job creation and skills development. Another key discussion point was the role of SMMEs in strengthening the industry and aiding job creation. The importance of SMMEs getting involved in the maintenance of public infrastructure projects and in supply chain provision at municipal level was highlighted. In addition, the panel stressed the importance of the three tiers of government stepping up to manage projects and budgets to underpin

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Construction & Contractors Professions the National Development Plan and Vision 2030. The issue of consequences for non-compliance by executives around 30-day payments was also raised, receiving a resounding applause from the audience. Providing a construction industry perspective on ‘Rebuilding Sustainable Partnerships for a Prosperous South Africa’, Mfebe stressed the need for creating a conducive environment for investment by addressing internal wars within public institutions, repairing the regulatory environment where applicable, maintaining fiscal discipline, as well as serving and maintaining the rule of law. He also highlighted the necessity for public/private sector cooperation to be intensified, national and international PR to be improved, ‘Brand SA’ to be protected, an inclusive economy to be aggressively promoted, and state capture allegations to be decisively addressed. When it comes to opportunities for boosting inter-Africa investment, he called for the liberalisation of trade, design of efficient trade policies, resuscitation of policies and action plans passed over the years, mainstreaming regional trade policies into national policy documents country wide, removal of tariffs and quantitative restrictions on trade between African countries, and improvement of customs and border control efficiencies. In addition, Mfebe highlighted the requirement for effective leadership in both the public and private sectors. ‘It is not only government’s responsibility to ensure that the majority of the people derive a dividend from the democracy that was ushered in in 1994, it is ours too as the private sector. Governments do not create jobs – they create a conducive environment. It is the private sector that creates jobs and we need to participate to ensure that there is hope for everyone.’ Saville spoke about South Africa’s economic outlook, saying: ‘Over the last 20 years, the South African economy has grown in line with the world economy. The single biggest influence on the South African economy is not what we do to ourselves, it is what the world economy does to us. The growth rate for South Africa over the coming decade is more or less in line with world economic growth.’ He added that the economy in 2017 will be better than 2016. ‘Business is about to get better. To stave off a ratings downgrade, the economy needs to grow at 1% faster than South Africa’s 1,7% population growth rate. Fortunately for South Africa, that 2.7% growth rate that we require coincides roughly with world economic growth.’ He stressed that South Africa must save 30% of its income to fund 5% economic growth through SMME businesses. The savings will

fund investment into energy, transport, communication and other public sector programmes such as education and healthcare. Tackling the topic of ‘The Journey Towards a Transformed Construction Sector – Are We Getting There?’ was Thabo Masombuka, CEO of the Construction Sector Charter Council (CSCC). He said that transformation is about the integration of all races and all genders towards the future growth of the industry. ‘It should be measured not only in terms of black ownership, but also the participation of women and young people. It should also be representative of the demographics of our society.’ According to information from the Construction Industry Development Board, the levels of black, female and youth ownership are highest at Grades one and two, but at the higher Grades, these numbers decrease. On addressing the specific empowerment challenges and peculiarities faced by the industry, Masombuka touched on the new draft sector code, soon to be gazetted. Following Masombuka’s presentation, Master Builders South Africa affirmed its commitment to transformation with the signing of the Transformation Declaration by all presidents of the Master Builders Associations from around the country. In his discussion on ‘Combating Corruption in the Construction Industry’, Adv Kevin Malunga, the Deputy Public Protector, unpacked the forms of corruption and its consequences for the industry. He said corruption not only eats into profit but also leads to poor quality construction work that causes accidents and endangers human life. His suggested strategies for combatting corruption include transparency, supporting the objectives of the National Development Plan, improving reporting, protecting whistle-blowers, developing an honest and ethical construction culture, strengthening professional institutions, providing adequate site supervision and physical audits, as well as supervising processes and work during project lifecycles. The newly-appointed Master Builders South Africa President, Bonke Simelane, closed the proceedings: ‘We’d like to look back to this Congress as one of the catalysts that propelled us into the future that we all desire.’ The 112th Master Builders South Africa Congress will be held in Cape Town in 2017.

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Construction health & safety Professions

The hazards of asbestos Local company, R&D Contracting, undertakes hazardous asbestos removal.

Photos by R&D Contracting

Asbestos was used in fire-retardant coatings, bricks, pipes and fireplace cement, acid-resistant gaskets, pipe insulation, ceiling insulation, fireproof drywalls, flooring, roofing and even lawn furniture. It was a cheap, durable material that offered heat resistance, strength and insulation. It was often used to produce water tanks that were made from what is called asbestos cement, which contained the hazardous fibres of chrysotile added to the cement to make the final product lighter, stronger and more durable. In South Africa, the final regulations to enforce the prohibition of the use of asbestos were gazetted in March 2010. The Regulations for the Prohibition of the Use, Manufacturing, Import and Export of Asbestos and Asbestos Containing Materials form part of the Environment Conservation Act of 1989, and the disposal of asbestos is controlled under section 20 of the Act. Other applicable legislation includes the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) (Act 85 of 1993), The Asbestos Regulations (R773 of 10 April 1987) promulgated under the OHSA, the Mine Health and Safety Act (Act 0f 1993) and the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998). Approved handling Due to the hazardous operation of asbestos removal all, contractors need to be certified according to this legislation, which also stipulates that all processes are to be monitored and recorded in accordance with its disposal and handling procedures.

Mvelo Air, which specialises in the design, installation, service and maintenance of commercial and industrial air conditioning, refrigeration and ventilation systems, was commissioned by the South African Naval Base in Durban to supply and install a new air-conditioning system. The old system, using asbestos tanks for water storage, needed to be dismantled. To do this, Mvelo Air required an approved asbestos contractor with sound proficiencies and a reliable track record in the field of asbestos handling and removal. They appointed R&D Contracting for the project. R&D Contracting employs stringent safety measures to protect the health of their operational staff and to ensure the safety of personnel on site. Operators use respiratory protective equipment to avoid the risk of inhaling asbestos fibres and protective overalls that are impervious to asbestos dust. To avoid the risk of carrying asbestos fibres away from the worksite, R&D Contracting made use of a portable decontamination unit for the duration of the process. All protective gear and equipment is decontaminated in this self-contained unit. Removal procedure and approval Before the tanks were demolished, the entire area was wet down to provide added safety from airborne particles and dust. The tanks were wrapped in biddim geotextile. Its superior strength and technical performance offers resistance during demolition

Operators use respiratory protective equipment to avoid the risk of inhaling asbestos fibres and protective overalls which are impervious to asbestos dust.

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Professions Construction health & safety and prevents asbestos fibres becoming airborne. Then followed a second covering of cling wrap to contain dust particles – the most dangerous aspect of asbestos demolition. The demolished hazardous material was double bagged in clear bags inside asbestos demarcated bags. These were then removed from site by R&D Contracting under the terms of its specialised hazardous waste transport license. The vehicle is operated by staff trained in hazardous waste material handling. Asbestos can only be disposed of at authorised landfill sites where the correct safety procedures are followed to encase the material. A registered site was selected and the correct certificates obtained after disposal.

Safety inspections and compliance are conducted by the Authorised Inspection Authority during and after the entire process. Small air pumps are placed in the work zone during the demolition and removal process to monitor and test for airborne particles and dust levels. On completion of the project, the AIA carries out a site inspection to confirm full decontamination and compliance of the site before it is handed back to the client. Subsequently, this site was approved.

R&D Contracting T 0861 072 633 E david@r-d.co.za W www.r-d.co.za

Asbestos-related diseases in South Africa

existed. It also covered the importation or exportation of any asbestos or asbestos-containing product, or asbestos-containing waste material.

History The health implications of exposure to airborne asbestos fibres were highlighted in the 1930s and specific links to certain cancers were first made in South Africa in the early 1960s. Globally, strong resistance to a ban on the use of asbestos came from certain producers, notably in the USA, whose businesses were directly threatened. This had the effect of slowing down the implementation of a vital public health issue.

Asbestos register Exposure is controlled by the Asbestos Regulations 2001 published by the Department of Labour. Employers are required to draw up a register of all asbestos-containing materials, conduct risk assessments, educate and inform employees, protect employees from exposure to asbestos, and conduct regular dust and health surveillance. South Africa finally joined some 50 countries in the prohibition of asbestos. Asbestos once accounted for 3% of the value of South Africa’s minerals and was previously the fifth largest global supplier of chrysotile, producing 97% of the world’s crocidolite and 100% of all amosite.

Credit: www.southafrica.info/services/health, Department of Labour and others.

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs (pleural) or the abdomen (peritoneal). Caused by asbestos, there is little known cure and the prognosis is poor. Mesothelioma in SA ranks among the highest in the world – mainly because of an extensive asbestos mining and production history over more than a century. In 2002, a study cited more than 2 700 South African deaths from mesothelioma. By and large, researchers believe the cancer is vastly underreported – usually because of sufferers’ premature deaths from severe associated lung diseases. Nearly 30% of mesothelioma cases in South Africa are tied to environmental exposure, most commonly in the Northern Cape. More than 70% of reported environmental cases affect women and children, who were most likely exposed when miners brought home the fibres on their hair and clothing. (Source: www. asbestos.com) In 2008, the government minister responsible for the environment announced that the Regulations for the Prohibition of the Use, Manufacturing, Import and Export of Asbestos and Asbestos Containing Materials, as part of the Environment Conservation Act of 1989, would finally be implemented. This would present the use, processing or manufacturing, of any asbestos or asbestoscontaining product where a suitable alternative

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Professions Interior Design

Modern designs for Cape vineyard Anura Vineyards, a breath taking wine farm situated in the Cape Winelands, has revealed spankingly-modern interiors for its new events venue.

Photo by Inhouse

Nestled between the towns of Paarl and Stellenbosch, Anura Vineyards provides more than just idyllic surroundings and award-winning wines – it offers a contemporary design direction in a landscape usually associated with traditional architecture. Cape Town firm, Inhouse Brand Architects, was commissioned to design the new building’s interiors. Inhouse was directed by the client to connect the style of the existing restaurant with that of the events space. The company had already created the interiors for the wine farm’s restaurant and brewery, Wagon Trail. With the venue set to host an array of functions such as weddings, launches and conferences, a stylish and inclusive aesthetic was chosen, forming a neutral backdrop for any function. Creative director, Aidan Hart, and senior designer, Brenda Hart (both of whom had previously headed the Wagon Trail project), opted for neutral colours to contrast the venue’s high ceilings already clad by the client in solid Oregon pine. Light-coloured porcelain tiles were selected for the flooring, together with a weathered-plaster paint finish to complement the warm wooden hues and establish a distinctly modern space that hints at a conventional farmhouse. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows perfectly frame the outdoor vistas, further strengthening the contemporary feel while incorporating the best use of natural light. As lighting needs to suit a variety of different events, Inhouse commissioned local industrial designer, Ryan Matchett, to create a series of modish, steel pendant feature lights. These are suspended over the entire venue to provide well-balanced light throughout. The bathrooms encompass the modern-rustic aesthetic that is already evident in the space. Brass pendant lights and taps, and angled mirrors produce a countrified look-and-feel. This is cleverly juxtaposed with black mosaic-wall tiles that contribute to a more contemporary appearance. Wood tiling in the bathrooms was used to provide practicality and warmth.

The Cooper’s Bar is inspired by the craft of barrel-making. This interior conveys a sense of the wine farm’s heritage. As in a cooper’s yard, refurbished barrels hang from the ceiling.

Wooden panels imitating deconstructed wine barrels were used to clad the Cooper’s Bar, while metal hoop lights were suspended overhead. A solid piece of Oregon pine forms the bar counter, accompanied by bar stools fashioned from steel and wood. Wood is unquestionably the central element of the design – casing practically everything in the room. Rusted metal sheets cover the back of the bar, adding to the rustic feel. In addition to this, old piping was repurposed as leg stands for the high tables that occupy the space. A notable design feature includes black high-gloss porcelain tiling that has been laid alongside porcelain wooden tiles in a herringbone pattern. By mixing these opposing materials the designers were able to produce an uber-chic yet relaxed environment. Anura Vineyard’s new events venue showcases how an upmarket, contemporary aesthetic can still stay true to wine farm culture and traditions.

Inhouse Brand Architects W www.inhouse.ws

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“It is possible to achieve beautiful, stylish spaces to suit all budgets” (Heidi. 2016)

Heidi Jäger Interior

Design

Mobile: +27 (83) 269 5087 E-mail: heidij@mweb.co.za Website: www.heidijager.co.za Facebook: heidijagerinteriordesignconsultants Professional Member of the IID and African Brand Link.

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Professions Developers

Providing another boost for Newtown

Atterbury is currently building premises for two new motor dealerships. These showrooms and service facilities are being developed on the northern edge of Newtown across the railway lines from Braamfontein. The top -branded motor dealerships represent the third major tranche of development Atterbury has undertaken in Newtown in recent years. Atterbury is undertaking this project in a joint venture with Old Mutual Properties and Stephen Nale Properties. Says Atterbury’s development manager, Derrick Pautz: ‘We’ve set our sights on transforming Newtown into a hub for innovators, entrepreneurs and residents across the income spectrum. We saw the potential in Newtown when we first began developing Newtown Junction. Now, two years since it opened, we can confirm that the strong demand for great commercial infrastructure in this vibrant and thriving area is everything we believed it to be and more. Based on the success of our investment and development in the node, we are confident to pursue further opportunities.’ The company has also developed the Newtown Junction mixed-use property, which opened in September 2014 in the heart of Newtown alongside the M1 freeway and next door to the Market Theatre. The biggest mixed-use development to be built in Joburg CBD since the Carlton Centre, which went up in the 1970s, the 85 000m2 precinct includes a shopping centre featuring an excellent variety of top names in retail and dining. It also includes prime office space for Nedbank, a Planet Fitness gym and generous basement parking. The design destination,

Photo by Atterbury

A local property major is leading the wave of property development and investment in Johannesburg’s Newtown precinct, adding further critical mass to burgeoning attractions and businesses already centred in and around the popular mixeduse Newtown Junction. Work Shop New Town in the historical Potato Sheds, also form part of the enticing retail offering. Building on its success, Atterbury developed the 148-room City Lodge Hotel Newtown, which opened its first phase in January this year. It is the group’s first hotel in downtown Johannesburg, and the first hotel to open in the Joburg CBD in over two decades. This shows that Newtown Junction has proven to be a catalyst for further investment, development and business confidence in the district, which is experiencing a profound revival. The third wave of development in Newtown is being built for the Joburg City Auto franchise for around R170-million. This includes two new motor dealerships just opposite the Newtown Junction shopping centre and set against the background of Nelson Mandela Bridge and Old Park Station. They will open on July 1, 2017. Contributing to the development is the job creation – nearly 180 jobs are being created during the construction of this project and after the development is complete it will support around 160 jobs permanent jobs. Pautz adds the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), which is spearheading the regeneration of downtown Joburg and surrounding areas, has been a great partner in Atterbury’s development in Newtown.

Atterbury Property T +27 (0) 12 471 1600 W www.atterbury.co.za

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Developers Professions

Central Square develops

The 65 000 sqm R1.8 billion mixed-use Central Square is designed to be the heart of Menlyn Maine, a groundbreaking 315 000 sqm decentralised green city mega-development. The development is co-owned by joint investors Menlyn Maine Investment Holdings and the Government Employees Pension Fund, represented by the PIC. It is a 30 000 sqm of exceptional boutique-styled mall development with over 50 hand-picked retailers, restaurants, and entertainment experiences. As such, it is a powerful proposition for daily convenience shopping with anchor retailers and a health club that includes a Virgin Active gym and a Bounce trampoline park. Commenting on the design of the new Central Square, Henk Boogertman, Architectural Director of Menlyn Maine Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd says: ‘Central Square is a uniquely crafted as ideal for convenient daily shopping yet, at the same time, provides a compelling design experience perfect for leisure and packed with major attractions.’ The Central Square development is design-driven, with the overall architecture of the building being contemporary and timeless - unique in appearance, shape and form. Boogertman explains the shopping centre has been imagined as a ‘high street’, in the fashion of pedestrianised shopping streets in leading cities around the world. Outside, it is defined by distinctive finishes in black face brick, beige-coloured limestone cladding and charcoal-tinted Reinzink. Inside, a granite-paved mall is accompanied by a combination of oak wood and stucco plastered bulkheads. It is crowned with a glass roof, accentuated with acoustically-treated intermediate ceiling panels, allowing glorious natural light to gently spill into the mall. Each shop at Central Square has an exclusive, bespoke shopfront made of steel, aluminium, and wood, all in shades of charcoal black. ‘We took a fundamental approach to place making in the heart of Menlyn Maine. Most great city centre spaces worldwide have centrally located piazzas where people can mingle, meet, trade from markets

Photo by Central Square

A new architectural landmark, Central Square at Menlyn Maine has opened in Pretoria and introduces a distinctive new design attraction and a unique shopping and leisure experience.

and enjoy exhibitions, functions, festivals and the like. Menlyn Maine has such a space with the Central Square piazza as the heart of the precinct.’ Central Square also provides a lush green park that runs in a strip through the whole precinct, starting with a private park for its residential quarter, then going through the buildings and alongside Central Square, and culminating in a major park and piazza feature in front of the spectacular Sun International Time Square casino, 5-star hotel and 8 000 seater multi-purpose arena development planned for Menlyn Maine. Menlyn Maine is South Africa’s first green, mixeduse city precinct. As a partner of the Clinton Climate Initiative, Menlyn Maine is one of 16 green cities being built in various countries, and the only one in Africa.

Central Square Menlyn Maine T +27 (0) 12 361 7758 W www.menlynmaine.co.za

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ADVERTORIAL RICS

RICS: Increasing confidence in South African property valuation Valuation is one of the key areas of practice for Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ qualified professionals. To ensure globally-consistent standards in valuation, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) publishes RICS Valuation Standards – also known as the Red Book. These Valuation Standards are mandatory for RICS professionals and RICS regulated firms, and apply the requirements of international valuation standards. In response to the last global financial crisis, RICS developed a regulatory monitoring initiative, known as Valuer Registration (VR), to ensure the consistent application of Red Book valuation standards worldwide. Implemented as a mandatory scheme for all RICS members undertaking valuations in, inter alia, the UK, Netherlands, France, United Arab Emirates, Caiman Islands and Hong Kong, RICS Valuer Registration was launched in June 2016, and on a voluntary basis for any RICS valuer practicing in South Africa. Following consideration by the RICS governance structures and the RICS Regulatory Board, RICS Valuer Registration will become mandatory for all member valuers working in the field in South Africa from February 1, 2017. Says TC Chetty, Country Manager for RICS South Africa: ‘The Valuer Registration scheme is intended to ensure confidence in the delivery of valuation advice and reinforce the highest professional standards in property valuation – a key component underpinning most economic activity. RICS’s main objective with this initiative is to reinforce the quality and accuracy of valuations while raising consumer confidence in the profession and, through effective regulation, minimising the risk associated with property valuations. ‘Valuer Registration provides key stakeholders in the property market with a clear designation that easily identifies the best regulated and qualified valuation professionals, as RICS members welcome complete transparency and open benchmarking against industry best practice. It follows that making this mandatory in South Africa will reinforce transparency and enhance market confidence,’ Chetty notes.

‘In a globally competitive business environment, internationally benchmarked property valuation standards are essential to facilitate greater transparency, and through effective monitoring the Valuer Registration scheme will demonstrate compliance with existing international standards,’ he adds. While RICS members are regulated, registered valuers are subject to a specific monitoring that begins as soon as members sign up to Valuer Registration. An automatic risk score is established for the individual member and should any risks come to light, RICS will conduct further enquiry, including checking information against Red Book requirements, processes and audit trails that the Registered Valuer has in place. Claire Everatt, head of Valuations at Eris Property Group says: ‘The South African valuation industry has made good progress in the implementation of global valuation standards in recent years but, as valuers, we are more accountable than ever. The additional transparency that VR seeks to offer is vital in ensuring that we continue on this trajectory towards international best practice.’ In line with valuer registration being made mandatory for South African valuation professionals, RICS South Africa plans to provide additional information webinars and half-day technical workshops for RICS registered valuation professionals during October and November 2016.

RICS TC Chetty, RICS Country Manager for South Africa T +27 (0) 31 764 4645 C +27 (0) 83 264 3134 E tcchetty@rics.org

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Professions Engineering

Africa’s power development Earlier this year, the East African Power Industry Forum (EAPIC) in Nairobi, Kenya, highlighted the value power offers as an enabler to grow and transform economies as well as the burgeoning investment and business growth opportunities in Africa’s power sectors – if you know how to navigate the markets. The Power Director of a leading consulting firm shares his views.

The prevailing power supply issues in Africa are well documented. Aging electricity infrastructure has become unreliable and more than 30 African countries are experiencing power shortages. These either force countries to resort to expensive short-term fixes, or face power blackouts. Research shows that the economic cost power shortages can amount to more than two percent of the country’s GDP. Recognising that this is not sustainable and in an effort to bring about change, government-led initiatives in a number of fast-growing and emerging economies across sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, have identified increasing their power capacities as a top priority objective of their national visions.

Photos by WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff

Paul Grota

Jay Urban

According to Paul Grota, Director at Power at WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff, Africa: ‘In reality, many African countries are faced with the very real challenge of trying to balance their fiscal spending between providing basic services, including electricity – often in very underdeveloped and remote areas – while struggling to keep up with demand for electricity from industries and rapidly growing populations. This demand is expected to increase by more than two-thirds by 2040.’ He adds: ‘That said, the power sectors in a number of African countries have undergone significant transformation over the last decade to unbundle bottlenecks, create more open and competitive markets, and attract investments for bankable projects.’

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Engineering Professions Big investments required Estimates are that USD450 billion (R6.9 trillion) will be needed to build new power generation capacity on the continent over the next 25 years. However, Africa’s ideal energy mix is not a straightforward answer. ‘While many African countries are making a concerted push into the sphere of renewable energy, coal and other fossil fuels will continue to be an important part of the mix, at least for base-load power and for the foreseeable future,’ explains Jay Urban, Director of Power Generation at WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff, Africa. A recent story published by Bloomberg states that despite low oil, coal and natural gas prices, 2015 saw more global investment into the development of renewable energy (USD134 billion) than fossil-fired power plants (USD80 billion) for the first time. ‘This is certainly a significant development, especially in emerging markets. However, in Africa the shortage of base-load power needs to be addressed urgently,’ Urban maintains.

Inadequacies of renewables ‘Solar energy, for example, currently can’t compete with base-load solutions because while a solar energy plant can feed into the grid during off-peak times (during the day), because of storage capacity challenges these solutions often don’t prove efficient for peak time. Although this is slowly changing with new technology developments for improved concentrated solar power storage, alternatives need to be included in the overall energy mix,’ he adds. He also points out that because the power situation of every African country is different, pin-pointing an ideal energy mix that could be applied across the board is not so cut and dry. ‘The natural reserves of each country differs – one country may be sitting on a wealth of coal, another may have deep oil or natural gas reserves, while other more arid countries lend themselves towards solar or wind energy power plants. While hydro power has played a significant role in providing a base-load alternative to fossil fuels over the years, drought in much of sub-Saharan Africa has seen these power stations also struggle to meet demand.

Opportunities in Africa’s power sectors are undoubtedly burgeoning. However, successful investments will require more certainty around state-led resource programmes, prioritisation of these programmes, and having an inherent understanding of local market issues and operating environments. ‘We are in a prime position to assist both investors and developers in navigating the power sectors in Africa and can share insight, expertise and experience based on our working knowledge so that they make informed and responsible decisions,’ says Grota. As consultants, WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff, Africa, has been planning, designing and engineering major transmission, distribution and thermal and renewable energy generation projects throughout Africa for over twenty years. The company carries the experience of working on some of the largest and most complicated power generation and transmission projects in Africa, including the rehabilitation of the Songo HVDC Converter Station in Cahora Bassa, Mozambique; Ressano Garcia’s 100MW Gas-Fired Reciprocating Engines Power Plant in Ressano Garcia, Mozambique; the HVDC Caprivi Link in Namibia, and Medupi, one of the largest coal-fired projects in the southern hemisphere for South Africa’s power utility, Eskom. ‘We are well regarded by most utilities and energy parastatals in Africa, including major lenders and developers, for our expertise and experience in all aspects of power generation and transmission networks – and across all resource types through our local and global teams. Also, our ability to collaborate within our global network puts us at the forefront of the latest trends and developments in power solutions – which we look to customise for the African market,’ Grota explains. ‘As Africa’s power sector transitions through various planning and roll-out phases, the pressure of growing demand is on. We want to be a part of the process of identifying and implementing the right solutions as these are very exciting prospective projects for us – and the continent,’ he concludes.

Opportunities ‘Given the geography of the continent, rural and remote Africa also presents further opportunities for power producers that have an appetite for ownermanaged micro-grids in decentralised market models.’

WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff W www.wspgroup.com W www.pbworld.com issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Landscape Architects & Landscaping Professions

Major city leads the way

Photo by SCMD

Providing the perfect venue for summer festivals and year-end functions, Sandton Central, a management district of the City of Johannesburg, offers ample space for people to reconnect with nature, unwind and socialise with friends and family on lush green lawns sheltered beneath the shady trees.

Innesfree Park in Sandton

Innesfree Park, conveniently located on Katherine Street in Sandown, offers residents and visitors respite from the rigours of city life. Here you’ll find two tranquil dams and plenty of open space in which to have picnics or just take a lunch break. A small, intimate park located in the heart of the financial district, Sandton Central Park offers a blank canvas, perfect for planning niche events. The park occasionally hosts live music day festivals and other events, and offers an amphitheatre, sculptured garden beds, indigenous tress, solar-powered lights and benches to sit on. Another extraordinary lush green hideaway situated in the heart of the Sandton Central business district, Mushroom Farm Park, renamed Hyundai Sky Park, boasts a fully-equipped playground for the kids, a duck pond, amphitheatre, hilly landscaped lawns and an outdoor gym. Popular with families for weekend picnics, the giant Hyundai branded hot air balloon, which rises 120m above the park, offers visitors an incredible view of Sandton, weather permitting. The mandate of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is to create safe recreational spaces for residents of greater Johannesburg. JCPZ has been fortunate to have the opportunity to form mutually beneficial relationships with residential associations

and business communities to protect these open spaces. Louise Gordon, GM New Business Development, says numerous opportunities exist to create safe cycling, trail running and walking lanes in parks, as well as events that will encourage outdoor lifestyles. According to a spokesperson for JCPZ, the parks always existed but were unsafe as they were not fenced. As a result, homeless people slept there and some youths were caught drinking and smoking illegal substances within the parks. Maintenance is done by the City via the Region East City Parks, Depot 406. There is a focus on water-wise, indigenous and hardy plants, such as Plumbago, Freylinia, Agapantus, Aloe and Carpobrotus species. ‘As the garden has established, we do not do any watering, expect for when we rejuvenate the garden beds once or twice in 24 months. The plants are water-wise, and depend on rain,’ says the spokesperson. The parks now offer a tranquil recreational space within the Sandton CBD, allowing the people working, staying and visiting Sandton to take walks and have lunch outside in a park instead of at their desks, or in a restaurant. ‘Because of its size, Innesfree Park is known to host large-scale events like music concerts, motor shows, arts and culture exhibitions and a number of other outdoor shows. It is also ideal for smaller private parties and picnics,’ reiterates Elaine Jack, the City Improvement District Manager for the SCMD. Sandton Central recognises the importance that green lungs play in well-designed urban fabric that provides a full experience for the people who use it.’

City of Johannesburg W www.joburg.org.za Sandton Central Management District W www.sandtoncentral.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Landscape Architects & Landscaping Professions

A typical water-wise garden in the renowned Monaghan Farm.

Low-maintenance and water-wise How to develop a low-maintenance water-wise garden. A well-kept eco-friendly garden can add value to your home. ‘The exterior look and feel of a home is usually a good indication of the property as a whole. By having a beautiful well-kept garden, you are likely to increase your chances of selling your property and improve its value,’ explains Jason Shaw, National Sales Executive at Pam Golding Properties. ‘Creating and tending to a garden takes time and energy. However, if you work long hours it can be difficult to give it the necessary attention it needs, let alone adequately care for your pot plants,’ he adds. ‘While expense may preclude many property owners from being able to immediately make their gardens more sustainable and eco-friendly, we can consider adjusting the way we garden to make it lower-maintenance and less water intensive. The latter is particularly important given the current water restrictions being experienced across much of the country,’ he notes. ‘Remember that potential buyers might not have the time and energy it requires to take care of a lush

garden either, so you may well be doing them a favour by creating a low maintenance garden. In addition, modern, clean and compact gardens are becoming increasingly trendy.’

Boundary areas Many property owners view the areas outside their boundary walls as being of lesser importance. ‘While it is understandable that people choose to devote most of their attention to those parts of the garden in which they spend time, these external areas make a positive first impression on potential home buyers and can enhance the appeal of a property and the neighbourhood,’ Shaw explains. He shares a few tips on keeping up the appearance and water-saving aspect of the garden.

Laying out your garden Take time to observe the sun’s location in your garden at various times throughout the day. Identify where the sun

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Professions Landscape Architects & Landscaping is between 11:00 and 15:00, which is the hottest time of the day. Water will evaporate the fastest in these areas because of the high exposure to heat, which will result in unnecessarily high water use. For a low-maintenance and water-wise garden, consider avoiding planting in areas that receive a great deal of direct sunshine or consider using only very hardy plants. You might also elect to rather use these spaces to create a paved entertainment and braai area. You can artificially shade the area with a stylish outdoor umbrella or patio roof. If you want to add greenery, try to use succulents, cacti or indigenous grasses that can endure hot and dry conditions.

Reduce the size of your lawn Not only does it take considerable time and effort to mow, a lawn consumes a large amount of water. Instead, consider replacing part of the lawn with stepping-stones or decorative pebbles. You can add greenery in between the stones by making use of indigenous grasses, succulents or ground covers.

Consider indigenous ‘There are many indigenous and succulent plants that require little attention or water. Going this route does not mean that your garden has to compromise on beauty and style. By choosing your plants wisely and designing your garden accordingly, property owners can have the best of all worlds: beauty, low maintenance and eco-friendliness. These are all becoming increasingly attractive qualities for home seekers,’ says Shaw. Choose plants that are indigenous to your specific area. It is simple logic that a plant that has been thriving in a certain region since the beginning of time will continue to thrive in that area. These plants have also adapted to the climate, humidity and soil quality in the area, making them the perfect fit. By choosing local plants, home owners can save time and water and ensure a thriving garden.

Make use of mulch Using mulch in your garden will keep the soil moist and your plants happy while adding texture and colour to your outdoor area. Consider making your own mulch or compost using garden and household waste.

Identifying water-wise plants One of the best ways to identify low-maintenance water-wise plants is to look at their leaves. When deciding on which plants to choose, carefully study their leaves. Plants with grey or blue-coloured leaves are usually expert water savers. The coloured foliage reflects the rays of the sun, keeping the plant cool and reducing water loss. Many plants lose moisture through their leaves, so plants with smaller and fewer leaves have less surface area from which water can evaporate thereby reducing their water requirements. In addition, hairy leaves counteract moving air by creating a microclimate over the leaf that slows down the flow of air, reducing moisture loss.

Personal touch

Grassy pastures

Your new garden is nearly complete. Now the personal touch has to be added. Transform the garden into a personal retreat or a haven by adding personal and unique items. Do not be scared to add bits and bobs that do not ‘traditionally’ belong in gardens. You will be surprised how many indoor décor items work wonderfully outdoors – mirrors, portraits and even family photos can add an artistic edge to a garden. These points are key to a stylish, easy-to-maintain and water-wise garden. ‘Not only will your new garden increase your property value, you will also be making a valuable contribution to the environment by planting and gardening responsibly. Best of all, you can have a beautiful garden and still put in a full day’s work, avoid a degree in botany, and play your part in reducing the impact of the national drought,’ concludes Shaw. Also see www.waterwise.co.za. [Ed]

Indigenous grasses are normally much more heat and drought resistant than other kinds. As indigenous grasses come in various shapes, colours and sizes, they are a good way to provide your garden with depth, texture and definition. There are, for example, scores of different types of attractive Highveld grasses that can add an attractive and hardy aspect to your garden. These grasses can be shaped into hedges to provide natural fencing or trendy dividers.

Pam Golding Properties (Hyde Park) T +27 (0) 11 380 0000 E jason.shaw@pamgolding.co.za W www.pamgolding.co.za

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Professions Legal

Unpacking the legal side of sustainable development To Buildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legal expert writes for us about a case where environmental protection prevailed under very unusual circumstances. When considering renewable energy, thoughts almost inevitably first turn to the petroleum industry that, arguably, dominates the non-renewable sector. In 2007, a judgment of the Constitutional Court considered whether a decision to grant consent to build a fuel station should be reviewed and set aside as there had not been a proper consideration of the environment. That all sounds simple enough. However, the case is a good example of how judges can differ in their views and it also demonstrates that judges too can have a sense of humour.

The case The case originated in an application for the construction of a filling station in White River. The Applicant applied to the Mpumalanga environmental authorities for authorisation to construct the filling station. However, the Fuel Retailers Association of Southern Africa (The Association), objected to the construction of the filling station on various grounds, including that the construction of the filling station will have an adverse impact on the environment. The Association represents the interests of (existing) fuel retailers. The Association claimed that the environmental authorities, in applying the laws governing the protection of the environment, must not only consider the environment but also consider whether the proposed filling station would be socially and economically sustainable. Despite the objection, approval was granted to build the filling station. The Association approached the Pretoria High Court seeking an order setting aside the granting of the authority to construct the filling station. The Pretoria High Court dismissed the application. The appeal of The Association to the Supreme Court of Appeal was equally unsuccessful.

Application to Constitutional Court In 2007, the Constitutional Court handed down judgment in an application for leave to appeal against the decision of the Supreme Court of Appeal. In essence, the case concerned the nature and scope of the obligations of environmental authorities when they make decisions that may affect the environment, in particular, the interaction between socio-economic development and the protection of the environment.

Role of sustainable development expounded In the majority judgement, the Court held that the Constitution recognises the inter-relationship between the protection of the environment and socio-economic development. It contemplates the integration of environmental protection and socioeconomic development and envisages that the two will be balanced through the ideal of sustainable development. It further held that sustainable

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Legal Professions development provides a framework for reconciling socio-economic development and environmental protection, and thus acts as a mediating principle in reconciling environmental and developmental considerations. The Court went on to find that the obligation of the environmental authorities to consider socio-economic factors included the obligation to consider the impact of the proliferation of filling stations and of proposed filling station on existing ones. The Court found that the proliferation of filling stations poses a potential threat to the environment, which arises from the limited end-use of filling stations upon their closure. However, the Court said that the objective of considering the impact of a proposed development on existing ones is not to stamp out competition; rather it is to ensure the economic, social and environmental sustainability of all developments. The Court therefore granted the appeal and set aside the decision of the environmental authorities granting authorisation to construct the proposed filling station and ordered the environmental authorities to reconsider the application. The irony of this matter was not lost on the one dissenting judge, who had these (rather amusing) comments to make in his judgment: ‘It is ironic that the first appeal in this Court to invoke the majestic protection provided for the environment in the Bill of Rights comes not from concerned ecologists but from an organised section of an industry frequently lambasted both for establishing worldwide reliance on non-renewable energy sources and for spawning pollution. So be it. The doors of the Court are open to all, and there is nothing illegitimate or inappropriate in the Fuel Retailers Association of Southern Africa seeking to rely on legal provisions that may promote its interests.’ He went on to find that the decision to grant the consent to build the filling station should not be reviewed. He stated the following: ‘But there is no evidence, above the level of speculation, that the arrival of a new kid on the block doing the same business in the same way, in competition with existing filling stations, would give rise to the risk of unacceptable degradation either to the physical environment or to the socio-cultural environment. I am therefore not persuaded that the principles of sustainable development are engaged in this matter at all. The objective of NEMA, after all, is to preserve the environment for present and future generations, and not to maintain the profitability of incumbent entrepreneurs.’

To Build’s legal commentator appointed an Acting Judge. To Build and its readers are indeed keeping good company, legal-wise, at least! We are proud to report that Advocate Bryan Hack was appointed to serve as an Acting Judge in the High Court, Cape Town bench in August 2016. What is the conclusion that I am trying to draw? Firstly, that judges differ in their opinions and this case highlights again that the law is not an exact science and litigation should not be resorted to without steely nerves and determination. Secondly, that the interests of our environment can make for some unusual bedfellows – but regardless of the motives at the end of the day the environment must be preserved for future generations.

Bryan Hack Advocate of the High Court Member of the Cape Bar T +27 (0) 21 4235 441 E hack@capebar.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DÃ©cor

BUILDING SYSTEMS Automation......................................71 Bathrooms.......................................74 Ceilings & Partitions......................77 Electrical.........................................81 Floors................................................83 Kitchens.............................................86 Lighting.............................................88 Roofing.............................................90 Security & Safety.............................98 Structure.........................................102 Pools & Water Features..............105 Walls & Cladding........................108 Windows & Doors........................110

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Photos by Corporate AV Integration

Automation BUILDING SYSTEMS

Going green through boardroom automation A good audio-visual (AV) system is far more than a great and way to improve your presentations and keep your audience attentive. It will reduce your energy consumption, save your company money, and contribute to making your office a green environment. That might sound like a big ask but the latest intelligent building and room control systems can do just that. ‘It is no longer enough to offer solutions such as dimming lights and automatically turning off a screen or a projector,’ says Stefan Mayer, Managing Director at Corporate AV Integration. ‘We need to embrace a future where AV and environmental systems are tightly integrated to intelligently communicate with each other to react to varying conditions, and to optimise energy and cost savings. Done properly, it’s not only affordable but also intelligent.’

In-built intelligence Vendors such as Crestron and AMX use algorithms to adjust their devices in response to variables such as natural light, temperature and room usage. For example, a projector and air conditioning in a meeting

room can be primed to turn on 10 minutes ahead of a scheduled meeting. Another easy win comes from using motion sensors to switch off air conditioning and lights when nobody is in a room to cut down on energy consumption.  Another option is the ability to integrate window blinds into the system and programme them to change according to the position of the sun, which is used to warm and light your rooms, and reduce heating and lighting bills. Ambient light sensors will measure the amount of natural light and adjust the window shades appropriately. The system can supplement natural light with interior lights to achieve the ideal ambience for a presentation or video conference.

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Building Systems Automation Sensors can be cleverly placed around the entire building too, so that lights are dimmed in areas close to the windows and brightened away from the windows to intelligently save electricity and give employees optimal lighting conditions.

Efficiency for all reasons ‘The core function of a good AV system is to make meetings more efficient and interesting, although statistics show otherwise. Studies have found that 25 to 30% of all meetings are not efficient because of poor or malfunctioning technologies such as video conferencing systems and projectors, or poor boardroom conditions,’ Mayer says. When a fault or operator error occurs, troubleshooting disrupts meetings and may mean important issues are not addressed. Automated and simplistic video conferencing systems are an important way in which AV systems contribute to a more efficient workforce, eliminating time, money and fuel spent on travelling, and improving an office’s green status. That’s far from the only way in which AV equipment can assist a company to go green. An intelligent AV strategy can save money and help to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification through reduced energy consumption. ‘A conference room without automation technology is almost certainly wasting energy,’ notes Mayer. Employees tend to leave equipment on after they leave the room, especially if multiple devices are controlled by different remotes. Automation technology controls all the displays, projectors, audio and video equipment, electronic voting systems, lighting, temperature and blinds from a single, easyto-use touch panel. Should the unit not be turned off, it can be pre-programmed to shut down at a certain time, at the end of the day, or based on movement within the room.

Green building study – intelligent conference rooms A report by Frost & Sullivan into Bright Green Buildings reported that AV technology has evolved from simple, piecemeal presentation tools into integrated systems through the convergence of AV and IT. In intelligent and green buildings, where comfort, energy efficiency and asset management are key, an intelligent conference room plays a big part through green features such as networked projectors and LCD displays, video conferencing, and intelligent lighting and window shades.

The technologies behind these systems are complex, but Mayer maintains that suppliers such as Corporate AV Integration focus on making sure the end user is greeted with simplicity and operatorfriendly interfaces. An AV specialist can design the most cost-effective solution and create a boardroom that looks good, works efficiently and boosts your green credentials.

About Corporate AV Integration Corporate AV Integration – driving excellence in Africa’s corporate audio-visual market. Founded in 2011, Corporate AV Integration provides corporate audio-visual and radio frequency (RF) solutions that help clients to maximise their return on investment in these complex and potentially expensive technologies. Our vision is to become Africa’s leading provider, implementer and integrator of corporate AV solutions. Our mission is to elevate professional standards in the corporate AV market by providing qualified skills and leading products that help our clients to derive the maximum benefit from their AV solutions. Our aim is to lead the professionalization of this market and raise standards by aligning ourselves closely with the best practices of the South African Communications Industry Association (www. sacia.org.za) and Infocomm (www.infocomm. org).

Corporate AV Integration W www.corporateav.co.za

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Building Systems Bathrooms

Refreshingly outdoors Earlier this year To Build featured an article on outdoor kitchens. Now for another very important part of the home – the bathroom. Outdoor showers are fast becoming a much sought after addition to residential homes. A leading sanitaryware, tile and flooring supplier, Bathroom Bizarre, offers the lowdown on what is needed to get clean al fresco. Traditionally outdoor showers were associated with tropical resort living. However, today, outdoor showers are becoming an increasingly sought-after permanent addition to many residential homes. Blanche Burger from Bathroom Bizarre explains why. ‘In today’s world, we spend so much of our time in front of screens – television, computers or smartphones – that to some extent we have become disconnected from nature. As a result, more and more people are looking for ways to reconnect with nature by bringing the outdoors into their homes. An outdoor shower, as a permanent extension of your indoor bathroom space, is a great way to do this.’

Shake up your routine ‘Taking an outdoor shower turns what is generally a mundane daily ritual, into something much more appealing. It provides the opportunity to appreciate the fresh air, birdsong and possibly even a great outdoor panorama. Also, there is nothing that quite compares to baring it all for a truly back-to-nature feel!’ Gone are the days of a tack-on outdoor shower – today’s outdoor showers have become a functional and well-designed extension of the indoor bathroom. However, Burger notes that if considering this there are some important aspects that need careful consideration to achieve a truly successful end result. These include:

Location Where the outdoor shower is built is one of the most crucial aspects for a successful end result. First off, it should be somewhere that gets direct sunlight – this is not only because it makes the showering experience so much more pleasant, but direct sunlight also ensures that the area dries out properly after use, preventing rot, scum, mould and moss formation. Privacy is also an important aspect – the shower’s location should provide enough privacy without blocking the natural outdoor vistas. Well-placed screens of a desired height are always a great option. Also, if the house is double storey or flanked by a house that is double story with windows that look down onto the outdoor shower area, consider installing a louvered roof that allows a view of the sky, but minimises the possibility of anybody peeping. Take careful note of the orientation of the area and plan it so that it makes the best of the outdoor view on offer. Also, bear in mind that placing a shower in an area where there is already plumbing close by will save time, effort and expense on the plumbing.

Construction materials Select materials that are able to weather exposure to the elements, but not detract from the natural beauty of the area in question. Materials such as wood,

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Photos by Bathroom Bizarre

Bathrooms BUILDING SYSTEMS

stone, metal or tile are the most popular choices. Wood is a very trendy choice but being outdoors it will need regular maintenance. Faux wood tiles are a great alternative – they look just like the real thing but are far more durable and need no maintenance. Their wood-like grain texture ensures that they aren’t slippery when wet. Natural stone is another admired, but pricey, choice. Faux stone tiles or mosaics that look just like the real thing are available and come in at a fraction of the cost. Metal is also stunning, but remember that it needs to be specially treated or it will rust. Concrete is another popular choice – it is comparatively affordable, requires no maintenance, and blends in seamlessly with nature.

Plumbing and drainage Plumbing and drainage is similar to that of indoor showers. In fact, outdoor plumbing connections and practices should mirror indoor plumbing codes and systems. The only major difference is that for an outdoor shower, you should install shut-off and drain valves that enable the water to be turned off during the cold winter months. For inland locations, this will prevent the water in the pipes from freezing and damaging the plumbing and fittings. Also, a solid concrete shower floor is a must – resin shower trays will crack and warp over time due to exposure to the elements. Traditionally, outdoor showers that were near to a pool usually just drained into the ground or through a bed of stone. However, this was because shower products weren’t used and the water was clear. With a

permanent outdoor shower, soaps and shampoos will be used and the runoff will be grey water. This means that the drainage should be connected to the home’s main drainage outlet or grey water system. Also, it is best to direct loose drainage away from a home’s foundations to avoid any unwanted damp problems and away from any surrounding plants that could be killed by the grey water. (The best option is to use bio-degradable soaps. – Ed)

Amenities It’s important not to forget the little things as these will really help turn this space into a luxury outdoor showering retreat. There must be a dry changing area adjacent to the shower area for changing and drying off. This space can also be used to store towels, a laundry hamper and various items needed in the shower. It is therefore important that this area is covered and protected from the rain. It is also a good idea to include a bench or seat for use while changing, or as a place to keep clothing or towels off the ground. And of course, the inclusion of the usual accessories such as towel rails, robe hooks, soap holders and shower caddies will help make this area as functional as it is beautiful. However, when it comes to bathroom accessories, choose items that won’t rust – glass and stainless steel are the best materials for outdoor applications.

Bathroom Bizarre W www.bathroom.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Ceilings & Partitions BUILDING SYSTEMS

New dry wall panel Local company, MIB, has announced the availability of a pure dry trade wall system to provide clean working site conditions. This system offers the benefits of a masonry wall without the labour and time costs arising from wet trade plastering.

Photo by MIB

According Riaan Louw, a registered architectural professional and company spokesman: ‘When joined together, the panels provide a smooth surface to receive a skim coat. But they also maintain excellent integrity of the partition, making its impact resistance 1.5 times higher than that of a traditional block wall. This means that a 75mm-thick panel provides the required fire rating, acoustic performance, water tightness, seismic and physical strength of a 120mm block wall. From a design perspective, this increases the usable area by a minimum of 5 to 10%.’ The product system is called MIB. An MIB panel comprises 5mm thick calcium silicate boards on either side. Sandwiched between the boards is a lightweight EPS/Portland cement concrete mix that assists breathability and facilitates condensation control. Naturally, this mixture contains no asbestos and does not use sepiolite, a commonly used asbestos substitute. When subject to fire attack above 1 200°C, the panel wall provides fire resistance up to around two

hours without losing integrity and insulation, and emits no toxic gas. Additionally, the panel is immune to insect attack and will not support fungal growth. It is also unaffected by sunlight or steam, and is intended for exterior use. Furthermore, it is lightweight, environmentally friendly and readily recyclable.

Testing Extensive testing was done on the system by Fire Lab, a registered and approved company. This included a full‐scale burn-out test to simulate the behaviour of the structure when on fire. Test results are available from the supplier. MIB is available in a variety of thicknesses, standard lengths and heights, and may be trimmed on site. Applications range from low-cost housing to exclusive structures, schools, medical clinics and single or multi-story structures. According to Louw, the MIB system is seen to be in line with green building thinking. ‘There are a wide range of benefits attached to building green, including the reduction of carbon emissions regulations. MIB’s green building practices benefit building professionals and homeowners, communities, and the environment, and are the first steps towards a more sustainable future,’ he says. At this stage, the product is sourced from China to provide the most favourable delivered cost to site. Louw adds that the goal is to assist the highest possible number of people to achieve the greatest possible improvement in their housing needs at the lowest cost. His business venture aims to enclose a space within walls, and with a roof over occupants’ heads, to protect families and their possessions. ‘A small house with a well-stocked kitchen is a far better proposition than a large house with no food in the kitchen,’ he maintains.

MIB (Pty) Ltd C +27 (0) 79 891 6295 E Riaan.tds@gmail.com issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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EVOWOOD ADVERTORIAL

Masonite Africa is reborn as Evowood From November 2016, Masonite Africa Limited, the South African market leader in hardboard and softboard for over 70 years, will be rebranded as Evowood. The rebranding marks a new beginning and reflects the rejuvenation and reinvigoration of a company that was acquired in August 2016 by the proudly South African consortium of Jacobs Capital and Black Bird Capital. A condition of the sale agreement stipulates that the newly-constituted company can only trade under the global Masonite™ brand until the end of January 2017. ‘We understand how well known the Masonite™ brand is, and we will be co-branding our products for a short period. We want to ensure that our key partners – wholesalers, retailers and manufacturers – realise that they are not only buying the same quality products but supporting a brand that promises far more in the future,’ says Commercial Director, Hilton Loring. He believes that the rebranding goes beyond a simple name change. ‘The shackles are off and this company is evolving from being one that has been starved of investment by its global parent to one that has been freed up to reach its full potential through its new shareholders’ R300-million investment in processes, products and improved service.’ Loring says that in much the same way as Hoover has become the generic term for a vacuum cleaner, he believes that Masonite has largely become the standard term for hardboard. ‘It’s our vision that, as Evowood, we will take this company from what is mostly a hardboard manufacturer to a fully-fledged timber company participating in a broad range of categories. We believe that we have both the capacity and the capability to expand this company,’ he maintains.

To set the platform for this vision, Evowood has also created a number of sub-brands under the company logo: • Evosure: High-quality hardboard and speciality hardboard products • Evosoft: High-quality softboard and fibre products • Evodoor: High-quality hardboard door skins and imported speciality skins. Loring notes that until now the company has operated in just 10% of the market. It can now look at participating in a far broader spectrum of the timber market, leverage additional local opportunities as a 51% black-owned company, and explore additional export markets as capacity is built back into the business. Newly-appointed Chief Executive Officer, Louis Marais, concludes: ‘We’ve carefully thought about the image that we want to create for this business going forward. With key investment by our shareholders, we are able to explore latent ideas and opportunities that will see us evolve into a truly South African company with a sustainable future.’

Evowood W www.evowood.co.za

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Photos by City of Cape Town

Electrical BUILDING SYSTEMS

Left: Civic Centre: City officials, Msuthu Ndlwana and Alistair Christian, oversee work being done to make lighting more energy efficient at the Civic Centre. Above: The city is rolling out its LED programme.

LED’s saving electricity – city by city Major cities such as Cape Town are saving scarce and expensive electrical resources by spending on green. The City of Cape Town’s investment in energy efficiency has led to almost 45 000 street lights being fitted with energy-saving light-emitting diode (LED) lights. Included in this programme is the recent successful retrofitting of 1 100 street lights as part of a R3.8 million LED street lighting pilot in Burgundy Estate, Summer Greens, Eversdal, Bothasig and Aurora. This has already lead to a 32% reduction in the electricity load usage.

City energy efficiency programme The City’s energy efficiency programme has resulted in savings of more than R110 million over the past five years. Since 2010, the City has saved almost 80 000MWh of electricity and 79 000 tons of carbon through its municipal operation’s energy efficiency programme. This is the equivalent of the power needed to operate all of Cape Town’s street lights for a whole year. A commendable drive to ensure energy efficiency across commercial sectors has been the establishment of the City’s Energy Efficiency Forum. In 2009, to help people take action the City of Cape Town, Eskom and the South African Property Owners’ Association collaborated to launch the Energy Efficiency Forum for the Commercial Sector. It is supported by Old Mutual and the UCT Energy Research Centre. The forum provides owners and managers of offices, shopping centres, hotels and other commercial and public buildings with practical knowledge on energy efficiency solutions.

Energy efficiency is central to the City’s Energy2040 goals that aim for the overall reduction of 37% in carbon emissions. Some 21% can be achieved through energy efficiency alone. ‘We are saving our residents money over the long-term by investing in a more sustainable way of performing our core functions. At the same time, through our emphasis on procuring more “green goods”, we are enabling job creation in the local economy. The City will do whatever it can today to create a more financially and environmentally sustainable tomorrow,’ says the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Environmental and Spatial Planning, Councillor Johan van der Merwe. Given the public sector’s significant purchasing power, the City has integrated energy efficiency requirements into its procurement and is using greener technologies for certain projects, such as for the lighting of buildings. The City’s LED building lighting retrofits have supported the growth of a local LED manufacturer, which has increased its permanent employees from 18 to 80 over the past three years. (A commendable effort indeed. – Ed).

City of Cape Town Councillor Johan van der Merwe T +27 (0) 21 400 3794 E Johannes.VanDerMerwe@capetown.gov.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Floors BUILDING SYSTEMS

Pioneering flooring

Photos by Florstore OnTrend

A trendy floor supplier in Cape Town has launched its new collections for summer 2016/17. By Florstore OnTrend, these include innovative, versatile and premium collections such as the exciting new Athena Woven Vinyl Tiles and Rococo Parquet ranges.

Athena Woven Vinyl Tiles

Rococo Parquet

Inspired by Athena, the Greek goddess of arts and crafts, and master of weaving, the Athena Woven Vinyl incorporates a blend of timeless hues and contemporary designs. It is slip- and water-resistant, suitable for indoor and outdoor surfaces, and quiet underfoot. The collection is available in tile and full rolls, as well as various shapes and sizes including triangles, hexagons and ‘wings’. Athena offers a design-led, yet practical option for both domestic and commercial installations. It also offers flexibility in design with its 3D texture across several weaves, with the choice of tessellation and an unlimited number of colour options. Athena Woven Vinyl consists of intricately-woven strands of PVC, forming exceptional visual, futuristic creative options that combine extreme durability and comfort while exploring the boundaries of flooring design.

Designed for both domestic and commercial installations, Rococo Parquet combines practicality and durability across a stunning range of speciallyselected woods. Both options benefit from technologically-advanced surface treatments, including UV coating and aluminium oxide for long-lasting protection, creating a high-performance product and a comfortable surface underfoot.

“It’s what the industry has been calling for.”

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Building Systems FLOORS Latest product launch

Phillip Victor - Owner/MD at Florstore OnTrend

Photos by Lauren Shantall Communications

Above: Mieneke van der Merwe and Leah Sleigh - Sales Liaison, Florstore OnTrend. Above right: Stuart Proctor and Rachel Coleridge-Smith - Piccolo Group

According to Angelique Victor, Operations Manager at Florstore OnTrend: ‘Van Dyck’s latest woven vinyl offering excites me. It’s what the industry has been calling for. Tiles in vibrant dynamic colours and shapes; with the characteristics and benefits of luxury vinyl - non-slip, water resistant and easy to clean!’

Eric Ward, National Sales Manager of Van Dyck.

Florstore OnTrend T +27 (0) 21 439 6685 E info@florstore.co.za W www.florstore.co.za

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Building Systems Kitchen

Photos by Miele

Steam in the Kitchen To Build investigates an alternative in the kitchen to commonly used appliances. Mercia de Jager from leading kitchen appliance manufacturer, Miele, offers an overview on how steam cooking can help you reduce your calorie intake and boost the nutritional value of the food you cook. According to de Jager, the way meals are prepared can have a big impact on their calorific content and nutritional value. Steaming remains one of the easiest, cleanest, tastiest and healthiest all-purpose cooking methods.

Reasons why steaming appliances can be a healthy addition to the kitchen ‘Preserve the natural goodness by steaming,’ suggests de Jager. ‘Since steamed food doesn’t come into direct contact with boiling water, the fibre, colour and flavour of vegetables, as well as the antioxidants, B and C vitamins, thiamine, niacin, biotin, and the minerals, metallic elements, phosphoric, potassium and zinc are preserved. Steaming also maintains food’s natural crispness, freshness, colour and its natural taste.’ Minimise fat intake: ‘No oils are required in steam cooking, which makes it a considerably healthier way of cooking when compared to grilling, baking, roasting or frying. Steaming cooks your food thoroughly without the need of any additional fat, butter or oil – allowing the true, clean taste of the food to shine through.’ Steam cooking offers a manageable cooking temperature, ensuring food is not overcooked or burnt. De Jager adds: ‘Steaming is actually a much

quicker and easier way of cooking when you compare it to other cooking methods. Technologically-advanced steam and combination steam ovens from a company such as Miele offer a wide range of automatic programmes to choose from. This means there is very little chance of overcooking or undercooking your food. With the range of combination steam ovens available, you can even prepare delicious breads and other baked goods like a professional,’ she adds. ‘Also, with steaming, there is no crossover of flavours so you can stack different layers of food one on top of the other, allowing you to prepare an entire meal at once, saving you time, energy and money.’ Steaming makes cleaning up afterwards very easy - no oil, no smoke, and no mess. It’s also ideal for sous-vide cooking – a method of food preparation where vacuum-packed food in plastic bags is cooked at low, steadily-maintained temperatures over an extended period of time. ‘For this preparation method, my company offers a vacuum-sealing drawer and a steam oven together to form a formidable team.’ Says de Jager: ‘We all know that the easiest way of eating healthily is to ensure that the food you prepare is simple and tasty. Sous-vide cooking is a very convenient way of prepping tasty, healthy meals in advance – ensuring that all the effort is taken out of thinking about what you need to cook every night.’

Miele W www.miele.co.za

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Building Systems Lighting

Costs are real Do facilities managers, accountants and business owners understand how much they are paying to keep the lights on? The director of a local company expounds.

Photo by Gareth Griffiths Imaging

‘In our experience, the answer is an emphatic ‘no’,’ says Relight Energy’s Director, Tristão Abro. ‘Most FDs and business owners we consult with are unaware that they’re over paying for electricity because of technology inefficiencies. They’re also unaware that there are good-quality lighting solutions that will drastically reduce their bills,’ he notes.

Upgrades ‘In fact, there is a certain amount of scepticism and disbelief when we demonstrate that, across various industries, businesses could be saving between 60% and 80% on their energy costs by simply upgrading their lighting technology.’

Maintenance No matter how effective an initial lighting plan is, a regular maintenance plan is required to ensure that the same quality and quantity of light is delivered year after year. However, none of this should matter to companies. In fact, reputable lighting solution providers should back their own products by accepting the risk of maintenance themselves. Lighting systems are impacted by two major factors, lumen depreciation – the rate at which the light being emitted from the lamp fades over time; and lamp failure rate – the rate at which the actual lamps will fail or burnout. According to Abro, these factors are what businesses often fail to see and take into account. ‘We refer to this as the “doubling effect”. Consider the combined effect of a 50% lamp failure rate and a 50% lumen depreciation, which is a common specification of lamps. In theory, businesses could be operating at 25% output of the original lighting specification after a period of time.’

Doubling effect – fading light What many business owners don’t realise is that their light is failing because the process of the ‘doubling effect’ happens slowly over a period of time.

Many industrial, commercial and retail operations may have upgraded older light fittings to fluorescent fixtures. Unfortunately, most good-quality fluorescent fixtures are not suited to local industrial environments and have real life spans of less than 20 000 hours. This means that the ‘doubling effect’ affects productivity that much sooner. Taken a step further, if inferior LED solutions are installed, companies will experience lamp burnout and lamp lumen depreciation even faster. ‘We deal with the combined effect of the above factors by guaranteeing lux levels (quantity of light) over extended periods. Depending on business requirements, this could be five, seven or ten years. Maintenance is completely removed from the equation for our clients as we accept the maintenance risk. That’s because we’re completely confident in the quality of the products that we supply,’ Abro maintains. ‘Relight Energy specialises in LED and skylights for the industrial, retail and commercial sectors,’ he concludes.

Relight Energy Tristão Abro T +27 (0) 11 440 2135 W www.relightenergy.co.za

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Building Systems Roofing

Vital anti-glare roofing technology now in SA market BlueScope, a leading multinational steel supplier, has recently introduced an innovative coated steel roofing material to the African market that reduces specular reflection and minimises disturbing glare from a coated metal roof. BlueScope’s regional head office in Cape Town, the company’s Regional Manager Africa, Arno Hanekom says: ‘Architects, designers and developers are delighted with the launch of premium products, Clean COLORBOND® MATT and Clean COLORBOND® ULTRA MATT steels.’ Formed into a variety of roofing profiles by leading South African roll formers and roofing specialists, the product is available in a range of durable and attractive colours that closely resemble the standard Clean COLORBOND® range. However, that is where the similarity ends because Clean COLORBOND® MATT (AZ 150) and its ULTRA version (AZ 200) incorporate a new unique performance coating, specially designed to reduce the problems of glare caused by today’s high-gloss steel roofs.

Daylight reflectance – the pros and the cons In terms of modern green trends, it is desirable to have a roof of high solar reflectivity so that inbound solar infrared radiation is not absorbed

Photo by Thomas Leach Architects

Jacobs Ladder - Kalk Bay House

into the building but simply bounced back into the atmosphere. This considerably reduces the temperature of the roof and helps to keep the building cooler inside. Daylight reflectance is defined as a measurement of the percentage of visible light reflected off the material’s surface. Usually, when light falls onto a surface, a certain percentage of light is absorbed by the material, part of it reflected off the surface and the remaining transmitted through the material. A specular reflection occurs when light is reflected in a concentrated, mirror-like material; while a diffuse reflection is scattered and unfocused, meaning much less glare. In the case of reflectance from exterior cladding and high-pitch roofs, the type of reflectance is mainly caused by specular reflection. ‘With continuous improvements in construction technology and material science, the demand for more aesthetically pleasing and distinctive structures with low specular reflection has increased,’ says Hanekom.

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Roofing BUILDING SYSTEMS Product

Clean COLORBOND®

Clean COLORBOND® Ultra

Solar Reflectance Index

Clean COLORBOND® MATT

Clean COLORBOND® Ultra MATT

Solar Reflectance Index

Coating

AZ 150

AZ 200

(SRI)1 - ASTM E1980

AZ 150

AZ 200

(SRI)1 - ASTM E1980

Gloss units

25 units (standard)

7 units

Colour

African White

Amazing White

Winter MATT

Sonata MATT

Off White

Enduring White

Scallop MATT

Oyster MATT

Ivory Grey

Cosmic Grey

Cotton MATT

Cloudy MATT

Shale Grey

Ultimate Grey

Coffee MATT

Latte MATT

Armour Grey

Livid Grey

Hidden MATT

Alley MATT

Volcanic Grey

Ore Grey

Graphite MATT

Iron MATT

Cape Charcoal

African Charcoal

Eclipse MATT

Granite MATT

‘Users are able to mitigate the issue of daylight reflectance without any compromise to our products’ look and quality, and minimal change to the high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) performance offered by Clean COLORBOND® with THERMATECH™. ‘Still incorporated into Clean COLORBOND® MATT and its ULTRA derivative is our THERMATECH™ technology that allows the product to achieve greater thermal performance with no compromise to its quality. So, the product also boasts high dirt resistance, chalk resistance and gloss retention. The product is able to help the building’s owner to save energy from costly climate control measures while mitigating the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect,’ he explains.

The critical difference The table below shows the range of colours available and highlights the outstanding gloss reduction performance of the new coating:

Measurement units of gloss The measurement scale, Gloss Units (GU) of a gloss meter, is a scaling based on a highly-polished reference black glass standard with a defined refractive index having a specular reflectance of 100GU at the specified angle – normally 60°. The lower end point of 0 for a completely matt surface.

A first for South Africa First in the Singaporean market in 2014, Clean COLORBOND® Matt was brought to South Africa to support the prestigious east extension project of the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The new product aims to provide a gloss rating of 7 +/- 3 units. Speaking about the use of the new product at the CTICC extension, Rudolf Estyerhuyse of architectural firm, Stauch Vorster, comments: ‘The specification makes perfect sense considering

Clean COLORBOND® MATT ULTRA’s aesthetic and technical qualities. The Matt finish provides an elegant textural appearance as an alternative to the standard gloss finish. The Matt finish also reduces reflective glare, a critical consideration in terms of the impact of the relatively low light-coloured roof on neighbouring high-rise developments and the adjacent freeway. BlueScope’s product was specified because of its excellent corrosion protective qualities and long-term durability.’ Hanekom adds: ‘Our matt product has set a new standard for steel roofing and cladding with stylish matt finish, suited to address the issues of glare from sunlight common in urban areas. Since the CTICC project, it has been specified on several other important projects.’ On the domestic housing front, the product was recently used in cladding an extension to a heritage home right near the sea in Kalk Bay, Cape Town. Says project architect, Thomas Leach: The Clean COLORBOND® MATT steel cladding allowed us to achieve a crisp form with clean lines that speaks about contemporary design and roots the project in the present. The Victorian profile links it with the past. The steel cladding creates a waterproof sheath that performs well, is maintenance free and looks great.’ Other project case histories include Ackermans’ Head Office; V&A Silo Precinct – Silos 3, 4, 5; Chapman’s Bay Estate; Whale Coast Mall, Hermanus; Ballito Mall, KZN; Sanctuary Mall; Sitari Estate – including all residential properties, Curro School, Gate House, Checkers and other commercial buildings. Material specifications are available on request.

Arno Hanekom BlueScope Steel Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd T +27 (0) 21 442 5420 E arno.hanekom@bluescope.com W www.bluescope.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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There are two kinds of light reflection - specular reflection and diffuse reflection. A specular reflection occurs when light is reflected in a concentrated mirror-like manner, resulting in a discomforting glare; whilst a diffuse reflection is a scattered and unfocussed reflection of light.

Now also available in Clean COLORBONDÂŽ AZ150 MATT

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Roofing BUILDING SYSTEMS

Case study: Prestigious school capped A significant 8 820m2 of timber roof trusses of varying styles and configurations were recently installed at the prestigious Reddford House School in Northcliff, Randburg. Located on the northern slopes of the Magaliesburg foothills and surrounded by established residential areas with easy access from the nearby N1 Western Bypass Highway, this expansive site is home to two main buildings, including an Early Learning Centre and Junior/Senior Primary School. The architectural design and layout of both the main buildings allows for optimal functioning and maximum usage of the space and, upon arrival, the sheer size and aesthetics of the structures make an immediate and profound impact on the viewer.

Project snapshot: Name: Reddford House School, Northcliff Date of completion: December 2015 Architects: Michael Bishop, Century Property Developments Main contractor: Murray & Dickson Roofing supplier and contractor: LCP Roofing LCP Roofing, a leading company in roof truss technology, was tasked with fabricating and erecting exposed timber feature trusses at Reddford House School’s gatehouse, main building entrances, piazzas, and the main hall. The client brief called for a number of exposed timber roof trusses in as many viable spaces in the buildings as possible, and even the walkways were to be exposed and supported by laminated pine beams at the eaves. While structural soundness was paramount, the aesthetic value of the project was a prominent consideration for the client. ‘LCP Roofing is no stranger to supplying exposed timber roof trusses and finds this design trend on the rise,’ says Paul Guassardo, LCP Roofing’s sales representative. ‘Exposed timber roof trusses are beautiful to look at and add a sense of elegance, grandeur and volume to a space. These exposed timber roof trusses reflect and pay homage to the values and ethos of the school below them.’ The architect, Michael Bishop from Century Property Developments, provided detailed sketches of the client’s

requirements. According to Lyndsay Cotton, LCP Roofing’s General Manager, ‘there was certainly nothing small about this project and it represented an exciting challenge for our team to put our resources and expertise to the test. Our highly competent design office turned the concept sketches into workable blueprints, allowing the aesthetic components of the project to push boundaries while maintaining the highest level of structural integrity to achieve an outstanding end result.’

Extravagant features The school design features stunning entrances that lead onto double-volume piazzas and wide covered walkways. These frame a central playground, giving a feel of quality, comfort and security. The main hall, situated in the Junior/Senior Primary School building, dominates with its vast 19.5m wide span exposed modified scissor-with-top-hat trusses that draw – and hold – the eye upwards. ‘The main hall trusses were challenging, not only from a design perspective but from a logistical point of view. With a pitch of 27° over the span, a one-piece truss with a continuous top and bottom chord would simply be too big to deliver,’ remarks Guassardo. ‘The solution was to fabricate the trusses in three sections, instead of one, using two two-ply half modified scissor trusses and a separate one-ply top hat truss.’ Once completed, the modified design, as per industry requirements, was sent to LCP Roofing’s supporting engineers for final specification on the specific fixing. The end result was a sliding shoe on the wall plate on one side of the building with the necessary bracing details. Once fabricated and delivered, the scissor trusses were assembled on site. The top hat trusses were erected after the exposed scissor trusses were in place. A mobile crane was required to hoist the 19.5m span trusses above the double volume of the hall and then to lower them, one by one, into position. The crane was only available for a limited period of time so the LCP Roofing team worked as efficiently as possible, using the apron of scaffolding along the side of the hall’s walls that was provided by the principal contractor.

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Building Systems Roofing

The 19.5m wide span exposed modified timber scissor trusses were erected before the top hat component. This three-part configuration was LCP Roofing’s elegant solution to a pitch of 27° over a wide span.

Life lines after temporary bracing Life lines were not an option with the trusses having to be lowered from above, but once the trusses were in place and temporarily braced, these were put in place and permanent bracing and anchoring could be done. The top hat trusses were then erected and fixed on top of the modified scissor trusses.

Timber usage, sustainability and energy efficiency Timber used in the fabrication of the trusses was a combination of Grade 5 and 7 structural SA Pine with structural SA Pine laminated timber beams. ‘The various grades of timber are determined by the software we use under license from International

Photo by LCP Roofing

The main hall in the Junior/Senior Primary School vast, 19.5 metre wide span exposed trusses.

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Roofing BUILDING SYSTEMS

Truss Systems for the design and fabrication of timber roof trusses,’ notes Cotton. ‘Many factors – such as the span of the building, the pitch of the roof, the type of covering required, and the type and location of ceilings to be installed – help determine the grade of timber required for a roof structure. According to strict and necessary National Building Regulations, all timber used in this project is structural timber.’ Specifically sourced from sustainable and responsibly-managed plantations, all timber used by LCP Roofing is considered a renewable resource. ‘Through effective, responsibly-managed and sustainable forestry, farming of structural timber enjoys great success in South Africa, ensuring us the availability of structural timber as a raw material well into the future,’ notes Guassardo. ‘The entire production process, from transforming a tree into usable timber, its transportation, fabrication and final erection to form a structure, requires less energy in comparison to readying other structural materials for the same application, and has a much lighter impact on the environment.’

Solar geysers and panels were installed, which will go a long way to reducing electricity usage and associated costs for the school into the future, enhancing the structure’s continued sustainability. ‘Reddford House School is a well-respected institution with the highest standards in all regards. Having been appointed as a sub-contractor for this project represented a unique opportunity for our team. While the project requirements were challenging, they were refreshingly stimulating and pushed the LCP Roofing team to dig deep for elegant solutions to complex requirements,’ says Cotton. ‘The end result is an impressive, expansive roof structure that will house the school for many years.’

Lightening the footprint In an effort to reduce the energy embodied in erecting the timber roof trusses, the entire school’s roof structure was responsibly erected and handled manually, apart from the erection of the roof trusses in the main hall. This negated the continuous use of expensive and energy-hungry lifting equipment and machinery.

LCP Roofing Lyndsay Cotton, General Manager T +27 0861 527 7663 E lyndsay@lcproofing.co.za W www.lcproofing.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Building Systems Safety & Security

Partnering with technology ‘With a crime rate that borders on being legendary, our best-laid plans to protect what is ours – our families, properties and possessions – too often get thwarted by those who ply their wicked trade in the shadows,’ argues Charl Mijnhardt of Centurion Systems.

Photos by Centurion Systems

Walls have grown higher and suspicious glances seem to prevail, yet the number of residential burglaries in 2015 stood in the region of 253 000, an astounding figure by any measure. Burglaries at nonresidential premises (such as businesses) accounted for around 74 000 of the total crimes reported in the same year. One cannot help but shudder at the notion of a quarter million homeowners having their peace of mind shattered. The best-laid plans …

Technology just in time This is most likely why humankind has partnered with technology to help take back some of the control usurped by criminals, and to help regain some semblance of certainty in a world that is becoming increasingly uncertain. Few brands understand this better than the team at Centurion Systems who see themselves as local access automation superheroes. Forged in the fires of the mid-80s techno boom, the company made a name for itself as one of the most innovative players in the industry, designing and manufacturing a diverse

and award-winning range of products for controlling the access of people and vehicles into and out of residential, commercial and industrial properties. The company may have begun serving the domestic market, with products such as the immensely popular D5-Evo sliding gate motor, but today it has a well-rounded product offering that includes an impressive industrial range consisting of gate operators, traffic barriers and multi-user remote receivers. The recent launch of its SECTOR II highvolume traffic barrier – a hard-working and featurerich machine with a design optimised for its installers – has further bolstered the company’s reputation as a reliable provider of industrial access automation solutions. A number of products have found their homes on high-profile industrial sites, including King Shaka airport in Durban, the recently built Lowveld Day Hospital in Nelspruit, and the construction sites for the Northconnex and Westconnex tunnels in Sydney, Australia, to name but a few. Particularly novel uses of the company’s products include a D10 industrial

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Safety & Security BUILDING SYSTEMS

‘The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry,”

Photos by Centurion Systems

quote by Scottish poet Robert Burns in a famous line from his poem To A Mouse.

sliding gate motor being utilised to automate a sizeable airplane hangar entrance at George airport in the Western Cape, a video of which can be found on YouTube (see link below).

Conclusions Mjinhardt provides reasons for using Centurion Products’ equipment on industrial and commercial sites: • Battery backup for continued operation during power outages • High-volume capability • Faster speeds for increased security and convenience • Moves gates of up to one tonne

• Spares are widely available through a network of branches and authorised distributors • Comprehensive training provided at the Centurion corporate head office in North Riding, Johannesburg • Easy setup and advanced diagnostics via intelligent LCD interfaces • Proven track record of reliability and durability.

Centurion Systems YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NhYGS3BASsw W www.centsys.com issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Safety & Security BUILDING SYSTEMS

Providing vital time to respond

At the request of Sutherland Engineering Consultants, FSD, a specialist Cape-based company, was asked to assist with the design specification for a new portion of the SAB Miller Chamdor brewery where intumescent protection of structural steel was indicated. This particular site and section of the brewery required special considerations for the intumescent selected as it is a humid area and the ambient temperatures expected during production are high. With this in mind, the intumescent coating selected provides the fire rating required and is able withstand the high temperatures and humidity for many years to come. As an accredited supplier of Nullifire products, FSD was able to call in the assistance of its principalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excellent technical support team who recommended the Nullifire S708 coating. The product is a robust intumescent coating designed for environments where standard water-based intumescent coatings will fail because of environmental conditions. S708 is also an eco-friendly alternative to solvent-based intumescent coatings and does not sacrifice efficacy. During application and curing, it is low odour and solvent emission-free. It quickly dries to a smooth, robust, white finish that can be fully exposed to the environment for up to six months without a decorative top seal. For the requisite 30-minute fire rating, the Nullifire S708 intumescent paint was approved for application by the fire engineer, the client and the applicator. All loading calculations and supporting documentation, including test and product certification, were supplied by FSD prior to project approval. The S708 was professionally applied by Dram Industrial Painters. WFTs (Wet Film Thickness) were measured during application, and post application DFTs (Dry Film Thickness) were measured with an electronic micron

Photo by Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Intumescent paint provides 30-minute fire protection to structural steel at a brewery.

thickness measuring device to confirm correct loading thickness was applied to achieve the fire rating required. As the required DFTs to achieve a 30-minute fire rating were relatively low, the Nullifire S708 was applied via brush and top-coat sealed. FSD supplies a complete range of passive firestopping products that include intumescent coatings for steel and timber, fire-rated mastic sealant, and intumescent sealants, two-hour fire-rated mineral fibre batt board pre-coated with intumescent sealant, pipe wraps and pipe collars.

FSD T +27 (0) 21 510 5258 E support@fire-and-security.co.za W www.fire-and-security.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Building Systems Structure

Training courses making their mark The series of CPD-accredited training courses arranged by the Southern African Light Steel Frame Building Association (Sasfa) have made their mark in 2016.

According to Sasfa’s Director, John Barnard, ‘We are seeing a growing interest in these courses in line with the excellent growth in popularity of LSFB in South Africa.’ He adds that the South African market for LSFB is estimated to already be worth about R1 billion per annum.

First course – SANS 517 Light Steel Frame Building This course is aimed at all architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, developers and other LSF practitioners who should all have a working knowledge of the building code. The SANS 517 one-day course consists of an introduction to LSFB and an overview of the development of this building method and industry in southern Africa. The advantages of LSFB are discussed and explained, and include speed of

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construction, enhanced insulation and the resulting energy efficiency, low mass, the corresponding logistical cost advantages, accuracy, ease of installation of services, and durability. ‘The steel frame will last several 100 years if installed correctly,’ Barnard says. The correct terminology is dealt with, the major LSF elements described, and the properties of the major materials used in LSFB are presented. Apart from the high-strength galvanised steel sheet used to manufacture the cold-formed sections for the light steel frame components (wall frames, roof trusses or floor beams), LSFB makes use of: • fibre cement cladding (exterior), • gypsum board lining for walls and ceilings (interior), • insulation (thermal and acoustic), • vapour permeable membrane (external walls), and • fasteners (screws, rivets and anchor bolts or screws). The main components of a LSF structure are described: foundations with cost saving potential compared with masonry building, the steel structure, walls, floors, ceilings, insulation and the installation of services. This is followed by spelling out the requirements for these components to comply with SANS 10400 – structural stability, weather resistance, durability, energy efficiency, acoustic insulation, fire resistance and fire rating and prevention of air infiltration and robustness. ‘These are also the criteria tested by Agrément SA when assessing new building methods,’ Barnard points out. The structural aspects pertaining to wall systems are explained, including some do’s and don’ts, how and where to anchor down wall panels, different roof structures (trusses, panel roofs and rafters), and the requirements of floor elements. The insulation specification to comply with the energy efficiency requirements of SANS 10400 XA are set out in SANS 517, for each of the six climatic zones in South Africa, for floors, walls and roof structures, and how these requirements can be met is explained. The session concludes with a discussion on the design of foundations for different soil conditions.

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Photo by: Hull Consulting

Structure BUILDING SYSTEMS

Mike Hull of Hull Consulting making a point during the SANS 517 training.

Second course – Cold-Formed Steel and LSF Design ‘The Cold-Formed Steel and LSF Design to SANS 10162:2 course is aimed specifically at design engineers who have to check LSF structures for structural adequacy,’ Barnard says. ‘Sasfa has been fortunate to obtain support from the University of Stellenbosch in presenting the theoretical and academic part of this course.’ The course begins with the fundamentals of plate buckling theory, and contextualises this with thin-walled structural elements as encountered in LSFB. Three buckling mechanisms are generally considered: member buckling, local buckling and distortional bucking. Until recently the LSF designer has had to use the effective width (of the plates making up the coldformed section) method to calculate the capacity of the member in each of the failure modes. This is an iterative and time-consuming method. The latest design method, referred to as the ‘direct strength method’, simplifies the design calculations considerably and does away with the need to do iterative calculations. Design examples are discussed using both analysis methods to illustrate the application of the theory. The second half of this course is more practical in nature, covering the design intent when dealing with LSF structures and highlighting the design criteria provided in SANS 517. The design of floor systems is covered using an Excel-based design tool for joists. To prevent excessive vibrations, especially in longer floor spans, the designer can use a simplified approach by calculating the deflection of the floor under a static 1kN load, or doing a dynamic analysis to calculate the response frequency. Should the

frequency be below 8Hz, damping measures have to be implemented, such as increasing the depth of the floor beams. The design output of one of the LSF systems with regard to walls and roof structures is discussed, and it is shown that the design engineer only needs to check critical elements in the panels for structural adequacy. Finally, the design of connections between elements and components are discussed, using screws, rivets or bolts.

Highest levels of professionalism Sasfa ensures the highest levels of professionalism for the courses, including some of the most experienced LSFB experts in the country. In 2016, presenters for the SANS 517 course included Mike Hull of Hull Consulting and Barnard; and for the Cold-Formed Steel course, Hull, Barnard and Etienne van der Klashorst of the University of Stellenbosch presented. ‘As is required by the professional institutes, the attendees are requested to evaluate and rate the courses, from suitability of the venue, presentations by the lecturers, course material and handouts. The aspects of the 2016 courses have consistently been rated between “very good” and “excellent”. We look forward to presenting these courses again in 2017,’ Barnard concludes.

Southern African Light Steel Frame Building Association John Barnard C +27 (0) 83 468 1410 T +27 (0) 11 726 6111 E info@sasfa.co.za W www.sasfa.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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POOLS & WATER FEATURES BUILDING SYSTEMS

Water play and tech innovation for Africa 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

Photo by Crystal Lagoons

About Crystal Lagoons

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 everexpanding international presence, this award-winning firm has over 300 urban, tourist, public and industrial projects in different stages of development in 60 countries; and offices in the US, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Spain, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, Turkey, China and Chile, and soon Canada, Russia, Panama, India and Germany. The worldwide demand for the technology has grown exponentially and, after identifying South Africa as its steppingstone to the rest of the continent, Crystal Lagoons has opened a regional office in Cape Town.

Technology for industrial and potable water 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 low-cost water desalination and purification. It is also developing other industrial applications, for example for the desalination industry, where the innovative water treatment technology allows considerably reducing reverse osmosis costs

• This award-winning firm, with its outstanding global growth in less than seven years of operation, has over 300 projects in different stages of development in 60 countries. • In the US alone, there are more than 12 projects in development, and more than 35 projects in negotiation with an estimated value of more than US$20 billion. • Crystal Lagoons has opened a regional office in Cape Town, announcing millionaire business projections in Africa. • Crystal Lagoons holds two Guinness World Records for the largest crystalline lagoons in the world. • Crystal Lagoons’ distinctive, innovative technology is patented in 160 countries. • Low construction and maintenance costs, combined with low energy consumption make each Crystal Lagoon an excellent proposition for property investors and developers, one that has triggered a revolution in the worldwide real estate industry. • New industrial patents for Crystal Lagoons have been obtained with Green Fast Track in the US, a preferred treatment for its great ecological contribution. • The company’s unrivalled innovations all began with influential scientist and entrepreneur, Fernando Fischmann, who founded Crystal Lagoons. Both Fischmann and the world-renowned company he has built have been the recipients of numerous awards.

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Building Systems POOLS & WATER FEATURES

Photo by Crystal Lagoons

and providing desalination at very low costs. Other applications relate to water treatment processes for the mining industry, and the direct infiltration of water into underground aquifers. Crystal Lagoons is the only firm in the world that is able to offer this innovative technology that enables the economically viable development of giant crystalline lagoons suitable for swimming and the practice of water sports. These immense bodies of water are an irreplaceable amenity for real estate and tourist projects worldwide, as they add differentiating value and have caused a revolution in the worldwide real estate industry. These giant crystalline lagoons only need water to compensate evaporation, and have a water consumption level of approximately half a park and up to 30 times lower than a golf course. Additionally, they use up to 100 times fewer chemicals than traditional disinfection and drinking water systems, and only 2% of the energy required by conventional filtering technologies.

development in San Alfonso del Mar, Chile, was named the world’s largest (eight hectares) manmade crystalline lagoon by the Guinness World Records. Since then, this honour has been surpassed with a second Guinness World Record for an even larger, 12.5-hectare lagoon, which is the main attraction of the Citystars Sharm El Sheikh tourist development, located in the middle of the desert in one of Egypt’s most luxurious coastal areas. The project productively uses brackish water derived from underground aquifers in the desert, which would otherwise have no use. These pioneering heights have been achieved thanks to Crystal Lagoons’ unique, innovative technology, which is patented in 160 countries. Its breakthrough innovations permit the economically and ecologically sustainable development of crystalline lagoons of unlimited size that are suitable for swimming and water sports. The massive lagoons are ideal for kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, and sailing in a safe and fun environment.

Sights on Africa Crystal Lagoons intends to achieve notable success in various African territories based on a substantial track record in other parts of the world, and looks to contribute to local African economies through its recreational and industrial applications. The company and its products first rose to international prominence in 2007 when its iconic

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Crystal Lagoons South Africa - Regional Manager, Alastair Sinclair E asinclair@crystal-lagoons.com W www.crystal-lagoons.com W www.fernandofischmann.com

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Building Systems Walls & Cladding

Enhancements with an old-style theme A leading manufacturer and designer of cast-stone products has launched a new cladding product to its expanding range of engineered products ‘We recently launched a new cladding product to our expanding range of engineered products – the Klompie Cladding,’ says Andrew Cyprianos, Managing Director of Revelstone, a leading Capebased manufacturer and designer of cast-stone products. The product is designed to look like the traditional clay Klompie brick but is more consistent in size and colour. ‘It is also easier to install, which makes it an attractive option to use on any feature wall, archway, braai/fire area, veranda or as edging on steps.’

Enhance to the home

of Revelstone’s standard 15-colour range, making it a versatile and attractive alternative for designers. The cladding range is available in two sizes – both 225 x 35mm, but in two depths of 30 and 75mm. Andrew Cyprianos founded Revelstone in 1993. He carefully identified a niche in both the domestic and commercial markets for customised cast-stone products, and Revelstone was born. Later his son, Alex, joined him and they combined their individual talents, substantial concrete experience, and their passion for the business into Revelstone as it is today. ‘Our core focus has always been on product innovation and customer service,’ says Cyprianos.

Enhance any area in your home by creating a traditional old-styled theme. The Klompie Cladding is suitable for interior and exterior use in your home, office or landscaping area. The Klompie Cladding is currently available in any

Revelstone T +27 (0) 21 761 9739 W www.revelstone.co.za

Photos by Revelstone

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Building Systems Windows & DOORS

Windows to the world A leading window and door manufacturer offers an overview on the most popular types of windows available on the market today. There is an incredibly wide selection of windows available to suit virtually any function and personal taste. Cobus Lourens from leading windows and door manufacturer, Swartland, explains: ‘Windows perform very important functional duties. They aid in ventilation, letting natural light in and connecting the interior with the outdoors. They also make a big impact in the overall aesthetics and visual appeal of any building and should be chosen with care.’ He notes that whether the windows you choose are off-the-shelf, or custom-built, the vast majority of windows can be classified into a few different groups depending on their configuration. Cobus provides an overview on the most popular styles:

Top hung windows

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The sliding sash window Sliding sash windows feature two movable panels, or sashes, that slide vertically to open and close the window. They can open wide from either the top or the bottom, but they remain inside the frame so they don’t protrude out to the exterior or interior of the house. On a single-hung window, only the bottom part of the window operates while the top part remains stationary. ‘Sliding sash windows are a timeless classic that will never date,’ notes Cobus. ‘Drawing inspiration from the Victorian era, modern sliding sash windows complement both modern and traditional architecture equally well. Although their style is classic in its appeal, Swartland’s modern sliding sash windows boast excellent energy efficiency ratings.’

Photos by Swartland

Also known as awning windows, top hung windows are hinged at the top of the frame while the bottom of the window opens by swinging outwards. When open, the glass pane slopes downwards and can be left open when it rains, which is great for ventilation.

‘Top hung windows are a great choice for high or bathroom windows as they offer partial ventilation while still maintaining privacy if obscure glazing is used,’ explains Cobus.

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Windows & DOORS BUILDING SYSTEMS

The mock sliding sash window Mock Sash Windows open in the same way as normal top-hung awning windows but, when closed, they offer the same visual appeal as traditional sliding sash windows. Cobus notes: ‘We have two different types of mock sash windows – the Cape Mock Sash, which has been styled on windows in traditional Cape Dutch architecture, and the Box Mock Sash window, which boasts a thicker wooden frame for a more robust aesthetic. Both look just like traditional sliding sash windows when closed, but are available at much more affordable price points.’

Full pane window As their name implies, full pane windows offer minimal obstruction to any outdoor views. They come in a variety of configurations, from single- to double-, and triple-pane formats, but all of them boast large panes with slender frames. These windows are mainly side hung, except if there is as small top opener, which will be top-hung. Cobus notes: ‘Full pane windows are the ideal choice if you want to maximise your outdoor views and create a seamless flow between your home’s indoor and outdoor spaces.”

Horizontal gliding windows These windows boast large panes or sashes, which slide open horizontally for maximum ventilation and minimal obstruction of any views. ‘Forming part of

the design of the wall itself while maximising access to the outdoors, horizontal gliding windows are a revolutionary design that can be used in areas where traditional side-hung windows would have been awkward to operate such as behind the kitchen sink or in a stairwell for example. The company’s horizontal gliding windows boast a high-end gliding mechanism to ensure effortless ease of operation and are designed so that they can’t be removed from the outside to maximise security,’ he explains.

Small pane windows Otherwise known as cottage pane windows, small pane windows boast a multi-pane window format where each sash is usually divided into two columns and five rows of glazing. For the most part, these windows are side-hung, and come in single, double, three and four sash formats. However, they can be easily made up to fit any space required. Cobus notes that although the multi-pane design can get in the way of outdoor views, they remain a great choice for security as hidden metal burglar bars can be built-into the dividing wooden frames of these windows making them incredibly secure.

Swartland Cobus Lourens W www.swartland.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DÃ©cor

MATERIALS Adhesives.........................................115 Bricks & Paving.............................117 Cement & Concrete.....................124 Coatings.........................................127 Insulation.......................................130 Timber & Decking...........................135

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Adhesives MATERIALS

The manufacturer of a popular range of sealants, adhesives and other construction materials has cracked the problem of painting wet onto a still-wet sealant. This promises to solve one of the most eternal time wasting and finicky problems for formal industry and DIY enthusiasts. A time-saving product, Wet on Wet sealant, has been developed to be over painted immediately after application, while still wet, with water-based and alkyd paints. It saves a huge amount of time, normally taken up by waiting for the sealant to dry prior to painting. Wet on Wet is a high-quality emulsionbased sealant that does not discolour or cause the paint to crack when painting soon after applying. Cracking often occurs when painting immediately over standard acrylic paintable sealants. Wet on Wet remains flexible after curing. It is manufactured by Dutch-based Den Braven, and supplied from its South African operation. Wet on Wet’s compatibility with paint is ensured by Den Braven’s proven UCA (Unique Compatibility Additives) technology. It was developed by selecting specialised additives and raw materials through dedicated research and development with paint manufacturers and put through stringent technical testing at the manufacturer’s Centre of Excellence in Holland. Wet on Wet is ideal for connecting joints requiring quick over painting such as between internal stairs, walls, ceilings, cornices, skirting boards, window sills and wooden window frames.

Photos by Den Braven

Cracking the problem of wet on wet

‘Save time and money – do it right the first time with Den Braven’s range of superior sealant and adhesive solutions used in construction, plumbing, glazing, automotive, woodwork, flooring and the painting industry, as well as by DIY enthusiasts around the world,’ says a Den Braven company spokesperson.

Den Braven South Africa T +27 (0) 11 792 3830 Johannesburg T + 27 (0) 31 579 2375 Durban T +27 (0) 21 552 9674 Cape Town E sales@denbraven.co.za W www.denbraven.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Bricks & Paving MATERIALS

New machines for brick manufacturer

Photo by Babcock

Using innovative technologies to deliver affordable, sustainable and quality products to their customers is the hallmark of this Western Cape brick manufacturer.

The new Volvo machines in action at Claytile.

Claytile, a member of the Heavy Clay Products Group, is the largest independent producer of clay building bricks in the Western Cape. It has a production capacity of around eight million bricks per month and a commitment to producing consistently high-quality bricks. Over the last two and a half years, Claytile has replaced its existing fleet of machinery with five new Volvo machines, supplied by equipment distributors, Babcock International Group. Babcock has been the exclusive distributor for Volvo Construction Equipment in southern Africa since 2000. The equipment supplier’s expert local knowledge, reliable availability of parts, modern servicing facilities, and commitment to after-sales service and support were some of the main reasons why Claytile selected it when machinery replacement became necessary. Julian De La Hunt, Managing Director of Claytile, says that the company has had a working relationship with Babcock for the past three years and has always been highly satisfied with the service received from Babcock. ‘Our machinery runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so of particular importance to us was the after-sales support provided by Babcock and the high levels of uptime associated with the Volvo brand,’ says De La Hunt. Considering Claytile’s substantial production capacity, it is of utmost importance to the brick producer that any unnecessary downtime is avoided and that replacement components are readily available.

‘Our ongoing relationship with Babcock, together with the high levels of safety associated with Volvo machinery and the preventative maintenance procedures offered by Babcock, sealed the deal,’ continues De La Hunt. Babcock’s preventative maintenance approach ensures the supply of spare parts and guarantees the possibility of repairing all breakdowns within optimum time, ensuring reliability and sustainability for their customers. The five Volvo machines purchased by Claytile that are being used in their modern, automated plant are the EC210 excavator to break stockpile for blending and other general work in the factory; the L90F and L120F wheel loaders for loading of raw material; the L150G wheel loader for distance running and loading of materials into the hopper; and the SDLG LG958 for general work. The Volvo EC210 excavator was selected for its industry-leading fuel economy and legendary Volvo cab, while the F-series wheel loaders were selected for their low fuel consumption, quick and easy maintenance and high resale value.

Babcock Colin Van Blerk, Regional Sales Manager, Babcock Equipment E colin.vanblerk@babcock.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Bricks & Paving MATERIALS

SAIA Awards – sponsored by top clay brick supplier

Photo by Gareth Griffiths Imaging

In September, leading role players in South African architecture gathered at Shine Studios in Braamfontein for the presentation of the 2015/2016 Corobrik SAIA Awards of Merit for Excellence in Architecture to shining stars of the profession over the past season.

Silo Number 1 V&A Waterfront by Van der Merwe Miszewski Architects in association with Rick Brown Associates.

During the past season, the seven best designs and a book earned Awards of Excellence – the highest accolade to be given to an architectural project in South Africa since the inception of the programme in 1990. A further seven projects received Awards of Merit, which were first instituted in 1999 to recognise good design or a substantial achievement in the industry. In addition, 16 commendations were awarded for remarkable design. Musa Shangase of Corobrik said that the developing rainbow nation, South Africa, presents unique challenges for the architectural profession which, in turn, offers opportunities for thinking out

of the box and for innovative and unconventional solutions. According to Kevin Bingham, Awards Convenor and SAIA Vice President: ‘We have honoured 31 projects because the standard of design warrants it and because this year we had so many entries to choose from – a record 66 – and the most received in the 26-year lifespan of the awards.’ The eight winners of the Awards of Excellence were House La Lucia, Durban, submitted by designworkshop:sa; the Military Health Base Depot in Tshwane, designed by Jeremie Malan Architects; New residence in Waterkloof, Tshwane, entered by Slee & Co Architects; residence at 79 Brommersvlei

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MATERIALS Bricks & Paving

Eclectic ZA Wilhelmiens: A shared Dutch-built heritage in South Africa. Left: House van der Watt, Waterkloof, Pretoria, by Slee & Co. Below: House La Lucia, KZN: The team at designworkshop: sa described their award-winning house at La Lucia in this way.

Photo by Elsa Young

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Photo by Dennis Gilbert

Road, Cape Town, put forward by Metropolis; 17 Glen Avenue, Cape Town, designed by Seali Mahoney; Krynauw Nel Associates’ design of the ‘Malapa’ Fossil Cave & Visitors Centre at the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng; Number 1 Silo: Allan Gray headquarters at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, submitted by Van der Merwe Miszewski Architects in association with Rick Brown Associates; and a book, Eclectic ZA Wilhelmiens, submitted by Fisher & Clarke. ‘This is a star-studded event where we recognise South Africa’s foremost architects,’ said Obert Chakarisa, CEO of SAIA. ‘The architectural profession has reason to celebrate when we see designs being produced of the calibre of the entries we have received this year, many of which easily merit the description of being world-class.’

South African Institute of Architects T +27 (0) 11 782 1315 W www.saia.org.za Corobrik W www.corobrik.co.za

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MATERIALS ADVERTORIAL

The Paving Warehouse Having been in the paving manufacturing industry for well over 30 years, Andrew and Debbie Carey are well qualified as owners of The Paving Warehouse. The company has mastered the art of simulated rock and is no run of the mill stone mason. According to Debbie Carey, the Paving Warehouse is South Africa’s leading manufacturer of simulated rock and, with applications both indoors and outdoors, each stone cast is a classic. ‘Our goal is to provide the best possible products at amazing prices. We pride ourselves on having a wide range of products for both the commercial and domestic markets. Some of our most prestigious jobs have been for Monte Casino, Carnival City, The Blue Mosque in Midrand, and Rosebank Mall.’ The company offers products for driveways, gardens, cladding, fire pits, bomas and various landscaping products, as well as patios and pools. ‘We really have all the products to make a home or office park look incredible,’ she adds. With an impressive compressive strength of between 3 to 40MPa, absorption levels below 5.7%, and shrinkages of a miniscule 0.05%, the company assures its clients that its Wonder Rock classic range will not only look good but also handle a load.

Flagship Range The company proudly manufactures the entire Wonder Rock range. This brand has a 40-year pedigree and a solid track record in the supply of quality products. The range consists of: • Driveway cobbles • Flagstones and tiles • Stone wall cladding • Interlock paving

Andrew and Debbie Carey

using state-of-the-art equipment – is justifiably proud of his successes. ‘Our floor tiles/cobbles in Monte Casino look as beautiful today as they did 12 years ago when they were laid, and show no wear whatsoever. We pride ourselves on our quality and service. In most products we also exceed the specifications laid down by the South African Bureau of Standards.’ The Paving Warehouse has a great showroom in Midrand. It offers a wealth of ideas, including live chickens for the entertainment of clients and their families. The company informs To Build that its staff are well qualified and happy to assist clients in making the correct choice for their projects.

A case history of success

Twelve years ago, the company supplied floor tiles and cobbles to the site of the then-new Monte Casino development. The owner, Andrew Carey – with over 30 years’ experience in the manufacture of these products

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The Paving Warehouse T +27 (0)11 310 2380 E frontdesk@thepavingwarehous.co.za W www.the pavingwarehouse.co.za

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The Paving Warehouse is a one stop shop for all your paving requirements. Driveway paving, patios, pools, fire pits, bomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, romantic courtyards. We have it all. Visit our showroom in Midrand.

INTERLOCK PAVERS 60mm & 80mm

Cnr Setter & West Roads, Midrand Industrial Park T 011 310 2380 F 011 310 2389 E frontdesk@thepavingwarehouse.co.za

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MATERIALS Cement & Concrete

Screeding – a leading manufacturer’s tips

Photo by PPC Cement

Serviceability failures of sand-cement screed flooring are, unfortunately, fairly common. Typical problems include de-bonding, cracking, crazing, softness, poor abrasion resistance, and unacceptable surface finish. Failures In all cases, failures can be traced to one or more of the following: • Incorrect application • Inadequate specifications • Poor materials selection • Incorrect mix proportions • Poor site practice and bad habits Incorrect application Sand-cement screed flooring is suitable for light duty use only. The most common application is as a levelling layer under a type of covering, for example tiles, carpet and vinyl. Sand-cement screeding is not suitable for use under abrasive traffic or heavy point loads. Concrete toppings are recommended for use under abrasive conditions.

“Concrete toppings are recommended for use under abrasive conditions.” Table 1 of SABS 0109-2:1992 ‘Finishes to concrete floors’, gives detailed recommendations on the intricacies of screed flooring. What is not generally realised is that in terms of material costs a 30MPa concrete topping is often cheaper than sand-cement screeding, besides being much harder wearing. Specifications – sand-cement mixes Traditionally, sand-cement mixes have always been specified in terms of mix proportions by volume and

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not by performance. This is still almost a universal practice in South Africa. SABS 0109 specifies mix proportions for sandcement screed flooring as being one 50kg bag of cement to 130 litres of sand measured damp and loose. The reason for this is that sands bulk appreciably when damp and serious inconsistencies will occur if the sand is ‘batched’ by volume without due regard to its moisture content. For example, the mass of 130 litres of dry sand is about 210kg, while the mass of the sand component of 130 litres of damp sand is about 150kg. This Code of Practice (SABS 0109) gives detailed recommendations for finishes for concrete floors and is well worth consulting.

Materials selection Cements: The following cements are suitable for use in sand-cement screed flooring: • CEM I • CEM IIA • CEM IIB • CEM IIIA Strength grade should be 32.5N MPa or higher, bearing in mind that the lower grade cements have lower early strengths. The cements listed above are arranged in order of increasing sensitivity to curing.

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Cement & Concrete MATERIALS Chemical admixtures and additives Generally speaking, admixtures are not commonly used in screeding. Sometimes bonding aids, or waterproofing agents, or pigments are used. The use of pigments is becoming more common and it is strongly recommended that the manufacturer’s instructions are closely followed. Bonding aids must also be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Sand Sand should be a well-graded concrete sand of average to low water requirement. Plaster sands should not be used as they tend to have higher water requirements – the higher the water requirement the weaker the mix and the greater the drying shrinkage.

Mix proportions Mix proportions in the literature vary from 100 to 130 litres of damp sand per 50kg bag of cement. As mentioned above, SABS 0190 recommends 130 litres of sand. Sufficient water should be added to make a plastic, workable, cohesive mix – a little drier than mortar or plaster (drier mixes may be used if mechanical compacting equipment is used).

• Floating neat cement powder into the surface to dry it and ‘improve’ the finish • Mixing too much screed mix at one time. Screed mix should be used within an hour of mixing • Inaccurate and inconsistent batching

Testing floor screeds Because of the problems experienced with sandcement screed flooring, a unique test method was developed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in the UK.

Basis of the BRE Screed Test BRE in the UK developed the ‘BRE Screed Tester’, which is a penetrometer-type device where a 4kg mass is dropped four times at the same spot from a height of one metre onto a circular foot piece. The penetration of the foot piece into the screed is measured and compared to various acceptance limits.

To Build thanks PPC Cement for the very helpful advice from its website that they have allowed us to share with readers.

Poor practices – to be avoided Poor site practice is the cause of many screeding problems and should be avoided to ensure project endurance and quality. Some of these practices are: • Incorrect use of bonding aids • Poor surface preparation, dirty concrete • Making the mix too dry and not being able to compact the screed fully • Floating a cement-water slurry into the surface of the screed to ‘improve’ the finish

“130 litres of damp sand contains 150kg of sand only. 130 litres of dry sand contains a full 210kg of sand. Care must be taken in mixing sand/cement for screeding.”

PPC Cement Daniel van der Merwe Architect – for professional inquiries T +27 (0) 11 386 9000 E daniel.vandermerwe@ppc.co.za W www.ppc.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Coatings MATERIALS

Colours 2017 Planning interior and exterior projects for next year? A leading producer trend setter, shares its 2017 colour forecast with To Build’s readers. Anne Roselt is Plascon’s Global Colour Manager and has been the driving force behind the company’s renowned Colour Forecast since its inception. ‘Every year we travel around the globe in search of the latest colour trends; and we’re so excited to share them with our customers,’ she enthuses. ‘We want to really inspire people through the Colour Forecast and help them to bring trend inspiration to life in their own homes.’ Plascon not only has an expert understanding of our relationships with colour but also how to make using it easy and inspiring in any space. It’s about combining the science behind innovative paint with the evocative power of colour, all grounded by a deep understanding of the South African culture, style and environment,’ notes Roselt. Colour Hive (formerly Global Colour Research) is a collaborative partner, providing global trend insight to the project. They are the thought leaders behind the renowned MIX magazine – the go‐to resource for designers around the world when it comes to colour. This is the second year Colour Hive has collaborated with Plascon on the Forecast. ‘An international perspective is valuable to a project like this. By combining this global insight with our understanding of the local tastes and lifestyles, we can create something that is inspirational and useful,’ Roselt points out. These trends are brought to life with a palette sourced from the company’s colour system and expressed through carefully considered interior and inspiration imagery. Also referenced are specific décor techniques to help designers recreate the theme in their own projects.

“For 2017, the chosen colour it is ‘In the Mood’, taken from the Terrain story.”

“Every year, Plascon chooses a colour that sums up the mood in the global design landscape.”

Colour Story One: Anonymous Anonymous is about the freedom you get when you strip right back to basics and embrace the softer things in life. It’s a new kind of neutrality. This approach is simple and is a response to today’s oversaturated lives. The palette combines a lighter blue, green and pink with deeper purple, blue and black. Metallic – inspired shades complete the look and add a sense of depth to the theme. These colours are soothing and calm, giving us space to pause in a busy world. Bringing this story to life is all about creating an atmospheric feeling with colour. We’re seeing a weightless use of colour for minimal simplicity and interest being created with décor techniques like twotoned walls to ground spaces.

Colour Story Two: Terrain Terrain is an earthy theme inspired by desert landscapes and colours. It takes the raw forms of these places and interprets them into a warm and easy-to-use palette made up of oranges and yellows balanced by warm neutrals and a mineral green and blue duo. The trick to using Terrain in a space is to be sparing with the yellow and orange most of the time. Concentrate on the greys and neutrals first to provide a subtle backdrop and then use the other colours as a more energetic accent. To bring Terrain to life, the theme suggests using bands of colour to create bold statements on feature walls. Neutral accents really help to complete the natural look of the theme.

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MATERIALS Coatings Colour Story Four: Pause The last theme is Pause – one for everyone who likes a sophisticated neutral look. And while it may be the most minimal and authentic at heart, it has maximum appeal thanks to a nuanced colour palette. Using hushed colours, feminine blush shades are revealed, as well as grey and blue-tinted updates on classic beiges. There’s also a metallic gold accent on hand to add a hint of luxury. This all helps to create a sense of depth and create a minimalism that is anything but boring. Bring this sophisticated theme to life using chalky colour treatments for additional texture, as well as faded finishes and colour panels. Every year, Plascon chooses a colour that sums up the mood in the global design landscape. For 2017, it is ‘In the Mood’. Taken from the Terrain story, this is a neutral colour with earthy grey and very subtle pink tints.

Prism concept

Colour Story Three: Prism

“Contrast the deeper colours with the lighter ones for a fresh, contemporary feeling.”

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Photos by Plascon

Prism is a youthful and contemporary theme inspired by digital art and features layers of colour being used to create a sense of depth. There’s nothing serious about this story – it’s all about having fun with interiors. This is probably the boldest theme in terms of paint techniques and it makes use of prism-inspired and scattered geometric effects on walls. Bands of colour are also used in some places, together with perspective designs to visually bring the colour off the wall. The trick is to be bold with colour but remember to contrast the deeper colours with the lighter ones for a fresh, contemporary feeling.

In the Mood – colour 2017

Plascon W www.plascon.co.za

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MATERIALS Insulation

Industry landscape – shift from products to systems The Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association SA (TIPSASA) is the voluntary industry association for all role players in the industry. It plays a key self-regulatory, technical and oversight role on behalf of its members. TIPSASA is affiliated to the Southern African Association for Energy. Des Schetler of TIPSASA shares insights into some of the changes in the energy efficiency landscape.

New approaches New approaches to building efficiency are needed to stem overall growth in building energy use. For example, the current external wall construction in South Africa is a double-skin masonry wall with no cavity, plastered internally, or rendered externally. It achieves an R-Value of 0.35m² K/W. A double masonry wall with a 50mm air cavity containing a 40mm EPS sheet achieves an R-Value of 1.04m² K/W, whereas a new revolutionised profiled insulation system performs the best on the market with a system R-Value of 1.36m² K/W and is easy to build. No cavity! The cavity is already included in the profiled sheet. This is only one system approach that could make a substantial difference to the overall thermal performance of the building.

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A double masonry wall with a 50mm air cavity containing a 40mm EPS sheet. Photo by TIPSASA

Nearly all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the residential and commercial sectors can be attributed to energy use in buildings. The building envelope is the interface between the interior of the building and the outdoor environment, including the walls, roof, and foundation. By acting as a thermal barrier, the building envelope plays an important role in regulating interior temperatures and helps determine the amount of energy required to maintain thermal comfort. Minimising heat transfer through the building envelope is crucial for reducing the need for space heating and cooling. In cold climates, the building envelope can reduce the amount of energy required for heating; in hot climates, the building envelope can reduce the amount of energy required for cooling.

Holistic approach Obviously a holistic approach is necessary to the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB). The energy efficiency of new buildings determines the building sector’s energy consumption for far longer than other end-use sector’s components determine their sector’s efficiency. Buildings will typically be constructed to be used for many decades – in South Africa the typical lifespan of residential buildings is 30 to 40 years. Given the long lifespan of most buildings, the relative energy efficiency of new buildings will influence energy consumption for many years. Construction of buildings offers compelling opportunities for energy efficiency as decisions made during a building’s design phase entail smaller costs with greater potential energy savings relative to later intervention.

TIPSASA T 0861 000 334 W www.tipsasa.co.za

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Saint-Gobain Isover Product Catalogue

High-performance insulation products Saint-Gobain Isover is the global leader in manufacturing highperformance insulation products for residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Buildings typically account for 40% of all energy consumed in countries and by insulating with glass wool it is possible to significantly improve the energy efficiency and comfort of buildings. Isover manufactures thermal and acoustic insulation solutions that support the design of energyefficient construction that provides comfort for users while helping to protect the environment. Our range of well-known insulation brands, such as Aerolite and Sagex, meet the technical requirements of the residential, non-residential and technical markets. Isover’s insulation can save 100 times the energy consumed and CO2 emitted in their manufacture, transport and disposal processes. Saint-Gobain Isover manufactures insulation materials from glass wool, mineral wool and expanded polystyrene. Glass wool is made from silica sand to which recycled glass (cullet) and fluxing agents are added. It is most commonly known for insulation in ceilings of residential buildings, but we also offer products for application in dry wall systems, HVAC and airconditioning systems, pipe insulation, over purlin and commercial roof insulation, suspended ceilings, high temperature insulations, and high-performance soundproofing products.

Ultimate mineral wool is produced from finely ground and blended batch materials that are melted at 1 500°C in an electric furnace and then conditioned in a gas fired fore-hearth. Ultimate products are noncombustible and cover an entire range of operating temperatures from 300°C to 660°C required for industrial applications, typically used for insulation in large ducts, vessels, boilers, power generation, petro-chemical and industrial equipment, as well as larger curved surfaces or irregular shaped surfaces. EPS (expanded polystyrene) is a lightweight, rigid, plastic foam insulation material produced from solid beads of polystyrene. It contains no CFCs and is considered ozone friendly. EPS products are positioned for operating temperatures from -110°C to 70°C. The use of EPS for thermal insulation results in significant energy savings, drastically decreasing the emission of polluting gasses, which contribute to reducing the greenhouse gas effect. With applications ranging from flat roofs to household appliances, and even swimming pools and basement walls, EPS is a highly-versatile and economic insulation solution. Isover is a proud division of Saint-Gobain Construction Products. A market leader in all its businesses, Saint-Gobain is constantly innovating to make homes more comfortable, cost-efficient and sustainable worldwide.

Saint-Gobain Isover T +27 (0) 86 047 6837 W www.isover.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Timber & Decking MATERIALS

The Institute for Timber Construction (ITC-SA), whose vision it is to create and maintain the highest standards in the engineered timber construction industry, held its Annual General Meeting during August where it elected a new board of directors. Board members elected In compliance with the ITC-SA board-approved memorandum of incorporation, and following member nominations, the following directors were elected to serve a two-year tenure, ending in August 2018: System Directors Roly Adams Wouter van Wyk Mannie Piyackis Fabricator Directors Chris Hobson (also elected as Chairperson) Dr Pierre de Villiers (also elected as Deputy Chairperson) Lyndsay Cotton Timber Frame Directors Werner Slabbert Leon Bekker Peter Bissett Erector Director Andri Pretorius

Co-opted board members Industry Director Danie Hattingh (Master Builders Association) The newly-elected board of the ITC-SA is in place to steer the Institute in its mandate to create and maintain the highest standards in the timber construction sector in South Africa, to create a better operational and trade environment for all its members, and inform and educate consumers. Lyndsay Cotton, outgoing ITC-SA Chairman, comments: ‘While the challenging economic climate showed little respite during my four years as the ITC-SA Chairman, I am proud to say that the Institute and its members took proactive measures to adapt and grow from the situation through a number of

Photo by ITC SA

New ITC-SA board of directors elected

Above: Chris Hobson, newly elected Chairman on the Institute for Timber Construction South Africa (ITC-SA) board of directors.

initiatives including, but not limited to: research and development, education and training, membership growth, the formation of industry partnerships, public relations, and marketing.’ Cotton adds: ‘In a burgeoning era of mass commoditisation where price is king, it is more important now than ever that the Institute and its members work hard to retain their status as the leading source of information about timber construction in South Africa and as the go-to body for accessing quality, accredited suppliers and contractors in the sector. I have full faith that Chris Hobson and his newly-elected board will ensure this and more in the coming years,’ he says. Chris Hobson, incoming ITC-SA Chairman, remarks: ‘My vision for the ITC-SA is to transform and grow our membership to include all role players in the timber construction industry by creating a “need to belong” through initiatives that promote members’ commercial interests. In so doing, we aim to make the ITC-SA a focal touch point for the industry with an authoritative voice that has the agency to influence policy and legislation in support of a prosperous future for the South African timber construction industry.’ ITC-SA members are invited to contact and engage with their branch committee members and/or representatives on the board to share their expectations and vision for the Institute’s future.

Institute for Timber Construction (SA) T +27 (0) 11 974 1061 E enquiries@itc-sa.org W www.itc-sa.org issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Plan, Design, Build, Interior & Exterior DĂŠcor

SERVICES Furniture..........................................138 Plumbing & Reticulation............140 Ground Engineering Services............................................144 Air Conditioning..........................148

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Services Furniture

Rocka

Photos by North Ltd

Loop

Bau

Go North To Build reviews some chair designs by a recently-established manufacturer that clearly ‘keeps you on the edge of your seat’. North Ltd has been involved in applying creative problem solving for everything from apps to apparel. Now, the company has designed its own unique range of chairs – the Loop occasional chair, Bau barstool, and the Roca rocking chair. In many ways, the chair is the ultimate expression of functional design, and North’s interpretation is at once classic yet undecidedly modern. All chairs in the range are hand made using powder-coated, hot-rolled steel and vegetable-tanned leather that is locally sourced and supplied. Available in a combination of light green, navy and ocean blue steel, and chestnut, black or tanned leather, the chairs are lightweight and feature a clean, simple design to ensure they superbly infiltrate and complement any space from homes to hotels and any workplace seamlessly.

Established in 2014 Since North Ltd’s establishment in 2014, the company has used its design expertise for a wide array of clients to create bespoke and innovative décor items,

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as well as full spatial design concepts. These have included the Puma Sole Table – a ping pong table made with the soles of Puma shoes, transforming an old courthouse into an inviting and contemporary working space, as well as designing the offices of sports nutrition brand, USN, with sporting equipment as furniture. ‘When we were designing items for clients, we discovered that there was a gap in the market for these types of objects. We wanted to create furniture that was of exceptional quality and that added a twist on the ordinary while being affordable for consumers. The key for us was to design something that we would want in our own homes,’ explains North Ltd’s Managing Director & Designer, Shaun Bond. North Ltd will soon be adding to its furniture offering with a collection of tailor-made tables.

North Ltd E oliver@northltd.co.za W www.northltd.co.za

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Services Plumbing & reticulation

Photos by Cobra Watertech

Corporates help schools save water Cobra in collaboration with Sasol have helped eMbalenhle schools to save water and thousands of Rands in spiralling water bills The company concerned assists not only multinational and blue chip clients with professional technical plumbing advice, but those less fortunate in our community as well. Cobra was recently seconded to assist in the Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) War on Leaks campaign, and through working with other partners, helped a number of rural schools address major water leaks that were costing them heavily both financially and in terms of wasted water. “We were approached by Sasol late last year to partner and assist in the War on Leaks initiative in the Govan Mbeki Municipality in Secunda where 18 rural schools were being assessed for water leaks, with the idea of addressing these and making the schools leak-free. We concentrated on six schools as a pilot project, and began by doing a comprehensive audit on the schools and the functioning of their plumbing and sanitaryware,” explains Cobra inland specifications manager Andrew Camphausen.

Leaking freely The results were shocking. Every school had leaking toilets. Leaking and/or stolen taps and sanitaryware were common; urinal and flushing systems ran continuously; some schools experienced flooding as a result of faulty and leaking taps and toilets; and one school only had toilets in its bathrooms, everything else had been stolen. This dismal situation was costing the schools dearly – around R13 000 per month in water bills. To effectively and sustainably address these challenges, a mechanical engineering company was

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employed to locate the water leaks at each school. Using GPS-activated water data loggers that record consumption over a period of time, water use was measured. “These results were equally alarming. One school was using more water per hour than a normal three-bedroomed residential household uses in a month. This could be due to a massive leak in the ground, or toilets continuously leaking or flushing, or a combination of both,” Camphausen adds.

Plumbing Using these results, a plumber was employed to do the necessary repairs. Community members were employed to assist with the installations and as part of this process, are being properly trained to eventually become plumbers themselves. “It was very gratifying for us at Cobra to have played a role in such an important project. The implications for the successful outcome of this initiative are significant not only for these schools but for the environment as well,” Camphausen concludes. War on Leaks is a DWS initiative to reduce high water demand caused by domestic leaks. The first phase included the pilot project involving Cobra, while the second phase will see the approach approved in phase one rolled out to all 18 schools in the Govan Mbeki Municipality.

Cobra W www.cobra.co.za

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Services Plumbing & Reticulation

Restoring dignity in Diepsloot

Atlas Plastics recently joined the Community Plumbing Challenge held in Diepsloot, Johannesburg, with the goal of replacing run-down and dilapidated toilets and providing a solution to improve basic sanitation and boost human dignity. The Wash-O-Toi system proved its potential both as a replacement for run-down toilets, and an ideal installation to reduce water wastage and consumption in private and public households. Atlas Plastics partnered with New Eye Deas Marketing Concepts, which has been involved with the construction of affordable housing projects for the past 20 years to address the need for a practical, cost-effective and long-term solution to reduce the volume of clean water that is wasted daily through flushing of toilets.

The Wash-O-Toi system was born A wash trough is connected to a 130-litre holding container and then to a toilet. The waste water (which needs to be free from oils) is disposed of into the container and is used to flush the toilet. Simple but efficient. Proven in the Community Plumbing Challenge, the system is installed quite simply in households and public facilities, providing a high-quality, durable product that can withstand the harsh South African environment and allow the reuse of grey water for flushing toilets. On any given day, clean, life-saving drinking water is typically used for washing bodies for personal hygiene, drinking and cooking, washing clothing, general household cleaning, washing dishes and toilet flushing, which is the major cause of waste. According to the manufacturer, The Wash-O-Toi System can save up to 50% of a household’s daily water.

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Photo by Atlas Plastics

For thousands of South Africans, access to basic sanitation is far removed from daily normality and is one the causes of disease and ill health. Statistics on household water consumption in South Africa • 94% of a household’s water is used for washing and toilet flushing. During normal household washing and toilet flushing, the average household in an affordable housing development will use 280 litres of precious drinking water per day or 8 400 litres per month. • 50% of household water use can be saved to relieve the load on sewer systems. • The system’s wash trough/cistern installation water can be collected from a wash trough, basin or down pipe from the roof and used to flush the toilet. This could save a household 140 litres of water per day or 4 200 litres per month. ‘The installation of the Wash-O-Toi system to 1 000 households or more could save in excess of 4.2-million litres of water per month,’ says a company spokesperson.

Solving the ongoing problem Without such a grey water reuse system, millions of litres of healthy drinking water are lost through washing and flushing of toilets, impacting on the nation’s sewer systems that are already under pressure because of the volume of waste water exceeding capacity. This often leads to unhealthy water overflowing back into healthy water supplies. Treatment of waste water also requires costly investment in waste water treating plants.

Atlas Plastics E info@atlasplastics.co.za W www.atlasplastics.co.za

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Services Ground Engineering

Stabilisation underway at Groblersdal Mall

The Groblersdal Mall is a project by Twin City Development benefiting the residents of the Sekhukhune District of Limpopo. A small farming town, Groblersdal is South Africa’s second largest irrigation settlement because the nearby Loskop Dam creates a manmade floodplain for cultivation. The problem facing DG Consulting Engineers was inadequate compaction achievable in the construction of two loading platforms for the mall. The was due to low bearing soils with high clay content, and the influence of a nearby irrigation channel resulting in saturation of the soil. Kaytech’s Danie Herbst advised the engineers to specify bidim geotextile and TriAx geogrid. The combination of these provide separation and subgrade stabilisation for the loading platform. Bidim is a continuous filament, nonwoven, needle punched geotextile manufactured from 100% recycled polyester. The needle process imparts several advantages including appreciable thickness, high porosity and an important high-drainage capacity, both transverse and normal to the plane. Compared to biaxial geogrids, the triangular geometry of TriAx provides near uniform radial stiffness through 360°, making it a truly multidirectional product with near isotopic properties. Manufactured from rigid polypropylene, the unique characteristics of TriAx allow for reduced aggregate layer thickness, which not only reduces the quantity of aggregate required, but also the volume of material to be excavated. When combined with a suitable aggregate, TriAx produces a mechanically stabilised layer of unsurpassed performance. For the design proposal, Kaytech consulted Tensar, the manufacturer of TriAx geogrids. The engineer

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Photo by Kaytech

A major cost saving for a property developer has been implemented involving a highly-effective and economical solution. The site is the newly developing Groblersdal Mall.

The successfully stabilised trial section

received the comfort of product performance testing in trial areas until the necessary compaction was generated. The final solution specified bidim A2 and TriAx TX 160 with a fill layer of between 600mm and one metre for the first platform. Subsequently, Jodan Construction, a Centurion-based contractor, installed 5 400m2 each of bidim A2 and TriAx TX 160 with excellent compaction being achieved. Kaytech uses a select post-consumer PET recycle stream for its textile. When processed expertly by companies such as Kaytech, recycled PET creates products that meets and sometimes outperform geotextiles produced from virgin polymer. This is due to the specific characteristics of the polymer type derived from PET beverage bottles being better suited to geotextile applications. The equivalent of over 15 000 recycled PET beverage bottles were used in the 5 400m2 of bidim used in the Groblersdal Mall project. It is envisaged that by completion of the mall, many more thousands of square metres of these highperformance products will have been supplied. The alternative solution, involving the complete removal of dump rock for the construction of the platforms, would have resulted in exorbitant costs. Once the 35 000m2 Groblersdal Mall is in operation, the small town of Groblersdal should experience local property value increases and the generation of income and development.

Kaytech Engineered Fabrics T +27 (0) 31 717 2300 W www.kaytech.co.za

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Ground Engineering Services

Case history â&#x20AC;&#x201C; saving a sinking home Following occupancy of a residence, a number of structural cracks were exposed in the bedroom walls above lintel level on the first floor of the house, on its eastern and northern faĂ§ades. The Mulbarton home consists of a basement level, ground floor entertainment level with a patio, and the upper bedrooms level. Cracks were exposed above lintel level on the first floor of the house so the architect instructed the home owner to excavate three test holes next to the foundation. Within one week this caused a further 20mm settlement of the existing foundations. The test holes revealed that the foundations had been positioned 200mm below the ground floor slab and the top of the concrete had been concealed by

a narrow layer of screed at surface level. The soil below the foundations consisted of loose broken sections of excavated rock varying in size. This loose base material had not been compacted. The urgent solution required to restore the integrity of the soil base to prevent any possible further instability and subsidence without damaging the garden and interior of the ground floor level.

Technology applied Tests carried out by Uretek Geo-Systems located solid rock varying in depth from 3.6m under the wall foundations to 2.2m under the column bases. The patented multilevel technology of Deep Injection was applied where the load bearing capacity of the weak soil was restored, by injecting structural resin at varying levels along 30m of foundations and three column bases. Consolidation and densification of the soil was verified by using a rotating laser level and so receivers mounted on the walls and columns recorded the minimum lift of 0.5mm was achieved.

Outcome

Photo by Uretek, South Africa

Within the budget constraints the objectives were met without causing any damage to the existing internal floor and wall finishes, nor the garden and patio. With a team of five technicians, the project was successfully carried out in one day as opposed to conventional piling methods that would have caused extensive damage to the floors, wall finishes and the garden in a laborious time consuming process.

Uretek Geo-Systems (SA) (Pty) Ltd T +27 (0) 11 238 7154 E info@uretek.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Services Air conditioning

Singita: A place of cool miracles

The problem in this paradise was climate control: unsightly and noisy air conditioning units that were disturbing the peace of the bush and battling to cope with the heat of Northern Kruger. Last year, a wellknown national air conditioning company was asked visit the lodge and evaluate the problem. Vicki Murray from Fourways Airconditioning elaborates.

makes for a very volatile power supply, especially when switching between the two sources. ‘However, the Samsung DVM units have run 24 hours a day since installation and there have been no reliability issues whatsoever. The lodge owner has now asked Demos to replace all the existing other-brand smaller aircon units with Samsung units,’ says Murray.

54°C in summer

60% power saving

With ambient temperatures reaching up to 54°C in summer, a very special solution was required. Following Fourways’ investigation, it was recommended that the existing ducted splits be removed and replaced with Samsung DVM S units with desert-specification outdoor units. Each lodge would have one DVM S unit with one 28kW ducted indoor system connected to it, with separate over/ under voltage relays for each system. The contractor, Johnny Demos from Cudo Point, was in total agreement with Fourways’ recommendation and Phase 1 of the installation – comprising 18 lodges – was completed by February 2016. The result is that the air conditioning is now virtually soundless and exponentially increases the comfort level of these lodges and guest satisfaction.

Total off-grid operation What makes this particular installation so distinctive is that the Singita lodge is completely off-grid, making use only of solar and generator power. Obviously this

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Photo by Fourways Airconditioning

Singita Lebombo Lodge, located on the banks of the N’wanetsi River, is one of the most exclusive lodges in Kruger Park. With 21 luxurious glass-enclosed units overlooking the river, this Afrochic lodge is a paradise patronised by film stars and royalty. Its name means ‘place of miracles’, and a near-miracle was required to solve a tricky air conditioning problem.

Singita originally appointed an electrical engineer to set up its power grid, specifying the size of the generators and PV solar banks. When he came to check the power utilisation of the Samsung DVM units he could hardly believe his eyes – the Samsung DVM S units were actually saving 60% of the power previously allocated for air conditioning services. Truly a remarkable ‘miracle’ at Singita! Demos is a happy man because he is now the only air conditioning contractor allowed at Singita Lebombo’s site for the next five years, taking care of all their air conditioning and refrigeration needs. He is also looking forward to carrying out refurbishments at other Singita lodges.

Singita Lebombo W www.singita.com/lodge/singita-lebombo-lodge Fourways Airconditioning W www.samsungair.co.za Cudo Point C +27 (0) 82 610 6163

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GREEN BUILDING Green IT Smart Cities.....................152 Alternative Energy......................154 Opinion............................................158 Alternative Building Methods...........................................161 Green Accreditations................164 Out & About....................................167 Student Designs.............................171

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Green Building Opinion

Technical innovation for smart cities By Neil Cameron, General Manager, Johnson Controls Building Efficiency

Cities around the world are creating public-private initiatives around sustainability and liveability goals, and they’re being intelligent about it. Intelligent cities support their goal-setting processes with IT solutions that enable benchmarking, measurement, and achievement.

Photo by Johnson Controls

Intelligent cities depend on smart buildings. After all, building efficiency is central to both sustainability and liveability. In setting goals for building efficiency, cities take a range of approaches. Some make buildings’ Energy Star scores public in reports, some publish general Energy Star performance without naming specific buildings, and others have begun by releasing general statistics with a plan to start naming individual buildings’ scores at a set date in the future.

Benchmarking Across these varied approaches there are a couple of key elements in common: cities are benchmarking using Energy Star standards and counting on the very measurement of efficiency – whether made public or kept private – to be a motivating factor for ongoing improvement. This is where intelligent building technology solutions come in. Setting energy benchmarks for a whole city requires consistent measurement and meaningful reporting on a scale beyond the building or portfolio level. New cloud-based solutions are helping communities meet that need, offering scalable solutions that can work with other platforms and building systems. On the most fundamental level, Johnson Controls can help businesses comply with legislation based on Energy Star, doing the ‘heavy lifting’ for energy managers when it comes to data and reporting. Cloud-based applications, such as Carbon and Energy Reporter (CER) can provide customised Energy Star reports based on utility bill data – all in a matter of minutes, instead of the hours it would take to pull and report on this data manually.

Ever-expanding universe of applications And that’s just one way that evolving technologies can help. The ever-expanding universe of applications can help businesses manage energy and maintenance

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Neil Cameron

costs, reduce environmental impact, enhance occupant comfort, and increase the value of their buildings – all while providing the data needed to verify savings and compliance. In fact, to help cities set and meet their sustainability and liveability goals, Johnson Controls has recently partnered with Microsoft’s CityNext initiative. CityNext takes a people-first approach to creating better communities, with buildings, infrastructure and planning as a key area of focus. CityNext aims to bring together technological innovation and industry-leading expertise to help cities provide sustainable services – a perfect fit with Johnson Controls’ Panoptix, which offers a whole community of expertise and support around its advanced technological solutions. Through the partnership with CityNext, Johnson Controls will support people in delivering buildings that are more efficient and sustainable. In turn, we’ll be helping cities to meet their goals, now and into the future.

Johnson Controls Neil Cameron, Area General Manager T +27 (0) 11 921 7141 W www.johnsoncontrols.com

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Green Building Alternative energy

Photo by Creative Commons

LPG as an alternative to electricity Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) burns very efficiently with very low combustion emissions, say the experts. LPG burns cleanly with high combustion efficiency. It produces less harmful emissions than many other conventional fossil fuels, meaning it is less harmful to the environment and your health compared to most other conventional fossil fuels. In contrast, energy sourced from burning coal at coal-fired power stations pumps large amounts of pollution into the atmosphere. LPG generates low levels of CO2 and is low in sulphur, nitrogen and other particulates – all of which contribute to pollution. In the event of a spill, LPG will quickly evaporate with no risk of ground or water contamination. However, it is highly combustible and spills are considered very hazardous until the product has evaporated. It should always be treated with respect and the published safety measures observed without question. LPG is an economical fuel source for the kitchen and for heating domestic water. Instant heat is available at users’ fingertips, the flame is visible and its size and intensity easily controllable to meet users’ needs. In the kitchen, LPG does not create black smoke

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when used – meaning no messy soot and cooking vessels can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, it is easy to store a LPG cylinder. It is clean and takes up very little space in the kitchen – as long as standing gas safety instructions are observed. On the other hand, LPG users in South Africa have experienced problematic supply lines in recent years, particularly in 2015 during the Eskom electricity overload crisis. To Build asked Kevin Robertson, the CEO of the LP Gas Safety Association of South Africa a few questions about designing for and using LPG in the home. Could you please comment on the sustainability of LPG supply in the domestic market, given the problematic supply issues of 2015? During 2015, considerably more LPG was imported by the major wholesalers to try and increase the availability of product – especially during the winter season. Planned and unplanned shutdowns make this very difficult to gauge but the lack of product was less than in previous years thanks to these imports.

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Alternative energy Green Building In terms of next year’s supply, there are two facilities currently under construction that will make serious inroads into addressing this, both of which are located in Saldanha Bay. These are Sunrise Energies – an import and storage facility that is due to come into operation in May 2017), and Avedia Energies – a storage facility under construction that will be able to store and supply soon. We are also aware that there is another Cape Town-based company that is also undertaking the importation of LPG for distribution to wholesalers. This, together with imports undertaken by individual companies, should go a long way to resolving the short-term shortages experienced during winter. When comparing the cost of LPG to electricity for domestic cooking and heating of both interiors and geyser use, how do these two classic methods weigh up against each other at present base costs and then projected into the future? This is rather difficult to calculate as it depends on a number of factors such as the burning efficiencies of different appliances (stoves, hobs, water heaters/ geysers, and the like). Generally speaking, it would be better to obtain this sort of information from suppliers of the appliances – preferably those that supply electrical and gas operated products. With an LPG water heater (geyser) one only heats up the water for direct use – not stored at temperature where the temperature drops every time water is drawn off. Space heating with LPG is less efficient (than electricity), but it depends on the type of heaters being compared as there are different types, both electrical and gas. Can you mention any areas where the use of LPG in domestic and commercial applications offers a distinct advantage over the use of electricity? Apart from what’s covered above, the most obvious advantage is when there is a power outage for whatever reason (including load shedding, cable theft or municipal outage). No electricity, no power. With LPG, the user can still cook, make tea, heat water and heat a room. Generally, LPG is seen to be more efficient, which is why chefs use it extensively throughout the world – it’s easy to control the temperature (heat output) and very efficient. The increased use of LPG could make a significant impact on the grid – especially during peak usage

times such as early mornings when people make tea/coffee, cook breakfast, bath/shower, and in the evenings for similar activities. The gas is clean burning with very limited harmful emissions, having a beneficial impact on the environment. If one considers users in the poorer communities (using mainly traditional fuels such as wood, coal and/ or paraffin – not electricity in this instance), the health benefits are massive. It’s a hard fact that more people in developing countries die from indoor pollution than from malaria, TB and HIV Aids combined. How easy is it to retrofit LPG into the average home? Is the programme of registered installers gaining any traction in the market? In most instances there is no problem with retrofitting. However, in some cases, cylinder placement and storage can be an issue as it is not always possible to comply with the relevant National Safety Standards (SANS). But these are few and far between. The number of registered practitioners (installers) is growing steadily and training is undertaken by the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Association of South Africa (LPGSASA). Registration is undertaken by the South African Qualification and Certification Committee for Gas (SAQCCGas), a body mandated by the Chief Inspector of the Department of Labour for this purpose. A complete list of registered practitioners can be found on the SAQCCGas website. Registered installers have an ID card (similar to our standard driver’s license) that can be produced for prospective clients. On completion of the installation, the installer must issue a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) to the user, which both parties sign. The CoC is the installer’s commitment that the installation complies with the relevant regulations and standards. Without a valid CoC, the user is likely to lose insurance cover in the unlikely event of an incident involving the LPG system.

South African Qualification and Certification Committee for Gas W www.saqccgas.co.za Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Association Kevin Robertson T + 27 (0) 11 886 9702 W www.lpgas.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Green Building OPINION

Photo by Rhino Group

Since it opened its doors in 2014, more than 3 000 architects and engineers have flocked to South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acclaimed energy-plus home, House Rhino. The development is seen as a benchmark for off-grid, sustainable and renewable energy solutions.

Prioritising tangible green building principles Green building solutions need to move beyond whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashionable and towards interventions that make a tangible long-term difference, say experts. 158

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OPINION Green Building Architects and developers need to move beyond ‘greenwashing’ – applying green building principles merely as fashionable gestures – and begin incorporating practical eco-wise solutions that make a lasting ecological difference, an industry analyst says.

Prioritise the tangible At a recent meeting of architects at South Africa’s acclaimed energy-plus* home, House Rhino at Crossways Farm Village outside Port Elizabeth, president of the South African Institute of Architects Eastern Cape (SAIA EC), Neill Kievit, said it is critically important that the industry begins prioritising tangible green building principles. Since construction began in 2012, more than 3 000 architects and engineers have visited the 450m² off-grid showcase home to learn from the various renewable energy and eco-solutions that enable it to produce more energy than it requires to function, feeding excess power back into the municipal grid. House Rhino was completed in early 2014. Last year, based on House Rhino, a research report by NMMU academics, Chris Allen and Katharina Crafford, was hailed at a global conference in the UK. African Energy-Plus Construction: A Case Study of House Rhino, received the Chair’s Award at the Sustainable Ecological Engineering Design for Society international conference at Leeds Beckett University. ‘Sustainability and greening is an increasingly important part of the work we do – both in terms of the energy consumption of the buildings we design, and of the embodied energy within the building products we specify, how we use them, and where they come from,’ notes Kievit from MMK Architects. ‘There is a certain amount of greenwashing in the industry where systems and ideas get applied as gestures. We need to be thinking more about materials from cradle-to-grave, not just the here and now. We need to carefully consider where the materials have come from, how long they will last, and what it will cost to maintain and sustain the new development over the building’s lifetime. Sensible lifecycle costing may require developers to invest up front for improved performance on many levels. Sustainability and greening has become a complex issue Brian van Niekerk, House Rhino’s Developer and Managing Director of the sustainable solutions company behind the project, Rhino Group, says the aim of the development was always to showcase what

could be done by incorporating renewable energy and eco-wise solutions into a building’s design. ‘House Rhino successfully integrates as many sustainable and green technology options from our Rhino Group of companies as possible. It also serves as an industry example, dramatically changing the scene for homeowners and developers who are serious about sustainability,’ he maintains. Some of the distinctive sustainable solutions include roof-mounted solar photovoltaic panels with a bank of zero-maintenance batteries charged by inverters; underfloor heating using solar heated water; a dual-purpose heat pump that heats water for the home and at the same time cools water to run an air conditioner and bar fridge; an intricate rainwater harvesting and 30 000-litre storage system; a biodigester that creates gas for cooking from kitchen refuse and garden waste; a network of filters to purify grey and black water from the home (meaning House Rhino does not draw additional water aside from rainwater); and aqua-gardens that naturally filter swimming pool water, providing a natural ecosystem in the garden and chemical-free pool. ‘I believe that House Rhino serves to educate a myriad organisations, from academia to corporates and professionals such as architects. The house shows off sustainable solutions, rather than products,’ van Niekerk explains. ‘Having professionals such as architects and engineers out here to learn from the development and to see what is possible with various new materials and technologies really validates this project for me.’ Energy-plus homes typically produce more energy than they require to function. The energy is generated from various renewable solutions contained in the home’s design.

The Rhino Group T +27 (0) 41 451 3197 E rochelles@rhinoplastics.co.za W www.rhinogroupsa.co.za South African Institute of Architects Eastern Cape W www.ecia.co.za issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Building technology Green Building

Looking at alternatives

World Green Building Week, the flagship event of the World Green Building Council, took place during the final week of September, prompting a rare reminder to take note of the walls, windows and floors that surround us. This was a worthwhile exercise, considering the construction industry presents one of the biggest climate change mitigation opportunities we have. Buildings consume one third of the world’s energy and are responsible for one fifth of global emissions.

Tackling misconceptions ‘There is a misconception that brick and mortar signifies top quality, comfort and stability. In reality, brick buildings are expensive, energy and resource inefficient, and water and labour intensive to construct,’ says John Schooling, MD of green construction and renewable energy group, STAG African. Construction science and technology has long surpassed the need for brick and mortar infrastructure. The Innovative Building Techniques (IBTs) that are replacing them are not a compromise on quality or comfort – in fact, they offer better temperate control, cleaner and quicker construction, and they last just as long. Since 2008, STAG African has pioneered the use of IBTs for the construction of student residences across the country. The STAG African method is able to reduce the cost to universities of building residences by up to 13% and construction times by 40%. This is obviously highly attractive to budget-strapped institutions facing a critical shortage of on-campus accommodation.

Quality and appropriate design However, it is the company’s commitment to student lifestyle and comfort that drives their success. ‘While materials are key to changing the way we build – lowering environmental impact goes beyond recycled steel frames and cladding. Quality design is key,’ says Schooling. The orientation of a building, for example, plays a significant role in its environmental impact. Optimum

Photo by Stag African

An operator in the building development sector explains how infrastructure may be built using methods other than the conventional – assisting the crisis in student accommodation, among other things.

design that takes location, sun exposure and wind direction into account can reduce or even eliminate the need for artificial temperature control. A smartly designed roof can catch rainwater, and well-designed plumbing allows for grey water collection and reuse. Schooling believes that buildings shape the way we live and that green construction fosters the environmental consciousness. ‘Experiencing the comfort of a naturally-ventilated, premiumtemperature space that has been created out of largely recycled materials, caring for an indigenous and water-wise garden – these are experiences that shape the students that live in green residences.’

Conclusion The time is right to start inspecting the construction sites dotted throughout our cities and commit to building offices, homes, hospitals and schools that not only offer comfortable living and work spaces, but also deliver on the need to protect and preserve natural resources. Schooling’s company has clearly charted the way forward. Based on extensive research, the company adopted the use of IBTs, including lightweight steel frame construction for its innovative university residences. Beyond this, Schooling is insistent on optimum building design and placement, which reduces carbon footprint and maintenance costs.

STAG African T +27 (0) 21 794 0904 E info@stagprop.com W www.stagprop.com issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Green Building Certifications

Green consultant takes the LEED A player in the green building industry has put its money where its mouth is by receiving LEED Platinum certification for commercial interiors. The project received the first 6-Star Green Star SA Interiors v1 certification earlier this year, and won the Highest Rated Building category at the Green Star SA Leadership Awards in July. The consultancy concerned, Solid Green Consulting, specialises in both Green Star SA and LEED green building certification for offices, residential projects, retail centres, existing buildings, interiors, and public and education buildings. The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system, developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), is the foremost programme for buildings, homes and communities that are designed, constructed, maintained and operated for improved environmental and human health performance – with projects in all 50 states in the US and more than 161 countries and territories worldwide.

Refurbishment The Solid Green Office refurbishment was primarily aimed at improving the indoor environmental quality for employees. This was achieved by implementing both Green Star SA and LEED interior principles. ‘We obviously wanted to create a space that is energy and water efficient, but more importantly a space where our staff can thrive and enjoy what they are doing. Our offices are filled with natural daylight and natural ventilation, and incorporate elements of biophilic design, all critical to a healthy indoor environment,’ comments founder and director of Solid Green, Marloes Reinink, who has more than 10 years’ experience in the sustainable consulting industry for the built environment. ‘The green building movement offers an unprecedented opportunity to respond to the most important challenges of our time, including global climate change, dependence on non-sustainable and expensive energy sources, and threats to human health,’ points out Rick Fedrizzi, CEO and founding chair of the USGBC. ‘The work of innovative building projects such as the Solid Green Office is a fundamental driving force in the green building movement.’

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Refurbished feature seating

Located on the second floor of an existing mixed-use commercial building on Tyrwhitt Avenue, Rosebank, Solid Green’s 180m2 premises have been designed to accommodate 15 employees in a 120m2 double-volume studio space, with an additional interlinked 60m2 workspace and boardroom at mezzanine level, and an outdoor terrace used as a chill-out and entertainment zone.

Easy access and green transport As the offices are centrally-located, Solid Green’s employees and visitors have easy access to public transport within a short walking distance, including the Gautrain Rosebank Station, taxi rank and bus station. In addition, the company’s senior management have ensured that alternative transport modes are also

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Certifications Green Building

Green Wall

available during office hours. These include an electric car and electric bicycles with charging facilities, car sharing, and cyclist facilities with a shower.

Energy efficiency For maximum energy efficiency, radiant cooling and energy-efficient equipment have been specified (laptops and printers are Energy Star rated). All light fittings are energy-efficient LEDs with occupancy sensors, and a 1.8kW thin film solar PV system has been added to the roof that takes the office to net zero energy on an annual basis. Water saving fittings have been installed and rainwater tanks are planned, as is rainwater harvesting for irrigation of the exterior vegetable garden. Full-height windows and glass sliding doors at both entrance and mezzanine level, together with strategically-placed opening window sections, mean that natural lighting and ventilation are optimised. Indoor environmental quality is further enhanced with indoor planting – a green wall leads from the entrance into the main workspace, and plants are located through the open plan work areas.

seating in the meeting nook was made from recycled two-litre plastic bottles and recycled partitioning material, while a love seat bean bag was made from upcycled T-shirt materials.

Software

Materials and recycling

A key feature of the refurbishment was the installation of Solid Green’s own Solid Insight – a software platform that generates accurate live-metering data that can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. By integrating with the office’s smartmetering systems, the application enables automated billing for energy and water consumption, while environmental reporting is also handled automatically. With its prestigious LEED Platinum certification, Solid Green has succeeded in reinforcing its green building sector leadership in sustainable design, practice and innovation. Solid Green is specialised and experienced in both Green Star SA and LEED green building certification, offering certification for offices, residential projects, retail centres, existing buildings, interiors, and public and education buildings. All team members are Green Star SA Accredited Professionals (GSSAAP), with key team members also holding LEED AP accreditation.

Materials and finishes have been carefully selected for improved thermal and acoustic comfort and to reduce occupants’ exposure to pollutants. All office furniture is reused or refurbished, with the exception of a few new ergonomic office chairs. Anglo American donated 20 desks following its own refurbishment, the boardroom tables were bought at an auction, and the boardroom chairs from antique stores. Feature

Solid Green Consulting T +27 (0) 11 447 2797 W www.solidgreen.co.za Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) W www.leed.usgbc.org issue 19 www.tobuild.co.za

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Homemakers Expo Out & About

Homemakers Expo The 2016 Homemakers Expo was held at the CTICC mid September and presented some really exciting decor options - both indoor outdoor - as well as some architectural solutions. The show seems to have grown and gotten better over the years and 2016 did not disappoint. For readers who could not be there, To Build has prepared this photo account of some of

Photos by Gareth Griffiths Imaging its highlights - admission compliments of the Expo’s excellent media relations consultants. Living up to be its reputation of a full day out for the trade as well as families, a number of state of the art offerings were on show, including the famous Tesla Powerwall and associated energy saving solutions one for the green building trade. Energy Partners and Smart Energy SA install a range of state of the art renewable energy devices for the home. Here, a special heat pump stores water in a convenient ground level geyser which may be installed outside the home and in turn provides warm water to Viega’s Fonterra underfloor or wall heating solution inside the home. Instant energy under ambient conditions - and not dependent on direct sunlight either.

Vertical Veg provides an easy retrofit for those who want a living wall in the home or on the patio. The manufacturer supplies ready-to-use vertical garden pocket panels for planting. According to owner, Marcelle Warner, just add water, a bit of TLC and they grow - ready to harvest and great for interior climate control. ‘If you have a wall you can have a garden’, she says. (www.verticalveg.co.za)

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Out & About

Homemakers Expo

Wine for architects who are captivated by nature! Paardenkloof Estate adjoins the Babilonstoring Nature Reserve on the Bot River side of Hermanus and features 23 hectares of recently planted remote mountainous vineyards. In the photo the owner, Daphne Neethling presents her wines with visitors to Homemakers Expo. (www.paardenkloof.co.za)

Eco Furniture Design offers stylish affordable furniture made from sustainable timber - including local sustainable cultivated forest and salvaged (recycled) wood. (www.ecofurnituredesign.co.za)

Revelstone provides a number of retrofit solutions to brighten up those outdoor areas, notably cladding and paving stones. (www.revelstone.co.za)

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Homemakers Expo Out & About

Barrydale Hand Weavers train local people in the art of handweaving on looms and produce beautiful handwoven rugs, carpets, tableware, fabrics and even clothing. The photo shows elements of their French Country Range. So next time you are looking to redecorate, do the right thing. (barrydaleweavers.co.za)

Beachcomber Home Decor brings back memories of life on the beach. Warm sunny days and gentle pastel shades. (www.beachcomber.za.net)

Designer fabrics - Uber Cool Design

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Photo by Corobrik

SAIA Awards Student Designs

Vedhant Maharaj - Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year, centre. With, left to right, Richard Baker and Peter du Trevou, Corobrik Directors; Peter Rich, Architect and Keynote Speaker; and Isaac Letsholo and Dirk Meyer, also Corobrik Directors.

Wits student top in awards

Rendering by Vedhant Maharaj

Vedhant Maharaj from The University of the Witwatersrand recently became the 29th architectural student to take first prize at the Corobrik Architectural Awards in Johannesburg. For nearly three decades, this prestigious award has been presented to a talented young graduate who is on the brink of making a name for him or herself in the extremely competitive architectural profession. Vedhant Maharaj’s winning dissertation, entitled Yantra, Infrastructure of the Sacred and Profane, exhibited critical elements that were picked out by the judges – innovation and technical excellence expressed with a keen understanding of the combined social, economic and environmental context that is changing the approach to the built environment today. ‘Innovation differentiates design resolutions and helps define architecture. Innovation in sync with context provides the delight factor, permitting architectural design to compete comfortably on the world stage. Technical

skill and the ability to create memorable form that draws one in while treading softly on our planet, put the finishing touches to sustainable architecture,’ says Corobrik’s Managing Director, Dirk Meyer, for the sponsors.

Challenging task Meyer admitted that this year it was a challenge to separate a winner from the eight regional finalists from the country’s major universities. These finalists won their respective regional awards during 2015 and went forward to compete for the national award. He notes that all eight entries showed how innovation could blend with sustainability, social awareness and technical excellence. However, Vedhant Maharaj’s offering illustrated how creativity

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Student Designs SAIA Awards Rendering by Vedhant Maharaj

can make an exceptional and meaningful contribution to South Africa’s diverse and multi-cultural landscape. Responding to the announcement that Vedhant Maharaj was been presented with this year’s award, Dr Mpho Matsipa, Maharaj’s Co-Supervisor said that Yantra explores water infrastructure by providing water that was safe for human consumption while respecting the rich architectural heritage of Varanasi. ‘In so doing, he demonstrates both a nuanced and layered understanding of sustainability, technological and social innovation that encompasses daily spatial practices on the Ganges River, larger scale developmental processes in India, heritage in the built environment, everyday spatial practices, and the complexities of religious plurality in India. Additionally, this thesis is rigorously researched, using both primary and secondary sources with confidence and creativity.’ She said that Maharaj’s attention to questions of access for the majority populations was both poetic and attentive to questions of social and spatial justice. ‘The mastering of change of scale is exceptionally convincing: Yantra works as a political argument down to the design of bricks in 1:1. He uses the language of tectonics as a tool to make the city into a space for a society of the collective, a rare yet highly-needed ambition within our profession,’ adds Co-Supervisor, Kirsten Doermann. Dr Matsipa concludes: ‘I believe that Vedhant demonstrates a lot of passion for thinking about the spatial, technological and ambient possibilities of infrastructure as culturally-informed architecture. I would advise him to continue working and thinking across different scales and locations. I believe that he could become a leader in the field – specifically in terms of thinking about water architecture from the Global South.’

Role going forward Meyer notes that Corobrik’s commitment to recognising emerging talents of tomorrow through this important award hinges on the clay bricks produced in the company’s factories across the country. ‘They play

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an important role in design and construction going forward,’ he maintains. ‘The architecture of the future will see application drive design and the choice of building materials play a key role in ensuring sustainability. Emerging talents within the profession will be called on to embrace technological expertise and apply this through selecting building materials that meet specific needs,’ he points out. Clay brick addresses sustainability, longevity and financial challenges. ‘It offers a myriad of benefits while adding distinctive aesthetic and textural appeal, and the ability to meet design and construction challenges. Brick can accommodate virtually any shape or form. Yet, it is highly practical in that it requires minimal maintenance while providing thermal efficiency, which contributes to improved indoor comfort in all temperatures and lower energy costs throughout the building’s life,’ he explains.

Guest speaker Guest speaker, Peter Rich, who is a practicing architect and has been a Professor of Architecture at the University of the Witwatersrand for 30 years, also touched on the compelling future of architecture in his keynote address entitled, ‘Evolving design and materiality trends set to influence tomorrow’s sustainable architecture’. Meyer thanked this year’s judges – Phill Mashabane, Mashabane Rose Architects, Johannesburg; Karuni Naidoo, CNN Architects, Durban; and Andre Eksteen, Earthworld Architects, Pretoria – for their hard work and dedication.

Corobrik (Pty) Ltd Corobrik – Musa Shangase, Corobrik’s Commercial Director T +27 (0) 11 871 8600 Vedhant Maharaj (winning student) C +27 (0) 83 432 5823 E vedhant.m@gmail.com

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advertisersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; index issue19 November 2016-February 2017 3A Composites GmbH Architects..............14,15

Midcomp....................................................................1

Adendorff Architects & Interiors.............39

Mitek Industries.............................................96,97

Akzonobel Powder Coatings SA..........156,157

Nordic Paper Packaging....................................9

AMA Architects....................................................34

Numatic International....................................166

AMS..........................................................................149

Pelican Systems..................................................78

Aqua Resources SA..........................................107

Power & Electricity World Africa 2017............................................................32

Arcelor Mittal.....................................104,160,176 Arup............................................................................5

Pratley Marketing...........................................126

Atlas Plastics....................................................143

Rosema Group......................................................68

Bluescope Steel SA............................................92 Boomgate Systems (Pty)Ltd..........................100

Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.......................................................56, 57

C & M Landscaping Supplies............................62

SA Vinyls Association......................................129

Centurion Systems............................................70

Saint Gobain Gyproc.......................................109

Chair Express....................................................139

Saint Gobain Isover..................................132,133

Claybrick Association.................................... 118

Saint Gobain Weber............................................82

Copper Tubing Africa (Pty) Ltd....................141 Corobrik (Pty) Ltd............................................121

Sika SA......................................................................19

De Leeuw Group...................................................41

Silicone & Technical Products (Pty) Ltd......................................... 116

Decorex..................................................................31

Solent Trading..................................................150

Den Braven Sealants (Pty) Ltd..................... 114 Eagle Lighting......................................................89

South African Wood Preserves Association.........................................................136

Federated Mutual employers Fund Company.........................................................7

Spunchem.............................................................131

Fourways Airconditioning............................162 Franke South Africa..........................................87 Fusion Guarantees..........................................170 Geberit SA....................................................... 11,173 Heidi Jager Interiors........................................53 Institute for Timber Construction South Africa.......................134 Johnson Controls...........................................153

Stihl...............................................................43,44,45 Style Decor (Pty) Ltd........................................65 The Association of Architectural Aluminium Manufacturers....................28,29,30 The Paving Warehouse....................................123 Tile Africa..............................................................85 Treetop Renewable Energy Systems..............................................................174

Lighting Innovations Africa (Pty) Ltd............3

Uretek Geo Systems.................................146,147

Mapei........................................................................51

Vaal Sanitaryware.............................................76

Masonite............................................................79,80

Viega.........................................................................73

Maxiflex Door Systems SA (Pty) Ltd.......... 112

Western Cape Government............................25

Med-Industrial Trading....................................48

WSP Group.............................................................60

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