SA Building Review - Volume 10 by Media Xpose

10 Year Anniversary Edition

VOLUME 10 | 2022

Mixed-use developments drive trend for convenience and integration

Demolition vs deconstruction in a sustainable built environment

Emerging contractors key to construction sector recovery

Signs of growth in construction following pandemic downturn

Cover feature: Koen & Associates Architecture

RSA R75.00 incl VAT

Creating sustainable, innovative architecture

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Residential 9 772306 990002

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Editor's Note

10 Year Anniversary Edition

VOLUME 10 | 2022

Mixed-use developments drive trend for convenience and integration

Demolition vs deconstruction in a sustainable built environment

Emerging contractors key to construction sector recovery

Signs of growth in construction following pandemic downturn

Cover feature: Koen & Associates Architecture

RSA R75.00 incl VAT

Creating sustainable, innovative architecture

22002

Residential

Commercial

Industrial

9 772306 990002

This is an exceptionally proud moment for me as we celebrate the 10th edition of SA Building Review. For 10 years we have showcased the prestigious work done by architects, and served as a platform to highlight products and service offerings in the built environment. Over the past few years there has been an immense push for the industry to think out the box – to be more creative, energy efficient/green and budget conscious. There have been many challenges, including a pandemic and job losses over the years. These challenges have required an immense amount of resilience and the role players have shown agility to overcome and develop. The built industry has always been an economic driver in South Africa, providing employment across various sectors and within the downstream value chain. We have also witnessed small but incremental changes that are shaping the future. For example, we started to see digital transformation playing a bigger role in the industry, encompassing construction and architecture, and it will be exciting to see how the sector will transform holistically and the opportunities it can unlock. We have also noted that role players have thoroughly embraced green building initiatives, using different materials and products, which have highlighted innovation that is fresh, modern, efficient and aesthetically pleasing. Looking back on 10 years, a particular success for SA Building Review is the successful relationships we have built with key role players, which has enabled our mutual success and growth. It is highly satisfying to note that we have a number of clients who have been on this journey since the first edition and who remain key contributors in the 10th edition. Thank you to all stakeholders for your support, and here’s to looking ahead towards the next decade of rapid growth for the built environment professionals and suppliers, not only in South Africa, but globally! Elroy

Elroy @SaBuildingReview

@SA_Building_Rev

@SABuildingReview

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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A MESSAGE FROM GIFA

The Gauteng Institute for Architecture (GIfA) congratulates the exceptional SA Building Review on its 10th anniversary. This is a major achievement in a challenging environment and GIfA wishes this publication every success in its future. We are also very proud of the relationship between these two organisations. GIfA itself celebrates its 121st year of existence this year – formed in 1900 as the Transvaal Institute of Architecture; we have also seen our fair share of challenges. The South Africa built environment is never free from the challenges that face our country. Even before Covid-19 arrived on the scene, there were very serious challenges in the built environment, evidenced through the closing down of major construction companies. These large and visible cases, of course, do not amply illustrate the hundreds of smaller casualties.

Krynauw Nel GIfA President

And yet we keep on moving forward. And with excellence. Our recent GIfA awards ceremony and the quality of work submitted documents this excellence, despite adversity, and confirms that we have a special je ne sais quois in South Africa. I believe it is about a grit and determination that we develop by constantly engaging with new, major and serious cliff-edge challenges that make us one of the most creative countries in the world.

Our architecture shimmers with creativity and invention, and our international standing in architecture has been 'discovered' and recognised worldwide, as we compete on an international level at a fraction of most international budgets. Perhaps necessity remains the mother of invention. Through these challenges we also build something that is not often recognised – the unseen stamina that we develop in the process – the work required in preparation for bigger things to come. These 'pockets of excellence' are, I believe, not pockets at all but an underlying quality that we ourselves may not always know we possess. The South African medical profession, in this Omicron storm, again showed the world what excellent resources, diligence and grit we have in this country. Transformation in the field of architectural practices and contractors are not quite apace with our expectations yet and need continuous work. I would dare to ascribe this to the fact that these two fields are not purely academic and that experience cannot come from academic learning only. In this stormy vortex of change, we need lighthouses to remind us where we are. I believe that we need to remind ourselves often of just exactly what we are already achieving, as this publication does, lest we lose hope or forget our innate commitment, grit and enthusiasm. Congratulations again! Krynauw Nel, Architect GIfA President 4

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Contents Editorial Features

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Cover feature: Koen and Associates Architecture

Signs of growth in construction following

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Creating sustainable, innovative architecture pandemic downturn Technology is revolutionising coatings Demolition vs deconstruction in a sustainable built environment Emerging contractors key to construction sector recovery Managing construction waste is part of a greener future PPC launches skills training for bakkie builders The role of zinc in building and construction Is a multi-storey timber building an economically viable option in SA? When off-site meets onsite – helping developers deliver the best homes more efficiently Mixed-use developments drive trend for convenience and integration Managing readymix waste for a sustainable planet Paintsmiths passion for the environment reflected in eco-friendly & non-toxic paint ranges Energy efficient architectural window film solutions for commercial retrofit market A new alternative to fibre-cement eaves cladding Water conservation and innovative solutions to a water crisis Discover comfort, durability & reliable protection with Wayne’s superior quality gumboots 4IR will drive the post-pandemic construction industry Using continuously galvanized steel for light steel frame building GIfA Architecture Awards 2021 – showcasing excellence

Advertorials 38

Safal Steel: What the built environment can do

Stiebel Eltron: Sustainable comfort –

58 76 80 88 94

for sustainability Environmentally responsible and efficient building services PPC: Bridging the skills gap, one brick at a time South African Wood Preservers Association: Preservative treated wood – a sustainable choice Sawmilling SA: Taking timber to new heights Floorworx: Encouraging more locally manufactured goods Hansgrohe: A partnership you can count on

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Contents 108

Ctrack: The importance of telematics and fleet

136

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management floor overlays and re-surfacing Twinstar Precast: Quality is the custom Fourways Group: Your trusted HVAC partner. Chasing Excellence. Fostering Innovation John Deere Construction: Breaks new ground in Africa – 18 new African countries & 26 new machines

Project Features 24 32

Tinderwood

Dynamic glass tower with soaring facade – an

50 54 60 66 70 84 90 96 110 116 126 132 138 142 154 160 166 174 180 192

Hatfield Square design provides ideal socialdistancing solution for students exciting addition to Cape Town’s skyline Green School SA defined by organic shapes from the mountains & the Paarl Berg boulders Harbour Arch a key contributor to Western Cape Covid-19 recovery plan House van Pletzen: Pavilions in the landscape Ashton International College chooses Samsung and Alliance House with a view Jewel City – a series of thoughtful interventions breathing new life into Johannesburg’s CBD Designing progressive schools Oban Estate The Fish Hoek house – a container house has stepped terraced areas Soil and serenity Successful transverse launch of Ashton Arch bridge a South African first The Bank Lumiѐre luxury housing development Taxi rank transformed into final office building in Sasol Precinct Barloworld equipment showroom Striking curved glazed office building redefines key gateway into Century City in Cape Town Shapa Soweto – innovative multi-sport facility & vibrant local community hub Future-facing EcoTec tiles enhance new Irene Link Precinct Melrose Manor Senior Living Estate Ridge 8 – slender grandeur & modern, timeless focal point

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10 Year Anniversary Edition

6 Carlton Crescent, Parklands, 7441 Tel: 021 424 3625 Fax: 086 270 9693

VOLUME 10 | 2022

Email: info@mediaxpose.co.za Website: www.mediaxpose.co.za

Mixed-use developments drive trend for convenience and integration

Demolition vs deconstruction in a sustainable built environment

@SaBuildingReview

Emerging contractors key to construction sector recovery

Signs of growth

@SA_Building_Rev

in construction following pandemic downturn

Cover feature: Koen & Associates Architecture

RSA R75.00 incl VAT

Creating sustainable, innovative architecture

@SABuildingReview

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PICTURE CREDIT:

COVER ART:

Koen & Associates Architecture

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EDITOR Elroy van Heerden editor@sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT MANAGER Jacqueline-Ann Marsh jacqui@sabuildingreview.co.za

HEAD OF EDITORIAL Tashne Singh editorial@mediaxpose.co.za

ADVERTISING SALES Rene van Heerden rene@sabuildingreview.co.za

SUB EDITOR Tessa O’Hara tessa.ohara@gmail.com

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Trish Jukes digital@mediaxpose.co.za

CONTENT MANAGER Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Kyla van Heerden social@mediaxpose.co.za

CONTRIBUTORS Bongani Dladla Kate Bester Simon Norton Henning Rasmuss Bunny Bala Samantha Stelli

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Shihaam Gyer distribution@mediaxpose.co.za

DESIGN AND LAYOUT Anja Bramley artwork1@mediaxpose.co.za EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR / ACCOUNTS Shaun Mays accounts@mediaxpose.co.za RECEPTIONIST Daniela Daniels receptionist@mediaxpose.co.za

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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or omission contained herein. Consequently, no person connected with the publication of this journal will be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any reader as a result of action following statements or opinions expressed herein. The publisher will give consideration to all material submitted, but does not take responsibility for damage or its safe return.

COVER FEATURE Koen and Associates Architecture

Creating sustainable,

innovative architecture

Koen and Associates Architecture is an award-winning design and build infrastructure development company. Over the last 10 years, its proven track record puts the customer at the centre. The company is a specialist in the redevelopment of commercial typologies, namely retail, industrial, offices and high-density residential.

RMA

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

COVER FEATURE Koen and Associates Architecture

Koen and Associates work in a close-knit team of professionals who bring experience and expertise to the table. Founded in 2011, it has the drive to create sustainable, innovative architecture and deliver excellence, with aims to enrich the human experience through architectural developments. Its vision is to provide quality, sustainable and economical environments that heighten and enhance the knowledge and promote the development of the users whilst satisfying the client's brief. The company exists to develop the best design solutions that are both tech-savvy and that make financial sense. Successful projects require complex teams, and Koen and

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Associates' in-house team of expert designers, quantity surveyors, projects managers, contract managers, site supervisors, and support staff, work out every detail of a project and exceed expectations. The design and build delivery model is a best practice delivery method with single point accountability, which means that agreed-upon developer project goals form the organisational compass for the entire team and project. Koen and Associates design spaces that improve the occupant's quality of life using an aesthetic that pushes boundaries while being sensitive to the environment. It views design as a holistic process, considering human needs while interpreting the main commercial objectives of the building.

COVER FEATURE Koen and Associates Architecture

Rand Mutual Assurance, Parktown, Johannesburg

A growing trend in open-plan offices has been proven to affect the rate of productivity and the general operating order in modern offices. Research studies demonstrate that the impact of the open-plan office on humans has a significantly positive influence on office function and interaction. The mix of spaces also highlights other amenities such as conference and training areas, private spaces where formal meetings are held, collaborative spaces where informal meetings take place, as well as the need for open workspace in jobs benefiting from teamwork and or knowledge/skills sharing (Kendra Cherry, 2019). Koen and Associates' client, Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA), recently celebrated a notable 186 years having successfully provided insurance for the South African mining industry. RMA appointed Koen & Associate Architecture to re-invent the traditional office space at their new home located at 10 St Andrews Parktown, to celebrate their achievement.

Rand Mutual Assurance

An energetic & symbiotic relationship between 'work–pause–collaborate'

Koen & Associates Architects aimed to renovate the typical office environment from its previously mundane, separated layout, to one which is open, integrated and where programmes flow effortlessly, encouraging an energetic and symbiotic relationship between 'work–pause– collaborate'. This environment includes all individuals yet

Rand Mutual Assurance

Crownwood Corner

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

COVER FEATURE Koen and Associates Architecture

Dobson Point

Eden Meander

collectively represents the client, RMA, and all it stands for – caring, compassion, compensation. Eliminating the culture, offices and cubicles results in enhanced collaboration and relationship building, allowing for future flexibility.

sensory low-flush systems, assist in conserving water in the building.

Construction costs for the project were reduced by using a modern industrial design, exposing all previously hidden services like AC units, lighting and cables. The building is set to be given a 'green facelift with green systems, such as a monitoring system, to log trends against consumption and alert facilities management via email if there is an excess in consumption.

The space allows for freestanding office desks, private meeting areas, collaborative spaces as well as lounge settings. Studies show that it is important for the brain to rest and reload; pause areas allow for this while the lounge settings promote socialising and strengthening amongst the team, revealing the need for rigid time control, and giving the employees a sense of responsibility and empowering them to manage their time in an unconstrained manner.

The lighting power density achieves an energy use of less than 1.5W/m²/100lux for 98.1% of the usable office area using the Green Star-recommended method of calculation. Among other things, water-saving sanitaryware, including

The use of various floor and wall finishes are applied to define spatial function, doing away with the traditional solid wall. This promotes open space and allows access to natural light and sensory artificial light in occupied

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

COVER FEATURE Koen and Associates Architecture

NEMISA

spaces. Decorative acoustic panels and bulkheads will serve both as an aesthetic and sound buffering purpose. A combination of textures and colours set a mood that is both calm and vigilant, while primarily being connected to the company's corporate identity. Flexible furniture was specified to allow for future changes and reorganisation. The traditional walled office with its pyramid organogram is outdated. The new open-plan space works for a more modern collaborative workforce who share, like and tweet. The current layout allows a flatter chain of command in new business with spontaneous sharing of information. The move to a new space is indicative of why RMA as a company has managed to maintain its 186 years of success. Keeping up with the current trends and needs of its workforce and consumers.

and outside spaces, the proposal allows daylight into the building – the windowless facade is replaced with a twostorey glass curtain wall that will give NEMISA an instant presence in the neighbourhood. A key project goal was to create an environment that encourages collaborative learning and creativity, and is flexible enough to evolve with the introduction of new technologies and methodologies. The final design resulted in an iconic building that speaks to creativity and collaboration, in both the music sense and business sense. Today the building is hard to miss and truly a great example of modern aesthetic coupled with exquisite workmanship.

Dobson Point, Soweto

The National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) operates from a modern office and studio complex centrally situated in Parktown, Johannesburg. The revitalised institute will now have a newly refurbished building that relates to the dynamic and creative hub that the institute represents.

Dobson Point is a great example of a retail extension that falls under community and redevelopment in Dobsonville. Built in 2009, it was the first centre of its kind that represented an early symbol of economic development. The centre provides a pleasant, safe, and convenient place for people in the community to shop and socialise. The 3 952m2 shopping centre has 39 stores with a variety of tenants such as Pick n Pay, MacDonald’s and KFC.

The building's unusual spaces allowed Koen Architecture to interject a four-storey atrium with a central communicating stairway that serves as a central link to all classrooms and offices. To create a stronger entry and to link the inside

The client brief to Koen and Associates was to give the shopping centre a fresh and modern look, creating a more appealing centre to the community. Renovating and updating of shopping centres has a direct impact on

NEMISA, Parktown, Johannesburg

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

COVER FEATURE Koen and Associates Architecture

NEMISA

Eden Meandor

the perception of the centre’s atmosphere. Renovations reinforce the landlord's commitment to the tenants and consumer trends and expectations, thus increasing shopper traffic and spending, resulting in greater returns for the tenants and landlord.

Eden Meandor

Koen and Associates will begin with updating the existing façade while keeping within budgetary constraints. South Africa is currently within an economic downturn and because of this turbulent economic environment the feasibility of the project had to be in keeping with the landlords’ projections and were required to match up to growing affluence in the area. Dobson Point is an ongoing project that now requires innovative solutions for the future of 2022 and beyond. ■

KOEN AND ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTURE T + 27 11 262 4825 E info@koenarch.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Economy

Signs of growth in construction following pandemic downturn

Employment in the construction sector has grown by 17% in the past year with more than 156 000 new jobs created in the 12 months leading up to the second quarter of 2021, however, it should be noted that this growth is coming off a low base in 2020 Q2 when there was a lockdown and very low activity taking place. “These are encouraging signs that construction and engineering is recovering from the economic downturn and the impact of the pandemic, and benefit from

expected higher levels of investment in infrastructure, says Bongani Dladla, the acting Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Economy

a year-on-year basis and 143 000 on a quarter-onquarter basis. The figures show that employment in the formal construction sector accounts for 65% of jobs in the industry and 35% in the informal construction sector, says Dladla. Since 2009, jobs in the informal sector grew by 3.5% while there was a decline of 0.4% in the formal construction industry. By the end of the second quarter of 2021 the formal construction sector employed some 476 185 with the bulk of people (56%) working in civil engineering and some 38% in general building. The effect of the downturn, the Covid-19 lockdown and the lack of demand for construction is reflected in the job losses that were experienced in the sector. At the end of 2021 Q2, StatsSA Quarterly Employment Statistics (QES) showed that construction employment declined by -2.4% year on year, -6.4% in civil engineering and 3.4% general building. “Construction constitutes 16% of employment in the informal sector, which is a significant contribution,” says Dladla. During the period under review there was an 11% growth in job opportunities on a year-on-year basis.

Informal sector tends to grow during economic crises However, there has been sharp decline in employment since 2017 and the number of people working in both formal and informal construction is currently at the same level as in 2014. The quarterly figures are based on own research conducted by the CIDB through its SME Business Conditions Survey, as well as the quarterly labour force survey and quarterly employment statistics released by StatsSA.

Construction industry an important player in job creation

Dladla says the construction industry is an important player in job creation with an impact on a range of other sectors such as manufacturing, mining, transportation, real estate, and business services. Construction is one of the industries that have higher employment shares relative to its contribution to the gross domestic product. The sector accounts for 8% of total formal employment while its share of nominal GDP is 2.5%. Between the second quarters of 2020 and 2021 the number of people employed in construction increased by 156 000 on www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Studies by the International Labour Organisation show that the informal sector tends to grow during economic crises because it acts as a default option for survival or maintaining income, this is also reflected in the growth of the construction informal sector as compared to the construction formal sector. The informal sector includes the self-employed in microbusinesses that are not registered for income tax or VAT as well as short-term and casual employees. Most of these enterprises have linkages with the formal sector through subcontracting and the provision of labour-only services. Dladla says the CIDB’S research indicates that the shortage of skills is one of the biggest constraints for business growth experienced by contractors. This shortage also drives up the cost of labour resulting in decreased profit margins for small and medium contractors. The CIDB B.U.I.L.D Programme announced by Public Works and Infrastructure Minister in 2020, is designed to provide workplace learning opportunities to university and college graduates to grow skills for the construction industry. ■

PROFESSIONAL

Complete coating system. Complete professional service. Reliability is at the heart of our industry, and our Professional range is no different. Product innovation coupled with our value added services gives you a distinct advantage. Our complete coating system, spanning preparation, trim, wall and textured coatings, is designed to ensure guaranteed product performance and value from start to finish. All Plascon Professional products with the Ecokind logo have VOC levels within the GBCSA standards for Green building ratings.

Designed for professionals. The Plascon 360º Partnership Pledge is a comprehensive, tailored service solution offering you coatings specifications, application monitoring and maintenance service co-ordination for your property portfolio. All at no additional cost to you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: PLASCON ADVISORY SERVICE ON 0860 20 40 60

@PlasconSA

We’ve got your property portfolio covered:

1 2 3 4 5

SPECIFICATION Because every project is unique, our specifiers will conduct an on-site assessment which will help you to determine the coating needs of the project based on the location and surrounding environment. This will identify the most suitable products, paint systems and colours to ensure a long-lasting, aesthetic and protective, quality coating. From there, we’ll do a detailed scope of work with you before giving you a tailor-made paint specification to meet the budget for each project.

COLOUR ASSISTANCE Let us assist you to make the right colour choices for your project and help you visualise the end result. Your colours will be accurately colour matched by our colour technicians, who will supply A4 reference brush-outs and samples for application on-site.

APPLICATION ASSISTANCE You’ve dreamt it, now it’s time to do it, and there’s no-one better to help you than our choice list of Plascon Preferred Applicators. Beside the highest level of quality workmanship, you’ll also enjoy cost savings thanks to joint supervision and responsibility.

QUALITY MANAGEMENT Before the first brush stroke, a selected reference area will be prepared and painted, paying careful attention to moisure levels, weather conditions, wet film, thickness, surface preparation and over-coating times - all to reduce deviations from the agreed specification. Once the painting commences, you’ll have regular site visits from Plascon representatives to track the project progress and workmanship before giving you a comprehensive site report.In addition, Plascon provides on-site training as required on projects above R100 000 paint value.

GUARANTEE & MAINTENANCE The paint has dried, but our job isn’t over just yet. Once the snag list is sorted and the final site inspection is done, you’ll receive product quality and assurance guarantees. Only Plascon Preferred Applicators will be considered for assurance guaranteed projects. An optional annual maintenance programme is also available for the specified coatings life-cycle, saving you money extending the coatings’ life expectancy and making your life easier.

EDITORIAL Coatings

Technology

is revolutionising coatings Forget smartphones or missions to space, because some of the biggest strides in technological innovation are being made in… paint! Granted, on the surface of things, adding silver to a paint formulation to combat algae and mould may not seem as sexy as charting a rocket to a distant planet, but a healthier, cleaner home is an everyday gain that makes a big difference in the daily quality of life for people here on earth. Once you’ve read this, you’ll never look at an ordinary can of paint the same way again… So, just how have coatings changed with the times, thanks to technology? Ongoing research and development on the part of paint manufacturers has generated revolutionary advancements. Paint no longer merely adds colour to your interior or protects the exterior from the elements; now, paint can also help you breathe more easily, or help you harvest rainwater safely. One paint manufacturer, Plascon, is deeply invested in the continuous improvement of its products through technology, and has pioneered the way on several fronts. Its range is carefully developed and thoroughly tested in a research laboratory situated at the company’s Research and Development Centre. The company also benefits from global insights and advances via its parent company, Kansai Paint, which is one of the world’s largest, with interests in Japan, India and Africa. Plascon Head of Marketing, Suvasin Moodley says: “Plascon has continuously reinvented its coatings over a period of 130 years. We remain at the forefront of innovation due to cutting-edge technological development. Over many decades, we’ve launched numerous trademarked technologies and special additives into the South African market. We’ve done this not only to improve our customer experience, but also because the new technologies are better for both people and the planet.”

Plascon premium range winning hearts and minds of consumers for decades

The Plascon premium range has won the hearts and minds of consumers for decades. Plascon Cashmere, Plascon Double Velvet Pure and Plascon Kitchens and Bathrooms are all formulated with the company’s Silver Protect™ silver additives. These additives help keep walls cleaner for longer, improve stain resistance and have also proven effective in reducing mould and algae formation.

Paint with virtually no odour

The range also used Breatheasy™ technology so that consumers can paint with virtually no odour. This means that the short-term adverse effects of eye, nose and throat irritation and headaches that often result from breathing in paint vapours are drastically minimised. With no lead and zero VOCs, this means consumers are not only protecting the health of their families, but the environment, too.

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EDITORIAL Coatings

Dispersion of light

Plascon Cashmere features Triple Action Bead™ technology, a special additive in the paint responsible for the dispersion of light. This technology allows a plush matt finish which can hide plaster imperfections in the wall while bringing to life warm colours and forming a protective barrier that maintains an absolute matt finish over time, even with regular wiping.

UV protection and infrared reflective technology

Plascon Nuroof Cool has a unique Enviroshield™ formulation with UV protection and infrared reflective technology. The formulation minimises the effect of the sun’s heat on your roof, resulting in cooler roof surfaces. Lower roof temperatures mean less stress and strain on the coating and the roof – promoting longer roof life, keeping your roof beautiful for years. It also cools the interior of your home by up to 8°C during summer (winter impact of cooling effect is minimised). This can lead to power and cost savings by reducing the need for cooling while also reducing emissions of greenhouse gases due to lower power requirements.

Water-based alternatives

Leading the field in water-based alternatives to solventbased enamels, Plascon Velvaglo is prized for its superior strength, satin finish, and versatility. Formulated with a unique water-based acrylic hybrid called AquatoughTM, Plascon Velvaglo Water-Based offers all the toughness of a solvent-based enamel including UV, flaking and stain resistance, with non-drip properties while remaining environmentally friendly and non-toxic.

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Long-lasting, extra protection

Plascon Micatex with Weathertough™ is a well-loved, finely textured, exterior matt paint for long-lasting, extra protection against the toughest weather conditions and the wear and tear of everyday living. Now, it comes with Polycell™ Polyfilla Fine Crack Filler, which covers hairline cracks and prevents water from entering through the cracks which can cause damp problems, premature colour fading or cracking and peeling of the paint. With twice the film thickness compared to conventional paints, Plascon Micatex also boasts mica for stretch and marble for strength.

Air purifying technology

Plascon has pioneered a first for the South African market: a paint with Air Purifying Technology. Plascon Double Velvet Pure can actively improve the quality of indoor air by removing Formaldehyde from the air that you breathe, making your home and workspace a safer environment for you, your co-workers and family. A special compound in the formula removes and permanently transforms the formaldehyde in the air into undetectable, harmless water vapour, which is safe for breathing. In keeping with its commitment to innovation, Plascon has also launched major upgrades to two of beloved brands: Plascon Micatex, now with Polycell Technology, and Plascon Double Velvet Pure, now with Air Purifying Technology. ■ www.plascon.com

PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects

Tinderwood Tinderwood is located on a gentle hilltop that overlooks the Indian Ocean, in Zimbali Coastal Forest Estate, Ballito, South Africa. Grant Pitcher Photography

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PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects

Architect:

Metropole Architects Design Architect – Nigel Tarboton Project Architects – Tyrone Reardon & Frans Marx

Building contractor: Engineer: Quantity surveyor: Interiors: Kitchen & built-in cupboards: Landscaping: Pool & reflective pond:

Crest Developers Davies Lister James Engineers HiRise Consulting Metropole Architects Blu_line Kitchens Lynch Frog Landscapes Poolwise

Sound & automation:

Audico

Security:

Audico

Skylight, doors & windows: Glass works & aluminium: Shopfitting: Specialist nature stone counter: Sauna: Marble floor tiles: Under-floor heating: Lighting supplier: Sanitaryware:

Atlantic Glass Works & Aluminium Shikar Shalom Interiors Afrigran Earlco Electrical Real Natural Stones Speedheat Conbinlight Classic Trading

This bespoke world-class home showcases a tastefully envisioned contemporary design whilst harmoniously integrating with its beautiful surroundings. This sentiment and objective flows seamlessly into a precedent for the interior design process which aimed at achieving a home that epitomised a luxurious global boutique style of living. Approaching the entrance to the home, a double volume stell and timber louvre screen framed by a monolithic travertine marble clad element, encase a shallow water feature. This arrangement functions as a transparent veil that controls the aggressive afternoon sunlight that bears down on the building from the west, protecting a sheer 5-metre high wall of glass, and transitioning your arrival from the hard surfaced parking court to the cool and luxurious tones of the interior and sea view beyond. A gallery-type double volume entrance characterised by a sculptural staircase, walnut cladding and striking artwork, combine to intentionally create a boutique hotel type atmosphere. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects

Luxurious contemporary spaces with mid-century modern influence

The vision for the interior was to create luxurious contemporary spaces with a mid-century modern influence. The palette of materials and finishes including marble floors, backlit onyx features, walnut cladding, brass inlays and antique mirrors give the home a timeless appeal. Great attention to detail was given to the design of both the architectural and feature lighting, in terms of the placement and selection of the fittings. At night, the lighting shows off all the interior features, materials and focal points, and transforms the entire home into a delight for the senses. Several carefully considered pieces of art and sculpture have been located throughout the home, testament to the owners love and appreciation of art. These selected pieces enrich the experience of the already lovingly crafted spaces, adding a layer of visual interest and complexity.

World-class in every respect

Conceptually the main bedroom suite was treated as a presidential hotel suite would be in a upmarket luxury hotel. It includes a private lounge and office as well as a sauna beyond the obligatory full en-suite bathroom and his and hers walk-in dressing room. The entire front façade of the suite opens up onto a furnished roof terrace with panoramic sea views beyond. Execution and implementation of both the exterior and interior interventions is of the highest order, and consequently the finished product is breath-taking and world class in every respect. ■

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USE WOOD, AND SAVE TREES. The more wood we use, the more forests we will save. It might seem contradictory, but it’s simple economics. Greater demand for wood makes it more valuable to local communities, and less likely that whole forests will be cleared to make way for other crops, or other, potentially damaging activities, such as mining. As a leading building materials manufacturer, we have a responsibility to monitor our environmental impact. That’s why we refer to source our wood from responsibly managed forests, where harvesting is strictly controlled. Managed this way, forests become a renewable resource, and you can choose our wooden windows, doors, garage doors and COL products secure in the knowledge that the next generation would be able to do the same. If you take into account the energy-saving benefits of wood, it is simply the natural choice if you care about the environment. For more info call 086 110 2425 or visit www.swartland.co.za

EDITORIAL Sustainability

Demolition vs deconstruction in a sustainable built environment A sustainably built environment extends well beyond deconstruction. It has to consider the risk profile of deconstruction versus demolition, as well as the salvage value of equipment versus the recycling value thereof to make informed and practical decisions.

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EDITORIAL Sustainability

Deconstruction potential in the urban environment is limited due to the fact that most urban structures are brick-and-concrete hybrid structures. There is a much greater potential for re-using and repurposing existing structures, if well-maintained, for recycling and repurposing demolished materials in future works. In addition, site footprints can often be used much more beneficially. “Deconstruction relates to the total or partial removal of structures or equipment, with the main focus on beneficial reuse, whereas demolition refers mainly to the removal of structures or equipment, with a focus on recycling of the resulting materials,” explains Jet Demolition Contracts Manager, Kate Bester (NDip Civil Engineering – PMP).

Deconstruction activities are significantly more labour intensive

Generally speaking, deconstruction activities are significantly more labour intensive and take longer to complete. The deconstruction process also generally has a significantly increased risk profile and typically requires cranes and lifting machines for extended periods. Demolition, on the other hand, has the potential to be much more mechanised and quicker, and can potentially have a significantly improved risk profile. Demolition is often also more cost-effective due to the reduced requirements for extensive crane rental. It is tempting to opt for a salvage and deconstruction option, with the end goal being the potential resale of structures and equipment. “The reality is that projects of this nature have the potential to be extremely drawn out, as the work is typically much more susceptible to weather conditions and other factors beyond the control of the contractor or client,” points out Bester. For example, lifting and cranage activities can be suspended under windy or rainy conditions, but the contractor is still liable to pay. In addition, the labour-intensive nature of deconstruction works requires significantly more people on site at any given time, working with hand tools.

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EDITORIAL Sustainability

Deconstruction can be a minefield of liability

Although the potential exists to sell salvaged equipment and structures, it is also a minefield of liability. Purchasers generally prefer acquiring equipment with some form of guarantee or service plan, locking the seller into extended warranty and service agreements. Demolition, on the other hand, eliminates many of these obstacles. Progressive and experienced demolition contractors such as Jet Demolition generally pursue mechanical demolition methods, reducing the risk of worker-structure interface. These approaches use specialised demolition equipment to reduce structures to ground. All resulting materials can then be recycled where appropriate which, in turn, may result in an alternative revenue stream for the client, without the risk of long terms and extended warranties. In considering the practicalities associated with deconstruction, buildings and structures need to be assessed on an individual basis for their suitability for dismantling. More often than not, dismantling should be reserved for well-maintained, low-risk steel structures, or for equipment in good working condition that can easily be salvaged, reinstalled and recommissioned. Looking at recycling, there are multiple opportunities available that are not necessarily always considered in urban revitalisation projects. Through judicious planning and implementing suitable methods to prevent crosscontamination between waste streams, it is possible to segregate and prepare different types of material for recycling and beneficial re-use. These include basic materials like concrete and brick that can potentially be crushed and reused on-site or inert rubble used to backfill sinkholes.

Critical that clients and contractors work together

“It is critical that clients and contractors work together to explore options that are practical and viable and that can contribute to a circular economy,” stresses Bester. “The South African economy is generally challenging to begin with, and pursuing recycling opportunities is not always the most financially viable option for clients to consider. As such, it is difficult to fully explore all recycling opportunities that may exist within a project. As the industry evolves, we hope to see an increased participation and requirement for recycling,” she concludes. ■

About Jet Demolition

Jet Demolition has been undertaking industrial demolition works since 1994, and is the leading, largest, and most technically advanced demolition company in Africa. It offers in-house, full-range demolition services, including advanced mechanical solutions and controlled implosions. It actively pursues ongoing development of skills and equipment suited to the changing needs of the industry. Jet Demolition is a technically based company, with various staff members holding MSc, BSc, and BTech Degrees, as well as National Diplomas, in various engineering fields. This expertise gives it the technical foundation to successfully engineer solutions for large and complex demolition projects, and furthermore fuels its drive to deliver quality projects safely. Jet Demolition strives to offer its clients innovative and technical solutions to demanding demolition challenges. Kate Bester, Jet Demolition Contracts Manager

www.jetdemolition.co.za

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PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects

Hatfield Square design provides

ideal social-distancing solution for students Forward-thinking design by Paragon Architects allows for a variety of options in terms of gathering spaces at a mixed-use student accommodation development in Pretoria. 32

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PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects When Paragon Architects designed the facilities at the Hatfield Square mixed-use student accommodation development in Pretoria for owners and developers Respublica and Redefine, it had a variety of social and study options in mind.

Students have various options for the spaces they can occupy

“Little did we know that this would provide an ideal socialdistancing solution during the ongoing pandemic, as the students have a variety of options in terms of the spaces they can occupy,” comments Senior Associate Antoinette Kloppers. These range from reading a book on a hammock to having a small social get-together outdoors, using a small study room, or simply sitting far apart in the study centre. Catering for 2 200 students in a variety of unit types, Respublica Student Living manages the development. It extends over 51 000 m2 (excluding basement levels), with 3 500 m2 of retail space and a mix of restaurants and line shops facing Burnett Street. With the retail industry and especially restaurants hardest hit by the pandemic, it is anticipated that Hatfield Square will benefit from more foot traffic during the summer months to come. “As with all buildings besides healthcare facilities and our own homes, Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the development and occupation of buildings. The education sector suffered greatly with lockdown, and most students resumed their studies from the comfort of their homes, just as we had to redefine the home/work balance. The facilities were unfortunately not fully occupied during these times,” explains Kloppers.

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PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects

Project an incredible team effort

Looking back, Kloppers says the entire project was such an incredible team effort. “I am very proud of the beautifully functional end result. It really has taught me that immense budgets do not make successes of projects, but great teamwork does.” The project was completed in three phases. Blocks A and B are located closest to Hatfield Square, followed by Blocks C and D; the latter being the tallest building in the precinct, and completed last. In order to enhance the sense of microcommunities the four blocks were colour-coded, with each building’s unique colour repeating throughout its floor plates as well as on its façades. With accessibility as the key driver, pedestrian walkways were introduced on either side of Block D, seamlessly connecting Hatfield Plaza and the Hatfield Gautrain Station. These thoroughfares feature both stairs and ramps, and are therefore also wheelchair-friendly. “We shaped the space to cater for students and the general public, encouraging flow and interaction,” highlights Kloppers. For example, the line shops were leased to tenants addressing student-specific needs, together with a few restaurants. This mix resulted in an extremely inviting and welcoming frontage. While student accommodation in the Hatfield area is quite saturated at the moment, Kloppers points out that there will, however, always be a need for student accommodation where education facilities expand. In terms of the way forward, post Covid-19 there will be an increased demand for facilities that provide comfort and a variety of functional spaces. ■

About Paragon Group

Paragon Group, established in October 1997, is an internationally active design business, based in Johannesburg. We deliver commercial architecture, masterplanning, interior design, and space planning to visionary clients in all property sectors, from retail to residential and education. We are committed to global urban development. We are able and agile. Paragon is flexible and diverse in its approach to design. Each project is unique and not driven by style, but by lifestyle and a response to user needs. Elegant and efficient planning form the core of our designs. We understand the needs of our clients, and know how to generate ever-new architectural forms in a competitive property market. We are known for hands-on engagement with all opportunities present in the modern global building industry. The true measure of our skill is our ability to engage at all levels and with all players that make up the colourful world of construction and property development. Our buildings look forward. We embrace the future, because we will be a part of it – part of its problems and responsibilities, and part of its great freedoms and achievements. www.paragon.co.za

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LOW MAINTENANCE WEATHER RESISTANT WATER REPELLANT HIGHLY DURABLE UV STABLE LOCALLY MANUFACTURED LONGEVITY IN DESIGN

EDITORIAL Emerging Contractors

Emerging contractors key to construction sector recovery The construction sector can lead South Africa’s recovery as the country emerges into a post-Covid 19 economy, but only if emerging contractors are empowered. Bongani Dladla, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the CIDB This was the consensus among participants at a recent seminar in 2021 on the state of the industry hosted by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). The seminar, attended by more than 700 participants, underscored the role played by the CIDB in facilitating the exchange of ideas and opinions which will lead to the transformation of the construction industry. In addition to its primary mandate to promote the contribution of the construction industry to South Africa’s economy and society the CIDB also provides a platform where participants in the sector can share research on trends within the sector and relate best practices. There were justifiable concerns about the sharp decrease in construction activity following the outbreak of the Covid pandemic. This was especially felt within the public sector where the CIDB plays a critical role to ensure efficient and effective infrastructure delivery.

Aggressive infrastructure investment

However, there is also significant room for optimism. Investment in

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EDITORIAL Emerging Contractors

infrastructure is a key component of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The plan calls for “aggressive infrastructure investment” with a strong emphasis on localisation, job creation and streamlining of the regulatory framework.

emphasised the role construction can play in the reindustrialisation of the economy.

Some of the green shoots are already visible. At the recent Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium – SIDSSA 2021 – details were announced of a pipeline of 55 projects with a project value of R595 billion. This can create an estimated 583 500 direct and indirect jobs.

At the same time the local industry is not isolated from global trends. Dr Obuks Ejohwomu from the University of Manchester reminded participants about the high contribution of construction to global emissions and air pollution.

Participants at the CIDB seminar expressed strong views that emerging contractors should benefit fully from the pending upswing in building activity and opportunities should be created in which they can improve their grading and become increasingly eligible for major projects.

Public sector must significantly improve its capacity to manage infrastructure

Concurrently, the public sector must significantly improve its capacity to manage infrastructure projects under its control and address long-standing concerns within the industry about delays in the awarding of contracts, delays in the implementation of projects and late payments to contractors. There are expectations that private sector skills will, increasingly, be drawn in to address issues pertaining to capacity. Again, the CIDB, with its experience gained in almost two decades, can make valuable contributions to the dialogues and consultations within the industry. Similarly, there are stronger voices speaking out about endemic corruption and the activities of the so-called ‘construction mafia’ which are delaying vital projects, destroying assets and threatening the lives of contractors and their workers.

Role construction can play in the re-industrialisation of the economy

One of the participants at the seminar, Mr Gregory Mofokeng, the CEO of the Black Business Council in the Built Environment, www.sabuildingreview.co.za

This can be done through the implementation of localisation programmes where local building materials are used, local expertise is utilised, and local jobs created.

The UN Climate Conference – COP 26 – held in Glasgow in November will, no doubt, revise targets for pollution and set new standards to which the construction industry should respond.

Construction 4.0 will revolutionise processes

The introduction of technology-driven solutions brought on by the 4th industrial Revolution (4IR) will also bring about profound changes to the sector. Construction 4.0 – the integration of 4IR advances into the industry – will revolutionise processes across the entire spectrum of activities. Some of these innovations are already being deployed with great success in the South African industry. Already, many emerging local contractors are embracing new technologies and strengthening their positions within the construction value chain. It is important that the local construction sector should be empowered to benefit from the expected upswing in the post-Covid economy. A keen observer of the local sector, Prof Roger Flanagan of the University of Reading in the United Kingdom predicted that the global construction industry will be at the leading edge of the recovery and that South Africa needs to be part of it. He emphasised the fact that it is located in the fastest growing region in Africa and is globally known for its ability to produce great construction companies and contractors who are admired for their competence. The challenges will be to broaden the sector, support emerging contractors – especially black-owned and female-owned businesses – and attract a new generation of entrepreneurs to the sector. The seminar, which will become an annual event, again showed that the CIDB is well-placed to play a catalytic role to lead industry stakeholders in construction development. We will be a vital element in the reemergence of a transformed construction industry which provides the physical infrastructure that makes up the backbone of our country’s economic activity. ■

ADVERTORIAL Safal Steel

What the built environment can do for sustainability If 2020 was defined by Covid-19, then 2021 was defined by climate change and the need for urgent action – immediately! Despite a brief moment when it seemed like pandemic lockdowns reduced greenhouse gas emissions, 2020 saw record emissions and tied for the hottest year ever. Emissions at the end of December 2020 were 2% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals Report 2021

The upside is we’re seeing action – and the appetite and financing for more “As of December 2020, over two thirds of the world’s GDP was being generated in places with actual or intended ‘net zero by 2050’ targets, covering over half the world’s population and emissions,” says the UN’s progress report.

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, including ensuring

We’re also seeing business rally around environmental, social, governance (ESG) reporting standards, and investing in reaching net zero within their own companies.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which

Sustainable Development Goals to save the planet All 17 SDGs touch in some way on environmental health and the impacts of climate change. However, when it comes to saving the planet, six Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focus on the environment and climate change. But if we don’t reach these, it will hurt our ability to meet all 17 goals.

Poor air quality and polluted water create health risks, with a disproportionate impact on people of colour and poor countries. Droughts and rising sea levels harm our food supply, increasing food insecurity and hunger. Biodiversity loss not only harms economies and livelihoods, but also puts us at greater risk of another pandemic.

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, including ensuring

access to safe and affordable drinking water and sanitation, improving water quality and water-use efficiency and protecting and restoring water ecosystems.

access to affordable, reliable and modern energy and increasing the use of renewable energy.

covers access to adequate, safe, affordable and sustainable housing, transportation and public green spaces; inclusive and sustainable urbanization; protecting the world’s cultural and natural heritage; reducing deaths and economic losses due to natural disasters; and reducing the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities.

SDG 13: Climate Action, a call to reduce greenhouse gas

emissions, strengthen resilience to climate change and natural disasters and support the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

SDG 14: Life Below Water, which targets marine

pollution, ocean acidification and overfishing, calls for more sustainable management, protection and conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems.

SDG 15: Life on Land, including protecting, restoring

and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably managing forests and halting and reversing land degradation and biodiversity loss. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

ADVERTORIAL Safal Steel

How much progress has been made?

When it comes to the environment-focused goals, the UN's latest report on the SDGs reveals that we have made some progress – but an alarming amount of work still needs to be done.

So where are we with SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities?

Greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise and “need to be reduced by 45% by 2030 from 2010 levels, and reach net-zero emissions by 2050”, says the report. In the ocean, while marine protected areas have “increased significantly”, increases have “plateaued”, while ocean “dead zones – areas of water that lack sufficient oxygen to support marine life – increased from around 400 in 2008 to approximately 700 in 2019”. On land, deforestation, land degradation, development and wildlife trafficking (among other issues) threaten 28% of species with extinction and, as in the ocean, efforts to protect biodiversity areas have stalled. Between 2000 to 2020, we’ve lost almost 100 million hectares of forestland. • • • • •

•

Half of humanity (3.5 billion people) lives in cities today and 5 billion people are projected to live in cities by 2030. By 2050, 70 % of the world population is predicted to live in urban settlements. 95% of urban expansion in the next decades will take place in the developing world. 90% of urban growth is forecasted to happen in Asia and Africa in the next 30 years. The world’s cities occupy just 3% of the Earth’s land, but account for 60-80% of energy consumption and 75% of carbon emissions. Rapid urbanization is exerting pressure on fresh water supplies, sewage, the living environment, and public health. Cities account for between 60 and 80 % of energy consumption and generate as much as 70 % of humaninduced greenhouse gas emissions

According to the UN, cities are where the struggle for global sustainability “will either be won or lost.” Local and national authorities are making uneven progress towards achieving goal 11, but this is also where private sector players can make a massive contribution, notably the players in our Industry. The building and construction industry is a key partner in the global effort towards realising sustainable development by 2030 through the delivery of sustainable projects. It is worthwhile exploring the critical role of the construction industry in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

The built environment and the Sustainability Goals The built environment is a hub of economic activities, individuals and families, and society’s cultural heritage. It

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ADVERTORIAL Safal Steel

protects life and health, its inhabitants’ psychological and social welfare, and sustains aesthetic and cultural values. The built environment has the potential to lead the fight against climate change and enhance the move towards low-carbon and sustainable living. The construction industry negatively impacts the environment through its activities such as waste from project sites, loss of biodiversity and impact of the building materials used which are neither recyclable nor environmentally friendly. Waste from construction and demolition sites is a critical issue for the construction industry since the industry generates a large quantity of such waste, even though most of it could be recycled. We argue that construction and demolition waste reduction strategies should start from the early project design stage, through construction and the building operation stage. In particular, the construction industry has a vital role in preserving biodiversity but this is usually not a priority area for the industry. The construction industry can lead the agenda towards the integration of biodiversity at the heart of sustainable development. Biodiversity should be incorporated into the built environment by providing green urban spaces that can contribute to urban biodiversity conservation. New development construction projects should integrate biodiversity schemes such as creating habitats for wildlife by providing nesting boxes, living roofs and landscapes. The use of materials with high-embedded carbon values

and no recyclability, or materials that are not renewable, is highly prejudicial to the measure of the overall building impact in the long term. Additionally, materials that enable the integration of energy-efficient technologies can contribute meaningfully to reducing the energy demand and eventually reducing climate change. The ability of construction organisations to cope with the journey towards sustainable change requires us to embrace sustainable innovation from project concept to final tear down. We can do this – and we must.

Safal Steel is deeply committed to sustainability

Our production processes are amongst the greenest in Africa: • our production facilities have effluent treatment facilities; • all the water we use in our processes is purified and reused on site; • our production activities produce less than 10 000 tons of CO equivalents per annum; Our products also more than meet the grade: • our products emit no greenhouse gases; • our materials are designed to be naturally cleaned by rain on external surfaces; • the thermal properties of our paint system make for cooler buildings in summer, reducing the need for power generated cooling; and • our product is 100% recyclable.

Safal Steel is a proud founder member of the Green Building Council of South Africa.

Safal Steel T +27 (0)31 782 5500 E sales.safalsteel@safalgroup.com W www.safalsteel.com

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

Dynamic glass tower with soaring facade – an exciting addition to Cape Town’s skyline

35 Lower Long, an elegant 86 metre glass-clad office tower, has recently been completed which will invigorate Cape Town’s emerging financial and hospitality district.

Owner/Developer: Architects: Quantity Surveyor: Structural Engineers: MEP Engineers:

dhk Architects Du Toit Pienaar Quantity Surveyors Aurecon Eckon & Converge Consulting

Development Managers:

Abland Property Developers

Project Managers:

Abland Property Developers

Main Contractors:

Stabilid Cape Construction

Interior designers:

Ellerine Bros & Abland Property Developers

Entrance & Office Lobby Areas – dhk

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

The building, developed by Abland Property Developers and designed by dhk Architects, is characterised by a singular sculpted massing which is transformed via dynamic glazed planes that extend seamlessly over the office and parking levels. The two main corners of the building are chamfered towards the roofline and soar upwards, forming a striking wing-like effect — resulting in a distinctive, non-orthogonal addition to Cape Town’s skyline. The site is located in Roggebaai (Cape Town’s growing financial and hospitality precinct) and was previously occupied by an eight-storey 1980s office building which prior to that was part of the now-demolished Long Street Power Station site. While the peninsula site has three street frontages and the public domain experiences high levels of pedestrian traffic, it previously suffered from extremely limited street activation. This was compounded by the last remaining portion of the demolished power station (Site B), hostile frontages of both the 80-metre office building to the south and dilapidated office building to the east.

Maximising the activation of the street edge

A fundamental component of the design concept involved maximising the activation of the street edge with retail to improve the quality and safety of the public realm, as well as to take advantage of the high levels of pedestrian traffic passing the building. The initial brief to remodel and extend the existing 1980s building was discarded due to impractical core design, the limitations of adding floors, the need to replace an outdated façade and challenges with long-term viability. The revised brief, by the co-owners Ellerine Bros and Abland, was to offer a more positive medium- to long-term viability, as well as to enhance Cape Town’s skyline with a decidedly taller, inspirational tower building. However, the challenge was to maximise the quality multi-tenant commercial space while accommodating core components such as lifts and stairs along with structured basement parking — all within a relatively small floor plate. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

The appearance of a dynamic, nonorthogonal sculpted mass

To maximise the floor plates, dhk proposed a simple singular orthogonal massing bar for the articulation of the southeastern and southwestern corners. While fundamentally a solid building mass, the appearance of a dynamic, non-orthogonal sculpted mass was created via tapering or cranked façade planes which extend seamlessly over the office and parking levels. This was achieved by chamfering both the southeast and southwest corners of the building at the top of the orthogonal parking base and widening them towards the roof. The technique articulates the façade and defragments the solidity of the corners of the building as the wings shape the elevations and extend past the top office floor. By extending the wing-shaped façade screens beyond the roof level with parapet sloping, the appearance of soaring shards is created opposed to an abrupt utilitarian termination. In terms of material, a glazed façade was selected due to its flush and sculpted reflective form which is able to conceal both the parking levels and solid spandrels. Not only does glass facilitate an exciting play of light but it allows for an expressive articulation of the building mass in the screen and shard-like elements. The introduction of pixilation on the portions fronting the parking levels, ceiling

voids, structure and internal desk height upstands allows the building to conceal both the parking levels and avoid overbearing horizontal bands. The entire length of the street frontage along Lower Long Street and Jetty Street is enlivened with new ground-floor retail and multiple entry points into the office building. At street level, a double-volume entrance connects to shuttle lifts connecting all parking levels and the ground floor to a spectacular arrival experience within the 10th-floor sky lobby. Thereafter, individuals are transported via a double-volume area and terrace to the office lifts which connects to all the floors above. This ensures mid-building activation and an experience for all users to enjoy as part of the arrival journey into the workspaces — encouraging interaction between different tenants. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

Expansive 360-degree views over the city, ocean and mountains

Internally, the building offers expansive 360-degree views over the city, ocean and mountains. The glazed façade allows for floor-to-ceiling unencumbered vistas enhanced by glazing with mullions at 2.4-metre-wide centres. The chamfered corners also offer oblique views which facilitate the appreciation of the architectural form both externally and internally – a desirable design aspect often not apparent in tall buildings. Furthermore, the multi-purpose roof area with terraces above both chamfered corners offers a spectacular city entertainment space and signifies high-level activation. From an external viewpoint, the perimeter desk height upstands provide ease of furnishing right against the perimeter with fire separation between the floors, therefore, the office furniture is concealed when viewed externally. The immediate neighbour to the north and sharing a common boundary is a nine-storey 1980s building which has the potential to be redeveloped in the future. Rather than merely providing an unsightly blank common boundary façade, dhk articulated both northern corners by returning the glazing around onto the common boundary. This is sacrificial in the sense that the neighbour could in future build higher against the common boundary. It also offers spectacular corner northern views towards Cape Town’s harbour. The solid wall concealing the stair core is pixelated with coloured plastered panels, echoing the glazed façade’s articulation.

Environmental sustainability

Fortunately, the client championed environmental sustainability. To achieve a 4-Star GBCSA Design rating, a detailed environmental performance modelling study was undertaken. This required a high-performance doubleglazed specification with increased internal sill height raised to desk height – to reduce both solar gain and radiant heat which significantly lowered HVAC requirements. Other environmental considerations include building efficiency, choice of materials, energy-efficient lighting and services, lower parking ratio encouraging the use of public transport, as well as showers and bicycle parking facilities. Overall, 35 Lower Long is a much-needed contemporary addition to Cape Town’s skyline which positively contributes to its surrounding cityscape. Pierre Swanepoel, dhk partner and lead architect on the project, says “With its sleek, sculpted form and soaringshaped facade, 35 Lower Long is an exemplar of how client requirements can be met without comprising on design standards. dhk is extremely proud of this building and views it as a catalyst for future developments to come in Cape Town’s CBD.” ■ www.dhk.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Sustainable comfort – Environmentally responsible and efficient building services The fully electronic DCE-X instant water heater provides hot water at the exact temperature you have set – every time. 4i technology guarantees that any factors which would change the outlet temperature are compensated for. This way you can enjoy a shower in comfort, even when someone is washing their hands at the adjacent washbasin. Due to the special haptic rotary selector, the appliance is easy to operate. The set water temperature, ECO level and current power consumption can be seen clearly on the illuminated multifunction display. Energy consumption, flow rate, time, status and service display can also be checked. > Instant water heater with full electronic control > 4i technology for first class DHW convenience > Supplies several draw-off points with DHW > Easy operation via large backlit multifunction display > Energy and water consumption indicators > Individually programmable temperature memory buttons

DCE-X Premium instant water heater – A compact appliance with clever functions The DCE-X Premium compact instant water heater, the first in its class to feature 4i technology, works so precisely that accurate temperature delivery is always guaranteed. Frequently used temperature settings can be stored using two memory keys. As water is heated shortly prior to draw-off, energy efficiency is increased. Thanks to its compact design, the DCE-X Premium is suitable for the kitchen sink, washbasin, and even the shower. In commercial settings, it can be used in utility rooms or for supplying multiple hand washbasins in sanitary facilities. > Fully electronic compact instant water heater with 4i technology > Maximum energy efficiency and accurate temperature delivery > Easy operation via a large, backlit multifunction display > Energy efficient in ECO mode > Two temperature memory keys > Permanently selectable temperature limit can be set to 43°C, 50°C or 55°C

EIL – Electronically controlled mini instant water heater The EIL comes with closed-loop control, outlet temperature sensor and variable flow rate restriction. It provides accurate temperature delivery up to the maximum output, and includes a special aerator for perfect water flow pattern and integral flow meter for fitting in existing taps (M22/24 thread). It also includes anti-scalding protection for high inlet temperatures via automatic output adjustment. Suitable for oversink and undersink installation. The EIL uses a maintenance-free bare wire heating system, suitable for hard and soft water, and includes a safety system with high pressure switch and electronic temperature monitoring. Maximum permissible inlet temperature 55°C, maximum permissible inlet temperature for reheating up to 50°C > Can be operated with pressurised and nonpressurised taps > Accurate temperature delivery up to the maximum output > Special aerator for perfect flow pattern > Internal temperature limit from 30 to 50°C.

WPL 25 AC(S) Inverter air/ water heat pump with outputdependent control

Designed as a compact mono block appliance for outdoor installation, it can be used for heating, hot water and cooling in new builds and modernisation projects due to the high flow temperatures. It boasts optimum noise reduction due to an encapsulated refrigerant circuit and acoustically isolated compressor. The combined enhanced vapour injection/ enhanced saturated vapour injection cools the scroll compressor at low outside temperatures, enabling a higher heating output/flow temperature to be achieved. > Air-water heat pump installed outdoors for hot water, heating and cooling > Energy efficient inverter technology for high flow temperatures > Suitable for buildings set closely together thanks to low operating noise > Can be combined with a solar thermal system > High energy efficiency class A++ even at a flow temperature of >55°C

WWK 302 H is a compact air/water heat pump designed specifically for outdoor installation

The heat pump unit and the cylinder are made from steel, with a special enamel coating on the inside, and installed in one casing. The unit supplies hot water to several draw-off points. It can also be used for indoor installation and has an attractive design, a cylinder with high grade thermal insulation and outstanding efficiency/COP values. The unit operates very quietly thanks to its soundinsulated compressor. > Suitable for outdoor installation (from -7°C up to 42°C) > Emergency/booster heater included as standard > Hygienic DHW temperature of > 60°C in efficient heat pump mode only > Maintenance-free impressed current anode (saves costs for anode checking/ replacement otherwise required regularly) > Quiet compressor, sound-isolated from the air flow > Heat content control via integral sensor > Rollbond safety condenser for maximum security and consistently high efficiency > Special connection for photovoltaic systems

Central air ventilation unit LWZ 280 with heat recovery Create a pleasant indoor environment in the home with the exclusive LWZ 280 ventilation unit. Its extremely quiet operation makes the wall mounted LWZ 280 ventilation unit an excellent choice for apartments, detached houses and small commercial properties. With the ventilation unit’s optimised heat exchanger, up to 90% of the thermal energy can be recovered from the extracted air. In the summer months, the energy efficient cooling function of the LWZ 280 ensures a high level of comfort in the home > Centralised ventilation unit for optimum air quality > High heat recovery level of up to 93% > Quiet operation thanks to significantly reduced noise levels > Simple, intuitive operation directly at the appliance or as an option with the FEB remote control > New modern STIEBEL ELTRON design > Easy filter change

010 001 8547

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EDITORIAL Construction Waste

Managing construction waste is part of a greener future Climate change is now everyone’s concern, and black women-owned construction leader, Concor’s efforts to operate more efficiently and sustainably include the way it deals with its construction waste. According to Leah Nwedamutswu, Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) Officer at Concor, the company’s commitment to 'zero harm' embraces staff, the community and the environment. Growing awareness of climate change imperatives has led the company to develop performance strategies to carefully manage water use, energy consumption and process waste. “This includes preventing pollution emanating from our industrial processes, which means spreading this message to all staff and subcontractors on our project sites,” says Nwedamutswu. “Our critical environmental standards are in place, and we actively assess and manage our risks and opportunities.” The environmental management plans (EMPs) and authorisations of Concor’s clients are also embedded in the daily work processes, ensuring that the company can play its role in supporting the client’s compliance responsibilities.

Waste management system prioritises separating waste at source

This commitment has recently been expressed by Concor at its projects in the Oxford Parks mixed-use precinct in Rosebank, Johannesburg, where it is proceeding with its sixth Green Star-rated building. Nwedamutswu highlights the company’s waste hierarchy system, which it has applied over the years to ensure that waste is effectively reduced, reused and recycled. “We have a detailed and ongoing focus on the natural resources that we consume in construction, and recognise that these are finite and precious,” she says. “The care with which we manage our waste also enhances health and safety on site.”

A dedicated full-time Concor official checks that waste is appropriately sorted and allocated to relevant skips.

The waste management system prioritises separating the waste at source, and dedicates human resources to ensure that building rubble, wood, steel or plastic is properly sorted and placed in the right containers or skips. This prevents contamination of the various waste streams, allowing each stream to be more efficiently and cost effectively recycled. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Construction Waste

It is important that waste is uncontaminated, and this requires ongoing training of subcontractors.

“Implementing our system requires both discipline and education, especially as we employ many smaller companies as subcontractors, who may not initially give the same priority to environmental protection,” she says. “We therefore actively communicate our policies and requirements, and expect our partners on site to be as serious about waste management as we are.”

Monitor the integrity of waste supply chain

Specialised recycling service providers play an important role in Concor’s waste management supply chain, as they help to optimise the levels of waste that can be recycled. Dumping in landfill is considered an absolute last resort, and this must be kept to a minimum. Even building rubble can be pulverised and re-used in certain applications, as long as it is not contaminated by other materials. “Our strict policies require that we also monitor the integrity of our waste supply chain, to confirm that the various streams of waste actually go where they are supposed to,” says Nwedamutswu. “This is done by double-checking the weighbridge documentation we receive from our waste service providers, and these must match our own records of waste leaving the site.” ■ Specialised and certified service providers collect the separated waste from site and deliver to relevant downstream process service providers.

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PROJECT FEATURE GASS Architecture Studios

Green School SA

defined by organic shapes from the mountains & the Paarl Berg boulders Green School South Africa, is an eight-hectare sustainable schooling campus located in the low-lying Paarl Valley, spatially defined by the Paarl Berg to the north, Drakenstein Mountains to the east and south, and Simons Berg towards the south-west. The spatial arrangement at a macro level is what inspired the space making, but also the individual buildings and spaces between them. Wieland Gleich, ARCHIGRAPHY.com

Architects: GASS Architecture Studios Design Architect & Principal Agent: Wessel van Dyk, Chris Bakker Project Architect: Theuna Stoltz

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PROJECT FEATURE GASS Architecture Studios

Reoccurrence of multiples at incremental scales is an idea that defines the behaviour of most natural systems. The architecture of the individual buildings is defined by organic tectonic shapes originating from the mountains that contain the valley but also more directly from the Paarl Berg Boulders. These solid shapes are arranged to accommodate the programmatic need of each of the individual buildings. The first phase of the campus was completed in February 2021 and comprises various clusters of buildings nestled in amidst orchards, vegetable gardens, walkways, landscaped terraces and spill-out spaces. These buildings include 16 classroom facilities for children ranging from kindergarten to Grade 8, the Sangkep (Balinese term for a multipurpose space), an administrative building and the heart of the school. The individual clusters of buildings are weaved together by landscaping and a series of organic shaped ‘werf’ walls to create a coherent whole, and a world of passageways and spaces for students to discover.

Harmonious spaces where humankind and nature can reconnect

Upon arriving at the school, a landscaped gabion wall leads the visitor to the administrative building that sits on the main axial circulation spine of the campus, linking the more www.sabuildingreview.co.za

public buildings together. These buildings include the Sangkep, tree-lined market area, deli, co-working space and heart of the school. The heart of the school is the centre of the precinct were all the paths converge. The building is defined by three boulder-like shapes defining the path leading from the arrival plaza. The one side of the building contains the dining hall, life lab and kitchen, and the other a library, art and music studio and ablution facilities. The main circulation spine branches off into carefully considered meandering routes, to create moments of excitement, wonderment and discovery. These secondary routes lead to the primary school and kindergarten where both spill out in landscaped courtyards. The kindergarten cluster is sheltered and hidden by landscaped berms, and the walkway covered with a hand-woven sapling growing tunnel, which depending on the time of the year is covered with colourful foliage.

PROJECT FEATURE GASS Architecture Studios

The positions of the different zones and buildings have been carefully considered, taking into account passive design principals, feng shui and the seven petals provided by the Living Building Challenge (place, water, energy, health and happiness, materials, equity and beauty). The result being harmonious spaces where humankind and nature can reconnect. To further enhance this idea, the building walls are kept to a minimum to allow for big expansive openings ensuring visual connection between inside and outside spaces. The manner in which the classrooms and buildings spill out into nature also fosters project-based learning.

Constructed from naturally and locally sourced materials

The visual connectedness of the buildings is not the only aspect that link the architecture with nature. All buildings are constructed from naturally and locally sourced materials, such as dek-riet ceilings, clay and soil harvested from site to create rammed earth walls and lime plaster, the pebbles retrieved from the site used to

construct gabion walls, and reclaimed Tique doors from the larger Drakenstein region. This all to better integrate the architecture within its surroundings and celebrate the materials and workmanship from the local area. These organic shaped stereotomic buildings with large oversailing leaf-like roof structures for rainwater collection, punched openings to frame vistas and views, bay windows, thick rammed earth or clay brick walls, clerestory windows for filtered natural light and ventilation, textured screening elements, all create enticing and playful spaces. This multi-layered development where architecture and landscape coincide, creates for enticing and playful spaces where children can engage, explore and learn. GASS Architecture Studios created a layered architectural environment that is rich of information and speaks to the key principles in biophilic design. ■

The Green School SA development broke ground in February 2020 and the school doors opened in February 2021. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT FEATURE Amdec Group

Harbour Arch a key contributor to Western Cape Covid-19 recovery plan

The tourism and hospitality sectors have been hardest hit by the Covid-19 outbreak but construction and property development industries have also been brought to their knees, plagued by project delays and contract cancellations resulting in widespread job losses and retrenchments. “The construction industry has taken a pounding in recent years, with the collapse of Group Five and other big industry players, but its decline has been significantly exacerbated by the nationwide lockdown imposed last year,” says Nicholas Stopforth, Amdec Property Developments Managing Director. While many developers have responded to the sector downturn by taking a cautious approach and adopting a wait-and-see attitude, one company bucking this trend is the privately owned and operated Amdec Group, developers behind the Harbour Arch mixed-use precinct on Cape Town’s foreshore.

Harbour Arch a flagship investment in Cape Town

At a recent site inspection attended by Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, Wesgro CEO Tim Harris and Investment Manager Rehana Boolay, Amdec Group’s CEO James Wilson, said that he wasn’t aware of any other privately-funded developments of the scale of Harbour Arch in Cape Town – and possibly even nationally – under construction and progressing at such an aggressive pace. “Our decision to forge ahead with the development under current conditions is a real statement that demonstrates our confidence in this country and that we believe in the longterm future and economic viability of South Africa,” Wilson said. ”Current levels of poverty and unemployment are excessive and unacceptable, so it is vital that the public and private sectors work together much more closely and create employment opportunities to alleviate this.” Premier Alan Winde commended the Amdec Group for being bold in the development space, saying that Harbour Arch would contribute significantly to the region’s post-Covid economic recovery plan. “Harbour Arch is a flagship investment in the City of Cape Town, and will contribute in an important way to job creation at a time when our province desperately needs it,” he said. “These are really exciting times for a developing city and I think that job-creating investments such as this one are definitely going to influence further future development in the region.”

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PROJECT FEATURE Amdec Group

Redevelopment of the 5.8-hectare Culemborg site

Harbour Arch will see the redevelopment of the 5.8-hectare Culemborg site on the northeastern edge of the Cape Town CBD, into a large-scale mixed-use development comprising six individual towers. With close to 200 000m2 of usable space, the precinct will accommodate residential apartments, commercial office space, hotels, shops, restaurants, motor dealerships, an urban park, and more. Wilson said that Harbour Arch hopes to provide in the region of 20 000 construction jobs over the next 10 years, varying from labour opportunities through to highly skilled artisans and project managers. “The Amdec Group believes strongly in transformation and empowerment and will have a firm focus on partnering with small black-owned businesses who operate within the construction and real estate sectors. We hope to bring them on board as subcontractors to our main contractor, WBHO, and provide opportunities for growth, learning and upskilling,” Wilson shared. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

“A project of this magnitude does not only show that the City of Cape Town is open for business and that people are still confident about investing here, but it's also critical for job creation and attracting trade and investment into the province. I fully support the Amdec Group’s vision, and hope that this is not the last development we will see from them in our city and province," concluded Wesgro CEO, Tim Harris. ■ Construction of Harbour Arch Tower One is proceeding at pace and is on schedule for completion in May 2023.

EDITORIAL Skills Training

PPC launches skills training for bakkie builders

Under normal circumstances, Mikateko Ruth Matshebele and Mpho Thulare would never share a classroom. Matshebele is a 37-year-old civil engineering graduate who dreams of running her own company. Thulare is a 24-year-old unemployed construction graduate trying to gain vital experience. But for two weeks, the two shared a makeshift classroom on South Africa’s first-ever course for bakkie builders, learning the art of bricklaying. The short course is a venture launched by cement manufacturer PPC to upskill South Africa’s scores of informal builders. “PPC is a proudly South African company committed to helping to build the country. Unemployment, and especially youth unemployment, is a huge challenge and it is vital that companies like us do our bit to bridge the skills mismatch which is undermining South Africa’s development and help reduce unemployment levels,” says Njombo Lekula, PPC’s Managing Director.

Ensures skills transfer in the construction industry He says the initiative is also an attempt to ensure skills transfer in the construction industry.

“South Africa is losing valuable skills to other countries, while young people are choosing not to study construction. It is therefore important that we ensure these skills are not lost, or a once highly sought-after construction country is not going to have skills and we will have to import the skills, at great cost, to build our own country.” The courses on offer - which are available across the country - include bricklaying, plastering and construction management. It incorporates both theory and practical instruction. PPC, South Africa’s largest manufacturer of cement, foots the bill for the course. Attendees can either apply to attend or can be nominated by a retailer or supplier. PPC has partnered with training service provider and private FET college Motheo Academy, who will provide the instruction. “We have chosen Motheo Academy to do the training as they have an exemplary record of providing exceptional,

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EDITORIAL Skills Training

relevant instruction in the built environment. We want to give participants the best opportunity to improve their skills so they can build better lives. To do that, we needed to provide them with the best instruction. PPC knows that it is only by working together that we can build stronger communities,” says Lekula. Participants also receive a financial incentive to help them buy the construction tools they require after the course.

Over 200 builders will attend the courses

Over 200 bakkie builders from across South Africa will be provided with the opportunity to attend the courses over an eight-month period. The 10-day plastering course includes learning how to plaster walls and screed a floor while the five-day management programme will include learning how to supervise construction teams, health and safety on a construction site and the use and storage of construction materials. All attendees who successfully complete the NQF level 3 (bricklaying and plastering) and 4 (construction management) programme will receive South African Qualifications Authority certificates. Lekula says PPC is targeting builders as it will empower and uplift local communities. “Informal builders are small businesses which play a vital role in building our communities while also providing much-needed direct investment, two objectives which align with those of PPC,” he says. Matshebele welcomed the initiative which she hopes will provide her with the skills to either find a job in the construction industry or start her own company. The unemployed civil engineering graduate from Mamelodi East says when she had heard about the course on radio, she immediately decided to apply. “I’m looking for experience,” she says. “I am hoping that this experience, together with the degree in civil engineering will either net me a job or allow me to open my own engineering and building company, which has always been a dream of mine.” Since launching the programme, PPC have executed eight training courses and trained 128 learners in Gauteng, Western Cape, Mpumalanga and the FreeState regions with more courses planned for the coming year. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

ADVERTORIAL PPC

PPC – bridging the skills gap, one brick at a time Bricks and cement are basic requirements for any building project. They are also the unsung products that have opened opportunities for thousands of people, created employment, enabled entrepreneurs to create small businesses, earn a living and employ and upskill other people. The fact is that bricklayers are always in demand,” says Njombo Lekula, Managing Director of PPC. “Whether the call is for someone to build a garden wall, braai area, do repairs or tackle a larger project, anyone who has skills, transport, some tools and a dash of determination can earn a living.

Making a difference

The result of PPC’s determination to make a difference is a two-week course in bricklaying, which PPC has launched that has the potential to change futures and provide a launching pad into the world of construction. The course has attracted individuals trying to break the poverty cycle, as well as unemployed young engineering and construction graduates looking for some practical experience to help kick-start their careers. More than 50 students from Gauteng have already attended a course at the PPC Cement factory in Pretoria West. Within eight months, it is intended that more than 200 bakkie builders will be given a chance to improve their abilities. “PPC understands that many attending the course will not have the funds to buy the tools necessary for bricklaying services after the course. In addition to the course, we are,

therefore, assisting participants to buy the basic tools they require to start a bricklaying business,” says Lekula. To ensure that access to the course is as easy as possible, PPC has partnered with private FET college Motheo Academy, an active participant in the built environment, to provide the training. People wishing to enroll in a course, which is offered free of charge, can either apply to join a course, or be nominated by a retailer.

Various programmes

Other courses that cover the theory and practice of bricklaying, plastering and construction management are also available across the country as PPC expands its efforts to promote skills development in the construction industry. Programmes include a 10-day plastering course covering wall plastering and the screeding of floors. A fiveday management programme includes construction team management, health and safety, and the use and storage of construction materials. All attendees completing the NQF level 3 (bricklaying and plastering) and NQF level 4 (construction management) programme will receive South African Qualifications Authority certificates.

PPC T Toll Free +27 (0)800 236 368 E contactus@ppc.co.za W www.ppc.africa www.sabuildingreview.co.za

YOU SEE

AN INDUSTRY BEING TRANSFORMED

WE SEE

WHAT WENT INTO THAT Putting eager minds in touch with the training that can change their lives and transform an industry is a passion at PPC. That’s why we are training the next generation of bricklayers and plasterers to ﬁll an urgent industry need, and it’s why we say: Together We’re Stronger

PPC CETA ACCREDITED TRAINING COURSES - BRICKLAYING - PLASTERING - CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SHORT SKILLS PROGRAMME

130 hours

CLASSROOM TRAINING

80 HOURS

ONSITE TRAINING

129 years

EXPERIENCE

www.ppc.africa 0800 236 368

PROJECT FEATURE Leaf Architects

House van Pletzen: Pavilions in the landscape Based in Parktown North with a typical 400m2 stand, the clients bought a piece of subdivided land from their adjacent neighbours to allow them a more expansive back yard garden space.

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PROJECT FEATURE Leaf Architects

Being ardent gardeners and chefs, their brief to the architects was to use the land to create a series of entertainment areas, a swimming pool and an outdoor deck area. The rest of the garden area was conceived as a series of landscaped pleasure gardens, herbal gardens and a vegetable and fruit tree productive area which would allow the clients to harvest and prepare vegetarian dishes throughout the year. The architects' design response was to create two glass conservatories with frameless stacking sliding doors, with energy-efficient glass, which allows for seamless connections between indoor and outdoor spaces and activity areas. The back area was raised to create a freestanding greenhouse and vegetable growing area, which is screened from entertainment areas with a series of framed fruit tree espaliers (hedges). This is a highly productive area and in combination with the greenhouse-controlled environment ensures a year-round supply of fresh edibles. The main conservatory is a lounge and cooking and dining area, which interfaces with the outdoor deck and swimming pool to allow for year-round indoor-outdoor living and entertaining. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Materials

The role of zinc

in building and construction Simon Norton, International Zinc Association Africa Desk

Zinc (Zn) is used in architectural applications for rainwater systems, cladding and roofing, and alloyed with copper and titanium. This combination of metals maximises tensile strength, malleability and load bearing capacity. Zinc sheet and plate develops a natural patina when exposed to carbon dioxide-rich air. The patina protects the sheet metal from rust, salt and other natural forces. Zinc panels can last up to 50 years under the right conditions.

(bright), pre-weathered and pigmented finishes. Zinc sheets can be formed into shingles, cassette panels and flat-lock panels to clad any building-style. This lightweight and shiny metal has long been used in constructing roofs and for vertical cladding.

Zinc is an ideal standing seam roof material and can be applied to many different roof types. It comes in natural

Can last up to 100 years

Since the 18th Century, zinc has been commonly used in

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EDITORIAL Materials France, Belgium, Germany, Holland and other European countries as a building material for covering roofs and facades, as well as for gutters and downpipes. When laid correctly as a roof covering, it has lasted in excess of 100 years. Zinc was known to the ancient Romans and Greeks, but was not produced in significant quantities until the 12th Century. Zinc is one of the most abundant metals on earth. It is a naturally occurring element, the first in Group 12 of the Periodic Table. After aluminium, iron and copper, zinc is the fourth most-used metal in the world, with a market of US$40 billion and the 24th most abundant element in the earth’s crust. It is found primarily as sphalerite (zinc sulphide), Zincite (zinc oxide) and Franklinite. The key countries of origin are Canada, the US, Peru, Australia, Russia and Kazakhstan.

Dominant application in modern times is as a corrosion-resistant coating for steel

The dominant application in modern times is as a corrosion-resistant coating for steel (hot-dip galvanizing). Its extraction is relatively easy, avoiding strip mining

and the resultant environmental degradation, while its refinement in the form of smelting and processing requires less energy than other metals such as aluminium (75% less) and copper or steel (50% less). A lightweight material par excellence, zinc is a nonferrous metal that provides an effective corrosion protection solution for buildings exposed to adverse weather conditions, while simultaneously delivering a creative response to architectural design requirements. When in contact with high humidity, zinc panels generate a self-protecting layer that isolates heat from indoor spaces. Rain slide easily over its surfaces and its modular panels can wrap curved shapes or be perforated according to the architectural design, and combined in façades and/or ceilings through different shades, brightness and colours. For construction applications, the zinc used is usually in sheet form of 99.9%+ purity but with very small concentrations of titanium and copper. It is typically applied in sheet thicknesses of 0.7 mm. The two main application methods are the traditional roll-cap and standing seam methods. ■

About the International Zinc Association

The IZA is the only global industry association dedicated exclusively to the interests of zinc and its users. Operating internationally and locally through its regional affiliates, the IZA helps sustain the long-term global demand for zinc and its markets by promoting such key end uses as corrosion protection for steel and zinc as being essential in human health and crop nutrition. IZA’s main programmes are Sustainability & Environment, Technology & Market Development and Communications. In South Africa, the IZA plays a vital role in establishing the basis for the successful revitalisation of the zinc industry by increasing awareness of zinc and its applications and benefits in key sectors and markets, which will ultimately translate into the increased uptake of zinc.

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A solution designed for superior efficiency & manageability.

Catalogue 2020

RESIDENTIAL

III All-year Comfort - Perfectly optimized in all climates

With a Mode Control Unit (MCU)**, the DVM S lets you independently cool and

different spaces at the same time. So you heat to provide heat cooling as well ascan simultaneously heating some rooms or areas of the building, while cooling others. individual zones.

Heating

DVM S OUTDOOR

Discover the power of Samsung’s DVM S 10 Independently cool andcombined heat multiple spaces (Digital Variable Multi) Outdoor Simultaneous Cooling and Heating* with energy efficient VRF indoor units to

DVM S INDOOR

The DVM S system is also ideal for residential buildings. It lets you easily control the room temperature even in the hottest or coldest weather. And you can reduce the noise level to minimize disturbance at night.

* Available only on DVM S HR (Heat Recovery) models. ** Optional.

FJM

With innovative technology and a wide

11 range of capacities, Samsung DVM systems

Ensures comfort in all seasons higher efficiency, individualised

demand

CAC SINGLE

are an intelligent solution for buildings that

control, andWide installation flexibility whether Temperature Spectrum for small buildings, medium or No matter or howyour extrememore the temperature, the highperformance DVM S can handle the conditions. very large commercial buildings.

Cooling

Mode Control Unit (MCU)

EHS

Operating across a wide temperature spectrum, it can cool in heat of up to 48°C and provide warmth in freezing cold conditions of -25°C.

Fourways Group are the national distributors of Samsung aircons and HVAC experts to help meet all your air care needs. Contact Fourways for FREE VRF design assistance.

Simply optimizes your comfort

Works quietly and efficiently at night

CHILLER

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III Gigantic Capacity - One system that does the work of two or more As well as being the largest and most compact DVM system, the Samsung DVM S is also powerful and highly energy efficient. So you can save costs and space, while providing more reliable coverage across larger areas.

DVM S

DVM S Eco

(Heat Pump & Heat Recovery options)

(Heat Pump & Heat Recovery Options)

Suitable for large commercial buildings as well as high-rise buildings, can install up to 64 indoor units on one DVM System.

Suitable for small buildings and homes, can install up to 9 indoor units using a 14HP DVM S Eco outdoor.

Delivers more power, saves valuable space and costs 30HP Large Capacity in a Single Unit Save valuable space and management costs without compromising on performance. The DVM S was the first outdoor unit in the world to offer a 30HP capacity in a single unit. The combination of its small footprint and large capacity means you can replace multiple lower capacity conventional models with fewer units, but still enjoy the same performance. So you can reduce the time and cost of transport, installation, parts and maintenance, while also saving up to 40% space*.

A synergy like no other

The Samsung DVM S is compatible with various Samsung indoor units to suit multiple installation, aesthetic or application needs. These indoor units are energy efficient, modern, stylish and intelligent.

Samsung Commercial Wall Mounted

1.66m²

Conventional Outdoor Units

Samsung DVM S

18HP + 12HP

30HP

0.99m²

1,795mm

765mm

1,295mm

0.67m² (freed up)

Compact Size Its compact size leaves you plenty of extra space that Samsung 4-Way can be used for other purposes without compromising on WindFree Cassette performance.

* Based on internal testing. Space required: DVM S 30HP = 0.99m² vs. Conventional outdoor unit (18HP + 12HP) = 1.66m².

Samsung 360 Cassette

A.086

Samsung Medium Static (MSP) Duct

Samsung 1-Way Cassette

DVM system needs to be commissioned and signed off by Fourways for the warranty to be valid

Samsung Low Static Pressure (LSP) Duct

Smart Airconditioning Solutions

PROJECT FEATURE Fourways Group

Ashton International College chooses Samsung and Alliance Spending six hours a day in school uniform, inside closed classrooms while wearing protective Covid-19 face masks, in uncomfortable temperatures, can leave the best of students struggling to concentrate on their schoolwork. For Ashton International College Ballito, a world-class independent school in KwaZulu-Natal, supporting pupils to perform to the best of their abilities is top priority. The school thus embarked on an upgrade to its air-conditioning systems, as well as its pool heating system with the assistance of Fourways Group – which has supplied the products needed over the last seven years for the school to replace and upgrade its outdated and inefficient air conditioning systems.

Ashton International College Ballito, a world-class independent school in KwaZulu-Natal.

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PROJECT FEATURE Fourways Group

Samsung 4-Way Cassette airconditioners fitted seamlessly into the ceilings at the Big Grace Hall & Music Hall.

Old units in the large Junior and Senior College classrooms were replaced with innovative Alliance inverter mid-wall models, and Alliance under-ceiling units that boast 36 000, 48 000 and 60 000 BTUs. These inverter models have been proven to save up to 40% on electricity running costs, while maintaining high levels of cooling and heating performance, a major need and bonus for the school. Smaller classrooms and offices were fitted with a mix of Samsung and Alliance midwall split inverters. As a result, students are better able to focus in class and on teacher instructions and better engage in peer discussion, while breathing cleaner, healthier air thanks to superior Alliance and Samsung filters that trap viruses, bacteria, dust, and other air pollutants. The Big Grace Hall was fitted with 16 x 60 000 BTU Alliance Cassettes, zoned for each area, which are linked to a central controller for user convenience. For the Legacy Hall, which encompasses the indoor sports field and staff offices, Ashton International College smartly chose a powerful commercial-grade Samsung DVM system and indoor units, boasting over 122 000 BTUs. The Music Hall and sound rooms rounded out the air conditioning element of the project with a DVM system being installed that is just as cool as the music the students create.

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Alliance mid-wall split unit neatly fitted in one of the classrooms. Samsung 4-Way Cassette airconditioners fitted seamlessly into the ceilings at the Big Grace Hall & Music Hall.

PROJECT FEATURE Fourways Group

The pool facilities at the Ashton International College which are now heated with two Alliance 91kW heat pumps. The Samsung DVM outdoor units neatly placed alongside the exterior of the building, unobtrusive and not an eyesore to the pupils and staff at Ashton International College.

Alliance 91kw commercial swimming pool heat pump which can provide for a volume of up to 400 000 litres.

Four seasons of swimming enjoyment

As air temperature control was underway, Fourways simultaneously assisted with the perfect solution to water temperature control inside the Ashton International College Ballito swimming pool. Covid-19’s disruption of the athletic year mid-summer resulted in water sport interruption, a real downer for the students. But like the pool’s water temperature, their spirits were raised after the installation of two 91kW Alliance commercial swimming pool heat pumps, providing for a pool volume of up to 800 000 litres. These enable four seasons of swimming enjoyment and no downtime when it comes to practice for the swimming season.

The two units, boasting environmentally friendly R410a refrigerant gas, replaced four older heat pumps of an alternative brand that weren’t able to maintain a 28°C pool temperature all year round like Alliance technology can. Efficient temperature control and ventilation are important for good indoor air quality, especially in recent times for COVID-19 prevention strategies to reduce the number of virus particles in the air. Fourways is proud to have been part of an upgrade project that brings comfort and peace of mind to the school body of Ashton International College Ballito. The students and educators couldn’t be happier. Bring on summer they say! ■

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PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

House with

a view 70

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PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

Location:

Lanseria, Gauteng

Architect:

Veld Architects

Structural Engineer: Contractor:

Joe Rutkiewicz Consulting Engineers du Plessis & Lombaard Building Projects

This is a contemporary farm-style dwelling, located in the grassland surrounds of Johannesburg. The arresting minimalist integrity of the glass curtain around its steel structure is inspired by mid-20th Century modern architecture and found a platform for expression with its chief objective to capitalise on the beauty of the natural surrounds. Elsa Young & Elske Kritzinger

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Simoné du Plessis, Veld Architects

PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

From the first visit to the site, which forms part of the Rhenoster Spruit Conservancy, it was evident that the main design generator should be the natural environment and the context to which the new building needed to become a part of. In nature, living organisms have developed well-adapted structures and materials over time and this provided ample inspiration in terms of natural designs and processes that could be applied to the architecture as well as materials and construction methods for the building. Despite the pervading sense of contemporary architecture sophistication which is cemented immediately at the entry by a cantilevered concrete slab, the interior balances at intervals with the mirth and whimsy of curiouslysuspended light fittings, jolts of vibrant colour and seemingly incongruous items to create a flow throughout.

Open plan living spaces allow for meaningful interactions between family members

Instead of public performance and activities in an urban context, the focus was on creating a space where the daily performance of raising and growing a family can happen naturally. Open plan living spaces allow for meaningful interactions between family members, whereas well-

defined transitions into private spaces of the house facilitates where the self can grow and be nurtured. The threshold between nature and architecture is blurred with indigenous courtyards and living areas that open up to the surrounding natural splendour and invite it in. A 14-metre-long open plan living area, at the centre of the house, separates the office space from the bedroom wing. The open plan layout which hosts a lounge, dining area as well as the kitchen, lends itself to multi-functionality and can be adapted into different use of spaces as the occupants require change. Enclosed on either elevation by wall-to-wall retractable glass sliding doors, the open plan layout also encourages blurred lines between indoors and outdoors, with one side framing the main entrance courtyard with a glimpse of the vegetable garden patch, and the other capturing fields of grazing Nguni cows and panoramic views of the distant Magaliesberg Mountains. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

On the periphery of the open plan area lies the kitchen which successfully materialises the vision of continuing the architectural language of the house. Custom designed cabinetry’s handles which were manufactured from recycled steel window frames are designed to reference the profiles of the house’s I-beam and H-beam structural framework. Another connection sees the glow of the kiaat cupboards and copper detailing echoing the tones of the rusted steel panelling on the exterior rusted steel feature wall adjacent. The conversation between the context and the building reaches its pinnacle at the main entrance of the building that is defined by a projecting rammed earth wall 16 metres in length and 3.5m in height. The construction involved temporary formwork in the shape of the desired wall with compacted layers of soil, excavated from the site itself. The striking colour striations, combined with the earthy hues of the interior, introduce a natural and subtle warmth to spaces. This feature wall also creates a defined approach which draws the user into the building.

Rammed earth wall an opportunity for the community to develop a useful skill set The rammed earth wall also created an opportunity for

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the surrounding community to develop a unique and useful skill set and to become part of a specialised building process. Community members were trained on site to familiarise themselves with different construction materials, workmanship of the form work as well as due diligence. The erection of some test blocks was done under the supervision of an expert and the specific mixing technique of lime and soil was taught to provide adequate strength to the wall. It was the intention to provide the participants with a useful skill that can be used to acquire profitable employment and better their lives and indirectly their communities. Some of the trainees went on to do rammed earth construction in Cato, Namibia.

Cohabitation of nature and man

It was also important for the house to become part of nature’s performance, its dance partner if you will. Among some of the measures taken was that the swaying indigenous Highveld grass was allowed to grow back on roughly 60% of the site and indigenous plants in the courtyards and garden offer birds, insects and the odd Night Adder shelter and sustenance.

PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

Organic vegetables and fruit are also grown in a vegetable patch on site for use by the inhabitants, labourers and the birds and the bees. This cohabitation of nature and man encouraged the creation of a truly regenerative building which not only becomes part of its natural environment but also gives back to its surroundings.

A sustainable design ethos

As Veld Architects undertakes a sustainable design ethos, this design is no different. By implementing sustainable principles, the design aims to reduce running costs of the home by implementing systems such as rainwater harvesting and solar collection and making use of simple, durable materials which require none to minimal maintenance. The orientation of the building is just off north and employs roof overhangs which optimise the angle of the winter sun whilst planting creepers create shading in summer. Large openable glazing panels on both southern and northern facades with openable top windows harness the Highveld breeze and allows for adequate cross ventilation to create a comfortable indoor climate. The terrazzo floor tiles absorb the radiating sunlight releasing the warmth at night when the temperature drops. The home’s ability to retain heat is bolstered by the use of low emission glass and added winter comfort is provided by solar-powered underfloor heating and two efficient combustion fireplaces. Water also plays a big role in the integration of natural processes within the simplistic man-made structure. All rainwater from the roofs are harvested and collected in an underground tank that is used to irrigate the strictly indigenous garden. During times of drought, household greywater can be redirected to replenish the low levels of collected rainwater in the underground tank.

The swimming pool is constructed as a natural pool, where the water is circulated through a living ecosystem of specifically chosen aquatic plants that absorb decomposing materials, bacteria and pollutants and convert them into plant tissue. Other than the sustainability of a natural swimming pool, they provide a habitat for wildlife. The ecosystem of the aquatic planted area attracts certain frogs and insects which subsequently attract indigenous birds to also drink and bathe in the water. Another important factor which contributes to the sustainable design of the building, is the transportation and manufacturing of the building materials used. Often the excavation for foundations and the large amount of groundwork required adds to the transportation cost of removing raw material and bringing in produced conventional materials. By making use of the rammed earth construction method, we were able to combine this with conventional construction methods in order to create a building that is more cost-effective as well as sustainable. There is no doubt that the design of this home is all about the landscape and nature. By drawing inspiration from the landscape and from the needs of the clients, a design is created of a timeless, highly functional and sustainable design that affords the occupants the best quality experience within their own home. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROMOTING THE USE OF PRESERVATIVE TREATED TIMBER

PROMOTING TREATED TIMBER PRODUCED BY SAWPA MEMBERS

Tel: 011 974 1061 admin@sawpa.co.za www.sawpa.co.za

ADVERTORIAL South African Wood Preservers Association

Preservative treated wood - a sustainable choice

A construction material provided and renewable by nature, with predictable performance that captures carbon from the atmosphere and locks it away for decades, with low energy demand and a feelgood appeal appreciated by almost everyone – that’s treated wood.

Wood is part of the bioeconomy, can be sourced responsibly, is a flexible and adaptable material that can be used efficiently and aligns with the concept of a circular economy. At the end of its life wood can be reused in an ongoing process of reuse, recycling or recovery of energy. Wood is thus one of the few truly renewable construction materials. Wood offers a simple way to reduce the CO2 emissions through: • the carbon sink effect of the forests; • the carbon storage effect of wood products; and • substitution for carbon-intensive materials. Not only is the production and processing of wood energy efficient, giving wood products a low carbon footprint, but wood can often be used to substitute other materials like steel, aluminium, concrete or plastics, which require large amounts of energy to produce. Every cubic metre of wood used as a substitute for other building materials reduces CO2 emissions to the atmosphere by an average of 1.1 tons. If this is added to the 0.9 tons of CO2 stored in wood, each cubic metre of wood saves a total of 2.0 tons of CO2. Based on this, an increase in buildings whose main structural components are made of wood, will produce significant CO2 savings as prescribed by the Kyoto Protocol*.

Wood protection

The natural durability of wood is limited to the heartwood, but this depends on the species, growth conditions and provenance. Apart from a very few, mostly tropical hardwood species, most untreated wood is vulnerable to biodeterioration by fungal decay and wood destroying insects. These biological agencies also degrade the sustainability credentials of untreated wood, leading to early failure in service, premature release of CO2 and economic loss, more characteristic of a linear economy than a desirable circular economy. Commercially important wood species are typically derived from locally grown well-managed forests delivering high growth rate material. Due to high demand, modern processing practices are designed to maximise wood production yield, meaning it is impractical and uneconomic to exclude sapwood. The sapwood of all species is susceptible to insect and fungal attack, and requires protection against insect attack and, in prolonged wet conditions, fungal attack. If non-durable, heartwood may also require protection depending on the wood species, the conditions of use and the service life required. Most South African grown commercially important species of pine and eucalyptus are nondurable and require preservative pre-treatment. In recognising the short life of untreated wood when used in exposed applications and conditions, e.g., agriculture, marine and freshwater areas, structures and fencing, and the inconvenience and cost of failure, humankind has always attempted to prolong the life of wood. The discovery of the biological causes of wood damage and decay, coinciding with the start of the Industrial Revolution, led to the development of effective treatments. This has culminated in the preservatives and processes available now for many uses of treated wood that meet the health, safety and environmental requirements of today’s regulatory regime. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

ADVERTORIAL South African Wood Preservers Association

Sustainability

Sustainability is often defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs**. For true sustainability, we need to integrate the goals of a high quality of life, health and prosperity with social justice and maintaining the earth’s capacity to support life in all its diversity. These social, economic and environmental goals are interdependent and mutually reinforcing, and are recognised widely as the three aspects of sustainability. Only through balancing social, environmental and economic aspects can we achieve true sustainability. Both treated wood and the biocides used in wood protection conforms to the principles of sustainability and for clarity these are addressed separately.

Sustainable use of biocides

Products containing biocides, such as wood preservatives, are a family of products intended to destroy or control harmful or unwanted organisms (such as fungi and insects) that have detrimental effects on the environment, on animals, on humans, their activities or the products they use or produce. Biocidal products are used in a wide variety of ways by both industrial and professional users as well as by the public. For biocidal products, sustainable use can be defined as the reduction of the risks and impacts of the use of biocidal products on human health, animal health and the environment. Treated Wood – A Sustainable Choice shows how the economic, environmental and social aspects of biocides in wood protection deliver sustainability.

Wood preservatives were among the first biocidal products to be subject to regulation and standardisation in respect of these characteristics and consequently are now accepted as both effective and safe, if and when used correctly and appropriately.

Treated wood as a sustainable material

Treated wood is the material of choice in every situation where its characteristics make it suitable. With such protection, designers have the choice of the foremost renewable and sustainable material. When structures come to the end of their life, treated wood may be segregated for cascading and recycling to extend the useful life of the material. Even when disposal eventually becomes the only option, energy generation by burning certain types of preservative treated timber, returns carbon to the atmosphere where it is turned back into wood by trees using the energy of sunlight. As the amount of CO2 emitted from combustion is no more than the amount previously stored, burning wood is carbon neutral – a truly circular economy.

Treated wood – a sustainable choice

The full brochure uses four typical use scenarios to demonstrate the sustainability characteristics of treated wood – wood for construction, railway sleepers, poles for electricity, telecommunications, landscaping and decking. It also sets out the circular economy credentials of treated wood and highlights the importance of best practice and education of designers, specifiers, installers and users. It also explains how the treated wood industry leads in developing guidance and programmes to assist these groups in optimising sustainable use of treated wood.

SAWPA would like to thank the European Institute for Wood Preservation (WEI-IEO) and the European Wood Preservers Manufacturers Group (EWPM) for allowing the use of information contained in their executive summary of the complete brochure. The complete brochure - Treated Wood – A Sustainable Choice can be downloaded from www.wei-ieo.eu or www.ewpm.org For more information on wood preservation and preservative treated timber visit www.sawpa.co.za or contact us at admin@sawpa.co.za or +27 11 974 1061 www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Timber Construction

Is a multi-storey timber building an

economically viable option in SA? Research by a Zutari engineer focuses on a development cost comparison between a mass timber frame and a reinforced concrete frame building respectively. The economic viability of multi-storey mass timber buildings in South Africa has come under the spotlight thanks to a research study carried out by Stephanus van der Westhuyzen, a structural engineer at leading consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory firm Zutari. Sawmilling South Africa (SSA) and the Institute for Timber Construction South Africa (ITC-SA) have both proposed that timber be designated a construction material of choice. This will assist in alleviating the housing crisis in densely populated informal settlements that have been hardest-hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, where quality accommodation needs to be built as quickly and as cost-effectively as possible. Timber as a building material can substantially reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the building sector, in addition to reducing the waste, pollution and costs associated with construction, and thereby contribute to a more physically, psychologically and aesthetically healthy built environment.

A mass timber frame and a reinforced concrete frame building were compared

Can SA plantations provide sustainable volumes of high-grade timber?

Van der Westhuyzen’s research focuses on whether or not South African plantations can provide sustainable volumes of high-grade (S7, S10) timber to sustain a multi-storey mass timber building market. This was followed by the design of two eight-storey commercial buildings consisting of a mass timber frame and a reinforced concrete frame respectively. A focus-group workshop conducted with industry professionals assisted with developing the construction schedules, while a financial model was used to determine the overall development cost and financial feasibility of the two approaches. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to investigate the effect of certain variables on the overall profitability of the mass timber frame option in particular. The research revealed that mass timber products would need to be imported to satisfy the rapid growth in the multi-storey mass timber building market in South Africa, as current timber supplies

Timber as a building material can assist to alleviate the housing crisis

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EDITORIAL Timber Construction

(S5, S7, S10) are oversubscribed. Studies suggest that future log resources could be added to the market through the development of new plantations. However, these plantations will only become available after 24 to 30 years. The focus group workshop identified that construction of the reinforced concrete frame building and mass timber frame building will take 42 weeks and 21 weeks respectively. Furthermore, the total capital investment required for the mass timber frame building is 10% more than that of the reinforced concrete frame option. A five-year internal rate of return (IRR) of 20.9% and 25.7% was calculated for the mass timber frame and reinforced concrete frame options respectively. Notably, the five-year IRR of both options is above the 15% minimum acceptable rate of return (MARR), indicating that they are both financially feasible. A significant finding of the sensitivity analysis was that the mass timber frame building proved to generate a higher five-year IRR than that of the reinforced concrete frame once the mass timber building achieved a rental premium of 7.8% or more. The sensitivity analyses further revealed that importing mass timber elements is an expensive option at a 16.4% five-year IRR.

What can be done to develop a sustainable multi-storey mass timber building market?

The research study highlighted a number of aspects in the manufacturing sector that can be addressed to develop a sustainable multi-storey mass timber building market. This includes improving the sourcing of high-grade structural timber (S7, S10) and investing in equipment to enable the large-scale production of large beams and columns typically required in multi-storey mass timber structures. Due to the sturdy and resilient qualities of timber and the relative ease of construction, timber-frame construction www.sabuildingreview.co.za

is one of the oldest known building methods, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, according to the South African Forestry Company SOC Limited (SAFCOL). While timber construction in South Africa can be traced back to the 1800s, it only became a bona fide building method over the last 30 years. This resulted in the formation of the Timber Frame Builders’ Association in the early 1980s, with SABS 082 amended in 1988 to include standards for timber construction in particular. The Institute of Timber Frame Builders (ITFB) and the ITC were aligned in August 2014, with the ITC-SA established to promote and sustain timber-engineered products in South Africa. ■ To read the full thesis by Stephanus van der Westhuyzen, visit www.scholar.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.1/109142

About Zutari

As engineering consultants and trusted advisors, Zutari co-creates an engineered impact that enables environments, communities and economies to thrive. The company has created an impact across Africa for the past 89 years (1932 to 2021) and remain committed to Africa. Zutari is experienced in international projects and its Global Design Centres allow it to bring worldclass solutions to its clients. Zutari’s broad collective of in-house, industryrecognised engineering consultants and trusted advisors provide seamless and integrated delivery. This unique ability to offer scaled engagement allows Zutari to solve complex challenges more efficiently. www.zutari.com

ADVERTORIAL Sawmilling SA

Taking timber to new heights

A report by global design, engineering and architecture firm Arup, Rethinking Timber Buildings: Seven perspectives on the use of timber in building, states that global carbon dioxide emissions have increased by almost 50% since 1990, with the global construction industry alone producing around 15% of these emissions. Furthermore, an estimated two billion square metres of new building stock are needed every year between 2019 and 2025, especially for housing.

When you consider the findings of the more recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Assessment Report which states that climate change is widespread and rapidly intensifying, the built environment holds the mantle for sustainable and swift climate action. How? By using more wood. For many years, wood has been viewed as an inferior building material reserved either for the very poor or engineered for the ultra-rich. It’s been labelled a fire hazard, weak or the cause of deforestation.

Aiming high with a lower footprint

Many people associate wood with rudimentary shelters or ‘wendy’ houses; for some it’s a luxurious log cabin nestled on a hillside with a view of the ocean. But for professionals and architects who are drawn to the wonders of wood, the sky is quite literally the limit. The presence of wood even makes us feel better due to ‘biophilia’, a hypothesis popularised by biologist and author Edward Wilson. As humans, we have an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. The world’s tallest mass timber building is the 18-storey Brock Commons Student Residence in Vancouver, Canada. In 2018, Sumitomo Forestry announced its plans to build a 70-storey hybrid timber skyscraper to mark its 350th anniversary in 2041. Dubbed W350, this lofty tower of lumber reflects a growing global trend to take wood to new heights in the built environment.

Green cred

But mention of timber buildings, and most people think ‘deforestation’. Roy Southey, Executive Director of Sawmilling South Africa, says: “There is no doubt that concrete, steel

and stone are good building materials, but it takes something special to match wood’s environmental credentials.” South Africa has 1.2 million hectares of farmed trees, and only 10% is harvested and replanted with new trees each year. This makes sustainably produced wood a renewable resource. The consumption of sustainable wood can actually help combat deforestation and local plantations are managed to stringent environmental criteria, especially in terms of water and biodiversity impacts. Sustainable forestry maintains trees in an active growing phase, optimising carbon storage. By harvesting small tracts at the right age, there is reduced risk of releasing carbon back into the atmosphere due to disturbances such as disease, decay and fire. Carbon is stored for longer when the trees are harvested and used for the production of wood products. Some 0.9 tons of carbon are sequestered by one cubic metre of wood throughout its lifetime. With a timber to steel ratio of 9:1, Sumitomo’s timber titan of 185 000 cubic metres will be a vault for 166 500 tons of carbon.

Timber ticks the boxes

Engineered wood types, such as glued laminated timber (glulam) or cross laminated timber, can match well with concrete and steel, with their competitive strength-to-weight ratios. “Along with design flexibility, longevity and superior insulating properties, timber structures are often prefabricated off-site and lighter to transport, reducing both construction times and associated costs,” points out Southey. Wood, of course, is a natural product and is thus susceptible to biological degradation. Biological degradation can occur

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ADVERTORIAL Sawmilling SA

either through fungal decay when exposed to higher moisture conditions, or attack by wood destroying insects like borer beetles and termites. According to Bruce Breedt, Executive Director of the South African Wood Preservers Association, the importance of using pre-treated timber to prevent degradation is critical to retain the benefit of timber in construction.

Sustainable supply

Timber buildings bring tremendous returns to all players along the value chain, from the timber grower to the homeowner while also serving to mitigate environmental impact. Photo by Roger Jardine

“Locally, we have enough forestry and timber resources to build more than 55,000 houses a year,” states Dr Philip Crafford from Stellenbosch University’s Department of Forest and Wood Science who co-authored a study with Dr Brand Wessels. This study revealed that our local log resource is sufficient for a sustainable wood residential building market. Despite this, South Africa is far behind the curve when it comes to using timber as a mainstream building material. Currently, only 1% of new houses in the country are wood-based, compared to more than 90% in countries such as the United States, Canada and Australia. “Structural timber does, however, have a long history here in the form of roof trussing,” says Southey, adding that it is widely accepted as the preferred method of construction for residential and medium-sized commercial roof structures.

Collaborative construction

Timber buildings are well-suited for public and private sectors invested in mitigating their environmental impact. From timberbuilt low-cost dwellings, staff housing and public buildings to high-end luxury homes, citizens, business and government could tap into the unique potential of wood.

Believe in Better Building, Osterley, UK. Photo by B&K Structures The four-storey-tall timber cassette cladding panels on this timber office building for Sky UK comprise internal and external wood facing panels separated by timber webs. Insulation occupies the spaces between the webs, and internal and external membranes control the passage of any moisture that may appear in the insulated cavity. With integrated assemblies like this, rigorous building physics analysis is important to give confidence in the thermal and moisture performance of the system.

As the Arup report rightly asserts: “The use of timber alone will not solve our many challenges, but it could form a vital component of how we choose to design and build and underpin a more resilient built environment.” By working in tandem with other construction industries, and not in opposition, the timber sector can not only rethink how it creates living and workspaces but act against climate change and create a greener building economy using one of the oldest, most intelligent and beautiful materials known to humankind.

The timber sector is working to change perceptions in South Africa when it comes to using timber as a mainstream building material.

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2013/10/25 12:00 PM

Photo by Eco Log Homes

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EDITORIAL Lighweight Floor and Roof Systems

When off-site meets onsite – helping developers

deliver the best homes more efficiently Back in June 2020, soon after the Covid-19 pandemic started to turn the world upside down, the South African government announced an ambitious infrastructure investment programme worth R2.3 trillion, with the housing sector included as a key target. That year, the overall construction market contracted by more than 16%, but thanks to the planned investment, and the opportunities presented by modern methods of construction, the growth forecast is a little healthier for this year, at 6.1%. We hope to see the South African housing sector benefitting from some of this growth. This year, MiTek has brought its own Posi-Joist solution to the South African market, offering the benefits of offsite construction and modern methods of construction to the region. MiTek has already seen interest in it develop for a number of applications in both the residential and commercial sectors, and believe that this modern method of construction approach is the key to recovery and growth. Tried and tested, and widely used across the US, UK, Ireland and Australia, Posi-Joist has been helping to deliver efficiencies in the house-building sector for more than a decade and has already been used in well over 250 000 projects in the UK alone. Interestingly, of all the countries that are currently employing modern methods of construction approaches, it’s Japan that tops the league table, building the highest number of homes using modern methods of construction. It’s fair to say that other nations are increasingly recognising that if they are going to meet demand, in an efficient and cost-effective manner, then modern methods of construction is the way to go.

Benefits for architects and builders

Architects and builders alike are increasingly grasping the benefits offered by modular, off site construction, and are widely enquiring about MiTek's Posi-Joist solution across a variety of construction methods. It’s an approach that delivers reduced costs and timescales, as well as a more environmentally friendly approach as there’s less waste, and a reduced need for concrete slab. Instead, made-to-measure Posi-Joists combine the versatility of timber with the strength of steel webs to produce strong, clear spanning and lightweight floor www.sabuildingreview.co.za

and roof systems, and the modular construction makes managing your ‘just in time’ supply chain much easier. Custom end details and the freedom provided by the open web service void allow for great flexibility, and the increasing use of Posi-Joist ‘cassettes’ allows for even greater offsite construction and time savings during the onsite phase. For developers and builders who want to see improved predictability in terms of cost, time and quality – something that modern methods of construction is known for delivering construction solutions such as Posi-Joist are the perfect answer. They offer the best of both worlds: offsite precision and construction, with traditional skilled onsite labour for installation. As South Africa seeks to deliver on its investment plans, MiTek looks forward to seeing modern methods of construction – and Posi-Joist – being an integral part of the nation’s healthy construction future. ■ www.mitek.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE GASS Architecture Studios

Jewel City –

a series of thoughtful interventions breathing new life into Johannesburg’s CBD

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PROJECT FEATURE GASS Architecture Studios

This massive urban redevelopment project on the outskirts of the Maboneng Precinct in Joburg’s eastern CBD breathes new life into the previously walled-off former centre of the diamond and precious metals trade industry in Johannesburg. The complex consists of six city blocks of industrial buildings, some dating back to the 1930s. The entire area was closed off to the public in the mid-90s and has remained an isolated and forgotten node for decades. Louis Van Zyl & Monograph Jewel City includes the reinvention of this pre-existing industrial complex as an open, vibrant mixed-use precinct that introduces a more sustainable dimension (socially and economically) and new diversity to early inner-city rejuvenation projects such as the Maboneng Precinct.

Undoing apartheid-era spatial divides

Client, Divercity, sees Jewel City as a catalytic project that will enhance the eastern CBD’s urban potential, introducing crucial facilities that include new affordable residential space, a school, healthcare and retail facilities such as a pharmacy and a supermarket and other recreational facilities that help to sustain an inclusive, prosperous and wholesome urban social, economic and cultural life in the inner city.

The architectural brief involved repurposing the existing industrial buildings, which includes the conversion of: • Block 1, The Diamond, into apartments; • Block 2, The Ruby, into a commercial building; • Block 3, a commercial building, received minor refurbishments and will form part of a second phase along with the redevelopment of The Amber (Block 4); • Block 4, The Amber, has been converted into a retail block; • Block 5, The Sapphire, has been upgraded and remains the main commercial building in the precinct; and • Block 6, The Onyx, previously an empty city block used as a parking lot, now houses a 13-storey residential building that stands as the Flagship building of the Jewel City precinct.

Jewel City has been envisioned as an opportunity to undo apartheid-era spatial divides and transform the inner city in a way that also addresses much needed access to resources and economic opportunities in the face of a dire need for housing.

The existing buildings were not substantially altered externally, although their facades were refurbished and adorned with local artwork throughout the precinct. Particularly in the residential conversion (The Diamond), the central shafts have been enlarged through punching additional openings into the existing central cores to improve the quality of light and ventilation for the apartments. The new residential units include a wide range of apartment types, from micro-studios to family-size twobedroom flats, encouraging not just economic diversity, but also social diversity. The new residential building also adopts a similar approach in its unit mix over 11 storeys overlooking the Johannesburg skyline. Jewel City comprises of apartments, commercial spaces, various retail spaces, offices, a school, a medical facility and a five-a-side soccer club among others. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE GASS Architecture Studios

Industrial heritage of the buildings honoured

The industrial heritage of the buildings are honoured not just through the lightness of the architectural interventions to the façades by exposing the expressive minimalism of their industrial materiality – off-shutter concrete, brickwork and steel – but also through the naming of each building. These names reference their former incarnations as a centre of the diamond and gold trade, but are reframed as more inclusive and representative of South Africa’s broader history. The Jewel City complex has been reintegrated with the existing urban fabric, mainly orientated inwards to create and sustain a new pedestrianised section of Fox Street as its central axis (further enhancing the link between Maboneng and the Iconic ABSA Precinct). This urban intervention will help to support a safe, friendly and open pedestrian-focused public environment and urban infrastructure characterised by shared public space. All the buildings along the central axis on either side of Fox Street includes retail pockets to encourage activity along the spine from east to west.

reliance on mineral wealth, while substantiating that theory with an economic injection into the local art economy.

Emphasis on the precinct’s public realm

GASS Architecture Studios has placed major emphasis on the precinct’s public realm. While they have made pragmatic provision for vehicle access at key points around the peripheries of the precinct, where there’s safe parking and drop-off areas for deliveries and services off the busy main arteries, the precinct is largely pedestrianised along its central axis. The quality of the shared public space has been enhanced with single-level sidewalks, subtly broadening the walkable space on a level plane. The introduction of lighting, trees and vegetation, seating and easy wayfinding prompts further humanises the streetscape. The asphalt and cobbled areas have been designed so that they can be utilised as a canvas from time to time to introduce new themes or to celebrate a season, once again involving local artists.

Other interventions are woven into the architectural fabric, which introduces a layer of heritage through artworks, signage, and interpretive panels. The involvement of local artists and artisans has been a priority, symbolically introducing the idea of the city’s new era of prosperity being anchored in its people rather than

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PROJECT FEATURE GASS Architecture Studios

Client:

Divercity, Atterbury, Ithemba

Architects:

GASS Architecture Studios

Directors:

Georg van Gass, Piet Boer;

Project Architect:

Jacques Pansegrouw

Quantity Surveyors:

Matla Quantity Surveyors

Electrical Engineers:

Eksteen & Le Roux

Structural Engineers:

EDS Engineers

Wet Services Engineers:

Izazi Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd

Fire Engineers:

Fenco Fire Engineers & Consultants

HVAC Engineers:

Graeme Page Consulting Engineers

Building Contractor:

Nomad Group (Blocks 1 & 3); WBHO & Motheo JV (Blocks 2, 4, 5 & 6); Pentacon Civils (Pty) Ltd (Fox Street)

Health & Safety Consultants:

Cairnmead Industrial Consultants (Pty) Ltd

Landscape Architects:

Daniel Rebel Landscape Architects (Pty) Ltd

Landscape Installation:

Bidvest Top Turf

The Onyx, the second of the residential buildings, features a large public square and urban park, flanked with trees and retail space as well as a safe children’s play area that spills out on to the square, animated by fountains and public art. The zero-level fountain will be easy to deactivate so that this central piazza can be used for events, including concerts, conferences, exhibitions and markets. The quality of the public space and the broader architectural character of the precinct is designed not only to catalyse and support a greater diversity of people within the precinct, but also to invite and encourage further investment into the CBD. The peripheral areas and sidewalks along the busy Commissioner and Main Streets have been repaired and upgraded, and additional lighting has been www.sabuildingreview.co.za

introduced to create a cleaner, safer space around the precinct. More broadly, the development opens up the potential for other key nodes of urban development such as Maboneng, the planned Absa Precinct and further developments along Fox Street to merge and form an integrated walkable city. Sustained by a belief in the transformative potential of urban design and architecture to catalyse economic and social energy, dignity and prosperity, Divercity and GASS Architecture Studios has re-envisioned this all-but-defunct industrial complex into a series of thoughtful interventions that breathe new life into Johannesburg’s CBD, while remining respectful of its heritage. ■ The Jewel City redevelopment broke ground in November 2018 and was completed in September 2020.

ADVERTORIAL Floorworx

Encouraging more locally manufactured goods

Confronting the brutal facts is a chapter in the book Good to Great by Jim Collins that struck a chord within our team and had us asking, "What are the current hard-toswallow issues we are facing in our South African economy?" Employment is the most critical and our WHY

Employment means giving South Africans hope and a future, or in simpler terms – it is people’s dreams and livelihoods. South Africa’s employment rate has been hugely affected by recent events such as the Covid pandemic and looting. According to Prinesha Naidoo of Bloomberg¹, “Unemployment in South Africa has surged, and we now find South Africa sitting at the top of most undesirable list – No. 1 in global unemployment. The expanded version of unemployment, which includes people available to work but not looking also increased alarmingly from 43.2% to 44.4%!”

Silver lining

Specify South Africa is a local initiative aimed at encouraging more locally manufactured goods, which will in turn assist manufacturing and the creation of more local jobs. With so many products being imported, the impact on the local economy is exacerbated along with people’s livelihoods. Let’s use FloorworX as the example. The company is based in East London where unemployment is the highest in the country at over 50%. The reality is that each person employed, in turn feeds eight people. This means that each shift run with 50 employed operators equals food for 400 people, demonstrating the massive direct impact of local employment. With imports currently the only competition to FloorworX’s products, by procuring and manufacturing locally they could move to two or three shifts and increase the number of employed people to 100 or 150 and feed 800 or 1 200 people in the local community.

FloorworX is by no means the only local manufacturer facing this reality. There are many more companies that can help to make this massive mind shift change, resulting in the prosperity of our local economy rather than that of others. So, when you look at specifying next time, ask the questions, "Where is this product manufactured, and is there a locally manufactured option available?" SOURCE ¹Source: (Naidoo, 2021, "South Africa’s unemployment rate is now highest in the world," 23 August 2021, https://www. aljazeera.com/economy/2021/8/24/south-africas-unemploymentrate-is-now-the-worlds-highest)

FLOORWORX T +27 (0)861 833 338 E info@floorworx.co.za W www.floorworx.co.za 88

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THE ONLY LOCALLY MANUFACTURED

VINYL

INSPIRED BY

SOUTH AFRICA 0860 346 679 | info@floorworx.co.za | www.floorworx.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

Designing

progressive schools Parklands College’s new ‘Innovation Centre’ embraces new modes of learning within a technology-based environment Dave Southwood

Developer:

Parklands College & Milnerton Estates Limited

Architects:

dhk Architects

Education Consultants: Structural Engineers: Mechanical + Electrical Engineers: Landscaping: Quantity Surveyor: Main Contractor: Fire Consultant: Sustainability Consultant:

Parklands College Henry Fagan & Partners Sutherland Consulting Engineers dhk Architects B&L Quantity Surveyors Stabilid Cape Construction Sutherland Consulting Engineers PJ Carew Consulting

Land Surveyor:

bvi Engineering

Interior Designer:

dhk thinkspace

Lighting Consultant:

Lights by Linear

Civil Engineers:

bvi Engineering

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

Over the past several years, schools around the world, including South Africa, have begun to embrace new modes of learning. This shift has emerged as a result of technological advancements, new ways of accessing and disseminating information, as well as a pedagogical shift towards collaborative or blended learning. Parklands College, an Apple Distinguished School in Cape Town, is at the forefront of innovative education techniques in the country and uses these methods to develop global competencies and skills in its learners so they can build their own futures. In aid of this, the College recently expanded its campus to include a new ‘Innovation Centre’ designed to accommodate a variety of teaching methods all within an innovative, technology-based environment. Parklands College, along with development partner Milnerton Estates, commissioned multidisciplinary design studio dhk Architects to tackle the project based on the firm’s sound track record and mutual interest in the future of forward-thinking education spaces. The brief was to create a substantial addition to its existing campus, dedicated entirely to spaces that facilitate these progressive teaching techniques and philosophies.

A progressive approach to problem-solving spaces A key focus area involved creating spaces to facilitate group work and classes that combine subjects (such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and art-based subjects into creative problem-solving activities. Additionally, as a local leader in the emerging field of robotics, another focus area was on creating workshopwww.sabuildingreview.co.za

style learning spaces to facilitate soft entrepreneurial- and vocational-based skills training. Furthermore, themes of interconnectivity, transparency and movement were vital to the ethos of the centre. When considering what sort of ‘spatial instruments’ could facilitate such new modes of learning and how they might deviate from traditional environments, dhk conducted a series of workshops with the College and professional team, testing a range of configurations which balanced the need for stimulating and physically connected spaces with the need for moments of quiet focus, or careful acoustic control; spaces that balance a sense of containment with a feeling of connectedness. The solution was ultimately found in clusters of interconnected spaces of varying sizes, often adjacent to or connected by circulation spaces, which have the opportunity to become recreational areas or extensions of the learning environment.

PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

Facilitating flow with a sympathetic extension

Conceptually, the building was envisioned as two solid rectilinear wings separated by courtyards; the southern wing responding to the College quadrangle and the gently bending northern wing providing a distinctive, striking backdrop to the playing fields. The two wings are simultaneously split and bound together by a large, steel-and-glass double-volume recreational atrium aptly named ‘Grand Central’, which forms the nucleus of the building. Not only does the atrium serve as a central movement hub, but it is also used for activities such as informal gatherings, impromptu performances, self-study and immersive digital experiences. Overall, the architectural design is contemporary and elegantly simple. It makes a distinct departure from the existing style of the campus buildings, yet remains sympathetic to the overall, orthogonal planning. The form of the building was strongly driven by optimising spatial relationships while adhering to the basic tenets of good environmental design – particularly internal environmental comfort.

Building for wellbeing

Research has shown that without natural daylight, fresh air, good acoustics, and good thermal comfort, the ability to engage meaningfully and the opportunity for deep learning are compromised (we consider connection to the outdoors to be equally vital). Therefore, the use of brick and concrete for the primary learning spaces, which face north and south were driven predominantly by the need for thermal mass to stabilise temperature fluctuations. The north façade was given a playful, modular articulation by creating an irregular pattern using large windows, deep reveals and light shelves. The central atrium, being predominantly a movement and recreational space, was made distinct by the use of steel and glass, shrouded by a bespoke aluminium sunscreen. The building also ‘breathes’ on its own; all the larger rooms are fitted with C0² sensors and automated window opening systems which measure the air quality and automatically open the windows incrementally to optimise it and eliminate the need for air-conditioning. Furthermore, acoustic performance was given significant priority and the specially designed system, integrated with the lighting, is vital to the success of the learning spaces.

Flexible spaces foster individual and group engagement

Collectively, forming the southern and eastern wings of the building are three large collaboration rooms, each with a series of smaller breakaway pods clustered along their flanks. Adjustable and versatile, the rooms are designed to accommodate up to 150 learners but can also be adapted via sliding screens to become two to three smaller learning spaces for 30 to 40 learners. A series of several small breakaway 'pods' feed off the larger collaboration rooms and allow learners to engage in smaller groups or quiet self-study. These back onto two inner courtyards which separate them from the northern wing; a string of non-specific classrooms intentionally designed square to ensure that there is no front or back. Two larger workshop-style learning spaces occupy the ground floor of the northern wing and are dubbed the ‘Robotics Lab’ and ‘Experium’ (Maker Space). The idea is for these spaces to provide learners with opportunities to prototype solutions to real-world

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

problems using digital electronics, design, crafting and building. On the upper level, breakaway pods are expressed as suspended boxes that hover above the courtyards, clutched only by the top and bottom of the concrete walkway. Lastly, a continuous circulation route loops through the entire building in a three-dimensional figure '8' and is actively populated with a variety of incidental ‘hangout moments’. The circulation route was designed to ensure the free movement of large numbers of learners while simultaneously providing visual connections between the building's various spaces.

Meaning & innovation embedded in the design

Throughout the building, there are several playful details. One is the distinctive, perforated aluminium screen which bathes the atrium in dappled light. The embedded pattern on the screen is a subtle reference to the concept of coding, where holes of different sizes create a sense of openness but also form vertical streams of light spots which reveal words reflecting the ethos of the building – ‘discover’ and ‘innovate’. Additionally, the DNA-inspired pendant lightfittings in the atrium remind learners of the human code within us. Importantly, these big leaps in flexibility and multifunctionality are made possible not only by the architecture but also through innovative furniture and clever storage which play a significant support role in mode shifting. These include mobile furniture items that can be quickly arranged in various permutations, whether by virtue of lightness or manoeuvrability courtesy of wheels. This could be storage that doubles as seating or inviting nooks and perches to engage in a variety of different activities. Another example is colourful smart acoustic panels that house screens, Wi-Fi points and other technologies. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Increasingly, the need to move, sit, stand, and even lie down and learn, is being facilitated via bar counters, poofs, ottomans, large staircases, and cave-like nooks. While the pandemic put a pause on the building’s opening year, the new centre was praised when learners did return to the campus. The adaptable spaces allowed teachers to increase the floor area of their classrooms to ensure social distancing without needing two classrooms and two teachers for each lesson. Also, the digital connectivity including the green screen breakaway rooms allowed learners to connect easily and stay at a distance from teachers but also remain engaged in the content (and allowed teachers to pre-record lessons). Lastly, all teaching spaces and breakaway rooms have excellent acoustics, natural light and cross ventilation without glare, which made the spaces ideal for using of technology while remaining in collaboration. ■ Parklands College’s ‘Innovation Centre’ is the 2021 winner of the prestigious SAPOA (South African Property Owner’s Association) Awards ‘Other Category’.

About dhk Architects:

dhk has a firmly established reputation as a design-led multidisciplinary studio which incorporates architecture, urban design, landscape architecture and interior design. More than 100 people contribute to the success of the company across these disciplines, making dhk one of the largest architectural practices in Africa. dhk’s integrated approach to design in the built environment, coupled with innovative solutions, has garnered international recognition with projects across Africa and in Europe, and offices in Cape Town and Johannesburg. www.dhk.co.za

ADVERTORIAL Hansgrohe

Hansgrohe

a partnership you can count on On 15 June 1901, Hans Grohe founded a handicraft business for metal products in Schiltach in the Kinzig Valley, Black Forest, Germany. Many things have changed since that day, but not our passion for water and our mission to always lead with style when it comes to our work and our products. We are committed to this vision – then, now and in the future. That is the #hansfactor. The #hansfactor describes the green innovator's heart of all our team members. From it, emanates the drive to create unforgettable moments with the element of water. This passion for water is tangible in the art of engineering, in the willingness to experiment and in our own demand for perfection, which can be seen, for example, in the sound and spray laboratory, where highly sensitive microphones are used to carefully search for disturbance sounds. The #hansfactor can be felt in every product that leaves the Black Forest. At Hansgrohe, we not only help build bathrooms, we build the future. We recognise the value in people to collaborate and share expertise. We know what we do isn’t a job, it is a craft. Together with you, we are on the path to tell stories and bring spaces to life. Hansgrohe’s sustainable EcoSmart technology reduces water consumption by up to 60% and you can choose your pleasure when you install the two-jet spray type, which features a smooth, uninterrupted laminar spray and standard spray setting – with easy switching between the two types. It is innovations like these that keep hansgrohe at the top of awards lists, like the recent German Brand Award 2021, in the "Excellence in Brand Strategy and Creation" category, where hansgrohe won the Gold award for 'Brand Refresh' in the category.

Germany’s design and brand authority and is judged by a top-class panel of experts in brand management and brand science. The award identifies and honours unique brands and brand builders in their respective industries. Hansgrohe’s winning entry for 2021, 'Feel alive', was a premium lifestyle campaign aimed at a discerning target market. The messaging focused on experiences with water that inspire feelings of joy and liveliness – a sentiment that frames hansgrohe’s mission to craft innovative, luxury products that are not only aesthetically appealing, but easy to use and environmentally responsible. At hansgrohe, our craft enhances lives with the beauty of water. This you can count on. #Countonhansgrohe. Hansgrohe stands for smart living applications that enrich people’s everyday lives and offer them more functionality and safety in their homes. hansgrohe. Meet the beauty of water. Find out more about the hansgrohe brand at: www.facebook.com/hansgrohe www.twitter.com/hansgrohe_pr www.instagram.com/hansgrohe www.pinterest.de/hansgrohe

The German Brand Award honours global achievers in successful brand management. The award was conceived by

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PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects

Oban Estate Summerveld is located within the lush rolling hills of Shongweni, situated half an hour inland from the port city of Durban, South Africa. Grant Pitcher Photography

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PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects

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PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects

This tight knit horse racing and show jumping community is home to the Oban Estate, a contemporary residence and equestrian facility named after the Scottish seaside town from where the owner’s family originates. The point of entry to this four-hectare site involves driving through a raw concrete and corten gatehouse and along a curved, tree-lined avenue. This provides an opportunity to catch obscured rhythmic glimpses of the home through evenly spaced Plane trees. Emerging from this leafy tunnel of dappled light and passing under a low-slung cantilevered canopy that opens up into an expansive parking court, signals the arrival at the private residence.

Modern home with brutalist undertones

This modern home with brutalist undertones expressed in the structural design, takes on a simple arrangement of monolithic linear forms that project out across the vast manicured lawn and gently sloping paddocks, whilst still managing to position itself comfortably amongst the existing mature trees. Approaching the home, an organic shaped concrete wall weaves its way above a shallow reflective pond, enthusiastically inviting visitors over a small bridge and through the front door.

On entering the home, the view of the distant horizon vista through an expansive unobstructed 10-metre opening is simply breathtaking. Simultaneously, the prominent V-column, the ‘googie’ styled floating staircase, and the triangulated coffer slab double volume ceiling, set the tone for what lies ahead. The open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining room area leads onto a fully equipped, covered outdoor living and entertainment area, swimming pool, and a 24-metre-long koi pond. A guest suite and combination study/lounge/gym area make up the remaining ground floor spaces. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects

Feature staircase offers a sculptural backdrop

Whilst functioning as the means to transition floor levels, the feature staircase offers a sculptural backdrop to the double volume space that leads up to the mezzanine landing. Arriving at the upper section gallery area of the double volume, there is a notable change of atmosphere. The filtered light moving through the wall of vertical screens, as well as a series of nine symmetrically formed triangular skylights, collectively create an ethereal and uplifting experience, which always tempts a moment of contemplation. This floor level is made up of two twin suites and a master suite that includes a private lounge and reading area. All the suites are linked by a 28-metre floor to ceiling glazed passage that can be completely opened up to allow for natural cross ventilating breezes during the humid summer months.

Patterns made by the louvres bring warmth and texture to the equestrian component The equestrian component adjacent to the home consists of stables, an oval shaped office, complete with the private lounge and bathroom a 2 400m2 open show jumping arena surface, arena storage, workshops, and public parking for visitors’ cars and horse trailers.

Whilst this lightweight building departs from the modernist architectural language of the private residence, the shape of the building reinforces the linear form originating from the home.

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PROJECT FEATURE Metropole Architects This steel and sheeted structure houses all the equestrian functions under a single mono-pitch roof, with angular sheeted walls either wrapping downwards, or opening upwards depending on the relative function that occurs within. In some areas the wrap down is dissolved into horizontal louvre elements that facilitate the sensible balance of natural light and solar control, particularly in the area of the stables. In addition, the early morning and late afternoon shadow patterns generated by the louvres bring a warmth and texture to the robust surface areas.

Two fundamental challenges

The design framework for both components of the project was established in the resolution of two fundamental challenges. The first being from a site planning aspect. The residential and equestrian components had to be functionally defined according to their respective private and public usage, whilst at the same time achieving the aesthetic of a single integrated development. The second being from an architectural aspect. The introduction of a bold modernist structure within a rustic country environment demanded a rigorous design approach. The process pursued an outcome that would present buildings confident in their demeanour, yet respectful of the prominent site that had received them. Ultimately the aim of this project was driven by a vision to see contemporary architecture, equestrianism, and nature, coalesce into a reality that was inspiring, functional and unique within the context of its spectacular setting. ■

Architect:

Metropole Architects Design Architect – Nigel Tarboton Project Architects – Tyrone Reardon & David Louis Project Technologist – Chris Laird

Building Contractor: Engineer:

Verbaan Construction Young & Satharia Consulting Structural and Civil Engineers

Quantity Surveyors: Interiors: Kitchen & Built in cupboards: Landscaping:

HiRise Consulting Egg Designs Eurocasa Arthur Mennigke (Naked Gardener) and/or Natal Landscapes

Equestrian incl. arena: Koi pond: Sound & Automation: Security: Aluminium fins & screens:

Martin Collins Koi @ Jungle Audio Architex The Surveillance Factory KZN Alupicket

Structural Steel, stables metalwork, steel balustrading and corten façade cladding :

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Sandpiper Fabrication

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EDITORIAL Mixed-Use Projects

Mixed-use developments drive trend for convenience and integration Mixed-use developments are a growing trend in the residential property development market because they reduce travel time for residents and offer more convenience, choice and an integrated lifestyle.

The Galloway Column project in Accra, Ghana which houses a hotel, apartments, retail outlets and a church.

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EDITORIAL Mixed-Use Projects

The Mbilinga Mall in Libreville, Gabon, which houses retail outlets, apartments and a night club.

Paragon Architects' Eswatini Railways head office.

On the part of developers, the decision-making involved may be more complex, but this can be balanced against more robust income models. “All in all, mixed-use developments represent a positive alternative to our disintegrated, mono-functional South African cities,” comments Paragon Group Director, Henning Rasmuss. The Melrose Arch development in Johannesburg, in which Paragon Architects participated as a start-up design practice, first prodded developers into considering mixed-use precincts as an alternative model. However, complacency and the resistance of banks and their credit risk committees to merged and mixed income models have scuppered many a mixeduse project in the past. The contracting economy and more demanding, urbanised and car-less, younger middle-class consumers are changing that though. Rasmuss points to many capacity constraints affecting development at the moment. Affordability limits are squeezing the number of square metres, coupled with young upper middle-class consumers still opting for traditional first-time home ownership. This is also partly due to the fact that the traditional South African city has working, living and playing areas neatly separated by vehicle corridors. “Overlay apartheid spatial planning onto this, and we end up with dysfunctional cities that are expensive, inefficient and alienating. Some of the mixed-use trends derive from consumer demand and a new perception of city life as something desirable with high amenity and social value,” highlights Rasmuss.

Major drivers of mixed-use development

A major driver of mixed-use developments in South Africa is the massive shift in ownership of B-grade and C-grade office buildings due to Covid-19, many of which are now available for residential redevelopment. “There is not much else one can do with those workplaces left behind by shrinking companies. Costs of transport, non-available infrastructure budgets and a general demand for urban convenience are driving housing demand to www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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EDITORIAL Mixed-Use Projects shopping malls, which have additional challenges of underperformance and can support additional bulk off existing infrastructure,” stresses Rasmuss. Bulking-up developments on top of or next to shopping malls and their parking lots can insert additional housing adjacent to malls. Associated trends include micro living in highly serviced buildings, highly branded low-cost urban renewal projects and, for the mass market, price-pointdriven walk-up apartments, with student housing falling somewhere into the low-cost refurbishment market.

Contemporary large new-build mixed-use projects

An example of a contemporary large new-build mixed-use project is the Harbour Arch precinct in Cape Town, which Rasmuss acknowledges “is probably leading the way”. The 5.8ha Harbour Arch development by the Amdec Group will be home to six individual tower blocks with a total 200 000m² of usable space, making it the first and largest mixed-use development of its kind in the Cape Town central business district. It is comparable to the Melrose Arch precinct in Johannesburg, and will encapsulate the principles of new urban living. This presents opportunities for people to live, work, play, relax and stay in a safe, convenient, enjoyable and sustainable community-focused environment. Expansions and redevelopments in the Cape Quarter similarly show that there is viable demand. While Paragon is not involved with Harbour Arch, there are a number of mixed-use developments that are on the Group’s radar. Also in Cape Town, it is working on an intricate site in the City Bowl that encompasses varied development functions. A super-flexible masterplan is afoot at the Newlands Rugby Stadium, while in Nelson Mandela Bay the architecture and

interior architecture group is working on a mixed-use precinct centred around sport as a connector. “It is interesting that open spaces are becoming desirable and valued, especially in tough South African urban settings,” notes Rasmuss.

Work in Malawi and Angola

In Malawi, Paragon Group is working on a mixed-use precinct in Lilongwe adjacent to the airport, based on the Millennium Development Goals as a design driver. In Angola, it is being commissioned to design a superintegrated business and living complex in the middle of Talatona. “That project will have ‘a little bit of everything’ and opens up opportunities for multiple smaller codevelopers, breaking the mould of dominant familybased control of major projects in that city. It is a large site that can comfortably be phased,” elaborates Rasmuss. From a continental perspective, Rasmuss points to the traditional East African super-mixed-use multi-storey retail and residential complexes that line so many streets in Kampala and Kigali, and also Accra and Dakar. “There are definitely lessons here about what can be achieved,” he adds. Hence mixed-use is quite natural on large parts of the continent. “It is important to think of mixed-use as ‘the natural normal’, and not as a new and risky thing. It is how people want to live – naturally. What happened under the tenets of modernist planning is that people across the world had their lives disaggregated and distorted. There is hopefully now a reversal to ‘real cities for real people’,” predicts Rasmuss. ■

About Paragon

Paragon Architects, established in October 1997, is an internationally active African design business, based in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa. Paragon Group comprises three divisions: Paragon Architects, Paragon Interface, and Paragon Architects South Africa. The Group delivers commercial architecture, master planning, interior design and space planning to clients in all property sectors. It is a member of the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA). Paragon Architects South Africa has a Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment rating of Level 4 under the Construction Industry Transformation Charter. The company is 51% black South African-owned by Thulani Sibande. Paragon Group Director, Henning Rasmuss

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2011630

1000 CHOICES. MAKING ALL THE RIGHT ONES. 1 QUALITY CEMENT. WHAT GOES INTO IT MATTERS.

We know that building today only matters if we have a tomorrow to look forward to. As leaders in sustainability, we’ve undertaken signiﬁcant initiatives in the areas of energy optimisation and emission reduction, including the rehabilitation of mines, optimally using resources and holistically reducing our carbon footprint. Our responsible attitude towards the environment informs everything we do in order to sustain life for future generations. Ask for AfriSam.

www.afrisam.com

Creating Concrete Possibilities

EDITORIAL Sustainability

Managing readymix waste

for a sustainable planet The management of waste poses various challenges for the readymix industry and AfriSam has been following through its commitment to 'People, Planet and Performance' with a range of innovative solutions. The sector’s sustainability issues include returned concrete, grey water, concrete spillage and soil contamination. Dealing with returned concrete from customer sites has long created an environmental headache for readymix producers, according to Russell Wearne, National Operations Manager for readymix at AfriSam.

At AfriSam readymix operations' grey water is carefully channelled into settling pits, from where the company can use it in a number of plant activities to conserve water.

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EDITORIAL Sustainability

As part of its mission to preserve the planet for future generations, AfriSam has, over the years, developed a number of strategies regarding returned concrete. “If we have a quarry site nearby, we are often able to recycle a considerable proportion of concrete that is returned from a site,” he says. “It is dumped in a designated, controlled area of the quarry to harden, and is then crushed and added into our G5 material – subject to the agreement of the customer," says Wearne. With the correct planning, AfriSam has also been able to cast blocks and bricks from wet returned readymix before it sets. These have been used extensively on its quarry operations for road markers and other purposes. Where the planning allows, the readymix has even contributed to community projects, going into classroom floors of needy schools, among other applications. Another potential environmental impact is the slurry residue that remains in a readymix truck after the product has been off-loaded. This has to be rinsed out on a daily basis to prevent material hardening on the inside of the drum. “The resulting grey water is carefully channelled into settling pits, from where we can use it in a number of plant www.sabuildingreview.co.za

activities to conserve water use,” says Wearne. “On certain sites, the residue ‘slush’ is agitated in a pond, monitored, sampled, and re-used in the batching plant to mix with the cement, aggregate and sand.” AfriSam has pioneered the use of covers on the discharge chutes of its readymix trucks, to avoid minor spillages of concrete on site or on the road to or from the batching plant. “In the unlikely event of any spillage, each plant has a clean-up crew that will respond quickly with the necessary equipment,” Wearne says. This capacity is also valuable as the country’s environmental regulations tighten up generally on the impact of construction activities. A closer focus on possible soil contamination on sites, for instance, means that suppliers must support the contractor’s environmental compliance efforts. “A truck that leaks oil is a source of soil contamination, so we pay special attention to ensuring this kind of pollution does not occur,” he adds. “If it does, we are in a position to respond timeously and mitigate the impact.” ■ www.afrisam.com

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ADVERTORIAL Ctrack

The importance of telematics

and fleet management Owning and operating vehicles efficiently, no matter the industry, is reliant on information. Having the correct information in a tangible format is imperative to making the right decisions. “During Ctrack’s 35-year history, we have developed cutting edge tracking and fleet management hardware and software solutions. We can also tailor-make analytics to aid with short and long-term decision making,” says Hein Jordt, Chief Executive Officer of Ctrack SA. A comprehensive fleet management solution ensures that safety and security risks such as dangerous driving, safety, driver fatigue, theft, hijackings and area management can be mitigated. Daily vehicle health checks and odometer or hour readings make it easier to schedule maintenance, remain up to date with vehicle license renewals and keep an eye on their overall condition. Compact, battery-operated tracking devices mean that anything can be tracked, from combine harvesters to small packages. Ctrack offers a variety of technologies for positive and accurate driver identification, including Dallas iButton keys and RF ID cards that make it simple to determine which driver was driving what vehicle, in what manner and when. Ctrack also has the ability to link driver's tags to specific classes of vehicles to ensure that drivers only operate the vehicles they are licensed for. A starter lockout can be installed to prevent the vehicle from being started without the correct authorisation via the driver identification system. The recent rollout of AARTO also means that it is now even more important to accurately identify and manage drivers of vehicles within your fleet. The Iris camera solution records in all directions of the cabin, making it perfect for driver training and incident

management. A breathalyser ensures that the vehicle cannot be started if the driver is over a pre-determined alcohol limit. An on-board weighing system prevents vehicles from being overloaded, and a tip sensor aids in the efficient management of loads. On-board telematics monitor engine parameters such as excessive idling and high rpm, as well as fuel consumption and fuel level. Assets are always visible via devices such as a cell phone, tablet or computer thanks to bespoke software such as the Ctrack Mobi application and an Internet connection. Driver Mobi allows drivers to manage themselves via their smartphones. Drivers see their own scores and driver behaviour on journeys. They can also submit their business or private mileage declarations and complete vehicle checks.

CTRACK T +27 (0)860 333 444 E sales@ctrack.com W www.ctrack.co.za 108

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PROJECT FEATURE Poche Architectural Concepts

The Fish Hoek house – container house has stepped terraced areas

Located on a steep site in Fish Hoek, the client wanted to create a stepped house that would include as many outdoor spaces as possible that could be used depending on the weather. Constructing with containers enabled the architects to work with the steep site to create stepped terraced indoor and outdoor areas.

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PROJECT FEATURE Poche Architectural Concepts

On the lowest level of the site is a concrete double garage base with a terrace of steps leading up to the next level of the rooftop sun deck on the garage roof in the front portion of the site. This will have a Jacuzzi and covered bar area for entertaining. The landscaping on this terrace level consists of gabion steps with rocks used from site excavation which will be finished with large rectangular grey concrete pavers. These steps will be surrounded by natural landscaping with native, hardy and waterwise flora. On the next platform above the roof terrace will be a large pool and covered decked area. The garden steps will also lead to the next level of the house, a small guest cottage with its own kitchenette and living space with one bedroom and bathroom. The bedroom sliding doors lead to a private, sheltered courtyard which is the perfect place on a windy Cape Town day. To the front of the cottage are stacking doors that lead to a semi-enclosed decked area where occupants can enjoy the stunning views. An enclosed brick structure with a steel staircase then leads up to the next level to the main house. A wine cellar will be installed at a later stage to the underside of the landing. This double volume space filters light into the entrance. As you step off the top landing you are exposed to the main living area. Occupants are greeted with a large open dining and lounge area which is divided by a central fireplace. Two sets of large stacking doors and clerestory windows, which span the length of this space, treat occupants and www.sabuildingreview.co.za

guests to endless views of Fish Hoek valley and beach. The views can be enjoyed on the fourth open area of the house, a large steel and timber balcony that connects the living area with the main bedroom. Behind the living spaces is a beautiful kitchen which stretches half the length of the 12-metre container. A small scullery is tucked into the corner of the kitchen, which has access to the back garden. To the right of the kitchen is a half-enclosed study and home office area, which has a sliding door that also leads to the back garden. All the exterior decks have blackened wooden planks that were charred with fire and sealed to create black decking, which ties into the aesthetics of the whole house which will be predominantly black. Back inside the house, there is a guest bedroom with bathroom space located to the north-east with its own

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PROJECT FEATURE Poche Architectural Concepts private balcony. On the north-west side of the living area will be the elongated main bedroom with 90 degree views of Fish Hoek bay, a walk-in dressing area and at the end, a very luxurious bathroom with views of the mountain that surround the back of the property.

Construction

framework of the roof structure creates large overhangs to shelter the large area of glazing on the north side. Once the full shell of the house was completed and sealed off, the remainder of the ceilings, flooring and fixtures, including cabinetry, could be fitted.

Concrete footings were cast once site prep was completed, then steel columns and beams were set in place to create the supporting framework for the containers to be craned and placed, and then welded in position.

The great thing about building with containers is the offsite construction which in turn saves the client on time and labour. While the main house was being completed, the guest cottage was being finished off.

The central hybrid floor area could then be constructed to tie the three 12-metre containers together. The large

Finishes

We were lucky to have a client with impeccable taste, which included black and brass sanitaryware fixtures, stunning floor-to-ceiling Bianco marble tiling in the bathrooms, delicate light fixtures above the kitchen islands and a feature chandelier above the main house double volume staircase area. The cabinetry is high gloss Folkestone grey which is contrasted with black linear boxed shelving and a simple Caesar stone cloudburst concrete countertop and glistening grey tiled splashbacks. The client's biggest wish was to expose as much of the containers as possible as they form an integral part of the envelope. Therefore, the exterior of the containers was not cladded and in the main living and dining space, the black painted container can also be seen. ■

Contractor:

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Mick Murphy from Murphy Projects Cc

Architect:

Ayla Damon from Poche Architectural Concepts

Engineer:

Len Nyenes from Nyenes Property Design

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EDITORIAL Coatings & Paint

Paintsmiths passion for the environment reflected

in eco-friendly & non-toxic paint ranges When it comes to selecting paint for your home or office, there is so much choice that making the final decision can be difficult. Paintsmiths is known for pushing the boundaries in product development and has made significant gains in environmentally conscious technology and the aesthetics of its coatings offerings. We talked to Elna Wessels from Paintsmiths who offers some insights.

Paintsmiths offers a full range of eco-friendly, non-toxic paints, not only for finishing top coats, but a full range of primers too. These products fall under the Midas Envirolite range. All top coats in this range, for example, Midafelt 225 (matt finish) and Midalux 240 (satin sheen finish), have zero VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and contain no lead.

Matthew Macloud from Paintsmiths St Francis and Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and Mark Joubert from Paintsmiths Longbeach, agree that Greys still play a dominating role in terms of palettes for 2022. Popular greys include Millstone, Nguni, Hello Grey, Filament, Arniston White and Almost There. 'Dirty' pastels are also gaining popularity.

Paintsmiths also have an entire range of specialised textures and finishes that have these qualities. These paints fall under the Earthcote range, with products like Pandomo, Limestone, Granite, and Worn Leather, to name a few.

Sasi Paton from Paintsmiths eThekwini (formerly Durban) says that in her region, she can summarise the colour palette in three words – Ocean, Bush and Sand. Examples of this for neutrals include Almost There, Bleach Washed Table, Arniston White and Millstone. Accent colours include Hoop Iron, Scaffold Plank, Mystique and Peppercorn.

Choosing an eco-friendly and non-toxic paint

Wessels emphasises that it is vital to look at the level of VOCs in the paint and to get as close to zero VOCs as possible, as these are the ingredients (e.g. Formaldehyde and Glycol) in paints and other materials that have an adverse effect on human and animal health.

Paintsmiths stores are located throughout South Africa and each store is privately owned and managed. ■

All Midas Envirolite products are approved by the Green Building Council and are used in 5-star Green Buildings.

Interior paint colour trends for 2022

According to Wessels, for 2022 colours, comfort is key. In a countrywide survey conducted by Paintsmiths at the end of 2021, it was revealed that the most popular colours fit into two categories across all regions – calm neutrals and bold accents. (select from www.tsmiths.co.za/colourpicker) Geneve from Paintsmiths Kramerville recommends Almost There for a comforting neutral palette, complimented by Fruit Brown – inviting nature into the home and office environment. Add a pop of colour with Mystique and Peppercorn for that forward-looking local resilience. Carl Bruckner, owner of Paintsmiths Kramerville, Sandton advises that Intense Teal is the colour to keep an eye on.

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PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

Soil and

serenity Set in the tranquil and undulating hills of the Highveld and overlooking the Rhenosterspruit Conservancy valley, is a building that tells a story of soil and serenity through its deep connection to person and place. René Walker Simoné du Plessis, Veld Architects

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PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

The client's brief for this new home in the Highveld landscape of Lanseria, was simple and unique: Create a sustainable home that incorporates tranquillity, celebrates the views of the mountainous horizon, is unobtrusive and will harness the best potential of the site. As a single mother working from home as a professional geologist, the building needed to be multi-functional and allow for optimal connection with nature. Seeing that the client also has a deep love of nature, spaces needed to be connected to the outside environment as much as possible, with a tranquil outside bathroom space for the main ensuite as a personal request for the design. In terms of maintenance, the client wanted the building to be constructed from simple, durable materials that would require minimal maintenance in the future. Sustainable principles such as rainwater harvesting and solar collection on site was unnegotiable and needed to be incorporated from the start of the design process. It also had to be inconspicuous and seamlessly integrated into the overall function as well as aesthetic of the building.

Location:

Lanseria, Gauteng

Architect:

Veld Architects

Engineer:

TMV Structural Engineers

Contractor:

Helder Rock Developments

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As modern professional architects, we aim to design buildings that make our clients happy and healthy. Therefore, we adopt the latest architectural findings on sustainability, eco-friendly designs and the value of living with nature and incorporate these principles into our design. From style and unique design features to incorporating resilient systems and low-maintenance materials, this veld home is no exception and is well rooted in the sustainable design ethos.

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PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

Design does not exist in isolation but responds to its surroundings

As it was important for the client to have optimal connection with the natural environment in which the site is located, one of the main informants for the design was the context and the potential of the site. This resulted in a design that does not exist in isolation but responds to and improves its surroundings. Due to a significant slope on site from the southern to the northern boundary, soil was excavated to create a building platform that creates a protective back of natural landscape for the rear of the building to the south. Too often, the natural landscape of a building is only considered in hindsight. In doing this, the powerful connection that exists between a building, the landscape and the user is lost. To ensure this connection was not lost, the excavated soil from the site was repurposed and interwoven into the building to pay homage to the client’s profession as a geologist and was manifested in rammed earth walls as a unique feature. These feature walls subtly, yet intentionally mimic the surrounding hills and create a main entrance axis which guides users into the site and building. By mimicking the same contours and slightly recessing the building into the landscape, the building is unobtrusive from the street and truly becomes part of the surrounding natural environment.

A sustainable home that is multi-functional

Another key role player in the design was functionality. As we all know, architecture is all about form and function. The ‘form’ part, or the aesthetics of a design, encompass everything that helps to create a pleasing appearance. ‘Function’ of a design refers to the purpose of a structure or building. As the purpose of this specific home as per the client’s brief was to create a sustainable home that is multi-functional and harnesses the best potential of the site, form followed function in the design process. This led to a plan and section that is simplistic, direct and well-rooted in passive design principles. The plan follows a protective back which reinforces the site topography and introduces open plan living that permits multi-functional and transitional spaces. By embracing the sweeping views in a linear design towards the north, the building also takes advantage of natural lighting with large glazing elements. The building exhibits a naturally ventilated strategy that invites fresh air in through openable window and doors located closer to finished floor level and exhales mixed hot air out through openable top light windows closer to the high-volume soffits. The correct placement of doorways and windows, and the appropriate height of ceilings allow for natural air forces of wind and buoyancy to do all the work.

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PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

Well-being and a holistic design ethos

Not only does it allow for adequate natural lighting and cross ventilation, the linear layout of the building also ensures the home takes advantage of the mountainous views. Apart from context and functionality, well-being and a holistic design ethos also formed part of the design informants. As humans spend inordinate amounts of time inside buildings and especially their own homes in these pandemic times, it is essential to create homes that encourage more meaningful and healthier lifestyles. This can be done by ensuring optimal connections within buildings to the natural environment through sound, sight, smell and hapticity. Therefore, by designing with a holistic approach through keeping sensory experiences in mind and generating vistas to the outdoors from all of the spaces within this veld home, the architecture instils a healthy flow throughout and contribute to the well-being of its users. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT FEATURE Veld Architects

Sustainable strategies to harness the natural resources of the site

It is our responsibility as architects to minimise the impact of our carbon footprints and ensure that we create buildings that are regenerative and resilient. The ability to design greener, sustainable buildings should not only aim to have a reduced impact on the environment but also help restore our natural resources. Apart from making use of passive design principles and low-maintenance materials to reduce the carbon footprint, the design furthermore includes two sustainable strategies to harness the natural resources of the site. The first strategy of rainwater collection is integrated into the overall design of the home by creating a floating singular mono-pitch roof which allows for maximum catchment area for rainwater collection into corrugated steel water tanks strategically located on the periphery of the building. Purpose-made gutters with intricate spout details into the rainwater tanks celebrates the attention to detail of the practical. The second strategy takes advantage of the sunny South African weather. Solar collection and storage are

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introduced on the double garage roof area to ensure that the building can function off the grid.

Functional yet beautiful spaces

The design translates the needs of the client into functional yet beautiful spaces. The home is cool during summer and hot in winters which diminishes the need for additional heating or cooling methods. The materials are simplistic and the rammed earth walls echoes a bit of what the client does professionally within her home. Each living space in the house has a view towards the valley and if you listen carefully, you can hear the river trickling past as it travels along the riverbed – all elements which contribute to the well-being of the users and ensure a healthy environment. The building integrates seamlessly into the landscape by responding to the context and not only does the design of the house echo sustainability, but it also considers the practicalities of the future in terms of space and value. It exemplifies the seamless merging of the client’s personal ethics and aesthetics with the contextual environment to tell the story of a connected and unobtrusive space of soil and serenity. ■

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EDITORIAL Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient architectural window film solutions for the

commercial retrofit market Bunny Bala, Technical Support Specialist at Saint-Gobain Africa

Various commercial activities contribute towards global warming by energy usage and carbon dioxide emissions. Although the African continent contributes the least towards global warming in both absolute and per capita terms, South Africa is the world’s 14th biggest contributor of greenhouse gases (GHGs). South Africa is one of the most industrialised countries on the continent and the CO2 emissions are primarily due to the country’s significant dependence on coal.

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The biggest contributor of all has been proved to be the building and construction sector, which contributes 36% of global energy usage and 39% of CO2 emissions. This stems mostly from the operations of buildings in terms of energy consumption, typically heating and cooling. If the minimum requirements stipulated in SANS 10400 XA which legislates effective energy savings, have not been employed, a building can consume a considerably larger amount of energy. This occurs because a poorly insulated building will consume more energy to create a comfortable environment for its occupants. Statistics reveal that coal supplies 67% of South Africa’s energy production, a non-renewable source. An alarming statistic given the commercialisation of new power generating technologies, solar being a predominant source. The call for energy efficiency in buildings has never been so urgent!

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EDITORIAL Energy Efficiency

Glass surface Transparant optically clear adhesive Combination of deyed/matallized polyester film 50- 375µm Special protective hardcoat

High performance solutions are catalysts of sustainable innovation

Currently, the building industry is receiving pressure from various stakeholders for better business practices in the name of sustainability. As a result, leading construction companies around the world have integrated sustainability values in their business models. Take for example the industry giant Saint-Gobain and its commitment to the multilateral Paris Agreement that aims to limit the rise of global temperatures to 1.5°C in an effort to limit the environmental effects of global warming. Such companies continue to focus their resources on innovative ways to deliver high-performance solutions to forward-thinking clientele. High performance solutions are catalysts of the energy efficiency agenda and the embodiment of sustainable innovation. The government has not only developed new policies and more stringent regulations, it has injected considerable resources and effort into sustainability initiatives and partnerships.

Glazing and its shortfalls

SANS 10400-XA determines parameters for the entire building envelop, including hot water usage. It must be noted that the weakest link in the building envelop is the window area or glazed apertures because this is where heat gain and heat loss occurs most rapidly. This is even truer if the windows have clear and single glass panes. This type of glass allows for the highest transmission of visible light, which causes glare, and highest heat transfer, which causes accelerated thermal discomfort. Furthermore, it offers no privacy and can be a security liability. Specialised window films require no maintenance and can mitigate these challenges with the added benefit of no hindrance to business operations during installation. Historically, most buildings in South Africa have single clear pane windows. Annealed glass (also known as float glass) has been the most common and widely used glazing type www.sabuildingreview.co.za

for windows globally. Although, in recent years, there has been a clear shift. Energy-efficient glass has penetrated the market, particularly in Europe. Currently, it is increasingly rare to find new buildings employing outdated glass technologies. In existing buildings, the question is: Do we replace poorly performing annealed glass with treated glass or energy efficient glazing systems? Not necessarily, a less evasive and expensive solution is available; window films.

The benefits of energy efficient window films

Window films are the most important and practical solution in improving a building envelop’s thermal performance. Passively reducing heat gain can make your building more comfortable and save you money on energy bills. Compared to replacing windows, the embodied carbon of window films is at least 30 times less than new windows. For green building enthusiasts, this fact becomes even more significant. Furthermore, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has recently gazetted regulations that obligate all commercial buildings to display an energy performance certificate on their building entrance. Building owners have until December 2022 to comply and certificates are valid for five years. Window films can assist in making existing buildings more compliant with this new legislation and they can improve or help attain Greens Star ratings. In addition, window films can block up to 99% of UV rays that cause fading of furniture and damage to skin.

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EDITORIAL Energy Efficiency

Can lower energy consumption by up to 30%

for safety or security, vandalism or surface protection, and decoration or privacy. Safety and security films have gained significant interest in light of South Africa’s recent political unrest and riots that have resulted in the devastating destruction of property.

Saint-Gobain’s Solar Gard architectural solar control window films have been proven to be carbon negative and have a net positive environmental impact. They can lower energy consumption by up to 30%, by stabilising interior temperatures. This is borne out by numerous case studies. During peak occupancy hours the greatest impact of window films is felt.

Invest in the multi-comfort agenda

We spend 90% of our time indoors, either at home, work, school, or at a restaurant, etc. Our indoor environments have a considerable impact on our lives and well-being. Excessive thermal discomfort can cause our health to deteriorate or stifle the healing process when seeking treatment at medical facilities. It makes sense to invest in the multi-comfort agenda to make our indoor environments more conducive spaces. Being comfortable in life, work, play and sleep is key to well-being.

In South Africa, grid electrical power supply is not always reliable; window films reduce the complete reliance on power supply used by air-conditioning systems. This can be especially beneficial in hotter climates. Window films are a great environmentally friendly, passive cooling solution. For property in prime spots where privacy and views are equally important, window films can be applied without compromising views as do shading devices such as blinds.

From a business perspective, indoor discomfort (especially near the window) can cause employees to be less productive. Glare can cause reflection on computer screens, making it uncomfortable to work, or cause a complete loss of focus, which inevitably results in revenue loss.

It is important to mention that window films can cater for various needs, beyond solar control. They can also cater

Visible light

5%-95% Blocked

Solar energy

Up to 79% Blocked

UV light

99% Blocked

With the use of window films, visual comfort is improved and the temperature near the glazing element and the middle of the room becomes consistent. This means fewer disagreements about where to set the thermostat. In addition, considering the new legislation, possessing an energy certificate going forward will be beneficial for building owners when they decide to sell their property. ■ www.saint-gobain-africa.com

Untreated Glass

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Glass Treated with Solar Gard

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IMPACT THROUG H SCALE We drive inclusive growth and transformation by financing property entrepreneurs in their purchase and refurbishment of rental properties, with a focus on affordable rental housing, through: Entrepreneurial growth

Urban regeneration and densification

• • •

•

SME development with a housing outcome Access to finance – any language, any level Training and mentoring clients every step of the way

•

Finance repurposing and new build in inner cities Precincts where in neighbourhoods are regenerated

Local economic development

Fiscal impact for local government

•

• • •

• •

Support for the influx of talent and increased diversity in our inner cities Stimulate local economic and social development Inclusive economic growth happens locally

Job creation and skills development During construction

Increasing inner city property values Increased & compliant utilities & rates base Allows government to focus on productive infrastructure investment

Urban land reform • •

Empowerment finance model Inclusion changes ownership.

PROJECT FEATURE Engineering

Successful transverse launch of Ashton Arch bridge a South African first

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PROJECT FEATURE Engineering

The newly completed Ashton Arch is South Africa’s first concrete tied-arch bridge constructed using a transverse launching method. Infrastructure consulting firm AECOM was responsible for all engineering aspects of the project, with the emphasis on road and bridge design, as well as project and construction management.

The aim of the project was to reconstruct parts of Trunk Road 31, from Ashton to Montagu (start of tourist Route 62), to a higher standard in order to improve traffic and pedestrian safety, as well as improve the flood capacity of bridges and the road at several problem locations.

Key considerations

Key considerations for the latest upgrading was to minimise flow restriction and improve the available free board within the restrictions of adjacent properties and road alignment levels. Through an economic analysis, the technical options for the river crossing and construction strategy were evaluated with due consideration of the impact of construction strategy on road user costs. The design that was finally adopted consisted of a single span (110m) concrete tied-arch solution with a deck suspended by stay cables that accommodates four traffic lanes and two walkways. This largely eliminated the possibility of debris build-up and provided the shallowest deck depth option, both key considerations. “The successful completion of the new Ashton Arch Bridge resulted in a proud monument for the region and all involved. This was a first and unique application of this bridge engineering technique for a concrete tiedarch bridge in South Africa,” comments Abé Newmark, Executive, Team Lead – Bridges, Cape Town.

Launched transversely into its final position

To minimise traffic disruption, the new bridge was constructed adjacent to the existing bridge while maintaining traffic over it. Upon completion, the new bridge was then used as a temporary bypass and river crossing, while the existing bridge was demolished and new

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PROJECT FEATURE Engineering

abutments built. The new tied-arch bridge was launched transversely into its final position in less than 12 hours on 14 August 2021 under widespread publicity that included live streaming of the event. Structural form and bridge aesthetics received meticulous attention during the conceptual design, with due consideration of the following: • The historical significance of existing multiple-span arch bridges inspired the structural form, combined with the major benefit of the arch’s ability to span over the entire river. • A tied-arch bridge is particularly suitable for this topographic location. • V-hanger configuration for its aesthetic advantage. • Aesthetically, the slender tied-arch design is appropriate due to the visually appealing light deck. • The tied-arch form expresses a visualisation of flowing of forces with light hangers. • Slender members displaying a transparency accentuated by the surrounding mountains. State-of-the-art bridge analysis software packages were also used for the construction stage analysis, in-service analysis and design, a joint effort by AECOM’s SA and UK

long-span complex bridge teams. An extensive structural behaviour-monitoring plan was also prepared for construction. Modern state-of-the-art structural components were designed, manufactured and installed using complex methodology. These included the post-tensioned tie beams, stay anchors and cables, as well as the transverse launching equipment, which had to be specially imported. Many design, procurement and construction challenges were addressed over several years. Using a transverse launching method of a completed concrete tied-arch road bridge is a first in South Africa, when more than 8 000 tons of concrete and steel was moved over a distance of 24m in less than 12 hours after several years of meticulous planning, design and construction. Upon completion of the project, a total 18% of the contract value would have been allocated to the creation of economic opportunities and entrepreneurial capacity in the surrounding areas. This included a local labour utilisation of 65 000 person days and 300 work opportunities created for exempted micro enterprises and qualifying small enterprises. ■

Quick facts Bridge weight:

8 000 tons

Bridge length:

110 metres

Arch height:

22 metres

About AECOM

AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle – from planning, design and engineering to programme and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivalled technical expertise and innovation, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm. www.aecom.com

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dormakaba Revit Plugin: 3D modelbased building information modeling

HEAD OFFICE 2 Gravel Drive Kya Sands Business Park Kya Sands 2169 011 510 1500 086 694 2794 info.za@dormakaba.com KENYA dormakaba Kenya Ltd 1st Floor Delta House Watermark Business Park Corner Langata & Ndege Roads Karen Nairobi +254 700 894406 info.ke@dormakaba.com

SERVICE HOTLINE 086 113 6762 www.dormakaba.com

Even though the 3D model based building information modelling (BIM) process is transforming design and construction worldwide, advance in technology means it can deliver even greater enhancements through addon tools. One such innovation is the freely available dormakaba BIM plugin for Autodesk Revit. For dormakaba, BIM means more than merely downloading 3D objects in different graphical formats. For us, BIM means in the first instance supporting our customers by providing up-to-date, reliable and precise product data for the planning, construction and management of buildings. In addition to objects representing all dormakaba products, we are also focusing on providing solutions and services encompassing the entire issue of integrated planning and construction. To find out more about the free dormakaba Revit plugin or to explore the exciting initiatives that we are driving in the world of BIM, Digital Modelling and Virtual Reality, please contact your dormakaba consultant.

EDITORIAL Cladding

A new alternative to

fibre-cement eaves cladding Saint-Gobain in South Africa has developed an innovative alternative to the dominant fibre-cement eaves cladding solution currently used in the industry. Glasroc® X eaves is Saint-Gobain Gyproc’s latest and distinctive offering, as it allows for a flush plastered finish to resist the rigors of the local external environment. This exterior cladding board aims to fully address the challenges of unstable climatic conditions, by providing a durable yet flexible solution. Often, the primary driver in the choice of material for this type of system is that the material and installation must resist large temperature fluctuations and the natural movement of a structure. “The Glasroc® X Eaves System is a durable external ceiling for use in covered, semi-exposed and exposed areas of buildings,” explains Paul Louw, Product Category Manager, from SaintGobain Africa. Glasroc® X is reinforced with a glass-mat on both surfaces, providing outstanding performance in harsh and humid environments. This non paperfaced board is free from cellulose content, and therefore has a strong inherent resistance to mould growth, which is perfect for wet areas and high-humidity environments.

Aesthetically pleasing for design excellence Apart from its durable properties, Glasroc® X also presents an aesthetically pleasing eaves concealed ceiling extension, with no obvious jointing, other than where expansion joints are required.

“Adopting this new approach to exterior eaves cladding will support design excellence, improve the aesthetic comfort and simultaneously help us reach our goal of making the world a better home,” says Louw.

High dimensional stability

This new alternative to fibre cement eaves has already

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been vigorously tested in the harsh climatic conditions of the United Kingdom, Ireland and mainland Europe - with great success. Due to its design and structure, the Glasroc® X board has a high dimensional stability, making it ideal for large running external ceiling areas that are only interrupted at a maximum of every 15 metres for control joints. A prime example of this is in office buildings. By satisfying an array of building configurations in South Africa, the new Glasroc® X board is ready to enter both the local residential and commercial markets. www.gyproc.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE Daffonchio & Associates Architects

The Bank

The site of a former 1970s bank has been transformed by Daffonchio & Associates Architects into a super-efficient and historically sensitive contemporary addition to the Rosebank CBD in Johannesburg, revitalising the pedestrian-friendly cosmopolitan culture of the area.

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PROJECT FEATURE Daffonchio & Associates Architects

The Bank, a new 13-storey mixed-use building in the heart of Rosebank’s CBD, Johannesburg, rose from the foundations of an existing four-storey building on the site. The name of the new development alludes to the history of the original building, a First National Bank dating back to the 1970s. The site had become an eyesore and an urban dead zone, to the extent that the landlord across the piazza had built a wall to hide it from view. Daffonchio & Associates Architects’ new design sought to reactivate this important node and its surrounds, reviving its connection with the vibrant pedestrian and café culture that the area is known for, which includes art galleries, tree-lined avenues and a thriving commercial life, while introducing a sustainable contemporary dimension.

The Bank takes its cue from Rosebank’s historical Art Deco charm Stylistically, The Bank takes its cue from Rosebank’s historical Art Deco charm, much of which has been lost over time, aesthetically reviving the language in

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a contemporary key. Rather than mimicking the style, however, Daffonchio reinterpreted it, carefully considering the use of colour, volume, landscaping, and texture to integrate it sensitively into its context. Locally manufactured rough-faced black bricks were custom made for The Bank, which impart a sense of strength and stoicism to the façade. Their texture introduces warmth and charm, softened with the greenery of water-wise landscaping. Subtle brass elements on the façade, as well as Art Deco-inspired steel detailing and balustrades, add a sense of metropolitan glamour. At the top of the building, the form dissolves into a sleek, modernist-inflected fragmented crown with deep landscaped roof terraces and balconies that offer sweeping views of the Johannesburg skyline. The ground floor of the building includes high-end shops and a restaurant and café that spills out to the street. A bar and eatery open onto the first-floor terrace. A wide pedestrian-friendly pavement has been provided along the western street-facing façade. The road was resurfaced with

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PROJECT FEATURE Daffonchio & Associates Architects

a cobblestone-styled paving brick instead of the usual asphalt and tar, which softens the roadway significantly and prioritises pedestrians. Resources were invested in upgrading the road around the building, rehabilitating the trees and creating an Uber lane. The rest of the building includes four floors of co-working space, a hotel and, at the top, two floors of premiumgrade office space (occupied by a banking institution, in a poetic nod to the building’s origins). Local artists have been commissioned to create hundreds of unique art pieces for the building.

particularly in the choice of materials, kept the new build as lightweight and efficient as possible. Aerated concrete blockwork was used for the top three floor façades. Lightweight steel trusses and roof sheeting, instead of a flat concrete roof slab, were used for the roof, and the six hotel floors were constructed with acoustic dry walling rather than conventional brickwork.

Complex engineering solutions

The limitations and structural idiosyncrasies of the existing grid were integrated into the internal floor planning, which was celebrated rather than viewed as a hindrance. The retail areas on the ground floor, for example, are all seamlessly connected rather than being separated internally.

The existing basement foundations and the top structure were reinforced to support the load of the additional floors. A wide range of weight-saving measures,

The existing building atrium was used to accommodate a new staircase and elevator circulation core. Major demolition of the existing structures was kept to a minimum, although a dramatic four-storey light well was cut into the southeast corner to draw in natural light and create a voluminous internal courtyard. The existing slab

The decision to retain the structure of the original building and build around and on top of it rather than demolishing it demanded complex engineering solutions.

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PROJECT FEATURE Daffonchio & Associates Architects

edge beams, however, were retained and transformed into ‘shelves’ to support the cascading landscaping, and a local artist was commissioned to cover the internal walls of the courtyard with a stunning mural.

Clever use of redundant spaces

It was not possible to extend the existing basement, so extra parking was created by making clever use of redundant spaces. Innovative car lifts were introduced where the soffit void was high enough, which allows one car to be stacked on top of another, co-ordinated by a valet service and an app – an innovative approach that would make an interesting case study for high-density urban regeneration challenges elsewhere in Johannesburg. Rather than upgrading the existing municipal power supply, costs were channelled into sustainable solutions. Innovative solutions such as trigeneration, photovoltaic

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panels, energy-efficient smart HVAC and insulation made it possible to move a major portion of the power supply off the grid. A large gas generator uses the existing Egoli gas supply, and the heat it produces is captured through a heat-exchange system and is stored in large water tanks that provide free hot water to the entire building without any geysers or additional utility costs. While The Bank adds a significant architectural landmark to the Rosebank CBD, it does much of its most significant work at street level. It now acts as a hinge pin that enhances the pedestrianised character of the Rosebank CBD. The building’s vibrant public interface and carefully considered influence on pedestrian traffic flow does a lot to contribute to the public-centric cosmopolitan culture the area has always been known for, reinvigorating this business district with its interconnection to a series of offices, malls and residential dwellings that surround it. ■

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ADVERTORIAL Ucrete Flooring Systems

Seamless, monolithic floor overlays and re-surfacing

With over 50 years of proven performance for the most severe conditions, Ucrete is the original cementitious urethane technology designed for seamless, monolithic floor overlays and re-surfacing. It has been the solution to challenging industrial flooring problems around the world.

Advantages

• Antimicrobial without the use of heavy metals or biocides • Hygienic – can be sanitized to the same standard as stainless steel • Long-term durability with time-tested performance • Thermal shock resistance • Withstands aggressive cleaning techniques • High impact resistance • Superior resistance to growth of bacteria and fungi • Strong resistance to repeated chemical exposure • Maximized skid inhibition • Fast turnaround construction on 'green' concrete

Applications

• Food processing • Dairy plants • Beverage bottling facilities • Meat, fish and poultry processing • Commercial kitchens • Chemical processing • Industrial facilities • Manufacturing • Packaging areas • Loading docks • Waste/recycling areas • Cannabis facilities

Flowable

Ucrete DP: Unique heavy-duty resin technology with exceptional resistance to aggressive chemicals, heavy impact and temperatures up to 120°C. Ucrete DP is a family of products with defined surface profiles suitable for applications in wet and dry process environments. Offered in three different systems: DP BC4, BC6 and BC9, ranging in thicknesses from 4.78mm to 9.5mm Ucrete HP/F: An aesthetic, durable, heavy-duty polyurethane flooring system with decorative flake chip broadcast. Ucrete HP/Q: Aesthetic, heavy-duty, polyurethane flooring system with coloured quartz aggregate broadcast. A safe and decorative floor for tough environments. Ucrete MF: Medium-duty polyurethane flooring system with smooth, matte finish. Designed for use in predominantly dry environments where high chemical and impact resistance are required

Trowel-Applied

Ucrete UD200: Unique, ultra-duty concrete flooring system with a lightly textured finish and resistance to aggressive chemicals and high temperatures. Able to withstand temperatures up to 150°C. Ucrete UD200 SR: Unique, ultra-duty polyurethane resin technology with exceptional resistance to aggressive chemicals, high temperatures and heavy traffic. The textured surface provides a safe work environment. Ucrete IF: The toughest of Ucrete floors, this heavy-duty, iron-filled polyurethane concrete flooring system is designed for the harshest and most abusive environments. This technology is three to four times stronger than standard concrete. Ucrete RG: Thixotropic, render-grade, heavy duty, resin mortar for use in forming vertical integral cove bases and wall coatings. ■

Innovative & sustainable solutions for the construction industry The MBCC Group is one of the leading suppliers of construction chemicals and solutions worldwide and has emerged from the carve-out of the former BASF Construction Chemicals business from BASF Group. We offer innovative and sustainable products and solutions for the construction industry across different sectors, such as buildings, structures, underground construction, new construction, as well as for renovation. With our innovations, we address sustainability challenges in the industry. MBCC Group consists of approximately 70 legal entities worldwide and is home to around 7 500 construction experts in over 60 countries.

Master Builders Solutions is an MBCC Group brand of advanced chemical solutions for construction. It is built on the experience gained from more than 100 years in the construction industry. The comprehensive portfolio under the Master Builders Solutions brand encompasses lasting solutions for: • new construction • maintenance • repair and renovation of structures • concrete admixtures • chemical solutions for underground construction • waterproofing solutions • sealants • repair & protection solutions • performance grouts • performance flooring solutions

The Master Builders Solutions brand is backed by a global community of construction experts. To solve our customers’ specific construction challenges from conception through to completion, we combine our know-how across areas of expertise and regions and draw on the experience gained in countless construction projects worldwide. We leverage global technologies, as well as our in-depth knowledge of local building needs, to develop innovations that help make our customers more successful and drive sustainable construction.

For more information visit www.master-builders-solutions.com/en-za

PROJECT FEATURE AMA Architects

Lumière luxury housing development

The Lumière luxury housing development occupies a prominent position in the suburb of Melrose Estate, on the corner of Melrose and Tottenham Road. A two-minute walk from The Zone and The Mall of Rosebank, this landmark development could not be better situated.

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PROJECT FEATURE AMA Architects

These luxury apartments are also less than 100m from the Rosebank Gautrain station, making travelling to the city or the airport a breeze. The building has 10 three-bed units, and 12 two-bed units, over four storeys, placed above basement parking. Fullheight windows and doors open onto generous balcony spaces to enjoy the great weather over all seasons, as well as the incredible views over Rosebank.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT FEATURE AMA Architects

State-of-the-art security, including CCTV and biometric access control, leads one to the basement parking, concierge reception area and lift lobby. Every unit enjoys an entry vestibule, and spacious interiors with top end finishes and lighting throughout. The apartments also include ducted air conditioning with an android tablet control panel. The building is Wi-Fi-ready and is equipped with an energy efficient water heating system and back-up generator power. ■

www.amagroup.co.za

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131 12TH AVENUE, RIVONIA, SANDTON, SOUTH-AFRICA P.O. BOX 1299, GALLO MANOR, SOUTH-AFRICA, 2052 +27 83 378 2891

ADRIAN MASEROW

+27 11 807 7505

OFFICE

a d r i an@ amag roup.co.za www.amagroup.co.za maker.developer.oasis

L WINNER OVERAL

OVERALL GREEN

LOPMENTS COR DEVE POR ICE ATE OFF

RANSFORMA TION RALL T OVE

PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects

Taxi rank transformed into final office building in Sasol Precinct

The existing taxi rank on the corner of Katherine Street and Albertyn Road in Sandton, Johannesburg, has been transformed into a P-grade office development by Paragon Architects. The Alchemy Properties project, known as 52 Katherine Street, completes the so-called Sasol precinct with a strong street-facing presence. The design brief was to maximise the permissible floor area ratio, coverage and height as far as possible on what was a complicated site. Standing at a total of four storeys above ground, the building consists of 3.5 basement parking levels. Paragon Architects was responsible for completing Stages 1 through 6 of the works, explains associate, Warren Wesson. Following bulk earthworks, which took about three months to complete, the main contract commenced in October 2019.

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The project was scheduled to be completed in December 2020 but was halted due to the Covid-19 lockdown in March. Once the project was allowed to restart safely, it took a while for the contractor to rebuild lost momentum. Challenges included getting materials to site in time. In addition, the contractor also had to manage additional Covid-19 safety measures. Combined with a very wet summer, the final completion date was eventually moved to April 2021.

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PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects

Strong undulating geometric design

The white marble-looking walls and strong undulating geometric design of 52 Katherine Street contrasts strongly against the dark organic slate tiled basement façade design of the Sasol head office, giving it its own identity and presence outside of the Sasol precinct. The façade consists of strong horizontal and vertical elements made up of full-vision dark low-emissivity windows and solid white cladded ceramic tiled walls. The façade is articulated to allow light and views to filter into every office module. The undulating nature of the design creates balconies towards the north and east façade, giving spectacular views over Sandton. The undulating geometry of the build creates private courtyards in unexpected areas. These courtyards’ materials include water features, recessed seating and soft surrounding landscaping, which adds to a cool, quiet and shaded atmosphere outside of a busy, loud and hot urban environment. The building design maximises the coverage of the entire site. Its close proximity to the Sasol head office presented design challenges relating to fire design and compliance. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Warren Wesson, Associate at Paragon Architects

The whole of the south and long west building façade faces onto the Sasol basement façade. Special fireproof Pyron glass had to be introduced for office planning along that façade to receive natural light. While 52 Katherine Street may look like a simple building, it is in fact very complicated in its interface detailing with regard to the use of glass, aluminium, steel, brickwork and ceramic tiling. “It shows that Paragon Architects can deliver high-quality, cost-effective buildings without the use of the more commonly used and costly unitised aluminium system seen mostly all over Sandton today,” concludes Wesson. ■

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Precast concrete

Twinstar Precast Quality is the custom Twinstar Precast in Olifantsfontein boldly goes where others fear to tread by manufacturing all types of custom-designed and cast products for civil engineering contractors.

hile these one-off jobs are usually avoided by typical precasters due to their complexity, size and resource intensive requirements, Twinstar Precast is specially geared to undertake this type of work and has been doing so for more than seven years. Not surprisingly, owner-operator, Annemerie Coetzee, is also known to be one of the most innovative individuals in the industry having (jointly) received the 2012 CMA Award for Excellence in innovation for her contribution in the design and development of a bomb proof ATM enclosure.

GroWinG relationshiPs Her ability to solve problems on behalf of clients has also made Twinstar Precast a favourite of the mainstream precast manufacturing companies who regularly send referrals and make use of her services to manufacture speciality products on behalf of their clients. According to Annemerie the company’s success is due to strong relationships within the industry which range from civil engineering contractors, which are direct customers, to architects and specifying engineers who conceptualise requirements, as well as precasters and the broader construction industry. “With 26 Years of experience in the Precast Industry, I realised that there is a gap in the precast concrete market for custom-made products and once-off items. In the Concrete Pipe and Manhole market for example, the emphasis is on high volumes, and the effort and time required to design and build once-off moulds for non–standard products disrupts any normal well-oiled production line, and in addition requires additional skills and supervision.

Concrete Trends Issue 2 2021

ConCrete solutions and memorable ChallenGes “Not all building contractors have the necessary expertise, manpower and facilities to manufacture such products on site and as a result it has become our express aim to assist specifying civil engineers and civil engineering contractors with complicated sites and situations where currently available Precast Concrete Products just won’t work. “We strive to be a problem solver and solution driven in all aspects of precast concrete able to manufacture products ranging in weight from 2Kg up to 6-tons quickly and affordably. As a result of the complexity of this type of work we remain the only company in South Africa specializing exclusively in custom-made and one-off precast concrete products. “We only keep a few fast-moving products in stock which are standard spec in tenders and drawings. Companies who previously made them have either stopped or have closed down. This has largely given rise to the unique relationship with the mainstream precast concrete companies who make use of certain non-standard products,” says Annemerie. Twinstar do manufacture square concrete manholes and manhole slabs, as well as polymer manhole Covers, stormwater channels and grids, kerb inlet slabs, v drains and chute channels. A recent development has seen Twinstar manufacturing polymer products with no steel or cost iron elements,

Precast concrete reducing risk of theft, replacement costs and replacement costs. “We offer both medium- and heavy-duty solutions with our polymer products, in line with the SANS 1882:2003 specification, and these components can be bought as loose items or cast into the required precast concrete slabs. The unusual dynamics in the market over the last two years has seen Twinstar filling the gaps left behind by the numerous company closures in the concrete precast market. “We now supply Randwater with their custom manhole covers,” explains Coetzee, “and have become as comfortable manufacturing standard products as we are with non-standard products.” One of Coetzee’s more recent favourite projects was stepping in to manufacture bicycle stands for the Ekurhuleni municipality’s recreational park in Springs. “It is a very complex product, and certainly one of our most challenging”, explains Coetzee. “We got a 3D drawing from an architect, and basically worked by trial and error.” The complexities of creating a mold that would allow for correct tapering of a design into which bicycles wheels must fit without breaking the concrete product was a challenge fit for Twinstar, and the skills and production management expertise it has perfected.

real solutions and heartfelt values While the company’s manufacturing facility are situated in the heart of Gauteng, deliveries are made across the country wherever custom precast concrete products are required. The company also offers a service where the crane mounted trucks can assist with placing of slabs during installation. Twinstar Precast is equipped and able to provide installation services on site, in the most challenging of environments. “My all-time most memorable project was the work we did on closing the Grootvlei mineshafts. The contractor was employed by the Department of Mineral Resources to ensure the safety of the communities around the defunct shafts,” explains Coetzee. Whilst the shafts had been closed by other means on numerous occasions, but simply could not withstand vandalism and led to the continuation of illegal mining activities. “Some of the shafts were very deep, and posed great safety risks to the township. Mothers were especially welcoming and supportive of the work we did there, as was the whole community. The slabs we manufactured to seal the shafts needed lots of reinforcement and had to be designed to be impenetrable. It was totally satisfying to deliver something so life-enhancing to this community.” Since the installation of mineshaft slabs manufactured by Twinstar Precast, the shafts remain closed and are still completely intact. The design and manufacture of Polymer products is another success that dissuades criminals from stealing covers for their steel content.

Coetzee points out that the skills and commitment of her staff is central to the exceptional standards Twinstar is known for. “Sixty five percent of our guys have been with us for five years or longer. They are true artisans with an understanding of the subtleties that go into our production processes. They know precisely how to work with our cement supplier, and how to use the additives to adjust the mix for the outcomes we expect.” Coetzee has purposefully kept Twinstar to a size that enables the precision changes required for the short lead times committed to, without compromise. “We work in very specific ways, and there is no such thing as a missed deadline. We deliver according to contract, no compromise.” Coetzee also points that there is a certain aesthetic commitment to Twinstar’s products that results from her hands-on approach to everything manufactured. “One of the reasons Twinstar will not create other branches or franchises is because I insist on signing things off; I will not let something leave our doors without being perfect and aesthetically pleasing.” Twinstar has expanded however, having tripled the size of its factory since 2015. The environment we build around us increasingly depends on precast concrete elements. Whether stand-alone products, or hybrid construction elements, precast concrete has undeniable advantages. The sky is the limit when it comes to realising new ideas; all it takes is a feasible idea, a sketchbook and conversation with Twinstar Precast. n

KeePinG the riGht ComPany The values that make Twinstar such an exceptional business become evident when Coetzee reflects on her loyalty to her staff, and the human impact of the projects she holds most dear”

Concrete Trends Issue 2 2021

Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten. Swartland has been supplying the building trade with quality products since 1951. Our renowned production excellence is applied to our vast range of products: Cape Culture, Winsters and Kayo wooden windows and doors, Kenzo aluminium windows, doors and shower doors, Hydro garage doors and Digi automation, Summit XPS insulation board and cornices and COL PAR, awnings and manufactured pine products. ‘Experience Quality’ is not just a slogan, it’s our commitment to holding ourselves to the highest standards and to ensuring that every experience with us is a quality one.

www.swartland.co.za

086 110 2425

Rooftop gardens Rooftop gardens landscape innovation landscape innovation Rooftop gardens and green roofs have been around for many decades, especially in highly populated urban areas such as cities and towns. Initially, rooftop gardens Rooftop green roofs have been around for many decades, especially were usedgardens mainly and to provide insulation in cold northern hemisphere climates. in highly populated urban areas such as cities and towns. Initially, rooftop gardens These days, with limited ‘green’ space, rooftops gardens are used to reduce the were used mainly to provide insulation in cold northern hemisphere climates. heat island effect in cities, reduce stormwater run-off and flash-floods, create small These days, with limitedand ‘green’ rooftopsthe gardens are used reduce this the safe havens for insects birds,space, and beautify environment. In to essence, heat island effect in cities, reduce stormwater run-off and flash-floods, create small is a creative and functional way of reducing reliance on municipal water, saving safe havens for insectspollution. and birds, and beautify the environment. In essence, this water, and preventing is a creative and functional way of reducing reliance on municipal water, saving water, andgardens preventing Rooftop canpollution. be as simple as a few container plants artfully arranged in

an open space, or as complex as a fully waterproofed and vegetated roof surface. In Rooftopgrowing gardens can be as simple with as a limited few container plantspeople artfullyare arranged in a rapidly urban environment space, many choosing an open space, or as complex as a fully waterproofed and vegetated roof surface. In to live in flats, apartments, and townhouses. A rooftop garden or landscape is ideal a with limited space, many peopleor are choosing forrapidly those growing living in urban homesenvironment without gardens. They make use of unused underused to live in flats, and townhouses. A rooftop garden or landscape is ideal space and areapartments, great for plants and veggies that require full sun. Veggies such as for those living in homes withoutpeas gardens. They make use of unused or underused tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and beans, tall corn and rambling squashes, space are great for kohlrabi, plants and veggies that require full sun. as carrots,and radishes, beets, fennel, potatoes, and onions areVeggies ideal forsuch rooftop tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, peas and beans, tall corn and rambling squashes, food gardens (but may require some protection from the wind in some areas). If carrots, radishes, beets, kohlrabi, fennel, potatoes, and onions are ideal for rooftop you are looking more at an aesthetic landscape, consider hardy, sun-loving, locally food gardens (but may require some protection from the wind in areas).(all If endemic plants such as indigenous Highveld grasses, succulentssome or fynbos you are looking more at an aesthetic landscape, consider hardy, sun-loving, locally appropriately hydrozoned). endemic plants such as indigenous Highveld grasses, succulents or fynbos (all appropriately hydrozoned). Remember that there are a number of factors to consider when implementing a

rooftop garden or landscape: thatyour there are a number of factors to support consider the when implementing a • Remember Make sure structure/building/roof can load of a rooftop rooftop garden or landscape: garden (Engineering requirements will apply). Using lightweight planting • Make suresuch youras structure/building/roof cansphagnum support the loadalleviates of a rooftop materials vermiculite, perlite, and moss the garden (Engineering requirements will apply). Using lightweight planting problem of weight, and absorb and hold water well. materialsenvironmental such as vermiculite, perlite, sphagnum • Rooftop conditions such and as full sun and moss strongalleviates wind can the be problem weight, absorb provide and holdshading water well. tough onofplants. If and necessary, for more delicate plants, and • Rooftop environmental conditions such excessively as full sun windy and strong wind can be buffers (for users and plants) to prevent conditions. tough on plants. If necessary, provide shading for more delicate plants,green and • Speak to an expert if you are interested in implementing a fully planted buffers (for users and plants) to prevent excessively windy conditions. roof. You may need to consult with a structural engineer or architect to conduct • Speak to an analysis expert if of you arebuilding. interested in implementing a fully planted green a structural your roof. You may need to consult a structural engineer or architect to conduct • A simpler, more cost-effectivewith solution is to use containers and raised plant a structural analysis of your building. beds. Lightweight containers are ideal as they are portable, flexible in use, • and A simpler, more You cost-effective is toand usecan containers and raised plant affordable. can really solution get creative easily change the design beds. Lightweight containers are ideal as they are portable, flexible in use, as required! and affordable. You can really get creative and can easily change the design as required! Rooftop gardens are environmentally-friendly, water–saving, creative, innovative, space-saving solutions to a limit in garden and landscape space. Rooftop gardens are environmentally-friendly, water–saving, creative, innovative, space-saving solutions to a limit in garden and landscape space.

www.randwater.co.za and click on the Water Wise logo FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON WATER WISE, PLEASE CONTACT US ON: 0860 10 10 60 www.randwater.co.za and click on the Water Wise logo FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON WATER WISE, PLEASE CONTACT US ON: 0860 10 10 60

EDITORIAL Water Conservation

Water conservation

and innovative solutions to a water crisis Climate change, overpopulation, water pollution, urban encroachment, species extinction – our planet is facing a number of potentially devastating environmental threats which impact us directly. Samanta Stelli

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EDITORIAL Water Conservation

South Africa is a naturally water-scarce region, with unevenly distributed seasonal rainfall. Climate change is exacerbating these weather patterns, with hotter and drier summers, water shortages, and an increase in extreme weather events such as floods and droughts. Basically, the ‘drys’ are expected to get drier, and the ‘wets’, wetter. Water is expected to become even more of a limited resource than it already is. It is essential that all business, industries, economic sectors, and the public in general start adapting their lifestyles to adopt a more water wise way of life. Landscapers and gardeners have already started adapting to water restrictions by implementing water wise landscaping principles in the way of rainwater harvesting tanks, filtered ‘grey water' (water from washing machines, dishwashers, baths and showers), and water efficient irrigation systems. Grey water can effectively be filtered for reuse by including constructed wetlands as part of the landscape.

from your roof or other impermeable surfaces. It’s easy – your roof and gutter system provides a perfect collection point for rainwater; all you need to do is direct it to where you want it.

Rainwater harvesting has many benefits

By collecting, storing and using rainwater, there is less strain on the municipal water supply, as well as a reduction in your municipal water bill. Any flooding, erosion, and pollution that may be caused by stormwater runoff is reduced. Also, rainwater contains minerals and nutrients that can give you a more productive and healthy landscape. Gutters can be used to direct rainwater to storage containers, rain tanks or specific areas in your landscape. How much water can you save by harvesting rainfall? Remember that every 1m² of roof generates 1 litre of water from 1mm of rainfall. So, if you receive 20mm of rainfall on a roof of 100m², this will generate 2 000 litres of water – for free.

Stormwater runoff and rainwater harvesting We are seeing an increase in floods across the country and this is having serious effects on the environment and infrastructure. Hard and impermeable surfaces prevent water infiltration into the ground and can result in flash floods.

Using permeable surfaces in a landscape or garden can effectively reduce the impact of heavy volumes of stormwater. When designing a landscape, take note of the topography of the area, as well as the type of soil present. Compacted, clay soils increase run-off, while loamy and sandy soils are better at absorbing water. Loamy soils are best as the rich organic content of these soils hold water around plant roots. Adding mulch, compost and retention granules also increases the permeability and infiltration capacity of soil. Infiltration and percolation of rainwater through soil provides a beneficial role in filtering rainwater and preventing debris and pollutants from entering ground water, acting as a natural process of water purification. Run-off, especially in urban areas, can introduce contaminants such as oil, detergents, solvents, dead leaves, pesticides, fertiliser, and bacteria from pet waste in rivers, dams, and oceans. Rainwater harvesting simply refers to the collection, storage and distribution of rainwater www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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EDITORIAL Water Conservation

Water efficient irrigation – drip systems

Drip irrigation is widely understood to be the most water efficient irrigation system available. It is a watering system that delivers water either on the surface of the soil, or directly to a plant’s root zone (sub-surface). Drip irrigation systems are water wise for the following reasons: • Evaporation is minimal as water is not sprayed, but water application is still efficient and effective. • Application of water can be directed to specific areas precisely and effectively, as opposed to spray systems that apply water to a wider area and end up spraying non-watering areas of the rooftop and wasting water. • Drip systems save between 30-50% water compared to spray or sprinkler systems. • There is no compromise on plant health; in fact, there is often a reduction in fungal plant diseases as leaves are kept dry. • Healthy plant root systems are encouraged as water is applied directly to the roots. • Can address complex site issues such as wind (especially for rooftop gardens), differing microclimates, damp, drainage, and run-off due to the efficient and accurate positioning of the system. • Can be used indoors in atriums and greenhouses, as well as outdoors. When using a drip irrigation system, it is essential that the water be filtered before use especially if any form of grey water is being used. Failure to do so will result in excess clogging of drippers even if they are the 'self-cleaning' type.

Landscape innovation – rooftop gardens and green roofs

Rooftop gardens and green roofs have been around for decades, especially in highly populated urban areas such as cities and towns. Initially, rooftop gardens were used mainly to provide insulation in cold northern hemisphere climates. These days, with limited ‘green’ space, rooftops gardens are used to reduce the heat island effect in cities reduce stormwater run-off and flash floods, create small safe havens for insects and birds, and beautify the environment. In essence, this is a creative and functional way of reducing reliance on municipal water, saving water, and preventing pollution. Rooftop gardens can be as simple as a few container plants artfully arranged in an open space, or as complex as a fully waterproofed and vegetated roof surface. In a rapidly growing urban environment with limited space, many people are choosing to live in flats, apartments, and townhouses.

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EDITORIAL Water Conservation

A rooftop garden or landscape is ideal for those living in homes without gardens. They make use of unused or underused space and are great for plants and veggies that require full sun. Veggies such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, peas and beans, tall corn and rambling squashes, carrots, radishes, beets, kohlrabi, fennel, potatoes, and onions are ideal for rooftop food gardens (but may require some protection from the wind in some areas). If you are looking more at an aesthetic landscape, consider hardy, sun-loving water wise plants such as indigenous Highveld grasses and succulents (hydro zoned appropriately); think of plants such as Dietes grandiflora (iris), Tulbaghia violacea (wild garlic), Agapanthus praecox, Plectranthus neochilus, Carpobrotus edulis (vygie), Aloe marlothii (mountain aloe), Drimiopsis maculata (leopard lily), and the well-known Chlorophytum comosum (hen and chicken). Remember that there are a number of factors to consider when implementing a rooftop garden or landscape: • Make sure your structure/building/roof can support the load of a rooftop garden (engineering requirements will apply). Using lightweight planting materials such as vermiculite, perlite, and sphagnum moss alleviates the problem of weight, and absorb and hold water well. • Rooftop environmental conditions such as full sun and strong wind can be tough on plants. If necessary, provide shading for more delicate plants, and buffers (for users and plants) to prevent excessively windy conditions. • Speak to an expert if you are interested in implementing a fully planted green roof. You may need to consult with a structural engineer or architect to conduct a structural analysis of your building. • A simpler, more cost-effective solution is to use containers and raised plant beds. Lightweight containers are ideal as they are portable, flexible in use, and affordable. You can really get creative and can easily change the design as required.

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Back to water wise irrigation – luckily, drip irrigation is great for rooftop gardens and landscapes. Because of the tough environment, rooftop gardens often require daily watering. However, they are also susceptible to water loss. Drip irrigation can prevent water loss to evaporation, while efficiently providing the correct amount of water to plant roots. To further reduce your water usage, consider directing harvested rainwater to your rooftop garden. Remember to place rubber mats, wooden pallets, or other material to buffer the containers or planters from the roof to allow for more efficient drainage and to protect roofing materials and structure. There are so many ways to save on your municipal bill by capitalising on free water. By harvesting rainwater, using mulch, and using water efficient irrigation systems such as drip irrigation, you can dramatically reduce your reliance on potable water, especially in landscapes and gardens. Rooftop gardens are water-saving, creative, innovative, space-saving solutions to a limit in garden and landscape space. ■ For more information on water conservation principles in gardens and landscapes, contact Samanta Stelli at sstelli@randwater.co.za or +27 (0)11 724 9371.

Sources:

1. Reinders, F.B., Grové, B., Benadé, N., van der Stoep, I. and van Niekerk, A.S. (2012). Technical Aspects and Cost Estimating Procedures of Surface and Subsurface Drip Irrigation Systems Volume 1: Main Report (WRC Report No. TT 524/12); Volume 2: A Manual for irrigation designers (WRC Report No. TT 525/12); and Volume 3: A Manual for irrigation farmers (WRC Report No. TT 526/12). 2. https://lifestyle.co.za/rooftop-gardens/

3. https://www.sahomeowner.co.za/rooftop-garden-basics/ 4. https://www.thespruce.com/rooftop-gardening-1403340 5. https://www.bbg.org/gardening/article/start_a_rooftop_ container_garden 6. https://www.waterbrothers.co.za/rooftop-gardens/

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RetentionFund Federated

The Federated Employers Trust (FET) operates a Retention Fund whereby a portion of funds relating to a construction contract is held in safe custody until such time as certain milestones of the project are completed.

loyers Trus p t m

Project fund

Pricing:

R2,500 once-off, up-front. 1.50% (pa) of the average monthly balance, capped at R20,000 for that month.

Project start Milestone 1

Milestone 2 Milestone 3

Project finish

Milestones occur either periodically throughout the duration of the contract (i.e. stage of completion) or once-off at the end of the project.

As the funds are kept within the Retention Fund in safe custody, interest is earned by clients on the retention fund balance.

A retention is held as an alternative to the agent using a performance guarantee. The product can also be used to hold deposits in a similar way to an escrow account. This product has been in existence for a number of years and managed within the FEM Finance team structure, through an internally developed software tool. Over the years, FET has built strong relationships with its clients, through its quality service quality and efficient.

For further information: retentionfunds@fema.co.za | www.fem.co.za | 011 359 4300

PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects

Barloworld equipment showroom The new Barloworld showroom is an architectural innovation – curves that were conceptually derived from the shape and form of the earthmoving equipment.

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PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects

The undulating curving shell over the length of the showroom is supported by a finely detailed steel structure which focuses on volume, shifting from a 7.5m high bulge to the central apex of approximately 14.5m, and back to the intermediate 12m western bulge. North of the structure is the highway facing the fullheight, flush glazed unitized façade that has eight 4m x 5.5m flush glazed vertical sliding doors, which take the shape of the enclosed showroom. Behind this is the office component that has cantilever

office pods and meeting rooms overlooking the iconic equipment. On the ground floor, visitors are met by natural materials that open up to the main entrance ramps and stairs, onto the circulation spine. The eastern side of the spine incorporates external seating and an eating area nestled under a canopy of trees. Here there is also soft landscaping, meandering between external equipment, and accommodating circulation towards the grand entrance doors at reception and client greeting areas – all fully populated by marketing material and client facing components. The ground floor internal showroom has a landscaped spine that acts as the threshold between showroom and office. The office occupants above circulate via an exposed staircase that wraps a single lift core onto the mezzanine floor, which hosts additional office components and ablution facilities.

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PROJECT FEATURE Paragon Architects

A balance of iconic design with functional aesthetics

Barloworld Equipment, dealer for iconic Caterpillar earthmoving equipment, was leaving Sandton and wanted a state-of-the-art development which had to include a flagship Caterpillar showroom for their equipment – excavators, loaders, dozers and graders, which are usually too large to accommodate indoors, except in a barnlike warehouse. The brief was to balance iconic design with functional aesthetics while maintaining a cost-effective solution. Barloworld required its new showroom for used equipment to have maximum exposure to the R24 highway for brand presence and awareness. The new showroom also had to house the Cat Rental and Used Equipment offices. The finished design houses and showcases all Caterpillar used and rental via means of internal and external areas. The new Barloworld showroom maximizes this to increase the brand reach. The building assists in creating a productive but agile working environment and takes into account energy efficiency. ■

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FOR GOOD Q FOREVER Brick masonry is tactile and three-dimensional, adding character with stunning accents to enrich architectural design. The enduring colours, hues and textures of natural clay brick are the perfect complement to soften angular concrete, steel and glass. CBASA represents clay brick & paver manufacturers across Southern Africa and drives inclusive, sustainable practices in the industry. We inspire energy-efficient, contemporary architecture and paving that supports our local producers, builders and architects. Free technical and construction guides for clay bricks & pavers at www.claybrick.org THE

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

Striking curved glazed office building redefines key gateway into Century City in Cape Town

Developed by Rabie Property Group and designed by dhk Architects, Sable Corner is a recently completed contemporary commercial development situated in thriving Bridgeways Precinct in Century City, Cape Town.

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

The four-storey building is characterised by two merged forms, a distinctive curvilinear glazed facade articulated with vertical aluminium fins and a contrasting formal solid painted face brick box structure. Forming an edge to Sable Road, a major road into Century City, the building boasts enviable views of Cape Town’s CBD, Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, and forms a striking gateway into the suburb. The client brief was to design a premium-grade four-storey commercial building with basement parking and potential ground-floor retail space that complemented the surrounding buildings, namely, Sable Park, Axis and Bridge Park – also designed by dhk.

A dual-facing building with two merged forms

Located at a key entranceway into Century City and serving as the front face of both Bridgeways Precinct and the future Ratanga Precinct, the challenge was not only to design a landmark building and to take advantage of the desirable corner views but to maximise the potential rentable area of the island site’s unique shape. Functionally, the building needed to allow for flexible subdivisions for numerous potential tenants both within the building, as well as on the same floor.

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

Derick Henstra, dhk Executive Chairman, says: “Responding to the opportunities and restraints of the site, the design required strong roadside frontage to the southwest and a more functional and accessible podium back edge to the northeast. As a result, our team conceived a dual-facing building with two merged forms – a striking front-facing curvilinear glazed element contrasted with a formal punctured box structure. The shape of the building was not only intentionally designed to highlight the site's unique shape but to maximise the floorplates and potential rentable area.” Facing Sable Road, the building’s distinctive curved glazed facade wraps around its corner location into Bridgeways Precinct and the future Ratanga Precinct. Not only does the curvilinear curtain wall serve as the central design feature of the building but it provides transparency, allowing for outward views across the city and overlooking the mountains. Complementing and drawing parallels with its neighbour, Sable Park, the glazed facade is articulated with robust vertical aluminium fins which extend past the roofline. Adjacent to this, a more functional, textured and punctured facebrick box structure delineates the remainder of the Sable Road edge, designed to enable the curvilinear element to stand out. Below, the entire ground floor along Sable Road and atop the podium has been fitted out with glazed frontage and has the potential to serve as future retail space.

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To the northeast of the site is a more functional and accessible podium back. Here, the entrance lobby opens up to the visitor’s parking and pedestrian walkways to the wider Bridgeways Precinct. The solid boxed form is highlighted with grey painted facebrick panels contrasted with solid white Marmoran-finished brickwork elements. An architectural glazed circulation staircase and lift lobby links the convex-shaped section of the building to a rectangular appendix, allowing for economical floorplate usage while contributing to the overall design quality of the building. Internally, the finishes are primarily reliant on future tenants and the common areas, such as the bathrooms and lobbies, are finished in Cape slate tiles and highlighted with timber-clad feature walls which bring a definitive sense of warmth to the spaces. In the near future, views towards the northeast will include the redeveloped Ratanga Junction and will retain a strong focus on water and soft landscaping.

Environmentally sustainable principles

Fittingly, Sable Corner has been designed according to the environmentally sustainable principles of the remainder of the green Bridgeways Precinct. The external envelope has been designed to maximise occupants’ comfort while taking advantage of electrical energy savings by maximising the duration of daylight and keeping lights off. Fuel efficient parking bays have been provided should tenants decide to incorporate their own green transport

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PROJECT FEATURE dhk Architects

strategies which are further enhanced by access to public transport and easily accessible local amenities. LED lighting has been installed throughout, saving energy and maintenance costs while external lighting has been designed to avoid light pollution. In the near future, green spaces will be provided to create better water management in the rainy season and to manage water runoff. These aspects are integral for the targeted 4-Star Design and As-Built Green-Star Office SA v1.1 certification via the Green Building Council of South Africa. “Enjoying the advantages of Bridgeway Precinct, Sable Corner is within walking distance of the exceptional Century City Conference Centre, Century City Hotel and Century Square where restaurants and coffee shops spill out onto an open landscaped area, with Virgin Active and various apartments a few steps away, completing the live-work-play vision of Century City.” says Colin Anderson, Rabie COO. “Linking the city with decentralised suburban areas, Century City has become the preferred home for many corporate headquarters and Sable Corner is ideally designed for this purpose – a great commercial choice.” ■ www.dhk.co.za

Client: Architect:

Rabie Property Group dhk Architects (Executive Chairman - Derick Henstra; Project Architects – Brinley Pritchard and Sarah Tarr; Head of Technical Design – Steve Peters; Project Architectural Technicians – Servirou Jacobs and Wardah Razak)

Structural and Civil Engineer: Mechanical, Wet Services, Lift and Fire Engineer: Electrical Engineer and Electronics: Façade Engineer: Quantity Surveyor: Green Star: Town Planner and Landscape Architect: Contractor and Traffic Engineer: Environmental Consultant: Health and Safety:

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Aurecon EKCON (Pty) Ltd. Consulting Engineers QDP LH Consulting Engineers RLB Pentad Quantity Surveyors PJC Planning Partners WBHO Ecosense Westcoast Safe Practice

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PROJECT FEATURE C76 Architects

SHAPA SOWETO – innovative multi-sport facility & vibrant local community hub Completed in 2010, the awardwinning and state-of-the-art Nike Football Training Centre in Soweto soon grew to be the most used training ground of its kind.

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PROJECT FEATURE C76 Architects

Re-opening in 2021, C76 Architects collaborating alongside Nike SA and Johannesburg-based Futura Design Agency, revealed many exciting additions and extensive developments to the revamped centre, now called ‘Shapa Soweto’, continuing to ignite the national soccer scene and evolving into an innovative multi-sport facility and vibrant local community hub. Part of Nike's ongoing social investment and commitment to the community of Soweto, the centre aims to be self-sustainable and robust, built with maintainable materials selected purposefully for the project's longevity and overall future lifespan. Following comprehensive community research, the renovated design attracts engagement beyond sports and is envisioned as a safe and freely accessible asset not currently found in the area. In approaching the design, C76 sought not to copy an African idiom, but to form an authentic identity – ideas incorporating local materiality and textures of concrete, rammed earth, stone and glass reflect and blend into the contexts of place and culture. The intervention has been designed with and for Soweto; expressing a 'rough diamond ' sense of untapped potential and encouraging engagement with, and ownership of the space.

Renovation adds a new 'social yard'

Soweto now boasts a professionally designed skate park, basketball courts, 5-a-side soccer fields, athletics oval and a cross country running track surrounding the centre. To better integrate visibly and allow open access to the courtyard, the main entrance has moved to the south elevation, connecting directly to Chris Hani Road. With thoughtfully placed entries and exits, traditional ideas of enclosure, safety and the standard South www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT FEATURE C76 Architects

African typology of high boundary walls and separation and disconnection are rejected, and the status-quo reassessed. Now having attractive, open thresholds, the centre connects with, and reaches into the community both visibly and physically. The wheelchair-friendly and secure multi-sport yard welcomes social activation, encouraging economic and entrepreneurial participation through food kiosks selling healthy produce grown in the facility's gardens. Socially-driven programming and landscaping transform the dusty external built-environment into a green escape. An expansive shade cover and several newly planted

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trees will grow to organically soften the multi-sport courtyard and seating into an urban park, dappling the harsh African sunlight and akin to being under a leafy communal canopy. The carefully designed shading structure layers 4m tiles of structural steel rebar (a building material usually hidden below ground) in three dimensions: parametrically following the path of the sun, filtered through triangular patterns and angled to Nike's iconic 'swoosh'. The shadows cast add a new dimensionality to the concrete below, echoing the humble materiality and geometries of African weaving and latticework tradition. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE C76 Architects

Considered design & craft displayed in ingenious and unusual use of materials

event spaces, energised and flanked by new and unique artworks and inspirational photos of local sport stars. Public leisure and work spaces are joined with classrooms, a new maker's space and studio fitted with the latest tech to encourage creativity and foster exploration. Upstairs, adaptable dance and boxing studios join the administration and office level.

Connecting through thresholds such as skylights and stairs, these patterns, angles and materials continue into the building itself which is a vernacular palette of regional textures, colours and tone, shaping the architectural tectonics, space and light.

C76 Architects and their collaborators have reignited the facility, updating the lower ground floor with public facilities, custom designed locker and team strategy rooms, male and female shower facilities and the all-important tunnel for the fired up contenders to run out on to the field. Fueling the field spectacle, added coach and team canopies have been installed on the field, with raised earth spectator stands surrounding the games with updated public ablutions and social areas. Runners will be safely speeding around the softly landscaped and tree-planted site's perimeter 1km cross-country running track, and on the new full sized athletics oval.

C76's passion for considered design and craft is showcased in this ingenious and unusual use of materials. A cost effective solution expressing a unique and contemporary architectural expression, symbolically turning the underrated into a starring design feature.

The visual language and architectural graphics flow into the building. Modular facilities have been added throughout. The ground floor adds flexible, multivalent recreational and

Bringing together the collective notions of sport and community through architecture and design, C76 inconjunction with Nike SA and Futura design agency celebrates the proud energies of Soweto and its people through the centre. It is a home not only for aspiring sport stars, but a social haven accessible to all, inviting local social, educational and creative contexts and opportunities to emerge and thrive. ■

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Promoting profitability through proactive professionalism Coetzee CHSA provides Construction Health and Safety Agent services by ensuring our clients, individual workers and management are made aware of their responsibilities and are empowered to achieve legal compliance, ultimately ensuring that everyone gets #HomeSafe. We continually improve our processes, demonstrate leadership, and promote workable solutions. We strive to support our clients’ strategic and operational needs by offering innovative, integrated and reliable advice and we appreciate the fact that all our clients have unique needs. We tailor our services to suit the requirements of our clients. Our mission is to provide our clients with workable solutions designed to promotes client proﬁtability with our values incorporated into the core of what supports our vision, shapes our culture, reﬂects what we value.

The essence of our identity is to be reputable, integrous, proficient, methodical, proactive and dynamic. Our services include: •

Construction Health and Safety Agent Services

•

Development of Baseline Risk Assessments

•

Project Health and Safety Risk Briefs

•

Development of Construction Health and Safety Speciﬁcations

•

Conducting Compliance Audits

•

Construction Work Permit Applications

•

Assisting with Incident Investigations

The involvement of Coetzee CHSA as part of the professional team in many high-profile projects has proven to be beneficial to all parties involved. Recent clients include: •

Consol Glass Belville

•

Momentum Metropolitan Holdings

•

Western Cape Government - Department of Health

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Western Cape Government Department of Public Works

•

Grinaker-LTA

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Department of Water and Sanitation

•

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

The Reserve, Capricorn Way, Brackenfell, 7560 E info@cchsa.co.za

W www.cchsa.co.za

T +27 (0)21 820 7060

F +27 (0)86 275 0721

True beauty doesn’t fade with time.

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

EDITORIAL Safety

Discover comfort, durability & reliable protection with

Wayne’s superior quality gumboots Wayne Safety has been Africa’s gumboot specialist for over 80 years. Since 1940, no other manufacturer has supplied more industrial and safety gumboots into the African market.

Wayne Safety started manufacturing gumboots 80 years ago, with Wayne Rubber producing rubber gumboots in KZN. This began a long tradition of manufacturing superior quality gumboots and serving workers right at the heart of industry. Today, Wayne is one of the foremost PVC and PU gumboot manufacturers in Africa. The Wayne range of PU gumboots offers a variety of enhanced features and benefits, catering to sectors from food processing and hygiene to light and heavyduty agriculture. While PVC gumboots are reliable and economical, polyurethane (PU) gumboots are rapidly growing in popularity – and for good reason.

A longer lifespan and greater value for money

One of the key advantages of PU gumboots is that they can last up to three times longer than PVC boots, giving you a longer lifespan and greater value for money with no compromise on protection and resistance. To fully understand the benefits of PU gumboots, let’s look at the Wayne Pure Max PU boot as an example.

A range of added benefits

Adding to these structural benefits, Wayne’s Pure Max gumboot has a range of added benefits. A unique treadgroove and depth gives our PU boots the highest possible SRC slip resistance rating. Optimum hygiene is ensured through the boot’s moisture wicking functionality, and anti-microbial and anti-fungal treatment; and a lightweight composition paired with a unique footbed results in all-day comfort. Last but not least, anti-static properties give the wearer peace of mind. But at Wayne, we know it’s not enough to tell you that our boots can deliver a longer lifespan of comfort, resistance and durability – we have to prove it. That’s why the Pure Max is flex tested to over 900 000 flexes, far beyond the industry standard of 30 000 flexes, showing no significant deterioration – that equates to over 900 000 steps, or over 700kms! Trust in Wayne, Africa’s gumboot specialist for 80 years and counting, and get your Pure Max PU gumboots today. ■ www.wayne-safety.com

Vertically injected air bubbles in the Pure Max give the boot a lightweight, comfortable feel, while maximising resistance. An inherent cross-link structure delivers enhanced flexibility and strength, and gives the boot excellent insulation properties against both heat and cold. A multi-stage curation process results in a protective ‘outer skin’, which increases resistance and durability, while ultra-sonically welded controlling particles impart greater resistance to abrasions – further extending the life of your boot.

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FALCON BOOT Raptor sole with TPU inser ts for grip, suppor t and protection. Genuine leather. Padded collar for improved comfort. Footolog y Elastopan Climate Control insole.

KEEPING YOU STEADY ON UNEVEN TERRAIN - LADDER GRIP DESIGN AND TOUGH DURABLE UPPER Get the ultimate grip while stepping with a uniquely designed sole with ladder grip TPU inser ts.

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PROJECT FEATURE Nsika Architecture and Design

Future-facing EcoTec tiles enhance new Irene Link Precinct

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PROJECT FEATURE Nsika Architecture and Design

Irene Link Precinct in Doringkloof is appropriately named, as a mixed-use development and is designed to create connection. Here, Bryan Charters of Nsika Architecture and Design, together with Abland Property Developers as well as Giflo and SOM Property Developers visualised a pace-setting group of structures in their harmonious urban fusion of commercial, retail, and hotel, medical and educational spaces near the peaceful village of Irene. Groundwork on Irene Link Building B began in late 2019, and, despite the interruption of the hard lockdown of 2020, top structures were completed in July 2020. Building B contains 6 959m² of premium grade office space. The design and build team reached out to Italtile Commercial Menlyn’s Catherine Brown to select quality floor tiles to cover a total of 2 400m2, that best spoke to the building’s modern urban personality of concrete, steel, aluminium and glass. In line with the theme of connection, the architects chose to create a conversation between the interior and exterior spaces with one range of porcelain tiles. They settled on the Spazio Gris by local sustainable tile manufacturers Gryphon, which is part of the Ceramic Industries Group. The Spazio range is a large format, high quality remastering of the on-trend matt cement look, and is a new breed of tile, sustainably manufactured to be thinner yet stronger. ■ www.italtile.co.za/about-italtile-commercial www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Your Your trusted Yourtrusted trusted Your trusted HVACpartner. partner. HVAC HVAC partner. HVAC partner. ChasingExcellence. Excellence. Chasing Chasing Excellence. Chasing Excellence. FosteringInnovation Fostering Fostering Innovation Fostering Innovation Family values are often Family Familyvalues valuesare areoften often instrumental inare creating a strong Family values oftenaastrong instrumental instrumental inincreating creating strong sense of vision and identity for instrumental in creating a sense senseofofvision visionand andidentity identitystrong for for business leaders and Fourways sense of vision and identity for business business leaders leaders and andFourways Fourways Group is no different. For more business andFor Fourways Group Group isisno noleaders different. different. For more more than 20isyears, the Fourways name Group no different. For more than than 20 20 years, years, the theFourways Fourways name name has been synonymous with than 20 years, the Fourways name has has been beensynonymous synonymous with with and integrity, work, loyalty has been hard synonymous with integrity, integrity, hard hardwork, work, loyalty loyaltyand and commitment customer integrity, hardtowork, loyalty and commitment commitment to to customer customer satisfaction. precisely these commitmentIttoiscustomer satisfaction. satisfaction. It It is is precisely precisely these these longstandingItprinciples that have satisfaction. is precisely these longstanding longstanding principles principles that that have have been instrumental to the longstanding principles that have been been instrumental instrumental the the company’s proudtoto legacy been instrumental to the of company’s company’s proud proud legacy legacy ofof success; forproud itself legacy and for hundreds company’s of success; success; for for itself itself and and for for hundreds hundreds of SMME and large HVAC success; for itself and for hundreds ofofbusinesses. SMME SMME and and large large HVAC HVAC of SMME and large HVAC businesses. businesses. businesses. Since 1999, Fourways Group has delivered world-class indoor air and Since Since 1999, 1999, Fourways Fourways Group Group has Since 1999, Fourways Grouphas has water temperature-control delivered delivered world-class world-class indoor indoor air air and and delivered world-class indoor air and solutions to the market, expanding water water temperature-control temperature-control water temperature-control from a tiny outlet selling one or solutions solutions to to the the market, market, expanding expanding solutions to the market, expanding from from aatiny outlet outlet selling selling one one from atiny tiny outlet selling oneoror or

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Fourways is a ‘one-stop shop’ for a wide variety of HVAC needs

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and cycle heat pumps, as well as and andcycle cycleheat heatpumps, pumps,asaswell wellasas pool heat heat pumps, ideal as economical and cycle pumps, well as pool pool heat heatpumps, pumps, ideal idealeconomical economical solutions all water heating pool heat to pumps, ideal economical solutions solutions totoall allwater water heating heating requirements. solutions to all water heating requirements. requirements. requirements. In the air-conditioning industry, it InInthe theair-conditioning air-conditioning industry, industry,itit takes than a few industry, gusts of it In the more air-conditioning takes takes more more than than a a few few gusts gustsofof fresh to leave lasting takes air more than aa few gusts of fresh freshair airtotoleave leaveaalasting lasting impression. Becoming a trusted fresh air to leave a lasting impression. impression. Becoming Becoming aatrusted trusted name means delivering impression. Becoming aquality, trusted name namemeans means delivering delivering quality, quality, innovation and trusted service name means delivering quality,time innovation innovation and and trusted trusted service service time time and time again. With the passing of innovation and trusted service time and and time time again. again. With With the the passing passing years, Fourways’ mission to grow and time again. With the passing ofofof years, years,Fourways’ Fourways’ Fourways’ mission mission to grow grow alongside its loyalmission installer network years, toto grow alongside alongside its itsloyal loyal loyal installer installer network network who have its contributed significantly alongside installer network who who have have contributed contributed significantly significantly to thehave business’ expansion and who contributed significantly to to the the business’ business’ expansion expansion and and evolution has never wavered. The to the business’ expansion and evolution evolution has has never never wavered. wavered. The The brand’s promise of ‘service above evolution has never wavered. The all else’ still ringsof true, manifesting brand’s brand’s promise promise of of ‘service ‘service above above brand’s promise ‘service above into Fourways becoming a all all else’ else’ still still rings rings true, true, manifesting manifesting all else’ still rings true, manifesting one-stop-shop solution for intoFourways Fourways Fourwaysbecoming becoming becoming a into aadiverse HVAC business needs that make one-stop-shop one-stop-shop solution solution for for diverse diverse one-stop-shop solution for diverse how installers trade and operate a HVAC HVACbusiness business businessneeds needs needs that that make make HVAC that make whole lot easier. This includes how and operate a aa howinstallers installers installerstrade trade trade and and operate operate access to products whole easier. This includes whole wholelot lot loton-the-spot easier. easier. This This includes includes supply, design assistance, access products access accessto to toon-the-spot on-the-spot on-the-spot products products technical back-up, training, supply, design assistance, supply, supply,design designassistance, assistance, long-term after-sales parts supply technical training, technical technicalback-up, back-up, back-up, training, training, and an online dealer resource long-term parts supply long-term long-termafter-sales after-sales after-sales parts parts supply supply portal, all underpinned by fair and an online dealer resource and andan anonline onlinedealer dealerresource resource pricing andunderpinned the supportby of fair a portal, portal, portal,all all allunderpinned underpinned by byfair fair highly-skilled and experienced pricing of aaa pricing pricingand and andthe the thesupport support support ofof team. With all thisexperienced and more it’s highly-skilled highly-skilled highly-skilledand and andexperienced experienced easy to see why Fourways is it’s a team. and more team. team.With With Withall all allthis this this and and more more it’s it’s trusted, go-to partner for countless easy to see why Fourways is a easy easytoto see seewhy whyFourways Fourways isisaa HVAC professionals, company trusted, go-to partnerafor countless trusted, trusted, go-to go-to partner partner for for countless countless delivering innovative a solutions that HVAC professionals, company HVAC HVAC professionals, professionals, a a company company make a world of difference delivering innovative solutions that delivering delivering innovative innovative solutions solutions that that whatever the size or scope a make a world of difference make makeabusiness aworld worldofof difference differencemay be. client’s and whatever the size orprojects scope a whatever whateverthe thesize sizeororscope scopeaa client’s business and projects may be. client’s client’sbusiness businessand andprojects projectsmay maybe. be.

Fourways have a vast and impressive havesites a vastwhere and impressive listFourways of reference Samsung list of reference sites where Samsung and Alliance products have been and Alliance haveaccredited been chosen for theproducts job by their chosen for the job by their accredited installers. Some of these include the installers. Some of these include the newest iconic multibillion-rand newest iconic multibillion-rand development Umhlanga Arch in KZN, development Umhlanga Arch in KZN, Soweto Private Hospital, Nelson Soweto Private Hospital, Nelson Mandela MandelaChildren’s Children’sHospital HospitalininJHB, JHB, King Edward School in King Edward School inHoughton, Houghton, and Pran and PranBoulevard BoulevardininUmhlanga Umhlangato to name but name buta afew. few.The Thelist listhowever however goes ononfrom goes fromhotels, hotels,totooffices, offices,to to apartments apartmentstotomedical medicalcentres centresto to retail and retail andmore moreallallaround aroundthe the country, whatever the requirements country, whatever the requirements forfor the thejob, job,Fourways Fourwayshas hasthe the solution. solution. “We aretruly trulygrateful gratefulfor forour our “We are ever-growingcustomers, customers,from from ever-growing installerstotoconsulting consultingengineers engineers and and installers architects who support us,” says architects who support us,” says RichardPerry, Perry,CEO CEOofofFourways. Fourways.“It “It Richard is our ongoing desire to continue is our ongoing desire to continue providingindustry-leading industry-leadinglevels levelsof of providing service and back-up not only in the service and back-up not only in the air-conditioning and heat pump field, air-conditioning and heat pump field, but also in finding additional ways of but also in finding additional ways of making business easier for our loyal making business easier for our loyal network of installers and finding network of installers andloyal finding additional ways for our installers additional ways for our loyal installers to grow their businesses in various toavenues, grow their businesses in to various while continuing deliver avenues, while continuing to deliver the exceptional service for which the exceptional serviceIffor whichis Fourways is known.” history Fourways is known.” If history is goal anything to go by, achieving this anything to go by, achieving this goal is well within reach. is well within reach. From a business perspective during From a business perspective during an unprecedented 2020, to say that shook the world to its core anCOVID-19 unprecedented 2020, to say that would beshook the understatement of core the COVID-19 the world to its century. Economies, society, and would be the understatement of the business as we knew it had to century. Economies, society, and fundamentally evolveitathad a moment’s business as we knew to notice to accommodate a crisis no fundamentally evolve at a moment’s one saw coming. Although notice to accommodate a crisis no challenging across the board, 2020 one saw coming. Although proved that value the really can be found challenging across board, 2020 in seeing the glass as half full, proved that value really can be found particularly in business. For Fourways in seeing the glass as half full, Group, this positive mindset is particularly in business. For Fourways among the many reasons we have Group, this positive is been able to sustainmindset our business, among the manysetbacks. reasons From we have despite recent the top been able to sustain our business, down our team focused on short and despite recent setbacks. the top long-term solutions. WeFrom assessed our down our team focused on short and then-structure, adapted where long-term solutions. We assessedand our needed, streamlined processes, then-structure, adapted realigned operations to where chart a course needed, processes, and forwardstreamlined where Fourways, our valued realigned operations to chart a course

The company companyalso alsoempowers empowersitsitspeople peoplethrough through staff-upliftment programmes staff-upliftment programmes

partners, suppliers, partners, suppliers,installer installer network and and people peoplecould couldrise rise above together. together.

recondition the way wewe do do things recondition the way things asasa abusiness, but continuous business, but continuous improvement in in products that improvement products that improve our air quality are vital andand improve our air quality are vital The common thread in all these this is why Fourways are constantly The common thread in all these this is why Fourways are constantly successes is our product offerings by by successes is people peoplesupporting supportingone one bettering bettering our product offerings another and change management. introducing purifiers, ionisers and another and change management. introducing purifiers, ionisers and By focusing focusing on keep these pathogens By on the thewhole, whole,rolling rollingup up filters filtersthat that keep these pathogens our sleeves and working side by out of the air in your homes, our sleeves and working side by out of the air in your homes, side, we continue to get the job offices, malls and any air side, we continue to get the job offices, malls and any air done and ensure we stand by our conditioned building to ensure done and ensure we stand by our conditioned building to ensure belief that we don’t just sell constant enhanced air hygiene. belief that we don’t just sell constant enhanced air hygiene. products, we sell service. This products, we sell service. This inspires us to continue to innovate “Looking to the future, one cannot inspires us to continue to innovate “Looking the future, and persevere to ensure that the help but be to excited for theone cannot and persevere to ensure that the help but be excited the business returns to form, while prospects that movingfor forward business returns to form, while prospects that moving forward never forgetting the importance of brings, aware that we must all be never the importance brings, aware that we must lookingforgetting after one’s physical and of prepared for endless waves of all be looking after one’s physical and prepared for endless waves of mental health and supporting good transformation”, says Perry. mental health and supporting good transformation”, says health in the people around us. Fourways is constantly onPerry. top of health in the people us. Fourways isconsumer constantlydemands on top of Furthermore, we havearound commenced ever-growing Furthermore, we have commenced and ever-growing demands with exciting staff upliftment considering consumer new and exciting programmes, empowering our products to add to new its offering. They with exciting staff upliftment and considering and exciting people is critical for us at Fourways, have their finger of allThey programmes, empowering our products to addontothe itspulse offering. which speaks back our is progressive people is critical fortous atfamily Fourways, that have their finger in ontechnological the pulse of all centric values motivated by an advancements, modern air concerns which speaks back to our family that is progressive in technological ethos underpinned by continuous and heating and cooling product centric values motivated by an advancements, modern air concerns improvement. Through openness to innovations, the very best ethos underpinned by continuous and heatingproviding and cooling product change, resilience and working in healthier air solutions and overall improvement. Through openness to innovations, providing the very best togetherresilience smarter toand achieve our climate controlairthat the world change, working in healthier solutions andhas overall goals, we all thrive and create the to offer. together smarter to achieve our climate control that the world has highest value for customers. goals, we all thrive and create the to offer. Together we can achieve sales@fourwaysgroup.co.za highest value for customers. immeasurable victories and come www.fourwaysaircon.co.za Together we can achieve sales@fourwaysgroup.co.za out of any dire situation bigger, www.allianceair.co.za immeasurable victories and come www.fourwaysaircon.co.za better and stronger. out of2020 any dire www.allianceair.co.za What alsosituation taught usbigger, is that better and stronger. the need for constant innovation in What 2020 alsoproducts taught us air conditioning is is a that the needrequirement for constantdue innovation massive to the in air conditioning products ever-increasing pollutions, is a massive to the allergens,requirement bacteria anddue viruses in ever-increasing our air, not only pollutions, do we need to allergens, bacteria and viruses in our air, not only do we need to

EDITORIAL Construction

4IR will drive the post-pandemic

construction industry Bongani Dladla, acting CEO of the Construction Industry Development Board

Fundamental changes that are taking place with the construction industry will enable the sector to play a turnkey role in South Africa’s post-pandemic recovery. The 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR), with its emphasis on technology-driven solutions and innovation, is already having a profound impact on the way in which the construction sector – both established and emerging participants – prepare itself for the future. The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) is strategically placed to provide leadership during this transition, in line with our mandate to facilitate and promote the contribution of the construction industry to South Africa’s economy and society. It is well documented how Covid-19 placed an initial serious damper on economic activity in the country. The construction sector experienced this slowdown most severely as building activities grounded to a halt and contractors were confronted with a new range of imponderables relating to occupational health and safety in addition to the uncertainties of when, and how, the economy will recover.

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4IR can lead to a more agile, responsive and transformed industry

However, the initial pause in construction caused by the pandemic also provided the sector the opportunities to reimagine its future and to consider how the profound changes that are brought to the fore by the 4IR can lead to a more agile, responsive and transformed industry. This is an important leap because globally, the construction industry has acquired a poor track record on issues as diverse as health and safety, ethics and malpractices, and lack of regard for the wellbeing of its workforce and stakeholders. It is characterised by low productivity and high unpredictability in both cost and quality and there are justifiable concerns about the lack of transparency which often leads to rampant corruption. 4IR offer strategic approaches strategic solutions to most of these issues and can lead to significant transformation in the way in which infrastructure is planned, procured, delivered and maintained.

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EDITORIAL Construction

Construction 4.0 will revolutionise processes

Construction 4.0 – the integration of 4IR advances into the industry – will revolutionise processes across the entire spectrum of activities. Some of these innovations are already being deployed with great success in the South African industry. Designers and building clients can have an advance look at the final product through 3D modelling. Robots can access areas of projects that may be unsafe for humans. Drones provide progress reports, thus reducing the cost of time and travel for project managers. Big data is increasingly being used to further reduce costs and increase access to information. South African construction is not insulated from the factors that affect the global industry. Our aim must be to move along the leading edges of 4IR innovation and apply the knowledge gained through such research to transform our own build environment. Thus, we should be especially interested in the major advances made in materials technology which have brought to market a new range of building materials which can improve efficiencies, reduce costs and mitigate the environmental impact of the industry. Modularisation and prefabrication can contribute to higher productivity and improve the quality of construction products. Automated equipment and robots can assemble prefabricated units which can significantly reduce the cost of buildings and improve industry occupational health and safety.

Entrepreneurs benefiting

Emerging entrepreneurs are already benefiting from the knowledge gained by Construction 4.0. Two female entrepreneurs from Sasolburg, Kedibone and Kekeletso Tsiloane, have brought to market an innovative product which uses recycled plastic to manufacture bricks which are strong, durable, fire retardant and environmentally friendly. Testing done by a facility accredited by South Africa National Standards have concluded that these bricks are stronger and less absorbent than cement bricks. Through their company, Ramtsilo Trading, the entrepreneurs purchase plastic from waste pickers and buy back centres and recycles all types of plastic, including those which usually ends up in landfills or the environment. These types of innovations point towards the direction in which the South African construction industry should move. Covid-19 has placed additional constraints on already diminishing budgets for public infrastructure and there is an ongoing need for greater construction efficiencies and higher levels of productivity.

CIDB-initiated project will add value to the industry

The CIDB will continue to play a catalytic role to lead industry stakeholders in construction development. We will continue to promote uniformity in construction procurement, ensure efficient and effective infrastructure delivery and contribute to skills development which will lead to the transformation of the industry. To accelerate the adoption of 4IR trends in construction the CIDB has initiated a project to collate and analyse research that will add value to the industry. The first phase is the development of a database that documents all relevant research, both published and in-house. This will be followed up by a database of educational programmes offered in the tertiary sector and an overview of 4IR technologies used by participants in the construction sector, from designers and project managers to facilities managers and maintenance practitioners. Through this project the CIDB will stimulate interest in the vast potential that 4IR holds for the transformation of the South African construction sector. And it will open further doors for new participants in an industry that will be critical to the country’s ability to emerge in a post-pandemic environment. ■

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PROJECT FEATURE Kunz Raubenheimer Architects

Melrose Manor Senior Living Estate

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PROJECT FEATURE Kunz Raubenheimer Architects

The Melrose Manor Senior Living Estate by Auria Senior Living was a refurbishment project which involved the transformation of a grand old building in a quiet cul-de-sac. This gracious old lady, over 50 years old, was once the Don Peppi Hotel, consisting of a hotel section as well as separate serviced apartments.

Over time it was sectionalised, resulting in the hotel section being sold off to become Pembury Lodge, which was then run illegally as an old age home. The Pembury Lodge operator extracted as much revenue as possible without putting anything back for upkeep or maintenance of the building. It slowly deteriorated over time and this led to it gaining an appalling reputation in the retirement sector and the surrounding community. The brief from the client was thus complex as it entailed completely removing the negative legacy that Pembury Lodge left within the wider community. The building needed not only a refurbishment but also had to be rebranded completely to establish its new identity as a leader in the retirement industry, able to achieve A-grade sales prices. Instead of disregarding the existing building and completely demolishing it, the refurbishment had to be guided by its unique Mediterranean character and had to enhance the unique existing ambience by introducing new elements that would complement it in a contemporary manner.

Open-plan spatial configuration conducive to contemporary living

The architectural response required a two-fold approach which entailed interior and exterior renovations and additions. The communal space on the ground floor had to be completely redesigned to create a comfortable environment where residents could meet and interact, and where different functions were organised in a logical and practical manner. Facilities had to be added to the existing ground floor, including a new reception foyer and concierge, admin offices, a coffee shop, a library and lounge, a cinema, dining room, cards room, private dining area and bathrooms. The coffee shop spills out onto a deck with a pergola, where a series of arched steel screens with cut-out patterns serve multiple functions: providing privacy from the street, acting as a security barrier to the coffee shop at night, and functioning as a solar control device during the day. Internally similar cut out steel screens are used to differentiate between spaces with different functions and to establish clear thresholds between these spaces. A wellness centre also had to be added which consisted of biokineticist and physiotherapist treatment rooms, a salon, an exercise room, a gym, admin offices, bathrooms and staff facilities. All these functions had to be accommodated within the limited existing space of the ground floor level and basement parking as the client did not want to lose lettable/saleable areas on upper levels. The layout of the apartments on the first, second and third floor had to be redesigned to allow for an open-plan spatial configuration which would be more conducive to contemporary living. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT FEATURE Kunz Raubenheimer Architects

Welcoming the external community into the senior living space The existing building, which was unsafe due to the renovations that were made over the years, had to be made completely safe for senior citizens as outlined by the Elderly Person’s Act. Wheelchair ramps and unobstructed and continuous thresholds had to be included to allow for universal access while adhering to the various aspects and regulations of senior living and impaired movement ergonomics.

Externally, the renovations consisted of a new portecochere, coffee shop, swimming pool courtyard area and a series of planted courtyards. The new entrance and porte-cochere had to be lit at night to give new life to the quiet cul-de-sac of Kernick West Avenue and invite visitors into the warm interior. The existing courtyards between the building wings were also redesigned to rejuvenate these under-utilised spaces in view of the apartments, with the layout of

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the apartments being redesigned to allow for an open plan spatial configuration which is more conducive to contemporary living. It was important for the senior residents to be integrated into society and the surrounding community and therefore the coffee shop had to be designed in such a manner that it would become the interface for engagement between residents and the public, welcoming the external community into the senior living space. The existing courtyards between the building wings were also to be redesigned to rejuvenate these under-utilised spaces in view of the apartments. All of this had to be achieved in an occupied building, with many residents being very frail. This would entail after hours working and strict supervision and access control on site. In essence, the new design language had to respect and enhance the unique existing character of the building, while removing the flawed changes that were made by the previous owner to create a timeless design solution that would remain relevant to the milieu of future residents. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT FEATURE Kunz Raubenheimer Architects

A varied spatial experience

The architects' design approach was to retain and enhance the unique ambience and character of the existing Mediterranean architectural typology. They did this by introducing new elements that complement the existing style and accentuate it in a contemporary manner, while removing the flawed changes that were made by the previous owner. This was achieved by adding a new porte-cochere, a series of pergolas, planted screens, vaulted ceilings to give more volume to the dining room, new natural finishes and by bringing in more natural light. Through these additions and alterations, the goal was to provide a varied spatial experience throughout the building and to create comfortable and inviting spaces to spend time with family and friends.

A timeless design solution

Looking back at the project, the architects say they were "pushed out of our comfort zone" in having to work with an existing building with a specific character which required them to develop a new design approach and language that would respect and enhance the existing personality of the building. "At the same time, we had to be wary of not just following a stylistic design approach but rather implement a timeless design solution that would remain relevant to the milieu of future residents. We thoroughly enjoyed this process." ■

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EDITORIAL Construction

Using continuously galvanized steel for light steel frame building

Light steel frame building (LSFB) is not the same as prefabricated or ‘kit’ buildings, as it is rather a building method. Another term is ‘off-site’ construction, due to the fact that a lot of the manufacturing takes place in factories, where after the components are transported and assembled on-site. LSFB consists of structured wall panels, trusses and floor joists that are assembled using cold-formed steel sections, which in turn are made from thin-gauge high-strength continuously galvanized steel sheet. Simon Norton, Africa Desk, International Zinc Association

Hot-dip galvanized substrate is produced on continuous zinc coating lines from either cold-rolled (thickness range 0.27mm to < 2.0mm) or hot-rolled (thickness 2.01mm to 3.0mm) steel substrate in coil form. It is produced to the requirements of EN 10142, EN 10147, EN 10143, ASTM A924, SANS 4998 or SANS 3575. On the other hand, rolled zinc products such as Rheinzink and Verozinc, which include the alloying elements copper, aluminium and titanium, and conform to standard EN 988, are only suited to roofing and cladding of buildings. These products are made from near pure zinc sheet, as opposed to continuously galvanized sheet, where the molten zinc is coated onto thin steel sheeting. Rolled zinc can be used in façades, cladding, roofing, gutters and drain pipes, as well as for ornamental applications, and even as flashing. Rolled zinc products have a long service life and can be recycled and reused. However, with LSFB structures, the material of choice is continuously galvanized steel sheet that subsequently gets shaped and formed into the elements that make up the building skeleton.

Used extensively to galvanize steel to prevent corrosion

Zinc generally corrodes at a low rate due to the protection offered by the resilient zinc patina formed by the reaction between the metallic zinc surface, the oxygen in the air and carbon dioxide. This compact, bonded and insoluble patina layer blocks exchange between the atmosphere and www.sabuildingreview.co.za

the zinc. Zinc is used extensively to galvanize steel to prevent corrosion. Speak to an expert if you want to apply galvanized steel or roofing close to the sea, within 1km to 2km of the high-water mark, as care must be taken when used at the coast under very corrosive conditions. The LSFB galvanized steel sections are joined together in the factory using rivets or self-tapping screws to form structural wall panels and roof trusses for on-site erection on foundations and floor slabs. Similar to timber frame construction, the wall frames are clad externally and internally on-site with a range of alternative cladding materials, with services such as electrical cables and plumbing piping and insulation material installed in the wall cavity itself.

LSFB offers a wide range of benefits

LSFB offers a wide range of benefits when compared to conventional building or other framing materials in terms of quality, cost, durability and speed of construction. Reduced wastage, lower logistical costs and reduced time of construction could offer cost-savings of 20% or more compared with conventional building using bricks and mortar. The typical life of a LSFB when using Z200 galvanized sheet will be 40 to 50 years due to the tenacity of the building envelope to keep out a corrosive atmosphere. In addition, LSFB complies with the design requirements of the South African National Building Regulations. This

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EDITORIAL Construction tried-and-tested building method has been deployed with great success in Australia, Europe and America for decades. Every structure is signed off by a structural engineer and only quality certified materials are used. The frames are assembled under controlled factory conditions. In the event of poor foundation conditions, steel framed buildings can accommodate some movement in foundations without cracking. Thermal insulation can be specified that is superior to conventional brick and mortar buildings, while professional finishes are readily achievable. Industry association SASFA acts as a quality watchdog that accredits system-competent frame erectors and builders.

About the International Zinc Association

In terms of cost-efficiency, the timesaving is estimated to be more than 30% compared with conventional building. In addition, the steel frame dictates a high degree of accuracy of building dimensions. A steel framed wall clad with fibre cement or plasterboard offers a mass saving of 90% compared with a doubleskin brick wall. The low mass of the walls also means that lighter foundations are possible.

In South Africa, the IZA plays a vital role in establishing the basis for the successful revitalisation of the zinc industry by increasing awareness of zinc and its applications and benefits in key sectors and markets, which will ultimately translate into the increased uptake of zinc.

The LSFB building method lends itself to column foundations and suspended floors, reducing the cost of building on uneven sites. Other benefits are minimal wastage, energy-efficiency and flexibility as horizontal and vertical additions can be added easily in stages. There is also up to 4% extra floor space due to the reduced thickness of the external walls compared with double-skin or cavity brick walls. Services are installed in wall cavities without chasing of walls, which translates into earlier occupation of buildings for increased return on investment, as well as accurate cost budgets. ■

International Zinc Association Contact Simon Norton IZA Africa Desk

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Phone: (021) 788 9980 Cell: 082 831 2924 Email: zinc@iafrica.com Web: www.zinc.org

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EDITORIAL Architecture

The Elements Library by Hubo Studios, photo by Dave Southwood

GIfA Architecture Awards 2021 –

showcasing excellence The Gauteng Institute for Architecture's (GIfA) bi-annual awards programme for 2021 showcased talented members' excellent work produced over the past two years. New categories of achievement were introduced to include the diversity of the architects' projects.

hope. The building combines poetic, controlled application of architectural elements with artistic, sculptural quality.

President's Award

The combination gives it a landmark presence while convincingly resisting becoming an 'object building'. The design is agile in responding to challenging site conditions and an existing structure, mainly applying proportion and scale to mediate between the existing and the new.

Notable awards include the President's Award for the Westbury Transformation Centre for Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) and City of Johannesburg Social Development by Ntsika Architects, which also received an Award of Merit. GifA President, Krynauw Nel, felt that this project takes the voice of the desperate and changes it into a message of

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The jury panel noted that, "Colour, transparency and embracing architectural gestures are used to invite the community to a space tailor-made for their needs. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Architecture

The building's profound achievement is that while the community experiences it as architecture with a small 'a'; the sophistication of its design and execution earn it a capital 'A'."

People's Choice Award

The People's Choice Award for the Elements Library at King David School, Sandton, by Hubo Studios, also received an Award of Commendation from the jurors. The library users are enveloped in the elements of earth, fire, air, and water which are embodied on each floor with playful confidence. "There is never a dull moment as the spaces encapsulate child-like wonder and infuse mundane activities with magic and a surprise around every corner. Children can read at the campfire, frolic in the waves with life-size sea creatures, or get lost in a forest of fairy-tales, climbing into the clouds (or iPad pods) to rest from their many adventures," commented the jury panel.

Research Award

The Research Award for The Neil Aggett Inquest 2020 for the architectural forensic report compiled by Savage + Dodd Architects constitutes the forensic architectural evidence collected for the renewed inquest into the death of Neil Aggett. The architects recreated this framework's spatial quality, sequencing the logical unfolding of events.

According to the jury panel, this work contributes to recording a new narrative concerning the unfinished business of pursuing restorative justice in South Africa. In this, the role of architects and the built environment has not been interrogated until now.

Client of the Year Award, Small Projects/ Small Practice awards

The Client of the Year Award went to Ansi and Renette Buitendag for their support to Veld Architects, as well as awards for Small Project/Small Practice for small firms with a maximum of two professional architects and projects with a value under R2million. These include the Workers' Museum Cottages in Newtown by Mayat Hart Architects, a restoration project. The elegant Contemporary Infill for a House Older than 60 years by Origin & James Architecture Design; and the Uberport by AOJ Architecture & Interiors that takes a carport to new levels.

Awards of Excellence

Awards of Excellence went to the following projects: • House Harris by Arch3D Studios • Oggie Showroom by C76 Architects • The Bank by Daffonchio Architects • the Barloworld Equipment Showroom by Paragon Architects • Jewel City urban renewal by GASS Architecture Studios

Awards of Merit The Westbury Community Centre by Ntsika Architects, photo by Nadia Tromp

Awards of Merit were bestowed on: • Ode to Oak Pavillion by Rebel Base Collective • The Onyx at Jewel City by GASS Architecture Studios • New Preparatory School for St John's College by Pencharc (Pty) Ltd • Linksfield Shul and Community Center by Hubo Studios, Quite a few projects received Awards of Commendation. GIfA will showcase these projects and hopes to arrange in-person visits with the architects to some of these projects in 2022. ■

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PROJECT FEATURE FWJK

Ridge 8 –

slender grandeur & modern, timeless focal point Ridge 8, the eighth office building to be developed by FWJK in the Umhlanga Ridgeside Office Precinct, comprises 5 000m² of prime A Grade office space. Located just two sites down from the hugely successful Ridge 7 development. The Ridge 8 development brings the total office space developed by FWJK in Ridgeside, Umhlanga to 38 000m².

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PROJECT FEATURE FWJK

Ridge 8’s slender structure rises out of the compact site, with seven storeys of parking and six storeys of superior office space, parking is provided at a rate of five bays/100m² of usable area. With the parking levels designed above ground, the office levels reach the full mean sea level height allowable and therefore maximise on the unobstructed views. Ridge 8 is oriented towards the panoramic sea views to the east as well as views of Umhlanga Rocks to the north, with most office suites opening out onto balconies. The office floor plates have been designed with flexibility in mind. The post-tensioned slabs and efficient basement planning allow for greater spans in the column design, thereby minimising the number of columns in the floor

plate and allowing for greater flexibility in office planning. Centrally positioning the services, the circulation system and shared ablutions per level allows for a variety in office space sizing requirements, whilst future proofing the building to allow for interchangeable functionality. The design layout achieves a design efficiency ratio (rentable/ usable) of 86% which is the hallmark of FWJK developments in reducing costs whilst increasing efficiency.

Position

Ridge 8 is nestled in the epicentre of this prime, highdensity, urban mixed-use precinct, located centrally just 20km from King Shaka International Airport, a short 15km from Durban’s CBD, and within walking distance from Gateway Shopping Centre. The building can be approached from a multitude of routes, with easy access to the M4, M41 and N2 major arterial highways.

Design

The building design incorporates a variety of breakaway zones for its occupants. The rooftop level boasts an entertainment area on the 15th floor, providing the ultimate breakaway space from the office environment. The 10th floor has an entertainment and garden area, providing more of a private, breakaway space with built-in braai facilities for the building occupants. At ground level, pedestrian activity was an important design generator; the pedestrian entrance sits adjacent to the ground floor retail space, spilling out towards the pavement, attracting and engaging with pedestrians passing by and functioning as one welcoming space for tenants and pedestrians. Eliminating the basement meant no time spent in the ground, allowing for construction time to be reduced. The use of unitised glazing and off shutter concrete edges meant a reduction in the required scaffolding, saving on

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PROJECT FEATURE FWJK

time and cost with a superior quality finish as the result. The slab edges of the building have been designed and constructed to showcase the raw off-shutter concrete finish, reducing the maintenance required to the facades in the future. The second floor of the building is home to a quadruple volume tree void, breathing the surrounding ecosystem into the focal façade of the building. The focal façade incorporates large glazing elements towards the panoramic sea views. Central to the focal façade is a 14-storey unitised glazing system emphasising the slender, grandeur of the development. Ridge 8 is a modern, timeless focal point of this prime, high-density, urban mixed-use precinct with uninterrupted sea views. The architecture of Ridge 8 aims to be contemporary and progressive. Designed to read as one element, blurring the lines between parking levels and offices levels, the building engages intimately with the street edge, breathing life into the urban fabric of the precinct and giving the building form an image of stature and prominence on the boulevard. The use of perforated screens, long-spanning glazing elements and balcony lines create balance, repetition, and something unique to the precinct.

Security and energy saving

The building has an extensive CCTV camera system, which is monitored by both the onsite security guards and also by an independent offsite security company 24 hours, 7 days a week, including electronic and biometric access control into the building and throughout the lift lobbies. The building also incorporates energy efficient LED lighting throughout, including motion sensors in utility section areas such as the offices ablution cores and timers linked to the basement parking designed to reduce the parking lighting after working hours in an effort to save on consumption. The building is further equipped with a 350KVA emergency generator which runs all power and lighting within the building in the event of power cuts and more specifically, to deal with loadshedding, with which the country has come accustomed to. A large panel tank was installed on the ground floor which serves as a backup potable water reverse for the building occupants in the event of a temporary water shortage and also serves as the reserve tank for the fire sprinkler system installed.

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PROJECT FEATURE FWJK

Challenges

The development was completed not without its challenges. The national lockdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, which was imposed by the Government with only three months left before the anticipated date of practical completion. As devastating as the wide-reaching effects of the national lockdown were for all parties involved, the developers and professional team remained in constant contact with the main building contractor, WBHO Construction (Pty) Ltd, and formalised a solid strategy to return to the site when www.sabuildingreview.co.za

allowed to and ramp up production in a safe manner, following all Covid-19 health and safety protocols. The project was completed within the original allotted construction period stated within the contract, notwithstanding the extension of time granted under the provisions of the contract for the duration of the lockdown. Despite these challenges and many others that come with the implementation and building management of complex high right structures, the development was completed to a high standard of finishes and is a stunning addition to the Umhlanga Ridge skyline. ■

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ADVERTORIAL John Deere Construction

John Deere Construction breaks new ground in Africa: 18 new African countries & 26 new machines

Recognised as a leader in the agricultural market and an increasingly prominent player in the construction and forestry industries, John Deere Africa Middle East expanded its construction equipment to 18 countries across Southern and Western Africa in March 2021.

The expansion

The countries who will benefit from this expansion are South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Namibia, Zambia, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, Angola, Malawi, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Egypt, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and Sudan. “The expansion provides an opportunity for us to increase our construction footprint, as we expand our existing presence in Africa. We are now able to deliver our product portfolio under the John Deere brand for the first time to these new markets,” says Jaco Beyers, Managing Director for John Deere Africa Middle East. “As we move into these countries, we are delivering on what customers expect from the John Deere brand, from the legendary product quality and performance to the exceptional customer support, equipment and technologies that we are known for around the world.”

Southern Africa dealers

John Deere Africa Middle East said the new construction and forestry dealers for the Southern Africa region are AFGRI Equipment, Mascor, and Senwes Equipment. Tata International was also recently appointed the John Deere dealer in Zambia and will cater to the needs of both the agriculture and construction sectors. These dealer groups have made significant enhancements to their business models to serve construction and forestry customers and support the new product and service offerings.

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ADVERTORIAL John Deere Construction

New John Deere Construction products

The existing John Deere Construction lineup of 17 machines, including backhoe loaders, excavators, wheel loaders, motor graders and crawler dozers, was further expanded in September 2021. The nine new models include the 310L Backhoe loader, the 744L Wheel Loader, the 950K and 1050K Crawler Dozers, the 316GR and 318G Skid Steers and the all-new 310E and 460E Articulated Dump Trucks. • The 310L Backhoe, a general-purpose machine, runs a 63kw engine, 4-speed PowerShift Transmission, with a digging depth of 4.2m, with a loading height of 3.1m and a bucket capacity of 0.96cu.m. • The 744L Wheel Loader, an addition to the five available models already offered to the market, is designed with mining and quarry customers in mind. This model runs a 236kW engine with a 3.8 to 5.25cu.m bucket capacity range and an operating weight of 25.3 tons and delivers the performance, reliability, and comfort needed for better productivity. • The 950K and 1050K Dozer models are designed to handle mass-excavation and road-building tasks. They are equally adept at fine grading and site development and will get more done without a lot of extra effort due to a dual-path hydrostatic (HST) transmission. • The 316GR and 318G Skid Steers are general-purpose machines that might be small but offer significant results. The 318G with its vertical lift is a good fit if you looking for a bigger, more powerful machine. This machine can service a broader spectrum of applications and can accommodate more than 100 John Deere attachments. • Saving the biggest for last, the John Deere manufactured 310E and 460E Articulated Dump Trucks (ADT’s), are built with the customers’ needs in mind. John Deere can proudly say that these machines are built for the long haul.

and serviced by highly trained and certified equipment technicians who are supported by a network of regional parts distribution centres, including the nearest one in Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa. Customers also have access to the John Deere suite of technology solutions, including JDLink™ Telematics, which provides valuable fleet insights on the job site. Apart from the various benefits that JDLink™ offers, subscriptions to JDLink™ are free of charge. Further to superior technology and service, John Deere Financial is also available to customers in this sector. “We want to offer solutions on all business platforms; therefore, we’re launching a separate and specialised John Deere Financial solution on construction and forestry equipment,” says Antois van der Westhuizen, Managing Director for John Deere Financial in Africa Middle East.

Helping operators in Africa increase productivity

“We have a deep-rooted presence in Africa in the agriculture market, and we know construction customers in these markets are eager to access the John Deere brand and its many advantages,” says Griffiths Makgate, Sales Manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry, John Deere Africa Middle East. “By providing access to our high-quality equipment, outstanding dealer network and parts availability, and productivity-enhancing technology solutions, we can help operators in Africa increase productivity and boost their bottom lines daily.” For any queries or additional information, email Africa@johndeere.com, or contact +27 (0)11 437 2600.

Additional products and services

Customers also have access to product support through the world-renowned John Deere dealer network. Each piece of John Deere construction equipment is supported www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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SA Building Review - Volume 10

Articles inside

John Deere Construction: Breaks new ground

Ridge 8 – slender grandeur & modern, timeless

GIfA Architecture Awards 2021 – showcasing excellence

Using continuously galvanized steel for light steel frame building

Melrose Manor Senior Living Estate

4IR will drive the post-pandemic construction industry

Fourways Group: Your trusted HVAC partner Chasing Excellence. Fostering Innovation

Future-facing EcoTec tiles enhance new Irene Link Precinct

Discover comfort, durability & reliable protection

Shapa Soweto – innovative multi-sport facility

Taxi rank transformed into final office building in

Twinstar Precast: Quality is the custom

Striking curved glazed office building redefines

Lumiѐre luxury housing development

Barloworld equipment showroom

Water conservation and innovative solutions to a water crisis

Ucrete Flooring Systems: Seamless, monolithic

The Bank

A new alternative to fibre-cement eaves cladding

Soil and serenity

Paintsmiths passion for the environment

Successful transverse launch of Ashton Arch

Energy efficient architectural window film solutions for commercial retrofit market

Ctrack: The importance of telematics and fleet

The Fish Hoek house – a container house has stepped terraced areas

Managing readymix waste for a sustainable planet

Mixed-use developments drive trend for convenience and integration

Oban Estate

Floorworx: Encouraging more locally manufactured goods

South African Wood Preservers Association Preservative treated wood – a sustainable choice

Designing progressive schools

Hansgrohe: A partnership you can count on

Jewel City – a series of thoughtful interventions breathing new life into Johannesburg’s CBD

Sawmilling SA: Taking timber to new heights

Is a multi-storey timber building an economically viable option in SA?

House with a view

The role of zinc in building and construction

House van Pletzen: Pavilions in the landscape

PPC launches skills training for bakkie builders

Ashton International College chooses Samsung and Alliance

Harbour Arch a key contributor to Western Cape Covid-19 recovery plan

PPC: Bridging the skills gap, one brick at a time

Green School SA defined by organic shapes from the mountains & the Paarl Berg boulders

Managing construction waste is part of a greener future

Stiebel Eltron: Sustainable comfort

Safal Steel: What the built environment can do for sustainability

Hatfield Square design provides ideal social

Dynamic glass tower with soaring facade – an exciting addition to Cape Town’s skyline

Demolition vs deconstruction in a sustainable built environment

Tinderwood

Emerging contractors key to construction sector recovery

Technology is revolutionising coatings

Cover feature: Koen and Associates Architecture Creating sustainable, innovative architecture