SA Building Review - Volume 12 by Media Xpose

VOLUME 12 | 2024

AKANI PROPERTIES

GROWING PERI-URBAN TOWNS

PAYING HOMAGE to history

UNVEILING

the future of design

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A PERFECT BLEND of sustainability and aesthetic appeal

COMMERCIAL

INDUSTRIAL

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Find out more: www.allbro.com • (011) 894 8341 • new@allbro.com

EDITORIAL Ed's Note

Navigating the tapestry of architectural innovation Welcome to the 2024 edition of SA Building Review! As we stand at the cusp of a new era, our commitment to unravelling the intricate threads of architectural innovation remains unwavering. This handbook, a beacon of insight and inspiration, encapsulates the spirit of creativity that defines the architectural landscape in this dynamic age.

Elroy van Heerden-Mays editor@sabuildingreview.co.za

021 424 3625

In a world that constantly evolves, architecture serves as the tangible embodiment of human progress, reflecting the intersection of function, aesthetics, and sustainability. As we present this compendium, we invite you to embark on a journey through the diverse realms of design, construction, and urban planning that shape our living environments. The pages ahead unfold a tapestry of contemporary architectural marvels, each telling a unique story of vision, ingenuity, and purpose. In these pages, you will encounter a rich array of architectural trends. Sustainability, a cornerstone of modern design, is explored in depth, with project features illustrating how architects integrate eco-friendly practices into their creations. Furthermore, we pay homage to the architectural heritage that grounds us, recognising the importance of preserving the past while embracing the future. As editors, we have witnessed the power of architecture to shape experiences, influence emotions, and foster a sense of community. This handbook is more than a collection of projects; it is a testament to the architects, designers, and thinkers who continue to shape our world. We extend our gratitude to the contributors, whose passion and expertise breathe life into these pages. May this handbook serve as a source of inspiration for architects, students, and enthusiasts alike, sparking conversations and collaborations that propel our built environment into new dimensions.

SaBuildingReview SA_Building_Rev SABuildingReview 2

Cheers to the architects of today and the visionaries of tomorrow. May your designs transcend boundaries and leave an indelible mark on the ever-evolving canvas of architecture. Happy reading!

Elroy www.sabuildingreview.co.za

INDUSTRY MESSAGE SAIAT

Our work extends beyond the physical; it has the power to shape communities As we stand at the intersection of innovation and tradition in the architectural landscape of South Africa, I am both honoured and thrilled to address you from the helm of The South African Institute of Architectural Technologists (SAIAT). Together, we navigate the everevolving terrain of design, pushing boundaries and reshaping skylines with a creative fervour that defines our industry.

Linke Ströhmenger SAIAT PRESIDENT

Architecture is not merely about erecting structures; it is a testament to our collective imagination, a fusion of artistry and functionality that shapes the way we experience the world. In the tapestry of South African architecture, each project, and each design is a brushstroke, contributing to the vibrant portrait of our nation's progress. As stewards of the built environment, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. The challenges we face, whether they be social, economic, or environmental, demand not just our attention but our ingenuity. In the face of adversity, architectural professionals are the alchemists who turn constraints into opportunities, transforming obstacles into stepping stones toward a better, more sustainable future. Let us embrace a mindset of perpetual curiosity, where each project becomes a voyage of discovery. The fusion of tradition and cuttingedge technology should not be seen as a collision, but rather a dance – a tango between the timeless principles that ground us and the dynamic innovations that propel us forward. In the spirit of collaboration, let us build bridges not just with bricks and mortar, but with ideas and inspiration. Our collective strength lies in the diversity of our perspectives and the richness of our experiences. By fostering an inclusive environment, we create spaces that resonate with the stories and aspirations of the people we serve. Remember, our work extends beyond the physical; it has the power to shape communities, instil pride, and foster a sense of belonging. Let us be architectural professionals not just of structures, but of change and progress. Each plan is a manifesto, an ode to the potential inherent in every space to inspire, uplift, and connect. In the words of Winston Churchill, "We shape our buildings, and afterward, our buildings shape us." So, let us shape a South Africa that reflects the best of our creativity, resilience, and unity. Together, as architectural professionals, let us embark on a journey of innovation, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of our beautiful nation. Wishing you a rock-solid 2024 with ground-breaking projects, sturdy partnerships, and towering success! With enthusiasm and gratitude,

www.saiat.org.za 4

Linke Strohmenger www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Contents EDITORIAL

4 Industry message: SAIAT 12 Cover feature: Akani Properties – Growing the peri-urban towns of South Africa 67 Breaking down the myths about using drywall in your home 96 Rethinking road infrastructure for a more sustainable future 112 The health and safety misconceptions impeding construction growth 152 Zinc plays critical role in protecting and futureproofing wastewater treatment plants

PROJECTS 18 Sandton Residence 22 Paying homage to history 28 Hotel Sky – Transforming Cape Town's City Bowl with Saint-Gobain's Innovative Drywall Solutions 34 Loapi Tented Camp, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve 40 Transforming an outdated garden into a contemporary outdoor space 46 Tropical & modern in Zimbali Coastal Forest Estate 52 Water and gardens create an inviting & contemporary space 58 The Tin Shack 70 House Robinson invests in timeless Italtile style 76 Mooikloof Heights 80 A serene oasis designed to offer tranquillity and luxurious comfort 86 KD Studios at King David School, Linksfield 92 Award-winning restoration breathing new life into N’Djamena Cathedral 100 Boardwalk Mall precinct brings a new experience to Gqeberha 106 Award-winning Merino Mall – a fitting new landmark in Mpumalanga www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Helping Build Southern Africa

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Contents 118 Peppertree Restaurant – where cuisine meets artistry 124 Hasso Plattner School of Design Thinking 130 A perfect blend of sustainability and aesthetic appeal 146 Trend Group flourishes in diverse and growing Cape Town market

Q&A 62 Timber revolution 138 Unveiling the future of design: architects embrace cutting-edge software and technologies for visualization 142 Charting a sustainable path: The future of eco-building in South Africa

ADVERTORIAL 32 SLAB BOX™ – a perfect fit! 38 Köster TPO Premium – 40 years’ proven durability 44 RostGuard™ 74 10 Years of success founded on diversity & uncompromising quality engineering 78 Greater demand for geosynthetic products 84 Clay bricks in modern-day construction 98 PPC new blending plant ensures security of cement supply 104 Quality is our custom 116 SAQCC Gas: Empowering Gas Compliance Through Digital Innovation 136 Tailor-made flooring solutions for unique environmental requirements 156 Let’s break the ice! The power of cold plunging with the Alliance domestic pool heat pump 160 Directory 174 Advertising Index

142 www.sabuildingreview.co.za

WITH YOUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY, IT’S A QUALITY BUILD FROM START TO FINISH.

TOGETHER, WE MAKE IT POSSIBLE.

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Creating Concrete Possibilities

Credits EDITOR & PUBLISHER Elroy van Heerden-Mays editor@sabuildingreview.co.za HEAD OF EDITORIAL Tashne Singh editorial@mediaxpose.co.za SUB EDITOR Tessa O’Hara tessa.ohara@gmail.com CONTENT MANAGER Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za CONTRIBUTORS Roy Southey John Rammutla Roelof van den Berg Thabelo Netshivhungululu Marloes Reinink Simon Norton Asaad Manjoo DESIGN & LAYOUT Anja Bramley Shaun van Heerden-Mays PROJECT MANAGER Jacqueline-Ann Marsh jacqui@sabuildingreview.co.za ADVERTISING SALES Rene van Heerden rene@mediaxpose.co.za Lindie van den Abeele lindie@mediaxpose.co.za DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA Kyla van Heerden Tia Arendse Temo Mpodi ADMIN ASSISTANT Ketsia Makola ketsia@mediaxpose.co.za DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS Shihaam Gyer distribution@mediaxpose.co.za MEDIA PARTNERSHIPS Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Shaun van Heerden-Mays accounts@mediaxpose.co.za WEBSITE DEVELOPER/ADMINISTRATOR Justin McGregor justin@mediaxpose.co.za RECEPTIONIST Daniëla Daniels receptionist@mediaxpose.co.za COVER ART: Akani Properties RETAIL DISTRIBUTION: On The Dot AIRPORT DISTRIBUTION: Media Support

Van Heerden Mays Publications CC t/a Media Xpose Company Reg No: 2010/128859/23 6 Carlton Crescent, Parklands, 7441 Tel: 021 424 3625

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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.

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COVER FEATURE Akani Properties

AKANI PROPERTIES –

Growing the peri-urban towns of South Africa Akani Properties is not just another property development and management company, its unique focus on the peri-urban towns of South Africa makes a compelling investment proposition to long-term investors and retailers alike, particularly in an economy that is struggling to grow and create jobs.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

COVER FEATURE Akani Properties

Akani Properties, founded in 2005, is a 100% blackowned property investment, development, and management company with more than R4 billion in total assets under management. The company specialises in investing, developing, and managing commercial, retail, and hospitality properties with a strong focus on the peri-urban towns such as Zeerust, North West; Middelburg, Mpumalanga; and others – believing strongly that small towns represent the next growth phase for the South African economy that has been struggling to grow since the 2008 financial crisis.

Our growing portfolio comprises more than 16 properties located in Gauteng, Limpopo, Free State, North West, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, with plans to expand to other regions of South Africa and the rest of the African continent. These properties include the luxurious Raddison Hotel and Convention Centre, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo, located in the city of Ekurhuleni, Nicolway Shopping Complex in Bryanston, Panorama Plaza in Kroonstad, Autumn Leaf Shopping Mall in Zeerust, Destiny Country Lodge in Mpumalanga, Parkview Shopping Centre in Pretoria, MEPF Shopping Centre in Klerksdorp, Bauhinia Centre in Limpopo, Akani House of Retirement Funds in Kempton Park, just to name a few.

Autumn Leaf Shopping Mall development As part of its peri-urban investment strategy, Akani recently unveiled Autumn Leaf Shopping Mall in the Ramotshere Moiloa local municipality, in the transit town of Zeerust, North West Province. The 18 000m2 Autumn Leaf Mall, which opened its doors to the shoppers on 26 October 2023, has major retail tenants such as Checkers, Mr Price, Truworths, PEP, Woolworths, Clicks and major banks such as Capitec Bank and others. The mall is within a short travelling distance for the locals who had to travel to either Rustenburg or Mafikeng to access premium brands. This development, which includes a taxi rank and a fuel station, by Akani Properties in conjunction with the Municipal Employees Pension Fund, is a first phase of a mixed-use property development that will include a hotel and a private hospital. The objective is to transform Zeerust into a bustling transit town and economic node on the border between South Africa and Botswana – creating sustainable jobs in the process. The mall development procured materials from local suppliers and employed local SMMEs and local labour. The total procurement spend was about R70 million on civils contractors, a local labour spends running into millions of rands and close to 500 jobs were created during the duration of the project.

Radisson Hotel and Conference Centre, Middelburg

Akani is in the process of completing construction of a R695 million hotel and conference facility in Middelburg, a growing mining and farming town in the Steve Tshwete local municipality, Mpumalanga Province. The 150-room hotel and 1 000-seater capacity conference centre will have all the facilities of a discerning business and leisure tourist attraction, expected from a modern high-end development. Upon completion, it is estimated that a minimum of 200 full time jobs will be created with the majority of www.sabuildingreview.co.za

COVER FEATURE Akani Properties

employment opportunities filled by the residents of Middelburg. Akani’s investment strategy focusses on developing hospitality and retail property assets in the secondary and peri-urban towns by creating sustainable shareholder returns, empower local communities, and contribute to job creation. The hotel will boast standard rooms to suites, conference facility, spa, gym facilities, fully licensed restaurant, and bar, among other features.

Radisson Hotel and International Convention Centre, OR Tambo

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Akani successfully launched a R950 million O.R. Tambo Radisson Hotel and Conference precinct in Kempton Park in October 2020, located in the City of Ekurhuleni, a significant boost to South Africa’s tourism economy. The hotel debuted Radisson Hotel Group’s fourth brand, the upscale Radisson, in South Africa and is one of the key projects and catalysts towards the realisation of the City of Ekurhuleni’s 30-year Aerotropolis masterplan, seeking to transform the city into a global logistical hub – using the O.R. Tambo International Airport as the springboard. Of the total capital investment, R545 million was spent on the development of the 248-room hotel boasting state-of-the-art facilities, suited for discerning leisure, meetings, incentives, conference and exhibition as well as business guests.

Pension Fund respectively and operated by Radisson Hotel Group, one of the world's largest hotel groups. It’s at this opulent hotel that you will find the state-ofthe-art, world-class restaurant, Level Seven Restaurant, perched at the top of Radisson Hotel. The restaurant, which optimizes quintessential Johannesburg glamour, offers fine dining and the best high-level experience for all customers. Besides serving great food, customers are spoiled with good music and performances.

The Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, O.R Tambo, is ideally located in Bredell, an area that is primed for urban renewal and just a 10-minute drive from Africa’s biggest and busiest O.R. Tambo International Airport.

“This investment in the City of Ekurhuleni is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the future of the city as the next frontier of investment and development and our contribution to the Aerotropolis vision of the City that centres development around OR Tambo International Airport,” said Zamani Letjane, Chairman of Akani Properties.

Conceptualised and developed by Akani Properties, the hotel and convention centre are owned 20% and 80% by both Akani Properties and the Municipal Employees

“As investors, we invest for the long term and greater good of society while generating sustainable returns for our clients.”

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

COVER FEATURE Akani Properties

Nicolway Shopping Mall, Bryanston, Johannesburg

In January 2022, Akani announced the R1.1 billion acquisition of the Nicolway Shopping Centre in Bryanston, a leading shopping centre in the north of Johannesburg, on behalf of its client, the Municipal Employees Pension Fund (MEPF). The transaction includes the acquisition of all properties in the Nicolway Precinct: the Nicolway Bryanston Shopping Centre, Decathlon retail component as well as the office building known as Nicolway West offices. The acquisition includes all rights in the leases of all properties and all other assets necessary for the carrying out of the business enterprise. “The acquisition of Nicolway demonstrates our optimistic view on the recovery of the SA economy from the effects of the Covid pandemic. We are also seeing a shift from large shopping malls to small convenient shopping centres – a growing trend that presents growth opportunities for our property portfolio,” said Letjane. “The Nicolway acquisition will greatly improve our client’s balance sheet and income stream as the transaction is underpinned by quality tenants with longdated leases,” he added. The centre is 75% anchored by national tenants such as Woolworths, Food Lovers Market, Dischem, Checkers, and more. The Decathlon Sport Hub concept, a partnership between South African wellness brands and sporting goods designer, Decathlon, brings fitness and wellness enthusiasts under one roof, is one of the only concept stores in SA located in a three-story building at the Nicol Way Shopping Centre.

area surrounded by the Bryanston commercial node. The office node is showing strong growth and is likely to expand over the next 10 years. Large volumes of traffic use the Winnie Mandela off-ramp from the N1 as their access into and out of Sandton, Africa’s largest financial services hub.

Proven track record of successfully acquiring, developing, and managing properties

Akani’s expertise in property management and investment strategies has allowed them to thrive in the competitive real estate market. Additionally, their commitment to community empowerment and job creation sets them apart as a socially responsible company. The growing property portfolio extends across the entirety of South Africa, providing quality property assets to retail tenants in the country's growing economic hubs. The ultimate aim is to become one of Africa’s leading commercial property company. To achieve this goal, Akani strives to continually expand their portfolio of properties and enhance their services to meet the growing demands of both local and international clients. They are committed to providing top-notch facilities and exceptional customer service, ensuring that their properties remain sought-after destinations for business and leisure travellers alike. With a proven track record of successfully acquiring, developing, and managing properties across various sectors, Akani Properties is dedicated to maximising returns for their investors while providing exceptional service to tenants and clients. ■

Join us on our virtual tours of our other properties

The shopping centre is well located in terms of access and visibility on the Winnie Mandela Road in the heart of Bryanston and it’s strategically located in a high LSM

P R O P E R T I E S

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T +27 (0)11 578 5333 E info@akaniproperties.co.za W www.akaniproperties.co.za Akani Properties

24/11/2021 17:08:52

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BETTER TOGETHER

PROJECT Nico van der Meulen Architects

Sandton Residence Nestle into luxury escapes with the architecture and interior design of the exclusive Sandton Residence.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Nico van der Meulen Architects

This three-story architectural marvel in Johannesburg East redefines sophistication with its innovative design; stacked and intersecting perforated 'boxes' elegantly perched on monolithic concrete-clad walls. The exterior, defined by dark grey aluminium screens and concrete panels, creates a cohesive and monolithic aesthetic. The interior is both functional and luxurious, featuring seamlessly connected open plan living, which extends to the lanai and the pool area with a firepit, offering a captivating view to the east. The interior design introduces warmth and natural tones, balancing the heavy exterior with walnut timber flooring, Porcelanosa's Xtone Liem Grey tiles, and metallic accents. The residence is equipped with advanced technology, including a central hydronic air-conditioning and underfloor heating system, full automation for lighting, system operations, and access. Loadshedding concerns are addressed with PV panels, inverters, battery backup, and a generator. M Square Lifestyle Necessities played a pivotal role in this project, supplying and installing the kitchen, scullery, pantry, and main bedroom wardrobes from Doca (Spain) and Porro (Italy). Gaggenau appliances enhance the main kitchen. The clients' desire for a unique and tailored living space, catering to immediate and extended family needs, is exemplified in this thoughtfully crafted home, which serves as a destination for generations to come. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Nico van der Meulen Architects

Nico van der Meulen Architects designing ultra luxury dream homes

The combination of all three companies’ expertise inspires the architecture of living spaces. M Square Lifestyle Design is an interior design practice creating bold design solutions while M Square Lifestyle Necessities is an upmarket furniture and décor service with a selection of the finest imported furniture from design studios around the world.

Their carefully considered approach to design and commitment to meeting the requirements of individual clients has led to the practice gaining a reputation for creating exclusive luxurious designs from the ground up or transforming existing residences into inventive and extraordinary homes.

In collaboration with: Interior Design: M Square Lifestyle Design

M Square’s designs vision is centred around their client’s needs. As all their projects are bespoke, they continuously strive for excellence and staying ahead of the curve in regard to design trends and material specifications. M Square pride themselves in respecting the client’s vision and budget and always consider sustainable solutions. M Square Lifestyle Design’s capabilities stretch beyond decoration and interior design, their team of professional architects work in close relation with Nico van der Meulen Architects, offering a turn key design solution.

Furniture and décor: M Square Lifestyle Necessities

The talented and professional team has been carefully selected and is highly qualified, accomplished and competent at working on prestigious projects. Nico van der Meulen’s prestigious portfolio of high-end residential projects has enabled M square Lifestyle design to recently expand their portfolio into the hospitality industry. Having gained first-hand experience in the luxury residential market, M Square has dealt with Africa’s rich and famous. The team’s knowledge of luxury living surpass many, which gives them the edge when it comes to designing hotels and luxury lodges.

Flooring: Teracoat Seamless Flooring

Kitchen: @doca_muebles Built in cupboards: @porroofficial Home automation: BNC Technology Ceilings: Sky Gardens Lighting: Streamlight Aluminium and glass: @qonefenestration Showers and glass: @radiantglassconcepts Screens and shutters: @acscreenssa Lifts: Hands on Lifts Landscaping: @injabulolandscapes Engineers: Struxit Projects Electrical Engineers: Inframid Project Management and Quantity Surveyors: @ agora_africa Roof, interior door frames & blindbox profiles: PE Contractors Outdoor and additional furniture: @illusso_za Concrete: @elemento_concrete_concepts Exterior screens: @tiltscreens Shopfitting: @goodwoodboards

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Salt Architects

Paying homage to history

The SAAO (South African Astronomical Observatory) in Cape Town gained National Heritage status in 2018, prompting a renewed focus on preserving its rich cultural, natural, and built landscape. Affecting the refurbishment of an existing heritageworthy pump station building into a new Visitor Centre for the SAAO, SALT architects uncovers and showcases the site's layered meanings Robyn Walker & JD van der Walt

Site info

Project brief

The existing building on the site earmarked for renovation, was a Victorian pump house, originally used for pumping water from the weir in the Liesbeeck River for irrigation purposes. Over time, it has undergone various renovations and transformations, serving as a workshop, an educational centre, and in part most recently, as an auditorium.

The brief also required general maintenance of the building, which along with the renovation, needed to be executed within a limited budget.

Located at the confluence of the Liesbeeck and Black Rivers, the site holds historical significance as a boundary between the VOC's Free Burghers and the Khoi pastoralists during the 17th Century.

The client’s brief requested proposals for transforming the existing Victorian era pump house into a visitor centre for the SAAO. Programmatic requirements included the provision of sufficient ablution facilities, a reception area, varying exhibitions spaces, and a dedicated room for housing an observation instrument known as a heliostat.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Salt Architects

Uncovering and showcasing the site's layered meanings The building, categorized as a grade 3C heritage building was carefully analysed in the first stages of the process, informing design decisions within the following main principles:

1. Heritage implications: The oldest and more significant portions of the building were approached in a delicate manner, yet with enough targeted intervention to ensure the long-term use of the building. A clear example of this can be seen in the roofscape where internal gutters were reduced to necessity, thereby minimizing possible leakage points and water damage to the building.

Exterior before

2. Functional and daily use as a form of preservation: The successful adaptive re-use of this building was to ensure its use on a daily basis. Hereby allowing maintenance items to be addressed sooner in future. 3. New additions clearly articulated from the old: Where new items were added, we wanted to articulate them in a contemporary manner; being honest to the current building methods and adding to the philosophy of documenting the layers of history. In this case, historical re-representation was avoided, yet design principles such as scale and proportion informed by the existing were applied to make the new additions read as a coherent part of the whole. 4. Limited demolition: Demolition was targeted at non-original portions of the building, to enhance spatial experience, emphasize the original structure and establish a more open plan for programmatic requirements. The former demolished items are hinted at and can be “read” in the building with expressions of the old positions of walls in the floor and wall detailing. 5. Visibility from pedestrian approach: The budget was managed in relation to the visibility of areas from the pedestrian approach. Here for instance, the room housing the heliostat on the eastern flank of the building is given more attention than the later addition largely hidden from view in the northwestern corner. 6. Budgetary constraints: Considering the budgetary constraints of the project, the most prominent areas, and areas difficult to change in future were addressed first and foremost. 7. Landscaping: Landscaping is focused on the main access route, establishing a clear axis with what was the original main entrance of the building. This entrance is re-instated as the main entry point, thereby giving preference of the old over the new. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Salt Architects

Paying homage to the former workings of the building The approach to the building is established along a newly landscaped axis that guides visitors directly to the original front door of the Victorian era building. Upon entering the space, one experiences the volume and intricacy of the main pitched roof with restored exposed rafters. The reception area with a bespoke desk and detailed timber ceiling welcomes visitors into the experience. Per introduction to the exhibition space, the original pump equipment is exhibited in the corner, paying homage to the former workings of the building.

Product Selection • Spruce beams: Universal plywood (www.universalply.com) • Custom Steel: window reveals, new spouts, gutter profile (combination of replicating old profile and new detail). Boshard & benchmark Construction Joint Venture • Joinery: Homecor Joiners • Aluminium perforated ceiling: collaboration between client, ORMS (printing) and Picture Hanging Pros (installer)

A bespoke perforated aluminium ceiling animates the interior space above one’s head, igniting visitor’s intrigue in the wonders of the universe. This captivating aluminium piece faithfully recreated the night sky, adorned with indigenous Kora (!Ora) constellations inspired by the works of Bleek and Lloyd from 1874. Visitors move through the exhibition space to a dark room that houses a heliostat on a new concrete roof. This observation instrument tracks the sun's movement and reflects its rays onto an interactive central table. The eastern wing acts as another space to host rotating exhibits.

Exhibition room with perforated alluminium celling and historic pump display

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Salt Architects

Project Team SALT Architects - Architects AVCON Structural Engineers – Structural Engineers Boshard Construction & Benchmark Builders Joint Venture - Building Contractor

Site Info Project size: 168m2 Project Budget: R2 186 875 Timeline: June 2019 - December 2021 Location: South African Astronomical Observatory, Observatory, Cape Town

Public toilet

An immersive experience

Contemporary interventions to the exterior approach of the building include three new windows for natural light. Two of these were inserted where a garage door used to be. These windows are similar in proportion to the original openings in the building, but are expressed in a contemporary manner with deep, but thin steel frames that form internal seating in the waiting area.

SALT Architects is a design studio based in Cape Town, pursuing imagination, humility and commitment as core values, toward innovating meaningful possibilities. We are committed to designing memorable buildings delivered through effective project management. Insta @saltarchitects W www.saltarchitects.co.za

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A newly introduced Laterite pathway guides visitors from the visitor’s centre to the rest of the site. A restored derelict bathroom block along the path celebrates its status as a formed ruin. The bathroom block was renovated by adding of a brick detail and new roof. By restoring the pumphouse and incorporating new elements, the project aims to contribute to the understanding of the site's historical, cultural, and natural heritage. The SAAO's visitor's centre offers an immersive experience, inviting visitors to explore its diverse meanings and engage with its captivating past. ■

PROJECT Saint Gobain

Hotel Sky – Transforming Cape Town's City Bowl with Saint-Gobain's Innovative Drywall Solutions

Nestled in one of the most coveted a reas of Cape Town , this hotel's str ategic location w as a beacon of promise.

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PROJECT Saint Gobain

Overlooking the City Bowl, the site presented an opportunity for a landmark transformation. Converting a commercial structure into a hospitality haven required not only vision but also the right construction solutions. Saint-Gobain's lightweight drywall solutions emerged as the beacon that guided this project to its successful completion. One of the standout advantages of this transformation was the exceptional views it offered to guests. The City Bowl sprawled below, revealing Cape Town's charm in all its glory. Saint-Gobain's drywall systems ensured that guests could savour these panoramic views in a setting designed for comfort, safety, and luxury.

Project challenges The challenges encountered during this transformation were formidable, but the project team was determined to overcome them.

Foundation cost savings One of the initial hurdles was the need for durable and lightweight construction materials to save on foundation slab reinforcement costs. Traditional construction

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materials can be weighty, necessitating robust foundations. In contrast, Saint-Gobain's drywall and ceiling system solutions offered a path to overcome this challenge. The decision to use these lightweight solutions not only alleviated the burden on the foundation but also streamlined the entire construction process. Moisture resistance Hotels, by nature, incorporate wet areas such as bathrooms. These spaces demanded construction materials with inherent moisture resistance, especially in Cape Town's humid climate. Here, Saint-Gobain's drywall solutions proved indispensable, offering the requisite moisture resistance that ensured the long-term structural integrity and aesthetics of the hotel's interiors. Fire safety compliance Safety is paramount in the hospitality industry. The South African National Standard (SANS) 10400-Part T Fire Legislation mandates a 1-hour fire rating between rooms for guest safety. Meeting this stringent requirement demanded non-combustible materials. Saint-Gobain's Gyproc and Isover systems were not only non-combustible but had been rigorously tested and approved to meet SANS 10177-Part 5 standards, ensuring the highest level of safety for guests and the hotel's management.

PROJECT Saint Gobain

Project Info Building size: 540 rooms, 29 storeys Developer: Zenprop & Richland Properties Architect: Noero Architects (initial design), Vivid Architects (implementation) Main contractor: WBHO Drywall contractor: Dracon, Ceilwall & Scheltema, Esomoene Ceilings & Partitions Quantity Surveyor: MLC Quantity Surveyors Project manager: Planning Connection Project Management cc

Project solutions

Saint-Gobain's drywall solutions were critical for the project's success. Here's a closer look at the key solutions and products that played a pivotal role: Acoustic Comfort Ceilings and Walls: In the vibrant heart of Cape Town, minimizing unwanted external and inter-room sounds was paramount for guest comfort. SaintGobain's drywall systems featured acoustic comfort ceilings and walls, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere within the hotel. Thermal Comfort Ceilings and Walls: Maintaining an energy-efficient indoor temperature was essential for guest comfort and operational efficiency. SaintGobain's thermal comfort ceilings and walls facilitated precise temperature control, enhancing the comfort of the hotel's guests while optimizing energy consumption. Lightweight solutions: The project team recognized the importance of minimizing waste management and foundation costs for the building. Saint-Gobain's drywall solutions proved to be not only lightweight but also highly efficient, resulting in considerable cost savings and a more expedited construction process. Dry Build solutions: Cape Town's water resources are precious, and every effort to conserve water is crucial. By employing dry build solutions, Saint-Gobain's approach not only minimized water consumption during construction but also aligned with sustainable practices and local resource management initiatives.

Products used

The walls were constructed using RhinoBoard® FireStop® dB plasterboard and RhinoBoard® MoistureResistant plasterboard, supported by a Gypframe® UltraSTEEL® stud and track system. This combination not only met fire safety and moisture resistance requirements but also contributed to the hotel's overall aesthetic appeal.

The drywall system received its finishing touch with the application of the luxurious RhinoLite® CreteStone® skimmed plaster finish. This resulted in smooth and visually appealing walls that enhanced the ambiance of the hotel. To provide guests with a comfortable and quiet stay, Cavitybatt™ glasswool acoustic and thermal insulation was installed within the drywall system. This insulation not only helped regulate temperature but also added an extra layer of acoustic protection, ensuring that guests enjoyed a peaceful environment.

Role of construction materials and solutions cannot be overstated

In the realm of hospitality, where every guest's experience is paramount, the role of construction materials and solutions cannot be overstated. SaintGobain takes immense pride in its contribution towards realizing the grand vision of Hotel Sky, where the goal is to ensure that every guest and visitor embarks on an unforgettable and extraordinary journey. One of the cornerstones of this transformation was the satisfaction of the implementation architects. Saint-Gobain's commitment to excellence in system and service delivery on-site left the architects highly impressed. This level of satisfaction speaks volumes about the effectiveness and reliability of Saint-Gobain's solutions in translating architectural visions into reality. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Saint Gobain

Furthermore, the project embraced the principles of Lightweight and Sustainable Construction, aligning with the growing emphasis on eco-conscious building practices. Saint-Gobain's dedication to sustainability dovetailed seamlessly with the project's commitment to environmental responsibility.

4. Safety: Last but certainly not least, Saint-Gobain's solutions met and exceeded the stringent fire legislation requirements, underscoring the commitment to guest safety. In a world where safety is paramount, this achievement provides guests with peace of mind, knowing that their well-being is a top priority.

Critical aspects

Elevating the guest experience to unparalleled heights

In its quest to enhance the experience of guests and employees at Hotel Sky, Saint-Gobain addressed several critical aspects: 1. Acoustic efficiency: Saint-Gobain's expertise in creating optimal acoustic environments was brought to bear through a best-practice dry walling system. With a global reputation for delivering solutions that align perfectly with architects' specifications, Saint-Gobain ensured that every space within the hotel resonates with tranquillity and comfort. 2. Visual appeal: Recognizing the role of aesthetics in captivating guests, Saint-Gobain's contribution to the hotel's mission of providing beautiful decor and ultimate guest comfort was invaluable. The Gyproc Gyptone™ BIG Line 6 ceiling system, specified for the foyer area, welcomes guests with an element of visual splendour, setting the tone for an enchanting stay. 3. Climate control & environment: Hotel Sky's commitment to providing impeccable indoor air quality was supported by Saint-Gobain's choice of moisture performance boards for ceilings and bathroom walls. These boards not only ensure a mould-free environment but also contribute to a climate-controlled ambiance, where guests can breathe easy.

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Saint-Gobain's collaboration with Hotel Sky has been instrumental in elevating the guest experience to unparalleled heights. By addressing critical aspects such as acoustics, aesthetics, environmental responsibility, and safety, Saint-Gobain has not only met but exceeded the expectations of this visionary project. Hotel Sky stands as a testament to the synergy between innovative construction solutions and the pursuit of extraordinary guest experiences, and Saint-Gobain takes pride in having played a vital role in this inspiring journey As Cape Town continues to evolve as a vibrant destination for both business and leisure travellers, this project stands as a testament to how innovative construction materials can breathe new life into existing spaces, creating modern, functional, and inviting environments. Saint-Gobain's unwavering commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions in the construction industry has left an indelible mark on Cape Town's skyline, ensuring that guests who visit the hotel in the City Bowl experience nothing less than excellence in every aspect of their stay. ■

ADVERTORIAL ALLBRO

SLAB BOX™ –

a perfect fit! Compact, lightweight, strong, and designed to save on installation costs.

Despite their many shortcomings, galvanised steel downlight boxes have remained the industry standard since their inception. The poor quality knockouts for conduit can lead to concrete seeping into the box, the alignment process is costly for contractors, and thick plastering is required for an even finish. Installers often pack wet concrete bags into the boxes to prevent concrete seepage and to stop them from crumpling when the slab is poured. Other solutions involve binding strapping over the box, which is then nailed to the shutter board to ensure a flush finish once the concrete is poured, and the slab is set. Installers tend to spend more time adjusting the box to suit their needs (and the site) than they do installing them.

The Slab Box™ is Allbro’s answer to these challenges.

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ADVERTORIAL ALLBRO

The Slab Box™ is compact, lightweight, and strong. Designed to save on installation costs, the lid fits tightly to the box, ensuring a tight seal. The absence of pre-defined knockout holes lessens the chance of concrete seepage at weak entry points: contractors have complete flexibility on where they choose to drill entry points. Once fitted with conduit, these holes are sealed, and the contents are safe.

Shutter mounting system

Perfect performance

The Slab Box™ uses a unique shutter mounting system to ensure that the boxes don’t move once the slab is poured. The crosshairs moulded into the mount make it easy to mark its placement and ensure that it’s lined up correctly. The mounting plate is secured to the shutter board and the Slab Box™ body is clipped onto the mounting plate. Once conduit is installed, the lid is fitted to the Slab Box™ and then tied to the rebar using wire. This measure is what ensures perfect alignment in Slab Box™ installations: when the concrete is poured, the boxes don’t move at all. Once the slab has cured, the correct light diameter can be cut out of the mounting plate using the guides moulded into it. The Slab Box™ mount fits three downlight diameters: 65mm, 75mm and 85mm.

Save 70% on plastering

Traditional metal boxes incorporate a mesh grid, which is welded to the bottom surface of the box to ensure adhesion of the plaster. The Slab Box™ mounting plate eliminates the need to plaster directly onto the box. The offset edge of the enclosure leaves it recessed into the concrete once it sets. This saves installers 70% on concrete plastering (screeding) typically needed on the ceiling.

The enclosure is made from glass reinforced polyester (GRP), which can withstand temperatures ranging from -50˚C up to 200˚C, a necessary feature when dealing with the temperature fluctuations that come with housing a variety of LED lamps. This material is impervious to rust, ensuring a long lifespan. Richard de Marcy Pugin was an early adopter of Slab Box™. “If you didn’t stuff those galvanised boxes with paper, the concrete would crush them. I’ve had that happen before. I’ve done an installation with 4500 of these Slab boxes and haven’t had one failure,” says de Marcy Pugin. He adds that his company, Powerzone Electrical, has been using Slab Box™ since it hit the market. “You don’t have to go back and mount the lid underneath and plaster over it. Once you strip the deck, your lights are all in place. This box is perfect for off-shutter decks as well.” Impressed with the strength of the Slab Box™ and the consistency in its performance, de Marcy Pugin doesn't use anything else. He maintains that the Slab Box™ is the best downlight enclosure he’s used. “I’ll never go back,” he says.

Allbro is a South African manufacturer with more than 500 employees and 20 000m2 of production facility. Established in 1978, Allbro operates in the local and international markets. Allbro has become a leading supplier of non-metallic enclosures to the industrial, commercial, and residential contracting trades. Over the last five years, Allbro has invested heavily in modern non-metallic enclosure systems for international markets. Local manufacture to international standards means that products are suited to the rigours of an extremely tough local environment. This has been on a level unprecedented in South African history. T +27 (0)11 894 8341 | E new@allbro.com | W www.allbro.com

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PROJECT Rider Levett Bucknall

Loapi Tented Camp, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) was appointed by Tswalu Private Game Reserve, along with a fantastic professional team, for the construction of their new luxury tented safari camp, Loapi in South Africa’s Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, a privately owned game reserve in the Northern Cape.

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PROJECT Rider Levett Bucknall

Project Team The Oppenheimer family for their investment and belief in Tswalu Peta Bank of Designbank, overall project manager and Tswalu client representative Gapp Architects and urban designers Kobus Duvenhage Builders Gregory Mellor Design, interior designers RLB Quantity Surveyors DEVS SiVEST, engineers (structural, mechanical and HVAC) QDP, electrical engineers Dawid Klopper, landscaping The Tswalu team for their passion and commitment in turning Loapi into a reality Photography by Andrew Morgan

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PROJECT Rider Levett Bucknall

Having worked on a previous project at Tswalu, RLB was well-versed in the complexities and challenges of working in this remote and environmentally sensitive location. We were confident that we could once again provide reliable, full quantity surveying services to our client, thereby enabling them to bring imagination to life and establish a world-class luxury lodge.

A sense of solitude and seclusion

Designed to exacting environmental standards by Cape Town architectural firm GAPP Architects, Loapi offers a true wilderness experience in the largest privately protected area in South Africa. The camp is unique in that guests don't share any communal spaces. Instead, there are six private tented safari homes (four onebedroom homes, and two two-bedroom homes), which span over 300m2 and over 400m2, respectively. These micro-camps are at least 50 metres apart, providing a sense of solitude and seclusion.

design connects guests with the sights and sounds of nature, offering a genuine wilderness experience while ensuring exceptional comfort and insulation from the Kalahari’s extreme temperatures. Deep, shaded decks, plunge pools, and fire pits provide opportunities for relaxation and reflection, all while adhering to a philosophy of minimal disruption to the environment. The expansive overhangs from the sophisticated tented design, offer more than just shade from the Kalahari sun; they also play a pivotal role in lowering energy consumption.

Expertly crafted from glass, steel, and timber, the modular, contemporary pavilions offer guests panoramic views of the Kalahari’s arid savannah. Situated away from the main living and dining areas, the bedrooms are cocoonlike sanctuaries capped with canvas, providing an unmistakable luxury safari ambiance. This

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Ecological impact kept to a minimum

Through the use of solar power and advanced water recycling technology, the camp operates with exceptional efficiency while keeping its ecological impact to a minimum. Energy-efficient air conditioning and solar-powered pool pumps further contribute to its sustainable practices, setting a noteworthy example of green construction that is both inspiring and achievable. The modular design, combining canvas, steel and glass, was largely manufactured off site to minimize the environmental impact and protect the iconic shepherd's trees. "The main design intent was that, should it ever be required, it would be possible to take the built structure apart and cart it away, leaving the environment exactly as it was found," said Sally Tsiliyiannis, of GAPP Architects. The camp's dedication to sustainability aligns with Tswalu's mission to safeguard biodiversity and wildlife habitat while showcasing the region's natural beauty. As sustainability becomes a bigger focus in the construction industry, RLB was the perfect partner for this project. As a global business, we are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 and to partnering on projects that contribute to environmental and social value. With global knowledge and expertise, we aim to lead the way in providing a sustainable, competitive advantage to our clients, and are committed to delivering high quality outcomes through advice focused on the cost, quality and sustainability of the built environment. ■ RLB is a global independent construction, property and management consultancy with registered offices in South Africa, Kenya, DRC and Botswana, and formalised partnerships in Namibia, Angola and Nigeria. Furthermore, RLB is active in at least 15 countries in Africa, and in South Africa is a proud Level 1 B-BBEE contributor.

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ADVERTORIAL Köster

Köster TPO Premium – 40 years’ proven durability Köster TPO is a highly specialized and sustainable, flat- and sloped roof waterproofing membrane, with over 40 years’ proven durability. Looking at the evolution and development of roof waterproofing membranes, TPO is the clear victor. The 30s saw asphalt as a cheap solution, but the multilayer, liquid with mesh installation process delivered poor resistance to both low and high temperatures. EPDM was developed in the early 60s with inherently flexible single sheet application and a wide range of temperature resistance. It is mechanically attached with tape or liquid adhesive and prone to tearing, seam failure, and is vulnerable to punctures and shrinkage. PVC was introduced in the late 60s. Welded seams improved on EPDM’s mechanically adhered seams and PVC proved a highly reflective, lightweight system with fast installation. Yet PVC is inherently rigid and needs the addition of plasticizers that have poor resistance to microorganisms and are highly toxic to humans and the environment. During the early 70s modified bitumen was (re) introduced, with enhanced flexibility and certain properties. Modified bitumen remained, like asphalt, with limited low and high temperature resistances and its multi-layer system adds significant weight to the building structure. Modified bitumen application is also dangerous if exposed to flames.

TPO’s hot-air seam welding assures a seam strength four times that of EPDM. And most importantly, TPO is eco- and human friendly, with none of PVC’s volatile plasticizers added, free of environmental harmful compounds and with FFL Green Roofs certification. Köster TPO is the trusted waterproofing membrane, with performance independent of old insulation or waterproofing systems and is not vulnerable to previously applied bitumen. It boasts impressive references that include Porche, Volkswagen, Ben Gurion Airport, Schiphol and millions of squares installed worldwide. RubberRoofs is the exclusive South African Köster importer and agency of Köster TPO and Köster products, and a proud member of SAIA, the South African Institute of Architects.

Capacity to perform in a wide range of temperatures

In the mid-80s TPO was finally developed as a superior roof waterproofing membrane solution. A monolithic (single, indivisible, powerful) membrane system, inherently flexible, highly reflective, and highly UV resistant with a capacity to perform in a wide range of temperatures, TPO is a lightweight system with excellent resistance to microorganisms, with fast and safe installation.

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PROJECT The Friendly Plant (Pty) Ltd

Transforming an outdated garden into a contemporary

outdoor space Like so many things in life, the things to do in your garden can end up being a long list. Instead of actioning the items on the list, more items are added, and the list gets to a point where it looks impossible to achieve!

This was the case with the garden written about here. Our client reached the point where he needed to call in a professional to take a re-look at his outdoor spaces and create something special for him and his family to enjoy.

outdoors and the garden needed to cater for entertaining. It had to have visual appeal and, of course, be relatively low maintenance.

During our first visit to the garden, we noticed it had some bushy trees that screened the neighbouring property and also some plants that we could re-use during our installation. However, the plants in the garden were not well maintained, leading to the planting areas becoming unstructured and disorganized – the plant beds were a good example of ‘survival of the fittest’.

We started this project by re-designing the main structural elements of the garden These included the pool, the pool deck and the fire pit area.

The garden sported a timber deck behind the pool that had deteriorated to the extent that it was no longer usable and was an eyesore. The pool itself was dated and was very run-down. This was not an area in which you would dream about spending your leisure time. Our client had a young family and he spent much of his time out of the country for work. He requested that we redesign the space so that it added value to his property and added to his lifestyle. He enjoyed spending time

The pool as a central feature

Our design joined these elements to each other with pathways facilitating an easy flow and movement between the spaces. The pathways assist in reducing pedestrian traffic through the house when entertaining and allow for a comfortable dispersion of people. This means that a large crowd of visitors does not make the area feel cramped or over-crowded. The pool is the central feature in this design. It can be seen from within the house and from most places in the garden. We replaced the pool copings and paved the pathways using concrete flagstone pavers. These pavers give the illusion of space when compared to smaller, more traditional brick paving. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT The Friendly Plant (Pty) Ltd

The old pool shell was chipped off and new marble plaster was applied along with new mosaic tiles on the water scum line. The old mosaics were now weathered and worn by chemicals and pool water over the years, and the new mosaics give a crisp, fresh look to the pool. We liked the idea of the deck behind the pool – it provides a destination within the garden. However, it needed a complete overhaul before it would be up to standard. We started by removing the old timber and replacing it with a low-maintenance alternative: thermally modified timber. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Thermally modified timber is sustainably sourced and does not use chemicals during the manufacturing process. The timber’s natural beauty and versatility is preserved, providing a natural, organic aesthetic. This treatment enhances durability, stability and resistance to moisture, rotting and pests. In just a few months, the timber greys, adding a contemporary look to the timber elements. Pergolas, decking and external structures are ideally suited applications for this type of timber.

PROJECT The Friendly Plant (Pty) Ltd

Next, we added an outdoor shower close to the new deck, using thermally modified timber to construct a shower wall to mount the shower mixer and shower head. The new deck is perched in an elevated position above the pool area, so we decided to take advantage of this difference in height and add a waterfall spout that gently pours water into the pool. This creates not only visual interest and movement within the space, but it also provides a wonderfully tranquil, calming soundtrack to the whole garden. Falling water has the added benefit of creating white noise that assists in masking sounds from traffic and the rest of the neighbourhood.

Water-wise garden a tapestry of succulents Now that the constructed elements of the garden have been dealt with, it was time to soften things up a bit and add some planting to the space.

Bearing in mind that our client was looking for a lowmaintenance garden, we used planting that does not require excessive watering and maintenance other than weeding from time to time. We used a tapestry of succulents and aloes around the pool area, where the paving leads to a warmer micro-climate. These plants will be better suited to the residual heat from the paved areas that will tend to dry out the neighbouring plant beds. These plants also provide a good contrast in terms of both texture and colour. The boundary of the property is lined by trees, providing shade to the underlying plant beds. We planted the beds with leafy shrubs that will grow to better hide the boundary walls and create a soft, lush surround to the garden in time to come.

Pergola adds a welcoming atmosphere

We also decided to add a pergola over the deck. A pergola will not provide much in the way of shade or cover from rain, however, it does make an interesting space. There is a cozy feeling, a feeling of comfort that comes from enjoying time under a pergola. To support the rear of the pergola, we added a feature wall that also frames a decorative steel artwork. The artwork is backlit to add a point of interest after sundown. We installed lamps on the pergola as well as low pillars around the pool to create soft lighting and a welcoming atmosphere.

Transformed into a contemporary outdoor space It took some time, lots of sweat and tears, but when all is said and done, we had completely transformed this outdated, bleak, weathered garden, changing it into a contemporary outdoor space and an entertainer’s dream garden. This garden will take very little effort to maintain, making it perfect for our client’s frequent travelling.

The end result is an eye-catching outdoor space that will not only increase the value of our client’s property but will also add significantly to their lifestyle and the way they use their garden. ■ www.thefriendlyplant.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

ADVERTORIAL RubberRoofs

RostGuard

™

RubberRoofs™ is committed to offering our clients the best performing products at affordable prices. And with the RubberRoofs™ reliable service offer, you also get peace of mind.

The latest technology RostGuard™ is the market leader in nontoxic anti-corrosive rust inhibitors. The salt spray test results prove our point. Salt spray testing, also known as an ASS test, is a standardized method of checking the rust and corrosion resistance of coatings and materials. During salt spray testing, an accelerated, corrosive attack is produced by spraying a continuous spray of saltwater solution, prepared in accordance with the requirements of the test standard and acidified by the addition of acetic acid.

This makes RostGuard™ a genuine water-based rust inhibitor, deserving of its title as the “best performing water-based, anti-corrosive primer on the market”.

Principally, a top-quality water-based anti-corrosive primer will last up to 150 hours of salt spray testing. RostGuard™ easily passes 300 hours. Even after 500 hours of salt spray testing, RostGuard™ adhesion was still good, with only a trace of rust creep, but still delivering good overall protection.

RostGuard™ is applied as a top-coat primer on structural steel, as well as galvanized iron, to combat white and red rust and effectively prevent rust creep. RostGuard™ dries quickly to a hard finish with excellent adhesion and good acid rain resistance. RostGuard™ is applied by air-spray, is low in odour, and is non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

RostGuard™ – the trustworthy solution to prevent rust on your roof

If you roof has existing rust, RostGuard™ rust inhibitor, in conjunction with RostTech™ Rust Converter, is the answer. The expertly formulated, full function, water based RostTech™ rust converter is applied by brush and penetrates deeper than standard converters into existing rust, converting the rust into a stable, inert ferric phosphate compound, ready for painting. Rusted substrates can now be overcoated without removing rust back to bright steel, allowing the project to be completed with minimum disruption. RostTech™ rust converter and RostGuard™ rust inhibitor do the job exceptionally well.

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The Premium Waterprooﬁng Solution

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Hyper Premium formulation Designed to exceed it’s warranty in efficient waterprooﬁng Excellent adhesion Highly durable UV and IR stable Proven excellence and effectiveness Environmentally conscious Includes mould inhibitor * Thermo dynamic LRP available in Titanium white and a range of greys including charcoal

Coastal and Southern regions have 100% algae, fungi or moss prevalent. RubberRoofs™ applicators sanitise the surface with AlgenTech™ in the preparation stage and AlgenTech™ XE Protect, our dry state microbial fungus and algae attack protector, is added to the Liquid Rubber Paint™ to inhibit future organism growth. This process considerably lengthens the lifetime of waterprooﬁng.

Next Generation ThermoTech™ eﬀectively reﬂects Infrared and UV radiation, instead of allowing heat to be transferred into the building. ThermoTech™ Cool Roof Technology substantially contributes to a building’s process efficiency and comfort, savings in energy and running costs while further extending the life of infrastructure.

available colours

E&OE

a product of RubberRoofs™

PROJECT Metropole Architects

Tropical & modern in

Zimbali Coastal Forest Estate

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PROJECT Metropole Architects

The site for this dream home was a “green field” site in an established section of Zimbali Coastal Forest Estate in KwaZulu-Natal along the north coast.

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PROJECT Metropole Architects

Thick natural coastal forest vegetation covered the site, with a mature Flat Crown tree situated on the front boundary. The site enjoys views of Holy Hill, which is a protected section of natural coastal forest within the estate, to the east. Many characteristics of Tropical Modern Architecture, including an elemental roof form with large eaves, overhanging upper storey, timber screens and pergolas, flow of spaces, including an uninterrupted indoor/ outdoor flow and lush landscaping, fundamentally influenced the design approach. One of the requirements in the client's brief was the inclusion of a lap pool for swimming training. The pool was positioned with 15 metres running along the northern side of the ground floor layout and returning around the covered entertainment area on the eastern side for another 8 metres, ending with a glass panel into the entrance hall. The layout of the ground floor living spaces was executed as an openable “glass box” on the northern and eastern elevations, with the more solid spaces situated on the western and southern sides. The motivation for this was to take advantage of the natural light and views on offer, as well as the indoor/outdoor flow with the pool and covered entertainment spaces. The concrete roof element over the entrance hall and covered entertainment space continues as an extensive concrete cantilever and timber pergola over the swimming pool. This element scales the building

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PROJECT Metropole Architects

visually by controlling the vertical proportions, as well as creating a sense of drama and excitement, which can be experienced in a number of different ways when moving through the home and visiting the various spaces. The finish to the underside of this element is a Birch ply timber ceiling, with the intention being to “cocoon” the covered patio space with a warm, golden material. Circulation between the three levels of the home happens within a staggered double volume entrance hall, with filtered high level glazing and a picture window that frames a view of the natural coastal forest beyond. The design process started in July 2014 with construction completed in October 2018.

The architects

The design architect was Tyrone Reardon, of Metropole Architects. Metropole Architects is a boutique architectural studio with design excellence being its primary focus. As such the firm is drawn to the types of projects that facilitate creative expression. It strives to produce the best architecture possible, both design and implementation aspects included. Metropole Architect's have completed projects and others currently underway in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Western Cape, as well as internationally in countries such as Israel, Turkish Republic of Northen Cyprus and Rwanda. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Professional team Architects: Metropole Architects Design Architect: Tyrone Reardon of Metropole Architects Project Technician: Chris Laird of Metropole Architects Interior Design: Amy Mitchell of Studio Mitchell Engineer: Bramin Consulting Engineers Contractor: Sygnatur Projects Kitchen and BIC's: Kitchen Classics Timber screens and pergolas: Timber Trends Landscaping: Lynch Frog Photographer: Grant Pitcher

Fast Turnaround Minimal downtime

PROJECT The Friendly Plant (Pty) Ltd

Water and gardens create an inviting &

contemporary space The starting point for this landscape architect was a neglected garden. The client had been renovating their home and the garden had fallen victim to the many contractors working on the project.

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PROJECT The Friendly Plant (Pty) Ltd

The garden did have some plants that could be salvaged and some trees to provide shade and cover. The garden certainly had potential and during the architects’ initial site visit, they developed some solid ideas that they shared with their client. The client’s brief was to include a swimming pool and to create an outdoor space that could be used for relaxation and entertainment. Nothing was sacred and the landscape architect had free range to create something special that would endure and provide a usable space that looked great.

The client had originally imagined installing the pool on the lower level of the split-level garden. The retaining wall that split the levels in the rear garden is a focal point from the dining area inside the house. The dining room has a large array of folding doors that open up onto the garden space and the architects wanted to take full advantage of this view. They suggested that instead of building a pool on the lower level, they rather build a split-level swimming pool. This consists of two pools, one on each level with a mosaic spill-over between them. Our client was excited by the ideas and the architects were eager to start work on this unique garden.

A destination within the garden

With the spill-over being the focal point of the view as you enter the space, this was best-suited to the placement of the outdoor entertainment space. When an entertainment space is set further away from the house towards the back boundary wall, it provides a destination within the garden.

BEFORE

This is the ideal situation as it allows visitors to mingle and enjoy the space. Where such a space is too close to the house, you may find that when entertaining, the space feels congested with bottle-necks keeping visitors from enjoying the garden. With this thinking in mind, the architects designed an outdoor lounge space behind the pool on the upper level. The flickering flames of a fire are another element of nature that can be mesmerising. The entertainment area includes a mobile fire pit stand that is fitted with a FireBlades designer fire pit brazier. This specific style of fire pit provides significant warmth to the area during colder times of the year and is also a very attractive visual element. The fire pit stand has lockable wheels that allow it to be moved out of the way should it be required and once in place, it can be secured so that it does not move. This was perfectly suited to the client’s requirements as they had mentioned that they would also want to use the upper level for dining and would like the option of using the fire pit or an outdoor dining table in that space.

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PROJECT The Friendly Plant (Pty) Ltd

A cozy, secluded space to enjoy

The outdoor entertainment area was paved using concrete flagstone pavers set on a concrete screed mix. An outdoor lounge set placed on the paving creates a comfortable, inviting space to spend time and look over the gardens and water below.

Water can provide a welcoming outdoor element if the water is allowed to flow or pour, adding a relaxing atmosphere and providing a soundtrack to the garden. To this end, the water overflow between the two pools is a great addition to the pool as a feature. This results in a soft, tranquil, and soothing sound.

The smaller pool on the upper level is fitted with water jets similar to that of a Jacuzzi and the intimate setting of the upper level makes it a very cozy, secluded space to enjoy. The larger pool at the bottom is the main pool for swimming and is flanked by a thermally modified timber deck. This is a low-maintenance timber that turns grey in time to complement the concrete pool coping tiles. The spill-over water wall that separates the two pools is tiled in glass mosaic and from the front makes a visual connection between the two pools so that they appear to be one.

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PROJECT The Friendly Plant (Pty) Ltd

Entrance features water too

The front door has a small, tiled landing which serves as the meeting point between the driveway, the front door, and the front garden. The only other features are two pillars on the side of the landing that the architects believed they could work with to create a feature that could be transformed into a prominent focal point. The architects decided to introduce the theme of a water spill-over at the entrance, with the spill-over water wall separating the pools being the bigger brother. In this smaller water feature, water runs over stone rivens into the pond below. To add a bit more ‘pop’ to the entrance water feature, the architects added three foamer nozzles to the pond. Foamer nozzles are a great addition to a simple pond feature. These nozzles essentially draw air into the water, which adds visual volume to the water output. The result is that the sound generated is soft, calming, and soothing. Lighting was used to add subtle lighting on top of the support pillars. The light fittings have large rectangular windowpanes, illuminating the space with a warm glow in the evenings. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

A formal garden

The garden had been mostly unused and was well beyond its prime. It was in desperate need of structure and some ‘wow’ factor. The architects designed the planting of the garden as a largely formal garden with lollipops and hedges and then a less structured garden behind it. Garden décor was introduced with planter pots and decorative steelwork, adding interesting details to the space. The result is a contemporary space that is inviting and also practical. ■ www.thefriendlyplant.co.za

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.

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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

APPLICATION ASSISTANCE

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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.

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 moisture 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 workmans hip 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.

PROJECT Poche Architectural Concepts

The Tin

Shack

Built using two 12-metre shipping containers, this Airbnb unit was split into two bedroom wings with ensuites and custom built-in cupboards. Despite the narrowness of the container structure, the two bedroom spaces do not feel cramped. The large openplan living area has an ample sized kitchen with dining and lounge area to enjoy the fireplace in winter and the coastal views in summer. The large sliding doors lead onto the sheltered decked area with a KolKol hot tub, which balances on the edge of the deck. The property is located on an elevated section in St Helena, so it was important to ensure that the views were unobstructed, and that the unit was located in a private area on the property so that the owners could enjoy the local vegetation, wildlife and birdlife. The tranquil and calming interiors consist of a combination of white and grey tones and do not detract from the outside landscape.

The container theme was carried through to the interiors and the bathrooms are kitted out with industrial brass fixtures and sanitaryware. A vertically clad metal wall was added in the shower and as a splashback for the basin. We had to consider bush fires, and so the area around the container footprint was cleared and built up with terraforce retaining blocks to create a house platform. This was then filled with a pebbled path and apron to create a surround. The containers were built using non-combustible materials with a suitable fire rating. The design is very simple and straightforward as the build was done by the owners who executed it superbly.

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PROJECT Poche Architectural Concepts

Sustainability considered

Sustainability was a big factor, thus incorporating the following was important: • Quick building time means less resources such as water required for construction. • Double glazing installed to prevent too much heat gain and glare. • Energy efficient light bulbs. • Permeable paving with waterwise landscaping. • Greywater and rainwater collection. • Recycling building materials as well as the containers themselves are given a new life. • Minimal materials meaning a low carbon footprint. • A monopitch roof was installed to collect as much rainwater as possible to be reused. • A gas geyser, stove and fireplace were installed to be less reliant on electrical supply. • Greywater collection system. • Composting toilets. • Eventually a solar panel system will be installed.

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PROJECT Poche Architectural Concepts

Construction and finishes

The containers are supported by concrete pad footings with a concrete plinth wall, filled in loosely with rocks found on the property. The container points are fixed to the concrete plinth wall with base plates designed by the engineering team. We were fortunate that in this area the containers could remain exposed. They were painted in a grey tone finish that the clients chose, which helps blend the containers in with their surroundings. Because the containers were left in their natural state, we avoided transporting any unnecessary cladding materials and a minimal amount of timber was used, creating less of a carbon footprint for the build. The deck was semi enclosed using offcuts from the container walls, which makes building with recycled containers even more eco-friendly by making use of materials that would otherwise be discarded. The roof structure was built on top of the container rooftop, which not only serves to collect rainwater, but shades glazed areas and protects the containers from the elements.

Project Team Contractor: owner/builder Architect: Ayla Damon, Poche Architectural Concepts Engineer: Len Nyenes, Nyenes Property Design Photography: Brigette Rademeyer, Briginiqua Photography www.pocheconcepts.com/thetinshack

As the architect of the project, I was fortunate enough to be able to stay in this unit and experience just how well the design worked on the property and how well the build was executed. The cottage allows you to live comfortably while enjoying the surroundings which is how houses should be designed. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Q&A Timber revolution

TIMBER

revolution South Africa's building material industry is shaping the future! SA Building Review spoke to Roy Southey, Executive Director of Sawmilling South Africa about how the timber sector is advancing and innovating.

ROY SOUTHEY

Sawmilling South Africa: Executive director

How has timber evolved as a sustainable and innovative building material? Timber is both one of the oldest, and one of the most modern building materials. For centuries, humans have been harvesting trees to create dwellings and structures. In the brick-andmortar world, South Africans may think only of log cabins, or conventional (and critical) roof trusses. Today, we are seeing wood being engineered to go taller in multifunctional spaces, such as apartments and office buildings. South Africa is not naturally a treerich country. We only have half a million hectares of indigenous closed canopy forests. It is for this reason that the commercial forestry industry was established to provide a sustainable supply of timber for sawmilling, poles, pulp, and paper products. We currently have roughly 1.2 million hectares of commercial plantation forests available, which provides us with more than 16 million tons of logs every year.

House Dreyer – Credit: Earthworld Architects

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Q&A Timber revolution

Can you explain the environmental benefits of using timber in construction?

There are countless local and international studies showing that timber in the built environment displays lower environmental impacts than conventional systems in terms of energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, water pollution and solid waste production. With the built environment responsible for approximately 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions1, sustainable timber and engineered wood have the potential to decarbonise the built environment quickly and at scale while supporting urban development, rural economies, and innovation. Emissions from the built environment come from two main sources: the energy consumed within buildings for heating, cooling, and power (operational emissions) and the emissions associated with the extraction, processing, and manufacture of building products (embodied emissions)2. Perhaps one of the most important environmental benefits of timber is that of carbon storage. And this is thanks to the natural process of photosynthesis in trees we use to make our sawn timber. The carbon absorbed by the trees for energy and growth remains locked up in the wood and consequently remains in long-life timber products. One cubic metre of wood stores just less than one ton of carbon. Importantly, the consumption of sustainably farmed wood prevents deforestation. Timber plantations in South Africa were originally established to provide an alternative timber supply and, in so doing, have protected our country’s few indigenous forests from further deforestation. Commercial plantations are usually about 10 times more productive than indigenous closed canopy forests such as those found in the southern Cape. In other words, our South African plantation forestry resource of 1.2 million hectares would produces a similar log output as about 12 million hectares of indigenous forests (however we only have about 500 000 hectares of closed canopy indigenous forests in SA and these need to be protected and conserved). The trees harvested to make the timber products (pulp, paper, sawlogs, poles, mining timber etc.) are replenished with new trees which ensures that carbon sequestration continues. The sustainable management of our productive forests also sees to it that biodiverse and ecologically sensitive areas are protected. Well-managed plantations reduce soil erosion, maintain the water balance in the surrounding areas and provide refuge for an array of species, preserving biodiversity. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

What technological advancements or innovations have contributed to the growth of the timber industry in SA? Although timber is a naturally strong and durable material, traditional timber frame building is only suitable for buildings of up to about four storeys high. However, there are four relatively novel technologies in timber engineering, which enable much taller buildings of up to 25 storeys. 1. Glulam (Glued Laminated Timber) is a versatile engineered timber method comprising standard sized timber planks that are bonded together with a highly durable, water-resistant adhesive. 2. CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) is innovative and extremely strong. Developed in Austria, it entails conventionally sawn lumber being layered together, with rotated grain, and glued to form sheets. You could imagine plywood but with much thicker layers. Internationally, this product is currently most widely used in high-rise timber structures. CLT is in its infancy here in SA but is growing at a significant rate. 3. LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber), sometimes referred to as ‘technical ply’ is similar to CLT but substantially thinner and produced in conventional structural dimensions. It is slightly more technical than the manufacture of CLT and is not yet produced locally. It is currently imported, mostly from Scandinavia. 4. Thermo Timber, as the name suggests, is made using a specialised kiln process where conventional lumber is taken to extremely high temperatures that almost cause combustion. The sugars in the wood move to the surface, making it more durable, resistant to insects, and dimensionally stable. Its overall strength, however, is less than that of CLT, for example. All these technologies are revolutionising the timber construction industry all over the world and contributing to new and innovative design.

What are the economic advantages of using timber as a building material?

Using timber in buildings provides new opportunities for manufacturing, skills development, and employment. It is for this reason that the promotion of timber is part of the Commercial Forestry Masterplan, which outlines plans to encourage sector growth, invest in job creation, and competitiveness. The forest and forest products sector provides employment to approximately 150 000 people, almost all in the rural districts of the country with 654 000 people (±1.4% of population) dependent on forest industry.3 Many of these companies support entire communities in

Q&A Timber revolution

smaller towns, and the greater bulk of the sawn products supplies the building and construction sector, the bulk of this in the form of structural components. Wood represents a ‘low-hanging fruit’ for the public and private sector invested in mitigating their environmental impact. Timber-based staff housing and public buildings are just two such examples of how business and government could offset their GHG emissions – and resultant carbon tax burdens – through essential infrastructure. Timber competes well with concrete and steel in that it offers strength, can withstand seismic activity (not such a big factor in South Africa), and is much lighter to transport. To date the costs of building with timber are not dissimilar to traditional materials. However, timber structures are often prefabricated off-site, therefore reducing both the construction times and associated costs and carbon emissions.

Timber is a renewable resource – Credit: Sappi

Are there any challenges unique to SA that the timber faces as a building material?

The architectural and construction market is slow to adopt new systems due to a long and heavy reliance on tried and trusted methods. There are also several misconceptions around timber’s durability and performance when it comes to fire, preservation, and moisture.

Greenpoint Educational Dome – Credit: Mewa

House Taylor – Credit: Mass Timber Technologies

A frequent concern is that of fire safety. In contrast to steel, wood exhibits greater predictability in a fire scenario. It doesn't undergo melting, twisting, or crumbling. Once the outer surfaces char, they provide protection to the inner timber. The progression of the charred layer is gradual and can be reliably measured, which provides a better calculation of fire safety guidelines and escape times. Loadshedding has had a significant impact on our sector given that our sawmills are heavily reliant on electricity for their operations. This, along with a depressed economy, has seen a number of timber mill closures and subsequent job losses. However, a resurgent economy could soon rectify this. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Q&A Timber revolution

Future Africa hub, University of Pretoria – Credit: Dook Photography/Earthworld Architects

How does SA compare to other regions in terms of adopting timber as a primary construction material? In terms of using timber as a primary building material. and excluding roof trussing, we are behind the curve. In South Africa we build less than 1% of our residential houses in timber. Western European countries such as Germany and England already build more than 20% of their new residential homes from wood-based materials, whereas North American countries such as the USA and Canada build more than 95% of their homes from wood-based materials. As consumers become more enlightened about the advantages of building with timber, it is gaining ground.

How does the regulatory framework support or hinder growth of the timber industry?

The sawmilling industry, along with other players in the forestry and forest products value chain, works closely with the dtic. Through the Forestry Masterplan, we are working with a variety of stakeholders to raise awareness and improve demand for locally grown and processed sawn timber.

What are some examples of timber construction projects in SA that showcase its innovation and sustainability?

• The Lucky Bread at Menlyn Maine, Pretoria by Earthworld Architects • Future Africa Innovation Campus, Pretoria by Earthworld Architects www.sabuildingreview.co.za

• Greenpoint Educational Dome Project, Cape Town by Mewa • Deloitte Offices, Cape Town by XLam, StudioMAS, ARUP, GVK, Smith & Co • House Taylor, Johannesburg by Mass Timber Technologies

How can the SA industry continue to innovate and further establish timber as a primary building material in the construction sector?

Research and development is critical. We are fortunate to have the universities of Pretoria and Stellenbosch with a strong wood science and engineering research and innovation. The Department of Trade Industry and Competition (the dtic) is also championing this as part of the Forestry Masterplan. Raising awareness is key. The more people that understand timber as a material for the built environment, the more open they are to exploring its application in their projects. SSA has been running a series of Talking Timber webinars since 2021 which seek to educate the architectural and engineering sector about timber. SSA and the dtic have also supported efforts by Stellenbosch University to develop thewoodapp.com that offers free online courses in timber construction. ■ 1 Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. 2020, Global Status Report For Buildings And Construction, 4. 2 Time for Timber, Wood Manifesto, 2021. 3 Forestry South Africa

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EDITORIAL Materials

Breaking down the myths about using drywall in your home

When talking about construction and renovation in South Africa, homeowners, builders and even architects are more inclined to focus on brick and mortar than looking at lightweight material options like drywall. As leaders in lightweight construction building materials, Saint-Gobain Africa, recently took to the market to understand why this is the case and to dispel some of the myths relating to using drywall within the home. “Internationally drywall is used in most homes, both at the start of construction and for renovation purposes,” explains Asaad Manjoo, from Gyproc South Africa, a division of Saint-Gobain Africa. “In South Africa, where the residential market makes up 52% of the building market, one of the main reasons people do not use drywall is the misconception that it is a cheap alternative and will not offer the same quality overall that a brick-and-mortar wall will.”

Misconception that drywall is a cheap alternative Studies conducted have shown that many people believed drywall options to be of a lower quality than brick-and-mortar, offering less privacy and insulation, resulting in a home that looks cheap. The reality is that by using good quality drywall products, your home can have all the benefits of brick-and-mortar builds with the convenience and simplicity of light weight construction materials. Some of the benefits of using drywalling include: • Less mess and dust – drywalling is three to four times faster than standard masonry construction, leaving less mess and dust and allowing your renovation to be completed quickly and efficiently. • Drywall offers great design flexibility, with ease of construction that saves you money in the long run. For example, if you buy your home at an early stage in your life, your needs will change as the years go by. Covid showed us how quickly people needed to turn a room or garage into a study so individuals could work from home. And now that we’re back in the office, do we need to turn that room back into its original state? • It is also eight to ten times lighter than standard masonry construction meaning it has less of a load on your foundations. • With traditional brick and mortar, it is relatively

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difficult to complete renovations as the internal walls will require foundation. Drywall systems for internal walls do not require foundations. With drywall, you also benefit from a cleaner work site. • Contrary to what 79% of people polled in the study think, drywall is extremely durable, with solutions that allow you to easily hang heavy objects in your home straight onto the wall without additional noggins. • Noisy neighbours? In residential estates and townhouses, how often are you frustrated listening to your neighbours arguing, or loud braais and parties disturbing your peace? Using a drywall system (plasterboard + insulation) offers you acoustic performance so noise is not a problem, in fact offering better acoustic performance than your current brick wall. • Using drywall is also more sustainable as you use less water in the construction process than you would with brick and mortar, and the drywall material is made from recycle-able materials. • Aesthetically the appearance is crack-free allowing easy of decoration. • High-performing drywalls are also fire resistant. ■ For more information on how drywall could work in your home, visit www.gyproc.co.za

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Restoring the past

Building the Future

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PROJECT Italtile

House Robinson

invests in timeless Italtile style Val de Vie in the Cape Winelands has earned an enviable reputation as one of the world’s leading luxury wellness estates, where discerning, style-conscious families live in harmony with a biodiverse environment that includes pristine fynbos, lakes and mountains.

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PROJECT Italtile

Here, magnificent residences, ranging from luxe lock-up-and-go apartments to stately mansions, are designed with an indoor-outdoor flow to take full advantage of the secure, peaceful, outdoorsy lifestyle. Recently, the Robinson family of Val de Vie invested in a top-tier reimagining of their patio and poolside to add value to their property. They found inspiration in Italtile’s onsite Val de Vie Gallery. This carefully curated collection of Italtile’s bijou home design products is overseen by Italtile’s Cape Town branch, where Etienne Jordaan is not only Commercial Agent, but also the Val de Vie Key Account Manager. Etienne, with extensive experience in and knowledge of both commercial projects and home design, was able to offer the Robinson family qualified advice and guidance in their home décor choices.

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ROJECT Italtile

Impeccably envisioned, one-of-a kind outdoor living area

Etienne worked alongside Bergstreme Developers, specialists in contemporary custom-built homes (who, like Italtile, also have a presence in The Shed @ Val de Vie Estate), to create an impeccably envisioned, one-of-a kind outdoor living area that speaks of the lively, active Robinson family personality, underpinned with a sense of timeless luxury and eternal summer. Etienne proposed a layering of sustainable, biophilic porcelain tiles to honour the home’s proximity to wild nature, using Italtile’s exclusive, Klif Silver by Italian tile masters Atlas Concorde as the ‘base canvas’. Klif is a full-bodied porcelain tile that reimagines a living stone look, with deep detail and fascinating variances. Etienne managed the precision mitred edging around the pool. Mitred edges create a superb finish (incorporating two 45 degree angles which deliver a 90 degree angle when installed); here, the end result is a seamless illusion of a horizontal tiled surface that appears to ‘spill over’ onto the vertical surface, and into the pool. In the creation of an outdoor feature wall, the Robinsons wanted something different. Etienne helped them realise the standout feature they were dreaming of, with the botanical fantasia of Jardin 01 from trendsetting Ceramica Sant’Agostino. This is a spectacular wallpaper print décor tile exclusive to Italtile, featuring a lush profusion of sun-splashed island-style foliage.

Biophilic design

Biophilic design is a macrotrend that saw its roots strengthen during the pandemic. It’s a design movement that focuses on incorporating the natural world into the built environment, to reduce stress and improve human productivity, creativity and well-being. With this in mind, the Robinson family can look forward to years of relaxed, inspired living on their eco-chic, Italtilestyle patio, and, in due course, should they wish to sell, an excellent return on their investment. The House Robinson project kicked off in November 2023 and was completed in December 2023. All tiles selected carry Italtile’s LiveGreen label. ■ For more information about Italtile’s eco-chic, LiveGreen home design products as well as their commercial and residential agent services, visit https://www.italtile.co.za/blog/post/italtile-sresidential-agents.html

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ADVERTORIAL Zimile Consulting Engineers

10 Years of success founded on diversity & uncompromising quality engineering Since its inception in 2013, Zimile Consulting Engineers has successfully completed numerous projects, including in rural South Africa, significantly enhancing the quality of life and contributing to the transformation of these communities. In the past year, the company has undertaken more than 27 projects ranging from water supply, roads, stormwater, and project management appointments. “Throughout our journey, we have consistently prioritized community engagement as a fundamental element of project management and implementation,” explains Shawn Gama, CEO of Zimile Consulting Engineers. “And it has stood us in great stead in building our reputation as professional engineers with a heart.”

Seasoned expertise and youthful vigour

Zimile’s competitive edge in the consulting engineering industry is underpinned by the composition of its youthful and diverse workforce. According to Gama, the dynamic and multi-disciplinary team brings together seasoned expertise and youthful vigour, offering an innovative perspective to address the pressing challenges our nation encounters. “The company's commitment to diversity extends beyond our broad range of capabilities, as it is reflected in our workforce, where 45% of engineers and technicians are female.” Abimbola Sole, Zimile’s Managing Director, is convinced of the enormous untapped potential in South Africa’s young engineers and, correspondingly, the firm promotes every opportunity to empower new graduates and young professionals with life-changing career experience. “Our growing team largely comprises young professionals, the majority being 35 or younger. “By leveraging the energy and flexibility of youth, we have found that we can deliver faster, with greater levels of innovation and commitment,” she adds.

Committed to infrastructure development

“We’re committed to changing the infrastructure landscape in South Africa for the benefit of future generations and we are proud to be part of a black-owned, diversified and youthful team. Zimile is in the vanguard of the changing face of the consulting industry with a diversified and transformed company!” Sole enthused. While Gama’s solution to addressing poverty and inequality, especially in rural areas, is an engineering driven, ‘eat the elephant’ approach that should begin with life sustaining projects. “Nineteen per cent of rural South Africa lacks access to reliable water supply and 33% do not even have basic sanitation services,” says Gama. “I subscribe to the country’s National Development Plan for 2030, which highlights that South Africa needs to create more employment, decent work, and sustainable livelihoods to improve the living standards and ensure the dignified existence for all South Africans.” He adds that this can be achieved through unlocking infrastructure spend and building sustainable infrastructure that lasts for generations to come. “While the drive to develop urban infrastructure is seen as the key for economic growth, this shouldn’t be at the expense of ignoring development of rural areas.” “We’re committed to partnering with like-minded, reliable consulting engineering firms, who share these values; and as a country, we can overcome the challenges that hinder progress and drive positive change in our society. Zimile is up for it!” Gama concludes.

WWW.ZIMILEENG.CO.ZA Phone +27 (0)11 466 8576 | Email info@zimile.co.za

SHAWN GAMA | CEO at Zimile Consulting Engineers 74

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PROJECT Nico van der Meulen Architects

Mooikloof Heights

East of Tswane in Gauteng, South Africa, is the spectacular Mooikloof Heights home which is situated on a north sloping 15 000m2 site. The home features a transparent north facade, transforming into stacked rusted boxes on the west side. Spanning 85m, the design incorporates glazed north elevations, recessed glazing for sun control, and a mix of natural stone and rusted steel panels.

Mooikloof Heights stands as a harmonious blend of architectural innovation and natural beauty, a testament to the seamless integration of design and landscape, creating a truly captivating living space. ■

The landscape, shaped by deep slate rock, is terraced with gabion walls, forming a stepped design with a retaining pond. A transparent "canyon" on the south side provides panoramic views through the house. Inside, the open plan living concept prevails, complemented by ribbed brass cladding, steel beams, and stone elements.

In collaboration with:

The lanai, with a bar, barbecue, and pool, embraces the Highveld lifestyle. The guest wing, accessible via a lift or cantilevered staircase, comprises three suites leading to the lower garden.

Interior Design: M Square Lifestyle Design Sculpture: Regardt van der Meulen Furniture and Décor: M Square Lifestyle Necessities Kitchen: @doca_muebles Built in cupboards: @porroofficial Lighting: Streamlight Ceiling: Sky Gardens Flooring: Teracoat Seamless Flooring Glass: @radiantglassconcepts

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PROJECT Nico van der Meulen Architects

Nico van der Meulen Architects designing ultra luxury dream homes

“In architecture, functionality should always be given higher priority than the form. Considering we spend our entire lives inhabiting the structures we’ve designed rather than admiring their external appearances. Functionalism is our design philosophy and while our facades could have any form and be associated with any style, our buildings will always remain functional," says Nico van der Meulen. Nico van der Meulen Architects is well known for designing ultra luxury dream homes both locally and internationally. The architectural practice focuses on designing innovative, functional luxurious homes, both contemporary and traditional, tailored to enrich their client’s quality of life. The innovative architectural vision of the Nico van der Meulen Architects brand is evident in the practice’s ability to continuously produce masterpieces of extraordinary architecture that is always personalized with the client’s lifestyle requirements. As architects and interior designers the firm specialize in designing up-market residential and exclusive commercial developments for private individuals and companies. Having designed buildings in 43 countries since 1984, the company remains at the forefront of design by exploring new forms, pushing the boundaries, and evolving with technology, without compromising on the authenticity of the design, aesthetics, materials and originality. The company lives and breathes the conviction of a total design philosophy, creating a seamless transition between the exterior and the interior, reducing the scale to finer detail. Together with a team of talented and enthusiastic architects, interior designers and experienced support staff, the family run business has grown into an internationally recognized quality brand. While creating unique homes for unique tastes, the firm strives to capture every client’s vision and express it through breathtaking bespoke designs. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

ADVERTORIAL Fibertex SA

Greater demand for

geosynthetic products Fibertex South Africa, part of a global organisation with its head office in Denmark, has made a substantial investment in the latest technology to increase production capacity of geosynthetic products. “The recent upturn in the civil and construction sectors in Southern Africa can be attributed to several factors, including Government investment in infrastructure projects and the recent surge of commercial and residential projects,” says Sefton Fripp, Managing Director of Fibertex SA.

Geosynthetics range is engineered to deliver superior results

Supported by a global team of technical experts

“Key advantages of Fibertex materials are their exceptional performance, eco-friendly features, and extended service life. The company's geosynthetics range is engineered to deliver superior results, providing optimal solutions for every geotechnical challenge,” explains Fripp.

Fibertex’s local operation is supported by a global team of technical experts, and it is independently certified to deliver the highest standards of product quality and service excellence. “Each of our product lines play an important role for its intended application in the building sector; filtration, separation, protection, and cushioning. These products are complemented by Fibertex geosynthetic products that provide a complete solution to projects in diverse applications.

Geotextiles, key materials used in the construction of highperformance and cost-effective engineered solutions, are durable products that enhance the lifetime, strength, and overall quality of construction projects.

Largest manufacturer of UV stabilised virgin PP nonwoven geotextiles

The company’s manufacturing plant in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal, is the largest manufacturer of UV stabilised virgin PP (polypropylene) nonwoven geotextiles produced in Africa, with certification for durability of over 100 years, in accordance with the latest EN standards.

Fibertex Greencells and Soilsaver are highly efficient erosion solutions, used to stabilise structures like embankments, slopes, river profiles, sand dunes, base courses and drainage canals.

Concern for the environment is critical at Fibertex and no chemical binders are used in the product or production process. In addition to the wide range of products made from virgin PP, Fibertex also has a range of products based on recycled polyester (rPET). No waste is discarded from the facility, and all products are 100% recyclable. The Fibertex geosynthetics range encompasses nonwoven and woven geotextiles, gabions and mattresses, drainage pipes and fittings and erosion control and cellular confinement solutions. The company also supplies soil reinforcing products, including geogrids and geocells, as well as geosynthetic clay liners as part of composite lining systems in modern landfills. For further information call Ryan Langer M 083 339 1245 | +27 31 736 7100 E ryla@fibertex.com W www.fibertex.com

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Green walls using Fibertex geocontainers Fibertex geocontainers are used to create green walls with far more appeal than conventional hard-facing concrete structures.

Fibertex geosynthetics are sustainable materials designed to protect our precious natural environment and prevent human disasters.

Fibertex FiberRock geobags are a lightweight, durable and cost-effective solution for the construction of environmentally friendly reinforced retaining walls. #designforlife

Fibertex 20S and 30S geocontainers • Are used in the construction of protection structures in landscaping and building installations, to guard against flooding and for erosion control. • Are manufactured from a strong and porous fabric, which is mechanically needle-punched together. • By filling these bags with free-draining medium grain sand, a durable retaining structure can be built, which allows the free passage of water through the structure. • Can be used as a medium for planting shrubs, which will eventually cover the entire structure, to create an attractive green wall. Visit www.fibertex.com/products/geosynthetics/geocontainers for more insights and information.

Fibertex Head Office +27 31 736 7100 salesza@fibertex.com www.fibertex.com

PROJECT AMA Architects

A serene oasis

designed to offer tranquillity and luxurious comfort The project finds its exquisite location in the Blair Atholl Golf & Equestrian Estate, nestled near Lanseria Airport and the renowned world-famous Cradle of Humankind. Designed by Adrian Maserow of AMA Architects, this exceptional house reflects visionary design expertise in each of its square metres.

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PROJECT AMA Architects

Nestled on the original farm of Gary Player, the Blair Atholl Golf and Equestrian Estate emerges as a serene oasis just a stone's throw away from Johannesburg. Adorned with lush trees and traversed by the enchanting Crocodile River, Blair Atholl boasts many acres of open ground, providing ample space for children to frolic and adults to revel in the embrace of nature.

Effortlessly blending with the idyllic country surroundings

The residence comprises a magnificent structure that exudes a soulful and refined charm, effortlessly blending with the idyllic country surroundings. These structures feature exquisite RheinZink cladding, flawlessly flowing from the roofs to the walls, while large, glazed panels grace the envelope, inviting an abundance of natural light. The main structures are interconnected by the common areas such as the kitchen, dining area, and TV lounges. These shared spaces are adorned with floor-toceiling windows that bathe the rooms in a gentle cascade of sunlight. Upon arrival water takes centre stage with a stunning elongated water feature in the front garden, extending along the driveway, encircling the entrance, and creating a captivating welcome. Upon entering the house, a glass-roofed walkway guides you from the front garden's water feature, through the dwelling, and seamlessly extends to the pool area. This magnificent feature allows the breathtaking views from the pool to captivate you as you step inside this extraordinary abode.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT AMA Architects

Designed to offer tranquillity and luxurious comfort

Set on a sprawling 4 085m2 site, the house spans an impressive 1420m2. The homeowner's desire for a relaxing retreat that celebrates life's offerings while fostering social connections is effortlessly fulfilled within these walls. Designed to offer tranquillity and luxurious comfort, the house also incorporates a unique private rooftop space that provide moments of solitude. These rooftop havens include a bar and lounge area with a spacious terrace, perfect for revelling in the awe-inspiring vistas. A smaller rooftop sanctuary, adorned with a pergola and a roof garden, complements this serene space. Inside, a TV lounge adjacent to the kitchen and a cozy rest lounge on the mezzanine level offers further relaxation options. For intimate conversations, a secluded area adjoins the expansive glazed room housing an impressive wine collection, leading to a beautifully appointed open study. The main bedroom features spacious dressing rooms and two exquisite en-suite bathrooms with dressing rooms, one for him, and one for her, while two additional bedrooms boast their own en-suite bathrooms. The grandeur of the home is completed by a large gym that extends onto a terrace, wrapped by floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for invigorating workouts with a breathtaking view.

In line with the client's requirements and in response to the current energy and water challenges faced by some metropolitan areas, the design team skilfully balanced these factors with the guidelines set forth by Blair Atholl. The result is a residence that maximizes efficiency while maintaining an impeccable aesthetic. The inclusion of subtle solar panels and extra water tanks ensures that the house can operate off the grid without compromising its visual appeal. ■

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TOWERS MAIN | JOHANNESBURG CBD URBANISM

GLENHOVE OFFICES ICONIC ARCHITECTURE

CCB | SANDTON TRANSFORMATION

ADVERTORIAL Federale Stene

Clay bricks

in modern-day construction Clay bricks are now more relevant than ever in today’s construction industry due to architects and developers seeking out more sustainable building materials for their projects. The industry may constantly change but the formula for clay bricks has not; the main raw material, clay, is provided by nature and processed to form a brick that has a proven track record of lasting for generations to come. Apart from clay bricks being an environmentally friendly building material, they also boast benefits such as faster building times, savings per square metre, high durability, low water absorption and lower unit weight, which enables colossal projects to be completed with clay bricks. A perfect example of such a project is one in which the Federale Stene Maxi (FBA) super brick was used for the BlackBrick Santon Apartments. The Maxi (FBA) is a larger brick in the Federale Stene brick range which is skilfully fired by a kiln oven. Because of its size, it doesn’t require a double line wall to be built. The dimensions allow for a single line of Maxi bricks to be sufficient, according to building regulations. That means, less bricks and even more savings. Both the award-winning University of Mpumalanga and Sol Plaatje University opted for clay face bricks as their choice of building material. Federale Stene supplied both projects; the University of Mpumalanga with the Plum Satin (FBS) and the Sol Plaatje University with the Peach Satin (FBS). Building these institutions with clay face bricks means that they will require little to no annual maintenance as clay bricks do not lose their colour or beauty over time. Federale Stene has been manufacturing clay bricks since 1958 and continues to be amongst some of the most reputable clay bricks factories in South Africa. The factory is also actively involved in numerous projects alongside the Clay Brick Association of Southern Africa to ensure that clay brick remains relevant in today’s economy. The team manufactures a wide range of genuine clay bricks including plaster, semi face, face, Jem and Maxi bricks. All products are SABS quality approved and are manufactured in accordance with ISO standards. An extensive range of products is available in various colours and textures, ranging from light cream to dark blue.

T +27 13 241 2302 | E sales2@lutzkiegroup.co.za www.federalestene.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Hubo Architects

KD Studios at

King David School, Linksfield At Hubo Studio, our passion lies in shaping the future of education through innovative and cutting-edge architectural designs. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of physical spaces to inspire and empower students, we strive to create exceptional learning environments that unlock their full potential.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Hubo Architects

Picture this: we’ve taken the existing structure and given it a marvellous makeover from the inside out. Breaking away from conventional educational norms, we set forth on a transformative spatial and design endeavour to reimagine the fundamental nature of the learning experience. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Hubo Architects

Transcending the boundaries of traditional classroom settings

Our primary objective is to transcend the boundaries of traditional classroom settings by crafting innovative spaces that foster creativity, collaboration, and cross-disciplinary interactions. We envision a fantastic, shared area, a dynamic space designed to be the beating heart of the educational journey. This environment is meticulously crafted to encourage active student participation, sparking meaningful discussions, and exploring real-world applications that ignite curiosity. Central to our vision is the belief in the importance of growing knowledge through interactive spaces. Our shared area is designed to nurture a strong sense of belonging, where students feel connected and supported in their educational endeavours. By fostering a collaborative atmosphere, we pave the way for a vibrant hub of learning that transcends the conventional boundaries of education.

Suppliers list: Contractor: Charge Prop Joinery: Innovation Factory Carpets: Belegotex Vinyl Stickers: Glass Guards Photographer: Elsa Young Landscaping: Green Turf

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Hubo Architects

Dynamic and transformative designs that breathe new life into existing structures

To achieve this vision, our approach involves dynamic and transformative designs that breathe new life into existing structures. Captivating artwork and vibrant colours are skilfully integrated into the environment and create an immersive and engaging space. Deliberate attention was given to the selection of textures and materials used. It added a layer of depth and character to the design. The selection of materials was beyond its base functional use; it aims to create an immersive and inspiring atmosphere to spark conversation, curiosity and creativity. Moreover, our philosophy extends beyond the confines of indoor classrooms. We thoughtfully integrated indoor and outdoor spaces, recognizing the value of connecting students with nature. These inviting outdoor areas provide ample opportunities for hands-on experiences and environmental appreciation, enhancing the overall learning journey. Technology plays a vital role in today’s educational landscape, and we are at the forefront of incorporating the latest advancements. By transforming education into a shared adventure, we foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among diverse minds, encouraging the exploration of a multitude of ideas.

Aspire to inspire the next generation of learners

Our driving belief is that innovative education holds the key to unlocking boundless possibilities. Through our work, we aspire to inspire the next generation of learners, empowering them to dream big and make a positive impact on the world. As architects of change, we www.sabuildingreview.co.za

aim to revolutionize the way education is experienced, where imagination and innovation are seamlessly woven together. We see a future of education where architecture meets imagination, and learning becomes an extraordinary journey of empowerment. At Hubo Studio, we are committed to reshaping the landscape of education, propelling it into new dimensions where students thrive and soar to heights, they never thought possible. As a team, we are beyond thrilled to be on this remarkable pursuit as we create an educational ecosystem that embraces the power of design and fosters a passion for learning. ■

WATER WISE

Floating wetlands The gradual increase in the concentration of nitrogen, phosphorous, and other plant nutrients in an aquatic ecosystem is referred to as eutrophication. This process is typically characterised by excessive growth of algae or plankton in a water body and is a major environmental concern because it can eventually lead to a decrease in dissolved oxygen in the affected water body as well as a deterioration of water quality. This is particularly problematic in a country such as South Africa, where the freshwater sources are already limited. Wetlands and their aquatic plant habitats play a significant role in water quality improvement. Wetlands, both natural and man-made have been frequently employed to improve water quality. Floating wetlands are ecosystems created by using a buoyant substrate to support plants and allow them to grow hydroponically, with their roots dangling down into the water column. Plants, as the primary engine of the ecosystem, alter the pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen of the water column, removing nutrients and heavy metals from the water column through root uptake, thereby preventing eutrophication. Floating wetlands are being seen as an effective ecological engineering option for removing nutrients from water sources. In recent years, this ‘phyto-technology,’ in which macrophytes grow on a buoyant platform and absorb nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen directly from the water, has gained popularity. Harvesting above ground biomass can directly remove absorbed nutrients from the system.

Furthermore, these floating wetlands create just enough shade in the water, influencing the temperature and availability of sunlight for algae development. Floating wetlands are also known to provide other ecosystem services such as habitat provision. They provide a haven for aquatic animals and alternative breeding grounds for birds. Floating wetlands are an eco-friendly and natural way to prevent algal growth in surface water systems. These buoyant filtration systems are ideal for use in built-up urban environments, as they encourage local birds and insects, as well as provide a pleasant landscape. They can also reduce pollution in stormwater run-off. Conserving and enhancing natural habitats and environments, especially in urban areas, is essential to protect the functioning of the ecosystems that provide us with crucial goods and services, such as clean water. Utilising floating wetlands to remove pollutants from collected and stored water is a great way to look after our most precious natural resource. For more information on other ways you can be Water Wise, visit the Water Wise website by going to the Rand Water website and clicking on the Water Wise logo. Always be Water Wise!

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

NEW & IMPROVED

Aesthetically pleasing

Optional kick & push plates

Short lead time

Optional bumpers

Lockable

Customisable

Easy to install

PROJECT Mitek Industries project

Award-winning restoration

breathing new life into N’Djamena Cathedral Our Lady of Peace Cathedral in N'Djamena, Chad, endured a 40-year-long road to redemption. Now, it’s been faithfully restored by an award-winning collaboration using 120 tons of light gauge steel.

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PROJECT Mitek Industries project

Every year, the Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) celebrate achievement with one of the industry’s most prestigious galas. Since 2017, these awards have recognised the best in design, engineering, and construction across the nation’s steel industry. The event elevates both the projects themselves, and the people who make them possible. But perhaps more importantly, it lets the industry see some of the positive impact that their work is making. In October, SAISC members gathered at the Emperor’s Palace in Gauteng. Winners in categories like innovation and sustainability had plenty of inspiring stories to tell. But in the Light Steel Frame category, guests could see a truly special tale of perseverance and dedication to engineering.

Respecting a proud, turbulent history

Roughly 23% of Chad’s population are Catholic; Our Lady of Peace in N'Djamena has served this community since 1965. Being inaugurated less than five years after Chad’s independence makes the cathedral an important symbol of the Church’s often-overlooked influence. But standing in a nation’s capital during troubled times puts any building in the line of fire sooner or later. Our Lady of Peace survived Chad’s first civil war of 1965-1979. Then, in 1980, fighting in the second war saw widespread damage across N'Djamena’s southwestern districts. The cathedral was largely destroyed. Nevertheless, the site remained important to the faithful here. Restoration planning began as soon as the second civil war ended. Pope John Paul II himself celebrated mass outside the damaged cathedral in 1990. The goal was always to restore this place to its true intended glory.

Taking up the challenge

You can’t speak about N'Djamena’s Cathedral without addressing its roof. This grand arch evoked all the wonder and splendour of classic religious architecture. However, the damage done in 1980 had cast it down, seemingly for good. A temporary solution used a flat double-pitch steel replacement, which didn’t sit well at all against the building’s gabled end. True restoration demanded the return of the original arched roof; 21m high and 18.6m wide at its base. But these works had to accommodate the existing site’s enormous religious significance. The existing wall structure, parabolic gable, and bell tower couldn’t be changed. Putting a new roof of this size, strong enough to resist high winds, on top of the unchanged structure was going to be a challenge. Many said it couldn’t be done. In fact, one architect’s proposed designs proved www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Mitek Industries project

impossible to implement; the foundations couldn’t hold the roof. Our colleagues, Uwe Schluter, Jaco Van Wyk, Mark Malan and Mike Newham were called in at the last minute. This team was tasked to design a replacement solution, against the clock. Using Ultra-Span, this new design split the roof’s weight across 850 individual centres. A lightweight steel structure could then be anchored to a concrete ring beam, while a specialised shell design accounted for wind.

Success means going the extra mile

Even with the revised design, the roof was still an impressive construction. It represented the single biggest use of steel on any MiTek South Africa project; 120 tons of light gauge. The nearest port sits more than 1 000km away, while the site’s location made it impossible to deliver prefabricated spans. Logistics challenges meant the steel couldn’t come through Cameroon, right across the Chari River. Instead, it had to travel through Spain and via Algeria by road to reach Chad. With political instability mounting, overcoming these hurdles took confident project management. Frames could then be fabricated on site. After being laid out on a jig adjacent to the cathedral, they were braced, cross-braced, and hoisted. The new roof’s shell design created intricate geometry around its back end. Carefully tight spacing of frames maintained a consistent span distance for roof purlins.

Of course, ample insulation would be needed to keep the finished building cool in Chad’s hot climate. Underneath the new roof’s was hung an advanced polyester membrane. This also serves as a screen for projecting lights and patterns during services.

A powerful new symbol of peace

Notre-Dame de la Paix de N’Djamena Cathedral was formally reopened in April 2023. Religious and secular leaders, including the transitional President and representatives of many faiths, were there to witness its rededication. Six months later, the SAISC recognised the project with 2023’s Light Steel Frame Award. Being celebrated by peers is always welcome, but this achievement represented so much more. It was the human reality behind the story that really won the judges. The city’s Catholic community once again have the place of worship that was intended for them. Success here proves that peace and healing are possible when we work together. A lesson not for one young nation alone, but for the whole world. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Road Infrastructure

Rethinking road infrastructure for a

more sustainable future The planet is warming up at its fastest pace in history. Securing a world that can support life now and future generations requires global concerted efforts in tackling the urgent challenge of climate change. By John Rammutla, Associate: Highways, Transport & Infrastructure, WSP Africa Africa with its population of approximately 1.5 billion people – around 17% of the global population – is responsible for less than 4% of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions but finds itself on the front lines of the impact of climate change.

The transportation sector is considered a significant contributor to global CO2 emissions, being responsible for between 10-15% of all global emissions (and 25% of global fuel combustion emissions) and making it the second highest sector contributor to climate change.

The continent is already contending with more frequent climate-related disasters, hotter weather, erratic rainfall, and rising sea levels, all of which bring human tragedy, economic disruption, and social upheaval. Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions demands decarbonisation efforts across all sectors, including the transportation sector.

South Africa and the rest of Africa, like most parts of the world, face a difficult journey to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. One of the interventions that can contribute to reaching these goals is the adoption of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). This will help revolutionise road networks to be more climate resilient and decarbonised by design.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

EDITORIAL Road Infrastructure

Think of ITS as an advanced application that provides users with access to innovative services that relate to transport and traffic management. Fundamentally, ITS is not about ripping and replacing what has already been put in place. Rather, it is gaining the ability to adapt existing networks to either facilitate less movement or to enable more efficient movement of people and goods.

Despite this, mass-transit systems, electric vehicles, and asset management systems, when combined with ITS, can alleviate some of the poor road conditions that all road users experience. By alleviating congestion, improving safety, and optimising maintenance needs and planning, a more environmentally friendly road infrastructure can be developed.

Accomplishing this will require a shift towards public and active transportation modes while moving away from individual and personal road transportation. In South Africa, where people still insist on using their own transportation to get from point A to point B, this is definitely a tricky proposition although not an impossible one to achieve.

Carbon reduction focus

Roads will always be an integral cog in the transportation chain here and in other countries. To move on the path of net zero emissions entails thinking differently when it comes to how roads are used. This is where the concept of ITS comes in.

It is specifically in road design and construction where emphasis has been placed on the recycling and reusing of materials in addition to adopting non-carbon intensive materials. Furthermore, the concept of multipurpose road usage will bring significant benefits. This sees roads used as communication corridors, social and recreation facilities, overhead mass-transit systems, underground pipelines and services, and the like.

ITS has evolved into a sophisticated systems approach, providing numerous opportunities to revolutionise road networks, delivering the transformation that influences travel patterns and demand. Furthermore, an ITS can help reduce congestion, facilitate more efficient planning, and pave the way for greener mobility – all key aspects when it comes to moving closer to reaching the global net zero target.

Construction innovation

Adapting to ITS begins by focusing on road infrastructure construction. This encompasses many historically high energy activities including everything from mining borrow material to the manufacturing of cement for road infrastructure structures. South Africa’s historic isolation, when combined with the need for an advanced road infrastructure to support the economy, resulted in local engineers developing customised road design and construction technologies that are viewed as innovative globally. This created an environment where naturally available materials, of which South Africa has an abundance, have been used to develop road infrastructure. Additionally, recycling existing road materials, and the use of socalled deeply balanced pavement structures, have contributed to the development of an extensive road network at a fraction of what it would cost in most developed countries. Unfortunately, road funding faces significant competition from other social requirements such as health and welfare. Invariably, this has seen a relatively slow uptake of technology innovation by road authorities. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Currently, road transportation activities and operations account for approximately 10% of the greenhouse gas emissions in the country. It stands to reason that evolving this sector to leverage ITS more effectively can result in a significant contribution towards South Africa’s net zero drive.

Partnership approach

The government cannot accomplish this on its own. It is critical for engineering and construction service providers to work closely with municipalities and regional partners to develop strategies for how transport needs can be met. In this way, existing infrastructure can be used smarter as opposed to continually building new roads. Part of this entails evaluating existing infrastructure and identifying opportunities to upgrade and refurbish. A basic principle is that assets should be optimised from a whole life service perspective, promote renovation, and be retrofitted. The drive towards net zero emissions is one where decarbonisation becomes a focal point. With roads continuing to play a vital role in South African society, more attention must be placed on how to harness its positive contributions towards mobility. Roads contribute to the economy and societal development. By adapting existing road networks for a more sustainable future, ITS can unlock significant growth while also contributing towards reducing the carbon footprint of transportation. ■

WSP in Africa is hiring! To find out more about available opportunities, check out the “Careers” page at www.wsp.com/en-za/careers or look out for updates on our LinkedIn page, @WSPinAfrica.

ADVERTORIAL PPC

PPC new blending plant ensures security of cement supply PPC officially launched its new blending plant in the Highveld region on 1 August. The new facility is in the old Highveld Steel Industrial Park in Emalahleni Local Municipality. It stands as one of the cornerstones in PPC's commitment to bring about enhanced efficiencies, improved turnaround times, outstanding customer service, and exceptional quality to all built environment stakeholders in the Highveld region.

The Highveld PPC plant is strategically positioned to serve the thriving construction and building industries in and around the Mpumalanga and Limpopo regions. Previously, serving this region required long-haul transport from Gauteng, posing inefficiencies for both PPC and its customers.

Optimising logistics through localisation

"The opening of this Highveld plant allows us to optimise our logistics through localisation, which is imperative in reducing transport costs and minimising transportinduced carbon emissions," said Bheki Mthembu, Head of PPC’s Inland Business Unit. Apart from the logistical efficiencies, the new plant will actively contribute to PPC's broader decarbonisation goals. That’s because it achieves lower overall CO2 emissions per tonne of cement through operational efficiencies and the optimum application of fly ash, reducing the clinker content – typically an emissions-intensive component – in its cement.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

ADVERTORIAL PPC

PPC can now make smaller delivery runs

The plant also stands to be a game-changer for small contractors and entrepreneurs in the region. It will enable PPC to make smaller delivery runs, upwards of 12 tons (240 bags), and facilitate so-called 'milk runs' where a single truck serves multiple customers in one trip, thus catering to microenterprises that previously could not afford large material loads. Mthembu says that PPC’s commitment to giving more South African builders and their clients the benefit of access to the highest quality cement products at affordable prices was one of the key drivers behind its decision to establish the Highveld plant. “PPC has an enviable reputation for trusted, quality products that conform to all regulatory requirements in our industry,” he explains, “and we are excited by the opportunity this new plant affords us to make this quality readily available to industries and people in the Highveld region.”

Positive implications for local communities

The establishment and operation of the new PPC Highveld plant also have positive implications for local communities. The construction and development process delivered 31% direct and an estimated 69% indirect temporary employment opportunities. Also, while a blending plant is a highly automated operation, it requires little manual intervention. The plant operations will also have a positive knock-on effect on local businesses that form part of its supply chain or deliver various services such as transport and maintenance. Despite only officially opening on 1 August this year, the PPC Highveld plant is already operating at around 68% of its full capacity, with outputs projected to increase monthly as awareness of the operation spreads and demand for PPC’s top quality, locally blended products continues to grow. “PPC has long been a trusted name in the cement industry, offering our range of world-class products across a wide geographical footprint. We are excited about the opportunity this new Highveld plant affords us to extend this strategic commitment and expand not only the reach of our products but also the positive role PPC plays in underpinning South Africa’s vital construction sector as well as the country’s economic growth.”

0800 236 368 | www.ppc.africa

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT MDS Architecture

Boardwalk Mall precinct brings a new experience to Gqeberha The Boardwalk Mall precinct takes pride of place a few metres from the Blue Flag-awarded Hobie Beach in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. It is a bright, flexible development that takes cognizance of its surroundings.

Designed by MDS Architecture, the first phase of Boardwalk Mall opened in March 2022, with a variety of entertainment options and several tenants who traded while the second phase was being completed. The grand opening took place in September 2022. Pierre Lahaye, MDS Architecture partner, says that Boardwalk Mall is an important part of the overall vision for the precinct, linking with the Sun International Boardwalk Casino and the Boardwalk Hotel.

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PROJECT MDS Architecture

Upgrades

The owners of the Boardwalk precinct are Sun International and Flanagan & Gerard – experienced leisure operators combined with developers with a proven track record in retail development and management. Significant infrastructure and road upgrades formed part of the development and the Boardwalk has been a catalyst for upgrades elsewhere in the Summerstrand area. A residential development, for instance, is under construction. Its architecture is complementary to the Boardwalk precinct, and it has pedestrianised access to the area.

Contemporary interpretation

“Our design is cognizant of integrating into the existing architecture and creating a streetscape that has developed over time. There are several pedestrian access points to the building and to the rest of the new offerings which serve to integrate the precinct into the urban landscape. It is quite something to be able to step out onto the beautiful beachfront promenade directly from the shopping centre,” says Lahaye. The contemporary interpretation was achieved with elements like the shape of the roofs and an aesthetic of a refurbished dockside building. The mall is curved, evoking waves and encouraging further exploration beyond what is immediately visible to the eye. The parking area was redeveloped and now offers over 1 000 parking bays, as well as a dedicated taxi drop-off and pick-up zone. Industrial chic elements include exposed structural details and tactile materials in the interior. Sculptural www.sabuildingreview.co.za

elements were introduced to celebrate the ocean, including boat-shaped origami elements which were used as light fittings. The promotional court features a ceiling pattern reminiscent of a giant compass. The bathrooms, which Lahaye says are an important aspect of retail design, are tactile, featuring timber finishes for a contemporary nautical feel. “All these elements combine with metal work, fabric and illumination to both welcome and entice visitors to explore Boardwalk Mall,” Lahaye explains.

Sunpark Events Arena

One of the unique attractions of the development is the multi-functional Sunpark arena at the heart of the precinct. The 2 500m2 open arena includes a large screen, a landscaped children’s play area and access for the transportation of equipment for large events. Activities spill off the edges of the Sunpark, with a number of restaurants overlooking the beach and enjoying access the open arena. The Sunpark provides a wow-factor for visitors, one that MDS Architecture celebrates by ensuring the broader precinct and Sunpark are visible from inside the shopping centre. Large windows supplement natural light from clerestory windows, but they also offer views of what’s on offer in the broader Boardwalk precinct. There are several events on the cards for Sunpark in 2023, including serving as a fan park for the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the Sunpark complements diverse events and conferences hosted by Sun International in the ICC throughout the year.

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PROJECT MDS Architecture

Professional Team Client: Flanagan and Gerard, Sun International Architect: MDS Architecture Quantity Surveyor: Aeqium Quantity Surveyors Structural & Civil Engineer: L&S Consulting Engineers Electrical Engineer: RWP Consulting Engineers Mechanical Engineers: GPCE Consulting Engineers Fire Consultant: SFT Consulting Engineers Wet Services Consultant: WFP Consulting Engineers Main Contractor: WBHO

Supporting local talent and respecting the environment

The work of local artists is featured at Boardwalk Mall in the public passages and offices, including street art murals with distinctly recognisable elements typical of the region. “The inclusion of local artists is a great way to ensure that the building has context and to build its reputation as a place by the people of Gqeberha for the people of Gqeberha,” says Lahaye. In addition, good environmental principles have been deployed with a view to continuously building up to carbon-neutral developments. Landscaping from the original scheme has been reclaimed, with trees being replanted which had been growing for over a year before the grand opening.

A new node for flexible gathering

Flexibility is an important design consideration, one which Lahaye says has become more pronounced since the pandemic. “Designed spaces need to be adaptable so that if plans or circumstances change, the design allows for multiple uses and some agility,” adds Lahaye.

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The Boardwalk Mall has a direct link to the Nelson Mandela University campus, providing the student population with easy pedestrian access to entertainment and shopping. Boardwalk Mall looks set to continue having a positive impact on local education and art, as well as creating safe and welcoming connections for everyone who lives, works, plays and learns in its immediate surroundings. ■

MDS Architecture is an award-winning practice with remarkable longevity. The practice designed the iconic Sandton City 50 years ago as well as the various upgrades and additions to the development since then. MDS Architecture is renowned for its skill in the sectors of hospitality and leisure, retail developments, offices, residential buildings and interiors. For more info, visit www.mdsarch.co.za Boardwalk Mall in Gqeberha won the South African Property Owners Association 2023 SAPOA award in the Refurbishment category and the South African Council of Shopping Centres 2023 RDDA award (Retail Design and Development Award) in the Renovation and Expansion category.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

a touch of nature. ST40 Feelwood Oakgrain

Looks and feels like oak: Thanks to the new matt-on-matt-finish, the look and feel is realistic and natural. ST40 Eurodekor Faced Chipboards are made using 76% wood from the circular economy. Launching in February 2024 as part of the new Decorative Collection 24+. To find out more to.egger.link/decorative-collection

All our shown and mentioned decors are reproductions.

Time for

ADVERTORIAL Twinstar Precast

Quality is our

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. Twinstar Precast’s ability to solve problems on behalf of clients has also made them a favourite of mainstream precast manufacturing companies who regularly send referrals and make use of the company’s services to manufacture speciality products on behalf of their clients. According to Annemerie Coetzee, owner-operator of Twinstar, the company’s success is due to strong relationships within the industry. “With 26 years’ experience in the precast industry, I realised that there was 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 also requires additional skills and supervision. “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,” says Coetzee.

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 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. Coetzee points out that the skills and commitment of her staff is central to the exceptional standards Twinstar is known for. Most of Twinstar’s staff have been with the company for five years or longer. “They are true artisans with an understanding of the subtleties that go into our production processes,” she says. Coetzee has purposefully kept Twinstar to a size that enables the precision changes required for the short lead times committed to, without 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 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.

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YOUR ST PRECA ETE CONCR LIST SPECIA

Are those precast concrete products which are specified on your construction plans giving you sleepless nights because you just can’t find a supplier? We aim to solve precast problems specifically in the civil construction & building environment at affordable prices in a very short time. Our 24 years' experience makes it possible to provide expert advice. We will manufacture any precast concrete products to your design and need. We specialize in the manufacture of precast concrete products which are not already available on the market, as well as once–off items.

MANUFACTURERS OF SPECIALISED PRECAST CONCRETE PRODUCTS MANUFACTURE INSTALLATION SERVICES IF YOU CAN DREAM IT IN CONCRETE, WE CAN MAKE IT EXPERT DESIGN ASSISTANCE

www.twinstar.co.za

012 670 9083 | 064 632 1649 info@twinstar.co.za

HUNKY DORY BUSINESS PARK, OLIFANTSFONTEIN, GAUTENG

PROJECT MDS Architecture

Award-winning Merino Mall –

a fitting new landmark in Mpumalanga Merino Mall opened at the end of October 2022 and significantly broadened shopping, entertainment and gathering options – not only in Ermelo, but for communities within the large catchment area stretching as far as Pongola, Middelburg and Secunda. Louis van Zyl

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PROJECT MDS Architecture

A consortium of investors is behind Merino Mall, which includes property developers Moolman Group and Abland. Hermann Stassen, Development Manager at Moolman Group, says Merino Mall was in development for years and under construction for 15 months. “We aim to create exceptional retail environments in which we serve our tenants and consumers so that communities can be uplifted. With more than 30 shopping centres in our property portfolio, we work closely with our professionals to deliver a great tenant mix, top notch finishes, excellent amenities and first-class security.” Merino Mall’s retail mix offers an unmatched shopping experience, with a strong fashion component, banking facilities, food outlets, and other exciting stores and service offerings. There are 90 stores, including the first Crazy Plastics and Dis-Chem in the area. Other retail firsts for Ermelo include Cape Union Mart, PNA, @Home, Queenspark, Old Khaki, Crazy Pets, and Refinery. The fully enclosed 28 600m2 shopping centre was designed by MDS Architecture. It is located in the greater Gert Sibande District in Mpumalanga and was built on the edge of an escarpment. Donald McGillivray, a partner at MDS Architecture, says that the agricultural activity in the area was considered. “Merino Mall is built on the historic Ermelo showgrounds. The design pays tribute to the site’s heritage, a place that has always been central to community life in the area.” Merino Mall has its own taxi rank, facilitating commuter travel to and from the mall.

The site

The steep slope on the site resulted in massive bulk earthworks. The design included loffel retaining walls, terraced parking, and entrances at various levels to drop down into the site. Once inside the mall, shoppers experience a relatively modest fall. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Merino Mall’s design needed to be highly visible from the main road, while considering the residential areas to the rear of the site. “For this reason, the building is located away from most of the residential areas and landscaping has been used to provide a level of screening,” says McGillivray.

Inviting exterior finishes

The original showground barn structures were used as inspiration in the building and became a key design feature, with the barn shape becoming a distinctive visual reference. While the architecture and design features pay tribute to the site’s history, the centre is contemporary with clean lines softened by various elements.

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PROJECT MDS Architecture

Thoughtful and pragmatic elements

With exceptional design detailing, high quality materials and an efficient layout, Merino Mall also incorporates strong sustainable design elements. The development has its own solar photovoltaic (PV) plant that produces green energy, allowing the mall to trade during load shedding. In addition, a sewer treatment plant recycles grey water back into the building and feeds the irrigation system to achieve water savings. The shopping centre has reserved parking for shoppers with special needs which are located close to entrances, and Merino Mall is fully accessible to wheelchair users.

Interiors and local art

A welcoming and colourful “HELLO” sign greets visitors from the retaining wall on the front corner of the shopping centre. At night, the sign is illuminated in several shades of green. Merino Mall features three visible entrances which reference the barn shape using concrete, steel, timber, and stone. Exposed vertical sheeting at each entrance provides greater effect. “Taking the barn concept further, we experimented with cross sections, which resulted in exposed rib-like roof trusses in porte cocheres at each entrance. Green walls and creepers soften the porte cocheres, which also deconstruct into a green walkway leading to parking areas,” McGillivray explains. The landscaping lends warmth and texture to the shopping centre through loffel retaining walls with cascading plants, vibrant colour and greenery to ease the transition from Merino Mall outdoors. The food court and children’s play area feature large trees. Continuing the theme of colourful and inviting design, the play equipment at Merino Mall was cleverly designed to use each letter in the town’s name. Sandstone is endemic to the area. In line with MDS Architecture’s ethos of referencing the context and reusing materials wherever possible, McGillivray says that sandstone found on the site appears on several feature walls, including the facades which flank the entrances. “Other natural materials such as timber and steel complement the red bricks and concrete portals.”

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The main malls are treated as barn structures. Internally, they feature exposed roof sheeting, concrete beams above shopfronts and exposed, lime-washed red brick walls. Clerestory windows along the malls and feature courts ensure an abundance of natural light, while the area above the shopfronts introduce exposed steel and concrete beams. Timber-clad portals, reaching 10 metres at the apex, create interest and warmth at the points where there the levels transition inside the building. “Abundant volume and space are the ultimate luxury, and we made the most of the volume and space afforded by the design. The long mall is broken up through the clever use of hanging chandeliers, colourful lights and installations as one moves into the different spaces in the building,” says McGillivray. Porcelain tiles were used on the interior floors of the shopping centre. Due to logistics delays during Covid while the building was under construction, the flooring took longer than anticipated to complete. The ablution facilities feature barn doors with overhead greenery and timber ceiling boards for texture, as well as fun and quirky elements. The food court spills from the inside out and features a climbing wall for children along with bespoke play equipment. Flexible kiosks such as ice cream carts are placed throughout the entertainment area. A distinctive characteristic of Merino Mall is the way it showcases the work of local artists, who have created unique pieces which are relevant to the building’s context. Works highlighting the river and the rising sun www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT MDS Architecture

are placed at separate points in the mall and the food court also features local art. Merino Mall is taking pride of place as Ermelo’s newest landmark with designs that celebrate Ermelo, Mpumalanga and its residents. The unique combination of contemporary architecture, integrated local art and an experiential sense of place have created an exciting and inviting gathering point for the broader community, in addition to the plethora of shopping and entertainment options it offers. Merino Mall in Mpumalanga took top honours for retail excellence in 2023 at the RDD (Retail Design and Development) awards as well as the SAPOA awards (SA Property Owners Association). ■

MDS Architecture is an award-winning practice renowned for its skill in retail developments, hospitality and leisure, offices, residential buildings and interiors. As the original and only architect of record for the iconic 50-year-old Sandton City, MDS Architecture’s longevity is a testament to its thoughtful designs. www.mdsarch.co.za

Professional Team Architects: MDS Architecture Development managers: Moolman Group and Abland Mechanical engineers: Ingplan Consulting Civil & structural engineer: DG Consulting Engineers QS: Matla Consulting Electrical engineer: Watson Matheus Mechanical engineer: Ingplan Consulting Fire engineer: Ingplan Consulting Wet services engineer: Watsol Design Technology Main contractor: Mike Buyskes Construction www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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I don’t want to walk this road alone.

As the construction industry stakeholders, we have the responsibility to preserve the family one bread winner at a time by ensuring “zero” work-related accidents in the industry, so a loved one can return home, to the embrace of family and friends. It ensures a child does not walk this journey called life without the foundation of self, acceptance, unconditional sacrifices, joy, support and love – that we call family.

ZERO is the commitment to achieving 100% compliance to the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA), in the construction industry.

For more information visit www.zeroisnoaccident.co.za

The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company T +27 11 359 4300 E info@fema.co.za W www.fem.co.za A 2nd floor, Building 2, Oxford & Glenhove, 114 Oxford Rd, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, 2196 P Private Bag 87109 Houghton

The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (“FEM”) is licensed to conduct non-life insurance business.

EDITORIAL Health & Safety

The health and safety misconceptions

impeding construction growth The entire construction industry benefits when its participants, whether big or small, improve their operations and particularly their focus on safety. Unfortunately, prevailing misconceptions about the importance and benefits of adhering to occupational health and safety standards hinder many companies, especially SMMEs, from attaining stable growth.

“Every company’s most valuable asset is its workforce. Its workforce also represents its greatest risk factor. As a result, while health and safety regulations were originally implemented to ensure construction workers no longer have to work in unsafe environments, the industry has since evolved and now embraces a culture of health and safety which benefits both employee and employer,” notes Roelof van den Berg, CEO of the Gap Infrastructure Corporation (GIC).

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EDITORIAL Health & Safety

Construction has the highest occupational health and safety (OHS) compliance rate compared to the agriculture, chemical, iron and steel, manufacturing, and wholesale and retail sectors. This is due in large part to its emphasis on advanced employee-focused workplace protocols. “It is generally accepted that the industry standard for health and safety regulation compliance is around 80%. At GIC, we strive for 100% in terms of compliance, understanding the advantages of these standards for employees, as well as for construction companies and their clients,” says van den Berg. Yet regardless of the many advantages of improved adherence to health and safety regulations, a few misconceptions regarding these regulations persist. These prevent companies from realising their true growth potential – especially smaller businesses struggling to find a foothold in the industry and become profitable.

Occupational Health and Safety myths limiting business growth

One common misconception suggests that strict adherence to health and safety regulations hinders productivity and efficiency and slows project completion. But in reality, these regulations exist to safeguard construction workers from potential harm which would otherwise result in considerable lost time, high medical costs, insurance costs, and potential equipment damage for businesses, explains van den Berg. Another misconception is that regulations exclusively apply to large-scale construction projects and that only larger companies with many employees need to comply with them. However, South Africa’s Occupational Health and Safety Act, regulated by the Department of Labour, applies to every participant in the construction industry, and smaller businesses can also benefit substantially from compliance. “When businesses prioritise health and safety and adhere to regulations, they demonstrate a commitment towards their employees’ well-being. This commitment creates a working environment where employees feel valued, supported, and confident in their own capabilities, leading to increased morale and productivity,” says van den Berg. Some construction workers and employers also believe that accidents, injuries, and lost time are unavoidable risks inherent to construction work. However, many incidents can be prevented by adhering to established safety procedures and general guidelines that have been carefully crafted and enhanced over the years to specifically lower these risks. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Investing in safety training, conducting regular inspections, and identifying potential hazards significantly reduces the potential for accidents and damage to property. Moreover, a company-wide proactive mindset encourages employees to become more aware and sensitive to potential workplace hazards, enabling them to perform their duties with a stronger sense of security.

Alarming trend among smaller construction businesses

Lastly, van den Berg makes note of an alarming trend among smaller construction businesses concerning the expenses involved in implementing strict safety regulations. “A common objection against health and safety compliance is that it’s prohibitively expensive and simply not worth the investment,” he says. “But it's first vital to consider the potential impact and threat to employees, remembering that their safety is ultimately paramount. People should always come first. “Additionally, consider that the costs associated with injuries on the job site far surpass the expenses associated with implementing a proper safety strategy.” Beyond the associated medical costs, legal consequences, and project delays, workplace accidents have a devastating effect on morale. These spark unnecessary fear towards completing everyday tasks and could lead to far-reaching reputational damage which may result in diminishing contract opportunities.

GIC has invested in the latest technology on its sites As a result, GIC has invested in and seeks to implement the latest technology on its sites to improve safety standards. These include IOT devices to proactively monitor weather conditions and equipment; onsite CCTV systems to check and monitor that safety guidelines are being followed; and Near Field Communication (NFC) stickers that can provide digital manuals and enable experts to track important items. The company is even in the process of investigating new exoskeletons for workers to assist them in picking up heavy objects and moving around sites while placing less strain on their bodies. “Ultimately, a conventional and comprehensive OHS strategy is not only necessary for ongoing project success and employee security – it’s also a solid blueprint for economic success. Businesses that thrive in this highly competitive industry are the ones that place an emphasis on safety,” concludes van den Berg. ■

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ADVERTORIAL SAQCC GAS

SAQCC Gas:

Empowering Gas Compliance Through Digital Innovation In an era driven by technology, we at SAQCC Gas have revolutionised the landscape of gas compliance through our innovative digital solutions. The introduction of the digital Certificate of Compliance (CoC) and the integration of the digital card within our app stand as a testament to our commitment to combatting fraudulent activities while ensuring safety and compliance in gas usage. Moreover, the digital card integrated into our app plays a pivotal role in curbing fraudulent activities. Its robust features offer real-time verification and validation, minimizing the risks associated with counterfeit. This not only elevates the level of trust and reliability but also ensures that only authorized and compliant individuals are involved in gas-related endeavours. Our digital CoC, a hallmark of our technological advancements, has transformed traditional paper-based certification into a streamlined, efficient online process.

Together, let's champion the cause of safety, leveraging SAQCC Gas' digital advancements to pave the way for a secure and compliant gas industry. Visit our online portal www.saqccgas.co.za and join us in our pursuit of a digitally driven, compliant future. Embrace the Electronic CoC, utilise the digital card features, and actively advocate for safety and compliance in gas usage. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a safer tomorrow for all.

Celebrating 15 Years of Compliance.

Celebrating our 15th year of unwavering commitment to compliance in 2023, we marked this milestone through various initiatives. The anniversary was a testament to our dedication to promoting safety and compliance within the gas industry. Engaging events, educational webinars, and awareness campaigns were organised to emphasise the significance of adherence to standards and regulations. As part of this commemoration, we reinforce our pledge to advance safety measures through digital transformation. We reiterate our commitment to continue evolving and leveraging technology to enhance gas compliance standards for the next 15 years and beyond. To our esteemed audience of property developers, conveyancers, and engineers, we extend a call to action. Join the movement towards safer gas usage by actively participating in promoting compliance within your respective domains. Embrace the digital tools offered by SAQCC Gas to ensure that every gas-related project aligns with stringent safety protocols and regulatory standards. Your involvement is pivotal in ensuring a safer and compliant environment when it comes to gas usage.

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About SAQCC Gas

The SAQCC Gas is a Non-Profit Company that has been constituted by the four (4) Member Associations to establish a central database that displays details of registered Gas Practitioners authorised to work on gas systems. The SAQCC Gas is mandated by the Department of Employment and Labour to register gas practitioners within the following gas industries: • Liquefied Petroleum Gas • Compressed Industrial and Medical Gases • Refrigerant Gases • Natural Gas The Member Associations are: * LPGSA – Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association of South Africa * SACGA – Southern Africa Compressed Gases Association * SARACCA – South African Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Contractors Association * SAGA – Southern African Gas Association

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ARE YOU IN THE INSURANCE, CONVEYANCING OR ARCHITECTURE INDUSTRY?

In a world where quality and safety can't be compromised, it is important that you use a registered gas practitioner. SAQCC Gas ensures mandatory registration of all our allied gas practitioners ensuring they are certified and skilled as per the Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER). Only a registered gas practitioner will issue an Electronic CoC’s on completion of compliant and safe gas installation. Visit wwww.saqccgas.co.za today to verify your trusted practitioners and make sure every job undertaken adheres strictly to approved guidelines!

PROJECT Jacques Orton Architects

Peppertree Restaurant – where cuisine meets artistry Pretoria, the vibrant capital of South Africa, has long been celebrated for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving culinary scene. One architect, Jacques Orton, is making waves in the city's restaurant design landscape with a transformative project that melds innovation, functionality, and aesthetics.

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PROJECT Jacques Orton Architects

At the heart of this endeavour is the creative incorporation of large glass sliding screens and elegant steel columns that are redefining the dining experience in the city. The project, led by Jacques Orton Architects, aimed to revamp a small, charming restaurant in Pretoria. Peppertree forms part of the renowned ‘OpiKopi’ Guest House. While the space had a cozy appeal, it presented unique design challenges – limited space and a desire to bring the outdoors in. Jacques Orton, known for his ability to blend form and function seamlessly, took on the challenge with a vision to create an atmosphere that resonated with the city's dynamic cultural fabric.

Professional Team: Architects: Jacques Orton Architects Engineers: DLV Engineers Principal Agent/Project Managers: Prolead Professional Consulting www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT Jacques Orton Architects

The space presented unique design challenges.

Suppliers list: Main contractor: MJ Construction Glass and aluminium: Edelweiss Steel works: Master Carports Flooring: Colour crete Kitchen: Easylife

Transformative power of sunlight is harnessed

The genius of the restaurant's redesign lies in the skilful integration of large glass sliding screens. These transparent partitions, strategically positioned, allow natural light to flood the space during the day, creating an inviting, open atmosphere. The transformative power of sunlight is harnessed, creating a warm and welcoming environment that patrons can enjoy throughout their dining experience. But it's not just about light; it's about bringing the outdoors in. With a gentle push, the large glass panels slide aside, seamlessly merging the restaurant's interior with its garden surroundings. This unique feature

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allows diners to relish their meals in an alfresco setting, creating an immersive experience that is truly a feast for the senses. To support the expansive glass screens and to add a touch of architectural elegance, steel columns were introduced into the design. These structural elements not only ensure the safety and stability of the glass partitions but also create a striking visual contrast. The industrial-chic allure of the steel columns adds an artistic and contemporary dimension to the restaurant's ambiance. One of the standout features of this re-design is the versatility it offers. The minimalist nature of the glass and steel elements complements a wide range of design styles. Whether the restaurant seeks a modern, sleek appearance or a more rustic, industrial feel, the glass and steel concept adapt seamlessly. Additionally, the transparency of the glass allows the restaurant's interior to shine. Carefully curated decor, furnishings, and artistic accents become focal points, adding to the overall aesthetic charm. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT Jacques Orton Architects

Elevating the diner's experience

This redesign isn't just about aesthetics; it's about elevating the diner's experience. The expansive glass screens create a sense of spaciousness, freeing diners from the confines of traditional restaurant spaces. Patrons can savour their culinary creations while feeling connected to the natural world outside. It's an

immersive and unforgettable experience that blends the boundaries between the interior and exterior. Jacques Orton Architects' small restaurant re-design in Pretoria, South Africa, is a testament to the power of innovative design in the culinary world. By seamlessly incorporating large glass sliding screens and steel columns, the project has transcended the ordinary, creating a dining environment that resonates with the soul of the city. As patrons revel in the culinary delights within, they are equally enchanted by the artistic fusion of architecture, light, and nature that surrounds them. Jacques Orton's visionary work is not just redefining restaurant design; it's redefining the way we dine in Pretoria. ■

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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TRANSFORMING IDEAS INTO AWE-INSPIRING

REALITY When you choose Technicrete you're not just partnering with another construction company – you're joining forces with a team of visionaries who share your passion for success.

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary construction journey? Contact Technicrete today and let us turn your dreams into awe-inspiring structures that will stand the test of time. Together, we will build a future that leaves a mark on the world!

From architects and engineers, to master craftsmen, every member of our team is driven by the same desire to leave a lasting legacy, transforming ideas into aweinspiring reality.

+27 11 670 7600

Email: info@technicrete.co.za Technicrete Head Oﬃce: Corner Main Reef Road & Houtkapper Street | Roodepoort

www.technicrete.co.za

PROJECT Rider Levett Bucknall

Hasso Plattner School of

Design Thinking

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PROJECT Rider Levett Bucknall

Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) was appointed by the University of Cape Town (UCT) to provide full quantity surveying services for the construction of the Hasso Plattner School of Design Thinking, also known as d-school Afrika, an exclusive educational establishment located at UCT.

Professionals list: Principal agent and project manager: Fluid Projects Architect: KMH Architects Quantity surveyor: RLB Quantity Surveyors Structural and civil engineer: Welbey Solomon Consulting Engineers Electrical and electronic: Ifindo Consulting Engineers Mechanical, wet services and rational fire engineer: WSP Landscape architects: TKLA Green building consultant: PJC Health and safety consultant: Safetycon

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT Rider Levett Bucknall

The third Design Thinking institute in the world, it is the sole academic institution in Africa that specialises in providing training and fostering skills in design thinking – the mindset and practise of design-led innovation and creative problem solving. The main goal was to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that would provide a space for individuals from different parts of the African continent to come together and collaborate with one another, to learn how to see real-world problems in a way that leads to innovative solutions. With our proven track record in delivering world-class education facilities globally, we were once again proud to contribute our experience and expertise.

A symbol of unity and collaboration

Designed by KMH Architects, the building needed to integrate with the contextual fabric of UCT but also externally reflect its unique function. The concept evolved to create a centralised covered ‘town square’, the perfect symbol of unity and collaboration. One of the striking features of the building is the 75m-long glass-clad steel gridshell structure that encloses an atrium and extends outward, wrapping around the eastern and western sides of the building.

The project broke ground in October 2020, after one of the toughest periods for the construction industry. Despite the easing of restrictions and the increase in construction activity, the effects of the global shutdowns were still being felt.

Providing shelter for an external courtyard, offering a communal space that combines indoor and outdoor elements in a central location. The design creates large, column-free volumes, allowing for maximum spatial flexibility to accommodate the school’s evolving programme over time.

Behind the scenes, our team of skilled quantity surveyors had to navigate global supply chain delays due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, while still keeping a close eye on the budget. The solution was to source locally as much as possible, with only the major electrical and mechanical components being imported from overseas suppliers.

Working with a relatively small, triangular site, the project successfully resulted in a sustainable, four-level building, comprising basement parking equipped to handle electric vehicles, and three above-ground floors accommodating teaching and admin functions.

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BRINGING BRINGING IMAGINATION IMAGINATION TO TOLIFE LIFE

Building incorporates sustainable design features

The use of fritted glass in the lattice shell roof serves the purpose of reducing both solar heat and glare, while still maintaining comfortable daylight levels. Additionally, the building's façades are equipped with solar performance glass and strategically placed passive shading elements on the exterior to further optimise solar control and energy efficiency. The built environment sector is always focused on the future. But with the world’s buildings responsible for nearly 40% of the world’s carbon emissions, the future is sharply in focus. RLB knows that cost is just one measure of value. How we measure and manage carbon emissions, alongside other economic, environmental, health and wellbeing imperatives, is a global challenge. As a global business, we are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030, aligning with UCT’s 'Vision 2030,' which aims to meet specific sustainability goals across its campuses and ultimately achieve net-zero carbon by 2050. From the outset, the building targeted a GBCSA 6-Star Green Star Public & Education Building certification. Through its Thermo-Active Building Systems (TABS), this building incorporates a sustainable design feature where water, warmed or cooled, flows through pipes embedded in the concrete slabs, altering the concrete's temperature to emit heat or coolness throughout the structure. This system not only enhances energy efficiency but also exemplifies the project's overall commitment to sustainability.

Rider Rider Levett Levett Bucknall Bucknall (RLB) (RLB) is aisleading a leading international international Construction Construction Cost Cost Consulting Consulting and and Project Project Management Management firm. firm. The The global global RLB RLB group group has has 4,300 4,300 people, people, working working across across 4040 countries. countries. With With registered registered offices offices in in South South Africa, Africa, Botswana, Botswana, Kenya, Kenya, DRC, DRC, and and along along with with formalised formalised partnerships partnerships in in Angola, Angola, Namibia Namibia and and Nigeria, Nigeria, wewe areare well well positioned positioned to to provide provide services services to to a diverse a diverse selection selection of of clients clients across across thethe continent. continent. ByBy fostering fostering confidence confidence in in our our clients, clients, wewe empower empower them them to to bring bring their their imagination imagination to to life, life, to to shape shape thethe future future of of thethe built built environment, environment, and and to to create create a better a better tomorrow. tomorrow.

CORE CORE SERVICES SERVICES Quantity Quantity Surveying Surveying

Engineering Engineering Cost Cost Management Management

Project Project Management Management

Development Development Advisory Advisory

CONTACT CONTACT DETAILS DETAILS Cape Cape Town Town Durban Durban Johannesburg Johannesburg Pretoria Pretoria Stellenbosch Stellenbosch

+27 +27 (0)21 (0)21 418 418 9977 9977 +27 +27 (0)31 (0)31 072 072 0999 0999 +27 +27 (0)10 (0)10 072 072 0400 0400 +27 +27 (0)12 (0)12 348 348 1040 1040 +27 +27 (0)21 (0)21 205 205 7337 7337

Closely aligned to the ethos of the d-school, the project was made possible via innovative and collaborative thinking and teamwork, culminating in a cutting edge facility with environmental sustainability at its core. ■ www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT AMA Architects

A perfect blend of

sustainability and aesthetic appeal AECI Limited, a prominent South African chemicals group, occupies their unique offices in a newly renovated space that exemplifies the perfect blend of sustainability and aesthetic appeal.

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PROJECT AMA Architects

AMA Architects

This renovation project was driven by the desire to not only revamp the building but to create a distinctive identity within the surrounding office park. By combining elegant screening and expansive windows, the existing facade was re-imagined and the sawtooth roof that dominated the main elevation was also softened. AECI Limited, always in pursuit of strong client-facing experiences, made sure to include a branded reception area and a separate entrance for private offices in their design. Their vision was clear and a 4-star GBCSA rating, was achieved through an unwavering focus on energy efficiency, together with market value, user experience, and a deep-rooted connection with the natural environment in the Woodlands office park.

Sustainability is at the heart of this renovation

Sustainable materials and green energy solutions were meticulously incorporated to reduce the carbon footprint and to create a healthier work environment. Natural lighting, water systems, and mechanical upgrades were environmentally friendly and also cost-effective. Outdated design challenges were addressed, leading to improved energy efficiency, a fresh, user experience, with a rekindled connection with nature. The transformation proved to be a resounding success, as it significantly enhanced staff satisfaction and departmental interaction within the revamped office, effectively extending the building's life cycle by an impressive two decades. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT AMA Architects

This innovative design enhances the urban nature reserve, and provides an aesthetically pleasing and highly functional workspace. By embracing ecofriendly materials, this project sets an example for other buildings in the area, promoting sustainable development and green living. Accessibility was a key consideration, with the design accommodating individuals with disabilities to foster inclusivity. The project also actively contributed to the local economy by providing employment opportunities in the building industry, using local labour and materials.

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Human interaction at the heart of the planning process

The addition of a branded triple-volume reception lobby and a separate entrance for private offices ensured that AECI Limited's aspirations were fully realized. Existing lobbies and toilets received upgrades to align with the company's vision. The interior design aimed for a 4-star rating, placing human interaction at the heart of the planning process. Flexibility and versatility were brought into space planning through the introduction of agile and versatile flexible workspaces, adapting to the evolving needs of www.sabuildingreview.co.za

PROJECT AMA Architects

diverse project teams. The project embraced a wellnesscentred design approach to support employee wellbeing, incorporating natural lighting and providing panoramic views of this nature reserve in Sandton. Technology-enabled design advancements, such as automated lighting and temperature controls, were integrated for efficiency. The human-centred design approach ensured that comfort, intuitiveness, and customization remained a priority, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. Environmental sustainability was a fundamental aspect, reflected in the use of repurposed materials, eco-friendly practices, optimized energy usage, and recycling programmes.

revamped building in the Woodlands office park embraces abundant bird and wildlife, offering natural outdoor workspaces and spacious meeting areas. It's not just a workspace; it's a connection between humans and nature, making it an appealing post-Covid workplace. ■

The office environment has been thoughtfully designed, allowing staff to connect with nature and the basic services have been upgraded to meet Green Star compliance. Additional amenities like a staff canteen and kitchen have been thoughtfully placed. Internal gardens harmonize office spaces with nature, creating distinct areas for client interaction and private use.

Renovation has yielded numerous benefits

This renovation project has yielded numerous benefits, encompassing improved infrastructure, energy efficiency, increased market value, extended lifespan, regulatory compliance, enhanced user experience, job creation, sustainability, and neighbourhood revitalization. By addressing the unique challenges of the outdated design, it has successfully breathed new life into the building, providing two more decades of functionality. In the realm of environmental consciousness, the renovation project follows the golden rule: Re-use, reduce, and recycle. This project embodies the reuse aspect, taking an existing structure and turning it into a sustainable, ecofriendly space. Natural lighting, water systems, and mechanical upgrades were essential not only for environmental reasons but also for cost savings and a healthier environment. The project achieved its goal of a minimum 4-star rating with the GBCSA, thanks in part to an HVAC upgrade. Situated in Woodmead, with various retail and public transport options and a shuttle to the Gautrain Marlboro Station, this www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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Q&A Modena AEC & Infrastructure

UNVEILING THE FUTURE OF DESIGN:

architects embrace cutting-edge software and technologies for visualization

THABELO NETSHIVHUNGULULU

Modena AEC & Infrastructure: Applications Engineer

In recent years, technology has significantly impacted architectural design and visualization. SA BUILDING REVIEW spoke to Thabelo Netshivhungululu of Modena AEC & Infrastructure, about the latest tech trends architects are using to enhance their design process.

Can you share some insights into the latest software tools or platforms that architects are using? Architects are using various software tools and platforms to enhance their design processes. They incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative technologies to generate photorealistic images, illustrating conceptual thinking.

Some early AI tools are being used more in formal platforms like Autodesk Forma (early design analysis) to other software like MidJourney and LeonardoAI to generate images from text inputs. Some of the more prominent among these are Revit, Rhino 3D, SketchUp, and 3D Studio Max, empowering architects to create intricate designs, fostering innovation and precision. Another notable shift in the industry is the more formal adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a process and its associated tools like Revit for Model Authoring and Autodesk Construction Cloud for cloud collaboration between the construction stakeholders.

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Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have gained popularity in architecture. How are these technologies being used for design and visualization, and what advantages do they offer to architects?

VR and AR are being used to enhance the design and visualization processes, creating immersive environments for architects to experience their designs in a simulated environment. AR is used to overlay digital information onto the physical world. These technologies enable architects to identify design flaws in 3D, make changes before construction, and create interactive models for client presentations. VR and AR reduce the risk of costly design changes during construction, providing effective tools for communication and coordination.

Architects are using various software tools and platforms to enhance their design processes.

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Q&A Modena AEC & Infrastructure

BIM has become a fundamental tool in the industry. Can you explain how BIM software is being used by architects for design, collaboration, and project management, and what benefits it provides?

BIM software is a digital representation of a building’s physical and functional characteristics. Architects use it for design, collaboration, and project management, creating virtual 3D models to visualize buildings, identify flaws, and make real-time changes. BIM fosters collaboration with professionals like engineers and contractors, ensuring everyone works with the same data, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

AI and machine learning are emerging in various fields. Are there applications of AI in architectural design or visualization that you find particularly promising or innovative? Generative design is a process that uses algorithms to generate numerous design options based on a set of constraints and goals. This process helps architects explore a wide range of design options quickly and efficiently, improving the quality of the final design.

Machine learning algorithms are used for analysing data from sensors and other sources to identify patterns and optimise building performance, helping architects design buildings that are more energy-efficient and sustainable.

Additionally, BIM aids project management, ensuring timely and budget-friendly project completion.

AI-powered rendering tools such as Midjourney are being used to generate photorealistic images that can be used to illustrate conceptual thinking.

3D modelling and rendering software have advanced considerably. What are some of the cutting-edge 3D modelling and rendering tools that architects are using to create realistic visualizations of their projects?

AI and machine learning have enormous potential and consultants are exploring the use cases in diverse ways. Some of the first ways that designers explored was with the image-generating platform, MidJourney, to create conceptual images of the potential designs of buildings and spaces.

Architects use tools like Enscape, TwinMotion, VRay, SketchUp, and 3ds Max for creating realistic visualizations. These tools help in presenting immersive environments to clients and stakeholders, reducing the risk of costly design changes during construction.

Cloud-based collaboration and project management tools have become essential for the building industry. How are these tools improving communication and coordination among architects, designers, and other stakeholders during the design phase? Cloud-based collaboration and project management tools improve communication and coordination among architects, designers, and other stakeholders during the design-build phase in several ways.

Cloud-based tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud enable architects to collaboratively work on projects from anywhere globally. This facilitates collaboration across locations and time zones, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Cloud-based tools also allow architects to manage projects more effectively providing a centralized platform (common data environment) for or sharing design changes, managing project timelines, tasks, and budgets, and ensuring projects stay on time and within budget, while real-time communication with clients and stakeholders is improved. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

There is also a subset of tools, called Generative Design, which allows the users to generate the set of rules and guiding principles of what the potential building would require and run multiple design iterations. These options can be weighed against the outcomes specified to determine which design option gives the best approach to design further. As AI and machine learning evolve, more innovative use cases are expected to emerge.

How are architects using advanced data analytics and simulation tools to optimise building designs for factors such as energy efficiency, sustainability, and user experience? Architects use building simulation, generative design, and machine learning to optimise building designs for factors such as energy efficiency, sustainability, and user experience.

Building simulation uses algorithms to test how different spaces and building elements will perform under realworld conditions. Generative design generates many design options based on a set of constraints and goals. Machine learning analyses data from sensors and other sources to identify patterns and optimise building performance.

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Q&A Modena AEC & Infrastructure

Architects use building simulation, generative design, and machine learning to optimise building designs. These tools test different elements under real-world conditions, generate design options, and analyse data for enhanced energy efficiency, sustainability, and user experience.

Considering the global trend toward sustainability, what software or technologies are architects using to model and assess the environmental impact of their designs, including energy consumption and carbon emissions?

With the current climate crisis, a key focus area is how sustainably we are designing our buildings, from material selection, simulating the potential building operations, and the owner/operator of the building’s performance. To assess environmental impact, architects use software like Revit's Carbon simulation, conducting Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) in the early design stages. This helps in selecting sustainable materials and construction methods, reducing the carbon footprint.

Recent projects like the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, and Green Point Athletics Stadium showcase the efficiency and success of incorporating innovative software and technologies.

Mobile apps and tablets have become more prevalent on construction sites. Can you discuss any specific apps or software that architects are using for on-site design changes, inspections, and problem-solving? Architects use various apps like PlanGrid, Site Audit Pro, AutoCAD Mobile App, BIMx, and Sun Locator, allowing for on-site design changes, inspections, and problem-solving. Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) Build facilitates real-time communication on project requirements, delivering in a demanding environment.

By leveraging these tools, architects can streamline their workflows and improve communication with team members and clients.

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Are there any specific examples of recent architectural projects where the use of innovative software or technologies for design and visualization played a crucial role in the project's success or efficiency?

The industry is full of examples, especially in recent years, from delivering residential projects where the entire consulting team is collaborating in the cloud to construction projects sharing project information in realtime through ACC Build, and even as-built projects where Matterport and Faro (LiDAR technologies) were used to capture the existing buildings for the client and design teams. Recent projects like Netcare Alberton, Fourways Mall, Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, Bosjes Chapel, and Green Point Athletics Stadium in South Africa showcase the efficiency and success of incorporating innovative software and technologies.

As technology continues to advance, what do you see as the most significant challenges or considerations for architects and the building industry in adopting and adapting to these new tools and methods? Architects and the building industry do face several challenges when considering implementing new methodologies, one of the most significant being cost – often new technologies require significant investment in hardware, software, and training, which can be a barrier to adoption, especially for smaller firms. Another challenge is the complexity of new tech that requires specialised knowledge and training to be used effectively, creating a barrier to adoption for architects who are not familiar with the technology or who do not have the necessary skills to use it effectively. Finally, there is the challenge of interoperability; some technologies are not compatible with existing systems, which can make it difficult to integrate them into the design process. Despite these challenges, architects and the building industry must continue to evolve to remain competitive and meet the demands of clients and stakeholders. Mitigation involves having reliable technology partners, continued learning, and investing in new technologies to improve workflows, reduce errors, and create more efficient and sustainable designs. ■

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Q&A Solid Green Consulting

Charting a sustainable path:

The future of eco-building in South Africa Eco-building, eco-friendly and sustainable architecture in South Africa is likely to evolve significantly over the coming years, and it will evolve in line with the global pursuit of netzero emissions, according to Marloes Reinink, Director of Solid Green Consulting, a sustainable building consultancy. SA BUILDING REVIEW spoke to him to find out more.

How do you see the role of eco-building evolving in South Africa?

Eco-building in South Africa is likely to evolve significantly over the coming years, and it will evolve in line with the global pursuit of net-zero emissions. This involves designing buildings that are not only energyefficient but also carbon-neutral. Integrating renewable energy sources, using carbon-sequestering materials, and optimizing energy use throughout the building's lifecycle are key. The challenge is to adapt these practices to South Africa's unique socio-economic context. Loadshedding has accelerated the demand for renewables and is becoming more energy efficient. There is also huge opportunity to leverage incorporation of traditional building techniques with modern sustainable practices.

What are the key sustainability challenges in the South African context? South Africa faces distinct challenges such as water scarcity, energy constraints, and material sourcing. Architects can address energy efficiency by designing for passive solar heating, natural cooling, and maximizing the use of daylight to reduce energy consumption. Addressing the other challenges requires innovative approaches in architectural design, like rainwater

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harvesting systems, innovative stormwater systems and the use of low carbon locally sourced building materials. Additionally, considering socio-economic disparities, it's crucial to develop solutions that are not only environmentally sustainable but also economically viable and accessible. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Q&A Solid Green Consulting

Are there specific building materials or construction techniques that will become more prevalent in ecobuilding projects in South Africa? Materials like hemp(crete), rammed earth and mass timber may gain popularity due to their sustainability and low environmental impact.

Techniques such as passive solar design, natural ventilation, and green roofing could become more prevalent. These choices are influenced by their low carbon footprint, cost-effectiveness, and suitability to the local climate and resources.

How can architects adapt eco-building designs to cater to different climate zones and ensure energy efficiency and environmental sustainability?

Architects in South Africa must design buildings that are adaptable to various climate zones – from coastal to arid regions. A climate study should serve as the basis to decide on design techniques appropriate for the climate. This involves using materials and designs that suit local conditions, such as thicker insulation for cooler regions or reflective materials for hotter areas to deflect sunlight. Limiting large glass facades and finding a balance between good daylight and minimizing heat load coming into the building. Energyefficient heating and cooling systems and adaptive ventilation can significantly contribute to maintaining energy efficiency across different climates.

What innovations or strategies will be important for integrating renewable energy into architectural designs in South Africa? The integration of renewable energy like solar and wind power is essential for achieving net-zero buildings.

Innovations in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and the use of battery storage systems to manage energy supply and demand will be key strategies. These technologies help in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and in minimizing the overall carbon footprint of buildings. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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Q&A Timber revolution

How can architects contribute to water conservation and sustainable water management through their eco-building designs? It is always about reduce, reuse, recycle.

Reduce water usage in buildings through efficient fittings and fixtures. Reducing water in buildings also reduces the need for water treatment and transportation, which are energy-intensive processes. Teams can f urther design systems for rainwater harvesting, and wastewater recycling. These systems can be integrated into the building design. Watersensitive urban design (WSUD) principles may also be adopted to manage stormwater sustainably.

What are examples of successful ecobuilding projects in South Africa that have effectively used recycled or upcycled materials, and what benefits did they bring? There are several innovative eco-building projects in South Africa using recycled materials.

Solid Green is involved with a library project in Soweto built with cross laminated timber. There is also the Helderberg Nature Reserve, which used several different alternative building techniques. There are also examples of rammed earth projects. The Regenerative Collaborative of South Africa (RCSA) showcases some of the local examples in their monthly webinars.

What policies or incentives do you believe the South African government should implement or enhance to encourage the adoption of eco-building practices across the country?

The South African government could implement policies like tax incentives for eco-friendly construction, grants for research in sustainable materials, and stricter building codes that mandate energy-efficient designs; incentives for low-carbon construction projects, and subsidies for renewable energy installations. Encouraging public-private partnerships for sustainable urban development projects can also be effective. These policies can accelerate the shift towards netzero buildings by making sustainable practices more economically viable.

How can architects work with local communities and stakeholders to promote sustainable and eco-friendly architecture in South Africa?

Architects can engage with local communities through workshops and participatory design processes, educating about the benefits of net-zero buildings and involving them in the design process, thus ensuring that eco-building projects address local needs and preferences. Collaboration with local artisans, material suppliers, and environmental experts can foster a sense of ownership and appreciation for sustainable practices in the community. This can also ensure that eco-buildings are not only environmentally sustainable but also culturally and socially relevant, increasing their acceptance and impact.

What do you think are the main opportunities and challenges that architects, and the construction industry will face when striving to make ecobuilding more widespread and impactful in South Africa? Opportunities include the growing global focus on climate change, advancements in sustainable materials, and increased public awareness.

The challenge lies in making net-zero buildings affordable and accessible, ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations, and overcoming the inertia of traditional construction practices. The industry needs to balance innovation with cost and practicality and cultural relevance while striving for carbon neutrality. ■

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PROJECT Trend Group

Trend Group flourishes in

diverse and growing Cape Town market Amidst the vibrant landscape of Cape Town’s corporate arena, Trend Group stands as a beacon of innovation in office interior design and refurbishment. Spearheading its mission is none other than Lloyd Stocks, the astute Western Cape Director, who proudly proclaims the numerous triumphs from PepsiCo to Rubicon and Payfast. 146

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PROJECT Trend Group

In this bustling Cape Town market, Trend Group has consistently defied the status quo, charting an impressive trajectory of sustained growth year after year. This ascent mirrors the accolades showered upon Cape Town, for it has been the unassailable star performer in recent statistics, as confirmed by the State of South Africa's Property Market Q1 2023 report by Property Wheel. During Q1 2023, Grade A nominal rentals soared by a staggering 13% in Cape Town’s decentralised spaces, compared to their Q1 2022 figures. In sharp contrast, Johannesburg experienced a modest 2.3% uptick, and Pretoria followed suit with a 1.7% rise. Sadly, Durban faced the brunt of adversity, as decentralised rentals dwindled by 2.3%.

One-stop design and build approach

What gives Trend Group a leading edge in the diverse Cape Town office market is its one-stop design and build approach, which makes for a quick turnaround time for any project, no matter the size. “The benefit for our clients when partnering with us is our ability to understand and interpret their needs, and design incredible workspaces, while implementing these seamlessly on time and on budget,” says Stocks. An example is the 1 000m2 design-and-build fitout for Impact at Century City, which Trend Group completed in a record eight weeks.

Refurbishment of PepsiCo’s offices

Another example of a recent successful design-and-build project, a South African inspired design influenced by the local Cape Town culture, was the refurbishment of PepsiCo’s existing 1 012m2 office space in Tyger Valley, Belville. It features warm finishes, with a neutral pallet complemented by bright, vibrant colours and accents. The space utilises natural light celebrated earthy tones, patterns, and textures. “We worked very closely with the client’s internal IT and branding teams to ensure we met their operational and branding requirements,” notes Stocks. A specific requirement was height-adjustable desks in the open desking areas. Many design items were sourced locally contributing to the concept’s authenticity with an initiative to upcycle and reuse objects. The majority of the furniture was sourced from local companies. The space was subdivided into three main open-plan areas and the floorplan was colour-blocked, so all associated meeting rooms, screens and phone booths had fabrics and furniture to match the colour of the designated area. The collaboration areas in the centre of the floorplan on each wing were the prominent features. www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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PROJECT Trend Group

Both central areas acted as collaboration hubs, with bold S-shaped booths with ropes that flowed up into the ceiling. Each booth curve is a different colour that matches a specific PepsiCo beverage. Each booth curve also has wallpaper branding to create a ‘can’ effect, using the matchingcoloured rope detail to mimic the flow of liquid floating upward. Most of the floorplan was designed with curved floor finishes, shopfronts, and drywalls that drew from the logo shape. The canteen was a feature area with booths that are colour-blocked with PepsiCo’s CI colours. The canteen features natural textures like timber, leather, and concrete vinyl, complemented by bright, vibrant colours. “The client’s internal branding team worked with us to effectively brand large feature walls in prominent areas of the open desk work spaces as well as meeting rooms,” notes Stocks. As per PepsiCo’s stringent requirements, the office is designed to achieve specific acoustic and comfort levels to facilitate a productive, comfortable, and creative workspace. In addition, Trend Group had to work within international PepsiCo space guidelines for room sizes, room arrangements, and quantity of areas. “The client was receptive to all the ideas presented and really allowed us to interpret the brief in a creative way. It was a great experience working with an international client at this scale,” says Stocks.

Modern, industrial inspired flagship for Trend Group

An entirely different project for Trend Group in Cape Town was when Rubicon, which specialises in sustainable technology, lighting, and building automation, approached it to design a modern, industrial inspired flagship 2 130m2 office space in Richmond Park.

“Focusing on the key design information of strong curves, motion, technology, and connectivity, we were aspired to design a space that belongs to the Rubicon culture and draws from the masculine flow and curvature of the logo,” explains Stocks. The long, elongated floorplan drove the overall concept of the space, where all productivity and focus areas are situated along the perimeter with a neutral colour palette of greys and timbers, exposing all services. In contrast, to emphasise all collaboration and meeting areas, the core of the floorplan was demarcated in blue carpet and outlined by a perimeter bulkhead.

The brief included the office space, which houses 120 people, additional warehouse offices and workshop stations within the warehouse facility, as well as a user experienced based showroom environment.

The central hub, using the concept of demarcation and bright colour, created different collaboration environments with bright pops of colours to make this space fun and interactive. It plays around with the idea of temporary and permanent spaces. Sustainability was encouraged through advanced technology and the inclusion of lots of biophilia.

The modern, industrial inspired office and showroom celebrates the client’s innovative principles and sustainable approach to design.

The new flagship showroom space drew inspiration from the curvature in the Rubicon logo and the multiple industries they accommodate.

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PROJECT Trend Group

“We created a space that integrated the company’s products and systems into hypothetical environments,” highlights Stocks. The aim was to create a simplified user experience for new clients , using archways and circles to make the space interactive.

Combining three different office cultures Another interesting Cape Town project for Trend Group was creating a new 2 900m2 office environment for Payfast in Rondebosch, an instant online payment platform. The new space created an opportunity for three companies to merge into one as part of the DPO Group. “Combining the three different office cultures was a challenge to consider in terms of layout and finishes,” stresses Lloyd. The client facing areas were required to be more formal, incorporating timbers and warm tones to create a welcoming environment for their high-end clientele. However, the open plan office was designed as a more playful, fun, and interactive space, allowing employees to connect and rejuvenate. Pops of colour divided the rows of desking with breakaway spaces for focus, collaboration, and brainstorming.

“We maintained keeping the furniture and dividers flexible to futureproof the space for growth,” points out Stocks. The space fosters a variety of activities and has a mixture of moods and tones to match the functionality of the particular spaces. Stocks is confident that Trend Group will continue to flourish in the dynamic Western Cape market. A Commercial Space Market Trends 2023 report states that commercial office space may benefit from loadshedding as companies begin to pressurise employees to return to the office where power supply is guaranteed. The report predicts an uptick in enquiries for larger commercial office spaces that can accommodate teams on a 9 to 5, Monday to Friday basis. In addition, competition for premium yet competitively priced commercial properties is expected to intensify. “The Western Cape is experiencing an influx of people migrating from other regions in South Africa, which seems to be a driving factor in the expansion of existing businesses as well as new businesses setting up offices,” concludes Stocks. ■

About Trend Group

Trend Group specialises in office interior design and refurbishments in the commercial sectors. We are a comprehensive, solutions-driven company that operates on a turnkey basis. We offer a streamlined approach to design, procurement, and construction delivery, covering all aspects of the project solution. We are a proud Level 1 B-BBEE accredited company. www.trendgroup.co.za

REFERENCES The State of SA’s Property Market Q1 2023 – Property Wheel https://propertywheel.co.za/2023/04/the-state-of-sas-propertymarket-q1-2023/ Commercial Space Market Trends 2023 https://commercialspace.co.za/commercial-space-propertymarket-trends-2023-beyond/

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EDITORIAL Wastewater Treatment Plants

Zinc can withstand high temperatures and pressures and mechanical stresses and vibrations. Easy to apply and maintain, galvanizing or zinc thermal spray requires minimal surface preparation. However, a duplex coating with an organic coating gives years of life to the steel in a wastewater treatment plant, highlights Simon Norton, Executive Director of the International Zinc Association (IZA) Africa. Zinc is a sacrificial coating that can be used to protect the primary base steel from corrosion in wastewater treatment plants. It corrodes preferentially to the base steel to protect it from corrosion. Specialised coatings can reduce or prevent corrosion.

Zinc-based corrosion protection enhances the durability and reliability of wastewater treatment plants, reducing their vulnerability to equipment failure, stoppages and costly repairs.

Physical barrier coatings versus sacrificial coatings

Traditionally, there are two types: Physical barrier coatings act as a barrier between the material to be protected and the environment, while sacrificial coatings such as zinc galvanizing corrode preferentially to protect the primary base steel. A protective layer known as a zinc patina is formed on galvanized steel. It consists of zinc oxide, zinc hydroxide, and zinc carbonate. The zinc patina, which is a dark grey colour, acts as a barrier to prevent further corrosion by stopping oxygen, water, and other corrosive agents reaching the underlying metal. Zinc also acts as a galvanic electrochemical protector to steel so where there are scratches the zinc galvanizing still protects the steel.

Zinc is a useful corrosion protection method for wastewater treatment plants provided it is duplex coated in the wastewater liquor, which can be very corrosive and aggressive. Corrosion is the deterioration of metal materials due to chemical or electrochemical reactions with the surrounding environment. It can cause serious problems for wastewater treatment plants in particular, such as reducing the structural integrity and performance of pipes, tanks, pumps, valves, and other equipment. This, in turn, increases the risk of leaks and spills and most importantly mechanical equipment failure which adds to maintenance and replacement costs. Corrosion can also pose health and safety hazards for workers and the public and have a significant environmental impact.

Contributes to sustainability and resilience

Zinc coatings contribute to sustainability and resilience by their reusability. A natural and abundant element that can be recycled indefinitely without losing its properties or quality, zinc galvanized steel recycling reduces the demand to mine and refine new zinc. “This saves energy and resources and reduces greenhouse gas emissions and waste. Zinc recycling also creates jobs and economic value in various sectors, such as metal manufacturing, construction, transportation, and waste management,” says Norton. Zinc based corrosion protection enhances the durability and reliability of wastewater treatment plants, reducing their vulnerability to equipment failure, stoppages and costly repairs, that local authorities can ill afford. “Widely used in various industrial applications such as zinc rich paints, galvanizing steel, concrete rebar galvanizing, precision die casting of engineering components, zinc is increasingly essential for the corrosion protection of wastewater treatment plants, which is critical infrastructure to ensure public health and environmental quality,” adds Norton. ■

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. www.zinc.org

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RO OFI FIN NG PAIN INT TI NG WATE RP RO OFI FIN NG AS ASBES BEST TOS

ADVERTORIAL Fourways Group

Let’s break the ice! The power of cold plunging with the Alliance domestic pool heat pump In recent years, there's been a surge in popularity surrounding cold plunging. This chilling practice can trace its roots back to ancient civilisations, where it was believed that the cold could invigorate the body and senses. Today, science backs many of these claims, with numerous studies indicating the manifold benefits of subjecting oneself to colder water temperatures. From enhancing circulation, reducing inflammation, and boosting mood, to accelerating muscle recovery, cold-water immersion has cemented its place in the wellness world. However, while cold showers might be the most accessible way to get a taste of these benefits, they are merely the tip of the iceberg. Enter the ice bath. The difference between a cold shower and an ice bath is more than just a matter of degrees. While a cold shower can be a refreshing jolt to your system, an ice bath offers a more intense and sustained exposure to cold, plunging you into a deeper state of rejuvenation and recovery.

The history of cold plunging

The practice of cold plunging, or immersing oneself in frigid waters, is by no means a modern trend. The ancient Greeks

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heralded the virtues of 'hydrotherapy', with the legendary physician Hippocrates often touting the curative properties of cold water. The Romans, not to be outdone, intricately incorporated cold plunges into their famous bathhouse routines, seeking balance after their steamy saunas. Similarly, the Scandinavian tradition of 'Nordic bathing' — alternating between hot saunas and icy waters — has been a rejuvenating ritual for centuries. This timeless allure of cold water isn't merely about braving the chill; it's a testament to the profound benefits it has offered through the ages.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

ADVERTORIAL Fourways Group

Benefits of cold plunging

Cold plunging is more than just a test of willpower; it's a cascade of physiological benefits: circulation: The sudden cold 1 Boosted exposure prompts blood vessels to constrict, redirecting blood flow towards vital organs. Once out of the cold, vessels dilate, leading to a rush of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. This circulation dance not only revitalises the organs but also supports skin health, lending it a natural glow.

Enhanced muscle recovery: Athletes swear by cold plunges post-workout. The cold immersion helps reduce muscle soreness by decreasing lactic acid build-up and reducing inflammation, paving the way for faster recuperation.

elevation: Taking the cold plunge can 3 Mood stimulate the production of endorphins, the body's natural mood boosters. Additionally, the cold can activate the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter linked to focus and attention, imparting a sense of clarity and alertness.

Fortified immunity: Regular cold exposure can stimulate the body's white blood cell production. These cells play a pivotal role in warding off illnesses, ensuring you remain in the pink of health.

activation: The body's natural 5 Thermogenic response to cold is to generate heat. This process, termed thermogenesis, can boost metabolism, potentially aiding in weight management and increasing energy levels.

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

Beyond heating, more than just a heat pump

But where does one get an ice bath? Surely, it's not about filling your tub with bags of ice. With the Alliance Domestic Pool Heat Pump, the answer is closer than you think. Designed to masterfully regulate water temperature, the Alliance Domestic Pool Heat Pump is not just about warming your water; it's also about giving you the power to harness the cold like never before, turning your regular jacuzzi or pool into a rejuvenating ice bath sanctuary, ensuring that you get the optimal benefits of cold-water immersion. Whether you're seeking to heat your water temperature to a comfortable 28°C or pushing the boundaries of cooling your water to 8°C, the Alliance pool heat pumps are engineered to achieve and maintain your desired temperature. Using state-of-the-art technology, this heat pump is a testament to efficiency, ensuring that your water reaches the desired temperature without draining your energy bills. Not only is it functional, but the Alliance Domestic Pool Heat Pump also boasts a design that seamlessly fits into any setting. No need to compromise aesthetics for functionality.

Installation made easy

If you're worrying about the installation process, don’t. The Alliance brand is backed nationwide by Fourways Group, which means you get to choose from a list of accredited installers that guarantee impeccable service and unrivalled support. Contact your nearest branch today: Johannesburg & Central: +27 (0)11 704 6320 Gqeberha (PE): +27 (0)41 484 6413 East London: +27 (0)43 722 0671 KZN: +27 (0)31 579 1895 Pretoria: +27 (0)12 643 445 Cape Town: +27 (0)21 556 8292 For more information, visit www.allianceafrica.co.za

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At Rocla every detail is meticulously planned and ﬂawlessly executed, with constant communication and unparalleled transparency.

Our commitment to delivering excellence extends to every interaction, ensuring complete satisfaction throughout the entire construction process What sets us apart?

Our relentless pursuit of perfection. We constantly push the boundaries of what's possible, embracing new techniques and methodologies, to create structures that defy expectations. Winning the trust of countless clients, we have earned a reputation for our exceptional quality and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Are you ready to build something extraordinary?

Look no further than Rocla where innovation meets craftsmanship in the most exhilarating way! Introducing the construction team that never settles for mediocrity. We are committed to revolutionising the industry, one project at a time. Whether you're dreaming of a magniﬁcent skyscraper, a luxurious residential complex, or a cutting-edge commercial development, we have the expertise, the passion, and the drive to make it a reality.

Email info@rocla.co.za ROCLA Head Oﬃce: Corner Main Reef Road & Houtkapper Street | Roodepoort

www.rocla.co.za

DIRECTORY

Fendeck & Rail Over 100 different PVC fence and window designs. Custom-made to any design specification. Fendeck's premium PVC products are ideal for any harsh climate and will last a lifetime.

C: +27 (0)82 296 7354 / +27 (0)72 120 0127 (WhatsApp) E: info@fendeck.co.za www.pvcbuildingproducts.co.za

Finstone Finstone is an international vertically integrated company, leader in the industry of granite and stone products. Specialized in quarrying, manufacturing, and distributing of stones.

T: +27 (0)79 973 9242 E: finstonemedia@gmail.com www.finstone.co.za

Sustainable waterproofing systems KÖSTER TPO Premium: The durable, environmentally friendly polymer waterproofing membrane. RubberRoofs™ is the exclusive South African agency of Köster products.

T: +27 (0)87 094 8092 E: info@rubberroofs.co.za www.rubberroofs.co.za

Expert rust inhibitor RostGuard™ - a market-leading non-toxic, anti-corrosive rust inhibitor. A product of RubberRoofs™, the Trusted Name in Waterproofing.

T: +27 (0)87 094 8092 E: info@rubberroofs.co.za www.rubberroofs.co.za

Lights by Linea Lights by Linea specialises in lighting design and specification for the retail, residential and commercial building sectors, and we have based our solid foundation in the industry on supplying the correct light fittings to suit design, budget and brief. 48 Marine Drive, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town T: +27 (0)21 511 6116 E: info@lightsbylinea.com www.lightsbylinea.com

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DIRECTORY

Stumbelbloc Stumbelbloc moulds produce interlocking, concrete building blocks. The blocks can be used in small DIY projects and large-scale construction.

T: +27 (0)84 414 6255 / +27 (0)21 551 1011 E: info@stumbelbloc.com www.stumbelbloc.com

King Brands King Brands is a respected, proudly South African specialist metal manufacturer. King Trellis, All Seasons and DuraRack, all fall under the King Brands manufacturing umbrella.

T: +27 (0)86 165 9235 / +27 (0)83 580 1509 E: sales@kingbrands.co.za www.kingbrands.co.za

Eagle Lighting Suppliers of lighting and lighting accessories for domestic and commercial projects, also offering a wide range of LED energy efficient solutions.

T: +27 (0)21 511 2640 E: info-sales@eagle-lighting.co.za www.eaglelighting.co.za

A.Shak Construction Chemicals A.Shak Construction Chemicals provides specialised and quality products for the civil, building, mining and precast concrete manufacturing industries.

T: +27 (0)11 822 2320 E: cindy@ashak.co.za www.ashakconstruction.co.za

Jax Oleum Jax Oleum, manufactured in SA, can be used for both interior and exterior applications, and is easy to apply in a single coat. A wide colour range is available.

T: +27 (0)11 444 7221 / +27 (0)71 112 1494 E: info@jaxoleum.co.za www.jaxoleum.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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DIRECTORY

Douglas Jones Douglas Jones is an importer of quality mosaic and tile décor products. They follow current trends and source products worldwide.

T: +27 861 667 242 E: info@douglasjones.co.za www.douglasjones.co.za

Liquid Rubber Industries Seamless systems for waterproofing, corrosion protection, above and below ground. Thermal insulation. Asbestos encapsulation. Cost efficient. Trusted experts since 2009.

T: +27 (0)86 111 5540 E: info@liquidrubbersa.co.za www.liquidrubbersa.co.za

Diri Aluminium Diri Aluminium, established in 1976, uses professional and proven designs to achieve the customer’s vision. Manufactured and installed to industryleading standards.

T: +27 (0)12 666 9022 E: main@diri.co.za www.diri.co.za

ASPASA ASPASA is a non-profit organisation that advocates for the small surface mining industry. It works alongside various industry bodies and government agencies to influence leading practices, develop standards, and shape legislation that aligns with the unique needs of small surface mines.

T: +27 (0)11 791 3327 E: office@aspasa.co.za www.aspasa.co.za

AMA Architects Africa AMA Architects Africa are leading architects for discerning clients, specialising in commercial, industrial and retail projects, as well as luxury housing.

T: +27 (0)11 807 7505 / +27 (0)83 378 2891 E: adrian@amagroup.co.za www.amagroup.co.za

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DIRECTORY

Luxaflex® Luxaflex® creates innovative window covering solutions, using environmentallyfriendly fabrics to provide clients with hand-crafted, made-to-measure products of an international standard.

T: +27 (0)11 251 7002 E: info@luxaflex.co.za www.luxaflex.co.za

Palram For 60 years Palram has been a leader in the thermoplastics industry, supplying to various market segments around Africa.

T: +27 (0)86 172 5726 / +27 (0)78 450 7793 E: Dawn.Goossens@palram.com / jolene@palram.com www.palram.com/za

iTe Products We research, develop and manufacture premium flooring and building products, including cement, cementitious flooring products, tile and flooring adhesives, paints, crack fillers, skimming compounds and sealants. iTe Products

ite-products

ite.products

T: +27 (0)11 864 4918 E: sales@iteproducts.co.za www.iteproducts.co.za

Lyra Consulting We are specialist advisors. Our Industry specialists have exceptional skills, expertise and know how to advance competitiveness. Lyra Consulting provides legal consulting services, contract management services, international business services, corporate finance and valuation services. T: +27 (0)79 885 2626 E: Info@lyra-consulting.co.za www.lyra-consulting.co.za

Wirquin Wirquin’s reliable, innovative products (shower channels, basin wastes, toilet seats, mechanisms, connectors, cisterns etc.) are focused on saving water, space and time for end users and installers.

T: +27 (0)42 243 6000 E: enquiries@wirquin.co.za www.wirquin.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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DIRECTORY

Decorative Surface Solutions Innovative and decorative surface products; and the provider of surface solutions for interior and exterior spaces and applications. Our collections include high-pressure laminates, compact laminates, solid surfacing, and our latest Infinito 3D surfaces. Limeroc Business park, 1 Magner Street, Knoppieslaagte, Centurion, Gauteng T: + 27 (0)87 149 1585 E: enquiries@surfacestudio.co.za www.surfacestudio.co.za

Taylor Blinds Taylor Blinds & Shutters is the go-to choice for discerning home and business owners who prioritise quality, style and security. Our premium blind and shutter products are made locally, with a strong focus on craftsmanship. Our products are skilfully put together by hand, by real experts whose work satisfy the highest standards.

T: +27 (0)11 794 1743 (Johannesburg) / +27 (0)21 552 5080 (Cape Town) E: salesjhb@taylorblinds.co.za / sales@taylorblinds.co.za www.taylorblinds.co.za

Wallpaper Inn Importers of high-end wallpaper for domestic and contract use. Pre-mixed and flake paste and wallpapering tools. Showrooms in Joburg and Cape Town.

T: +27 (0)87 359 1682 E: clare@wallpaperinn.co.za www.wallpaperinn.co.za

The Southern African Institute of Steel Construction The Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) has tirelessly served the industry since its inception in 1956. An unwavering champion for the use of steel in construction and committed to the growth of the Southern African Steel Industry. T: +27 (0)11 726 6111 E: info@saisc.co.za www.saisc.co.za

AAAMSA Group The AAAMSA Group is a non-profit, voluntary organisation committed to fostering trade and commerce in the manufacture and installation of fenestration, glass and glazing, thermal, ceiling and partitioning in the building industry. The AAAMSA House, Conference and Training Centre 2 Superior Road, Halfway House Estate, Midrand, 1685 T: +27 (0)10 496 7503 (temporary number) www.aaamsa.co.za

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DIRECTORY

Boomgate Systems Boomgate Systems is a manufacturer of vehicles and pedestrian access control equipment and high security, anti-terror equipment, eg. traffic barriers, spike barriers, turnstiles, speedstiles, road blockers and bollards. Boomgate Systems Experience Centre 686 Joseph Lister Street, Constantia Kloof Ext 21, Roodepoort T: +27 (0)11 674 4441 E: boomgate@global.co.za www.boomgatesystems.co.za

Royal Concrete Slabs Royal Concrete Slabs supplies rib and block slab, engineering services and ready mix concrete to the construction industry.

2 Acacia road, Anchorville, Lenasia, Gauteng T: +27 (0)11 857 1003 E: royalconcreteslabs@gmail.com www.royalconcreteslabs.co.za

Gunnebo Safe Storage Gunnebo is a provider of security products and services. Our safe storage business, provides products under the Chubbsafes brand, protecting your valuables and confidential data with a range of security doors, safes and automated and mechanical safe deposit lockers. T: +27 (0)11 878 2300 E: info.africa@gunnebo.com https://www.chubbsafes.com/en-za/

Versus Paint We are a master coating and paint supplier that has gained a leading stand in the industry for quality products and customer care. We provide a wide range of services that ensures complete protection for any residential, commercial, industrial or corporate application. This is enhanced by providing various paint materials for all requirements, both in the home and the workplace.

T: +27 (0)11 885 3136 E: info@versuspaint.co.za www.versuspaint.co.za

Keller Geotechnics SA (Pty) Ltd Keller is the world’s largest geotechnical specialist contractor, providing a wide portfolio of advanced piling and ground improvement techniques across the entire construction sector.

T: +27 (0)11 062 7600 E: info.za@keller.com www.keller-africa.co.za www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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

specialist suppliers of large scale, low maintenance pots + planters | bench + wall paneling | seating + furniture | bollards, bins and various public space installations custom design, including design forward items, as well as landscaping essentials to fit to scope +27 (0)82 443 0084 info@igneous.co.za www.igneous.co.za

innovators in all weather, lightweight polyconcrete

Aerolite® Soft Touch ceiling insulation Designed to improve the energy efficiency, safety and thermal comfort of a building. Aerolite® Soft Touch ceiling insulation is the key to unlocking thermal comfort, acoustic pleasure and energy savings. Locally manufactured using up to 80% recycled glass, Aerolite® is the noncombustible insulation solution to keep your family safe, your home comfy all year round and save big on energy costs.

G RIN

LOO F ! AL N ND O O I Y ESS & BE F RO P ISH N G I F IN Y O L T PP EP R SU MP O FR

JEC RO

Cape Town (Head Office) Call: +27 21 552 8566 / Email: sales@mactool.co.za Johannesburg Call: +27 11 823 1077 / Email: salesjhb@mactool.co.za Durban Call: +27 31 350 4004 / Email: saleskzn@mactool.co.za

CONSTRUCT THE WORLD BEYOND THE EXPECTED

Waterproofing

Sealing and Bonding

Flooring

Call us for more info: 031 792 6500 www.sika.co.za

Roofing

Anchoring and Grouting

Concrete Repair and Protection

THE THEART ARTOF OFCONCRETE CONCRETE • Bonding Agents • Bonding Agents

• Concrete Repair Mortars • Concrete Repair Mortars

• Non Shrink Grouts • Non Shrink Grouts

• Chemical Anchors • Chemical Anchors

• Curing Compounds • Curing Compounds

• Pre Cast Repairs • Pre Cast Repairs

• Concrete Bonding • Concrete Bonding

• Epoxy Adhesives • Epoxy Adhesives

• Water Proofing • Water Proofing

• Concrete Crack Repairs • Concrete Crack Repairs

• Epoxy Grout • Epoxy Grout

• Concrete Release Agents • Concrete Release Agents

• Joint Sealants • Joint Sealants

plusplus SERVICE SERVICE thatthat SHINES! SHINES!

ForFor that lasting impression and quality finish! that lasting impression and quality finish!

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Factorylite® & the AshGrid™ Spacer System The Legislatively Compliant Insulation Solution: Enhancing Safety and Comfort in Metal Buildings

A masterpiece of innovative freshness technology.

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Your signature aesthetic. Our product expertise. Tiltscreens.co.za A unique way to modernise and transform architecture. Our perforated panels and facade designs offer a contemporary solution to so many functional architectural requirements and with customisable options in material, colour and pattern, the applications become a signature feature to any build. Distinctive. Functional. Beautiful.

Featured project.

Studio Vision and Arnotrim Home & Town Developers. Aluminium Sliding Screens. Image credit courtesy of Stiles.

We’re here to help. Let’s talk about your next project. For all enquiries or more information, please contact us. Call 021 556 9229 info@tiltscreens.co.za www.tiltscreens.co.za

Crafting metal into meaning since 1999.

STATUS CEILINGS 011 967 2336 www.statusceilings.co.za

SECURITY

SUN CONTROL

STORAGE

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Embrace the outdoors

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Louvre awnings Fixed awnings Door awnings Facades & screens

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ADVERTISERS

SaBuildingReview

SA_Building_Rev

SABuildingReview

INDEX

a.b.e. Construction 21

MiTek 95

A.Shak Construction Chemicals 170

Mitsubishi Electric Air Conditioning

Afrisam 9

Systems 128

Allbro Industries IFC, 1

Modena 141

AMA Architects 83

Plascon SA 56, 57

ASP Fire 66

PPC Cement OBC

Bell South Africa 134

Pratley Marketing 43

Blum 111

Prominent Paints 26, 27

Cement & Concrete SA 166

QDP Lighting & Electrical

Claybrick Association 155

Design (Pty) Ltd 37

Concrete Manufacturers Association 167

Rand Water 90

Coverstyl South Africa 50, 51

Rates Watch 168

Dormakaba South Africa 115

Rider Levett Bucknall 127

Eco Insulation 159

Rocla 158

Eva-Last 123

Rome Roofing 154

Federale Stene 85

Rubber Roofs SA (Koster) 39

Fenster Aluminium windows & doors 3

Rubber Roofs SA (Liquid

Fibertex 79

Rubber Paint) 45

Fourways Group 114, 176,

Saint Gobain Isover 167, 171

IBC

Sanika Waterproofing Specialists 171

Fritz Egger GmbH 103

SAQCC Gas 117

Geberit 5

Sawmilling South Africa 61

Global Innovative Building Systems 169

Seaqual 8

Hisense HVAC Equipment Co, Ltd 73

Seats Ahead 175

Hitachi Construction Machinery 7

Sika 169

Igneous 166

South African Vinyl Association 129

iTe Products 11

Speedworx 68, 69

Jax Oleum 6

Status Ceilings

JK Designs 150

Swartland 16, 17

King Brands 173

Technical Finishes 137

LBY Africa 151

Technicrete 122

Liebherr 172

The Federated Employers Mutual

Lifetime Lighting 135

Assurance Company 110

Lights by Linea 173

Tilt Screens 172

Likewise Floors 170

Twinstar Precast

MacLaren Air 145

Wac Lift 173

Mactool 168

Zimile Consulting Engineers 75

173

105

Maxiflex 91 Merensky 10

174

www.sabuildingreview.co.za

BOLT

FALCON www.seatsahead.co.za Tel: 011 434 0444, Email:Shantelle@chairexpress.co.za 44 Hulbert Rd Cnr Rosettenville Rd, New Centre, Johannesburg PO Box 39799, Booysens, 2016

DVM S2 WindFreeTM Digital Variable Multi

Compatible

Rebuilt on all new innovations. The ultimate in efficiency and reliability. 01-01

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In the world of large-scale projects, energy efficiency reigns supreme. Samsung’s DVM S 2 VRF system

05-02 04-02 03-01 02-04

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leads the charge, setting new standards for innovation, efficiency, and reliability. With many new and

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unique technologies that deliver the next level of energy efficiency, along with superior performance, the 03-01

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Samsung DVM S 2 is, on average, proven to be around 11% more energy-efficient. Making it the ultimate 04-01 04-01

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choice for businesses seeking superior comfort, cost savings, environmental sustainability, and world05-01

class energy-efficient HVAC systems.

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True innovation is a rare thing – so the multiple

effectively in many different environmental

new technologies in the Samsung DVM S2 outdoor

conditions, including the most extreme

air conditioning unit make it truly unique. It has

temperatures. And it also includes a host of new

been totally redesigned to deliver outstandingly

and intelligent management features that make

consistent comfort in a wide range of locations, as

its installation and maintenance much simpler and

well exceptional energy efficiency. Its flexibility is

more cost-effective. Quite simply it redefines the

equally matched by its reliability, as it can operate

art of comfort.

07-01

06-01 06-01

06-02 06-02

07-02

07-01 07-03 09-01 08-01

06-01

08-01

06-02

06-01

06-03

07-01 07-01

07-02 07-02

08-02

08-01 08-03

09-02 08-02 06-02

07-01 06-04

06-0

07-01

07-03 08-01 07-03

07-0 08-01 07-0

08-02 08-04

08-0

09-01 10-01

07-01

09-01

08-01

07-02

07-01

07-02

08-01 07-04

07-0

08-01

08-03 09-01 08-03

08-0 09-01 08-0

09-01 09-03

09-02 09-04

09-0

10-01

10-02

07-03

08-01 08-01

08-02 08-02

09-02

08-02

08-01

09-02 10-02

08-03

08-02

09-01 08-04

08-0

01-03

01-04

01-05

01-06

01-07

01-01 01-03

01-02 01-04

01-03 01-05

01-01

01-08

01-02

01-09

01-03

01-10

01-04 01-06

01-02 01-04

01-05 01-07

01-03 01-05

01-06 01-08

02-08 01-08

02-02 01-06

01-04

01-01

Cost Saving

01-01

01-02

02-03 01-03

01-01

01-01 01-02

01-03 02-01 01-05

01-01 01-02

03-03 02-03

02-01

01-02

02-04 01-04

01-02

Enlarged Heat 01-02 Exchanger 01-03 01-03 01-04 02-02 01-06

01-02 01-03

01-01 Optimized 03-04 02-04 02-02 Refrigerant 01-03 01-01 Path

02-05 01-05

01-01 01-03

02-06 01-06

01-02 01-04

01-03 01-04

01-02 90cc Chamber with Triple 01-04 01-01 Profile Scroll 01-04 01-05 01-05

02-01 01-05 02-03 01-07

01-03 02-01 01-04

01-01

01-02 03-05 02-05

02-02 01-06 02-04 01-08 01-03

03-06 02-06 9 Release 01-05 Valves 02-02

02-03

02-01 01-04

01-02

01-04 02-02 01-05 02-04 01-03

Reliability 01-01 01-03

02-07 01-07

02-01 01-05

01-03

01-04

01-05 01-06

01-02 01-06

02-03 01-01 01-07 02-05 01-09

02-01 01-05 02-03 01-06

01-04 03-07 02-07

03-01 02-05

02-03 01-06

01-04

Dual 01-06 Heat Sink01-03

01-04 01-06

02-09 01-09

02-03 01-07

02-10 01-10

02-04 01-08

01-05

01-01

01-06

01-02

Kammtail 02-01 01-08 01-05 Motor Bracket

01-01

01-02

01-03

01-04

01-05

01-06

01-07

01-08

01-02 02-01 01-05 01-07

01-07

01-03

01-07

01-07 01-08

01-04 01-08

01-09

01-09 01-10

02-02 01-06 01-10

02-04 01-02 01-08 02-06 01-10

02-02 01-06 02-04 01-07

02-05 01-03 01-09 02-07

02-03 01-07 02-05 01-08

02-06 01-04 01-10 02-08

02-04 01-08 02-06 01-09

02-07 01-05 02-09

03-01 02-05 01-09 02-07 01-10

01-05

01-01

01-06 03-09 02-09

01-02 03-03 02-07

01-07 03-10 02-10

01-03 03-04 02-08

01-08

01-04 03-05 02-09

02-05 01-08

02-01 01-06

02-07 01-10

02-03 01-08

Durafin™02-06 Ultra02-02 01-09 01-07

01-08 01-10

02-05 01-09

01-07

03-08 03-02 02-08 02-06 Upgraded 02-04 01-07 01-05 Base Design

01-03

Comfort

01-07 01-09

02-02 01-06 01-08

01-04 01-09

02-06 01-10 01-08 01-04 Advanced Flash Injection 02-03 01-10 01-07 Compressor 02-08 01-06 02-10

03-02 02-06 01-10 02-08

01-09

01-05

03-06 02-10 Flash 02-08 02-04 01-09 Injection

02-03 01-07 01-09

01-05 01-10

02-07 01-09

02-09 01-07

02-08

Active AI 01-10 Pressure 02-04 01-08 Control 01-05

03-03 02-07 02-09

02-04 01-08 01-10

02-10 01-08

01-06 02-05 01-09 03-04 02-08 02-10

01-10

01-06 03-07

01-07 03-08

02-09

02-05 01-10

02-06

Multiserration02-10 Fan

01 102

02-01 01-04 02-02 01-04

01-02 02-02 01-03

02-02 01-05 02-03 01-05

01-03 02-03 01-04

02-03 01-06 02-04 01-06

01-04 02-04 01-05

02-04 01-07 02-05 01-07

02-01 01-05 02-05 01-06

02-05 01-08 02-06 01-08

02-02 01-06 02-06 01-07

02-06 01-09 02-07 01-09

02-03 01-07 02-07 01-08

02-07 01-10 02-08 01-10

02-04 01-08 02-08 01-09

02-08 02-09

03-01 02-05 01-09 02-09 01-10

02-09 01-01 02-10

03-02 02-06 01-10 02-10

02-10 01-02

03-03 02-07

01-03

03-04 02-08

01-04

03-05 02-09

02-01 02-02

02-04 03-02 02-06

02-02 02-03

03-01 02-05 03-03 02-07

02-03 03-01 02-04

03-02 02-06 03-04 02-08

03-03 02-01 02-07 03-05 02-09

03-01 02-05 01-01 03-03 02-06

03-04 02-02 02-08 03-06 02-10

03-02 02-06 01-02 03-04 02-07

03-05 02-03 02-09 03-07

03-03 02-07 01-03 03-05 02-08

03-06 02-04 02-10 03-08

03-04 02-08 01-04 03-06 02-09

03-07 02-05 03-09

04-01 03-05 02-09 01-05 03-07 02-10

03-08 02-06 03-10

04-02 03-06 02-10 01-06 03-08

04-03 03-07 01-07 03-09

03-10 02-08

04-04 03-08 01-08 03-10

04-03 03-03

03-01

02-02 04-05 03-05

Active AI Pressure 02-03 03-06 Control 04-06

02-04 03-02 02-05

03-09 02-07

02-03 03-01 02-05

03-03

03-04

02-04 04-07 03-07

04-01 03-05

02-06 04-09 03-09

02-02 04-03 03-07

02-08

02-04 04-05 03-09

02-10

02-06 04-07

02-02 01-05

01-04

02-03 01-06

02-01 01-05

03-01 02-04 01-07

02-02 01-06

03-02 02-05 01-08

02-03 01-07

03-03 02-06 01-09

02-04 01-08

03-05 02-08

03-01 02-06 01-10

03-07 02-10

03-03 02-08

03-06

01 102

03-01 02-04 03-02 02-04

02-02 03-02 02-03

03-02 02-05 03-03 02-05

02-03 03-03 02-04

03-03 02-06 03-04 02-06

02-04 03-04 02-05

03-04 02-07 03-05 02-07

03-01 02-05 01-01 03-05 02-06

03-05 02-08 03-06 02-08

03-03 04-01 03-05

03-01 03-02

03-04 04-02 03-06

03-02 03-03

04-01 03-05 04-03 03-07

03-03 04-01 03-04

04-02 03-06 04-04 03-08

03-04 04-02 03-05

04-03 03-01 03-07 04-05 03-09

Highefficiency 02-01 04-04 03-04 03-02 IGBT

Flexibility

Robust 02-05 Frame 04-08 04-02 03-08 02-01 03-06 03-04 02-07 01-10

02-05 01-09

03-02 02-06 01-02 03-06 02-07

03-06 02-09 03-07 02-09

03-03 02-07 01-03 03-07 02-08

03-07 02-10 03-08 02-10

04-01 03-05 02-01 04-03 03-06

04-04 03-02 03-08 04-06 03-10

04-02 03-06 02-02 04-04 03-07

04-05 03-03 03-09 01-01 04-07

Convenience

Galvanized Iron Steel02-07 Plate02-03 04-10 04-04 03-10 03-08 (GI) 03-06 02-09

03-02 02-07

03-04 02-08 01-04 03-08 02-09

03-08 03-09

04-01 03-05 02-09 01-05 03-09 02-10

03-09 02-01 03-10

04-02 03-06 02-10 01-06 03-10

04-03 03-07 02-03 04-05 03-08

04-06 03-04 03-10 01-02 04-08

04-04 03-08 02-04 04-06 03-09

04-07 03-05 01-03 04-09

05-01 04-05 03-09 02-05 04-07 03-10

Optimized 02-09 02-05 DSH Control 04-06 03-10

Quiet Operation

03-08

03-04 02-09

03-09

03-05 02-10

03-10

03-10 02-02

04-03 03-07 01-07

02-03

04-04 03-08 01-08

02-04

04-09 03-07 01-05

05-03 04-07 02-07 04-09

Triple Profile 05-02 04-08 04-06 03-06 03-10 02-06 01-04 Scroll 04-10 04-08

Diffuser Type Discharge03-08 04-10 01-06 Plenum

04-01

03-01 05-04 04-04

04-02

03-02 05-05 04-05

04-03

03-03 05-06 04-06

04-04

03-04 05-07 04-07

05-01 04-05

03-05 05-08 04-08

03-01 05-02 04-06

03-06 05-09 04-09

03-02 05-03 04-07

03-07 05-10 04-10

03-03 05-04 04-08

03-08

03-04 05-05 04-09

03-09

03-05 05-06 04-10

03-10

03-06 05-07

03-02 02-05

02-04

03-03 02-06

03-01 02-05

04-01 03-04 02-07

03-02 02-06

04-02 03-05 02-08

03-03 02-07

04-03 03-06 02-09

03-04 02-08

04-04 03-07 02-10

03-05 02-09

04-05 03-08

04-01 03-06 02-10

04-06 03-09

04-02 03-07

04-07 03-10

04-03 03-08

04-08

04-04 03-09

04-09

04-05 03-10

01 102

04-01 03-04 04-02 03-04

03-02 04-02 03-03

04-02 03-05

03-03

04-03 03-06 04-04 03-06

03-04 04-04 03-05

04-04 03-07

04-01 03-05

04-05 03-08 04-06 03-08

04-02 03-06 02-02 04-06 03-07

04-06 03-09 04-07 03-09

04-03 03-07 02-03 04-07 03-08

04-07 03-10 04-08 03-10

04-04 03-08 02-04 04-08 03-09

04-08 04-09

05-01 04-05 03-09 02-05 04-09 03-10

04-09 03-01 04-10

05-02 04-06 03-10 02-06 04-10

03-03

05-04 04-08 02-08

04-03 05-01 04-05

04-01 04-02

05-03 04-01 04-07 05-05 04-09

05-01 04-05 03-01 05-03 04-06

Emergency 05-05 05-03 05-06 05-04 04-03 04-09 04-07 04-04 04-10 04-08 03-03 03-04 02-01 02-02 05-07 05-05 05-08 05-06 04-08 04-09 Operation

05-07 04-05 02-03 05-09

06-01 05-05 04-09 03-05 05-07 04-10

05-08 04-06 02-04 05-10

06-02 05-06 04-10 03-06 05-08

05-09 04-07 02-05

06-03 05-07 03-07 05-09

04-01 06-02 05-06

04-06 06-09 05-09

04-02 06-03 05-07

04-07 06-10 05-10

04-03 06-04 05-08

04-08

04-04 06-05 05-09

04-09

04-05 06-06 05-10

04-10

04-06 06-07

04-05 03-09

05-05 04-08

05-01 04-06 03-10

05-06 04-09

05-02 04-07

05-07 04-10

05-03 04-08

05-09

05-05 04-10

05-07 04-10 05-08 04-10

05-04 04-08 03-04 05-08 04-09

05-09 04-01 05-10

06-02 05-06 04-10 03-06 05-10

06-05 05-03 05-09 03-01 06-07

04-03 06-05 05-08

03-02 06-08

04-04 06-06 05-09

06-07 05-05 03-03 06-09

07-01 06-05 05-09 04-05 06-07 05-10

05-07 07-10 06-10

05-03 07-04 06-08

05-08

05-04 07-05 06-09

05-09

05-05 07-06 06-10

05-10

05-06 07-07

06-02 05-07

06-07 05-10

06-03 05-08

06-08

06-04 05-09

06-09

05-03 04-03

04-03 04-03 03-05 03-04 Wider 04-04 04-02 Operating 05-02 04-06 04-03 Temp. Range

06-03 05-03

05-01

04-01 06-04 05-04

04-02 03-05

03-04

04-03 03-06

01 102

05-01 04-04 05-02 04-04

04-02 05-02 04-03

05-03 06-01 05-05

05-01 05-02

07-03 06-03

06-01

05-02 04-05

04-04

01 102

06-01 05-04 06-02 05-04

05-02 06-02 05-03

06-02 05-05 06-03 05-05

06-03 07-01 06-05

06-01 06-02

06-04 07-02 06-06

07-01 07-02

07-04 08-02 07-06

05-01 04-05 05-03 04-07

04-05 04-05 03-07 02-01 03-06 High Elevation 05-02 04-03 04-06 04-04 with Long 05-01 05-04 05-02 04-04 04-08 04-05 Piping

05-02

04-02 06-05 05-05

05-03

04-03 06-06 05-06

04-01 03-05

05-01 04-04 03-07

04-02 03-06

05-02 04-05 03-08

05-03 04-06 05-04 04-06

Active 05-02 04-05 04-03 Frequency 05-03 05-03 04-05 04-04 Drive 10Hz 05-04 05-02

05-04

04-04 06-07 05-07

06-01 05-05

04-05 06-08 05-08

04-03 03-07

05-03 04-06 03-09

04-04 03-08

05-04 04-07 03-10

04-04 05-04 04-05

05-05 04-08 05-06 04-08

05-02 04-06 03-02 05-06 04-07

06-01 05-04

06-04 05-08

06-02 05-05

06-03 05-01 05-07 06-05 05-09

06-01 05-05 04-01 06-03 05-06

05-03 07-06 06-06

06-04

Optimized Ref. 05-04 05-01 04-07 04-05 Distribution 05-05 05-05 04-07 03-01 04-06 Control 06-02 05-03 05-06 05-04

06-02 05-06

05-03

06-01 05-05 06-03 05-07

05-01 07-04 06-04

06-02

05-02 07-05 06-05

06-03

06-01 05-04 04-07

05-02 04-06

05-03 06-03 05-04

06-03 05-06 06-04 05-06

06-04 05-05

06-05 05-07

06-02 06-03

07-01 06-05 07-03 06-07

06-03 07-01 06-04

07-02 06-06 07-04 06-08

07-02 07-03

08-01 07-05 08-03 07-07

07-03 08-01 07-04

08-02 07-06 08-04 07-08

Compact 05-03 05-01 04-06 04-05 Design

Slimmer 05-04 05-02 04-02 04-08 04-06 03-02 05-06 05-04 04-10Pipe 04-07 Liquid

On-Device 05-06 05-03 04-09 04-07 Inverter 05-07 05-07 04-09 03-03 04-08 Check™ 06-04 06-02 05-02 05-08 05-06 06-06 05-10

04-02 06-04 05-07

05-05 07-08 06-08

05-01 07-02 06-06

05-04 07-07 06-07

07-01 06-05

06-03 05-06 04-09

05-04 04-08

04-01 06-05 05-06

06-05 05-08 06-06 05-08

06-02 05-06 04-02 06-06 05-07

06-07 05-09

06-04 07-02 06-05

07-03 06-01 06-07 07-05 06-09

07-01 06-05 05-01 07-03 06-06

07-04 06-02 06-08 07-06 06-10

07-04 08-02 07-05

08-03 07-01 07-07 08-05 07-09

08-01 07-05 06-01 08-03 07-06

Up to 110Pa 05-05 05-03 04-08 04-07 External06-02 Static Pressure06-04 06-01 05-04 05-07 05-05

Center Point 06-01 05-05 04-09 Indicator05-08 of 03-05 05-09 05-09 04-10 Weight 05-04 06-03 06-06 06-04 05-07 05-10 05-08

Active AI 05-03 04-10 04-07 03-02 Defrost 02-07

Rotational Defrost 05-08 05-04 04-09 Operation

02-07 04-08

04-05 03-09 01-09 05-04 04-08 02-08 04-10 03-07 05-08

04-10

04-06

05-10 04-08 02-06

06-04 05-08 03-08 05-10

Kammtail 05-05 04-09 03-04 Motor Bracket 02-09 04-07 06-08

Enlarged Heat 05-10 05-06 Exchanger

05-10 04-02

06-03 05-07 03-07

04-03 01-01

06-04 05-08 03-08

04-04 01-02

06-05 05-09 03-09

06-08 05-06 03-04 06-10

07-02 06-06 05-10 04-06 06-08

06-09 05-07 03-05

07-03 06-07 04-07 06-09

06-10 05-08 03-06

07-04 06-08 04-08 06-10

06-05 05-10

06-10

06-06

05-06 07-09 06-09

05-02 07-03 06-07

06-05 05-08

06-01 05-06 04-10

04-03 06-07 05-08

06-07 05-10 06-08 05-10

04-04 06-08 05-09

07-01 06-05 05-09 04-05 06-09 05-10

06-09 05-01 06-10

07-02 06-06 05-10 04-06 06-10

06-10 05-02

06-09

07-03 06-07 04-07

05-03 02-01

07-04 06-08 04-08

05-04 02-02

07-05 06-09 04-09

07-02 06-06 05-02 07-04 06-07

07-05 06-03 06-09 04-01 07-07

07-03 06-07 05-03 07-05 06-08

07-06 06-04 06-10 04-02 07-08

07-04 06-08 05-04 07-06 06-09

07-07 06-05 04-03 07-09

08-01 07-05 06-09 05-05 07-07 06-10

07-08 06-06 04-04 07-10

08-02 07-06 06-10 05-06 07-08

07-09 06-07 04-05

08-03 07-07 05-07 07-09

07-10 06-08 04-06

08-04 07-08 05-08 07-10

08-04 07-02 07-08 08-06 07-10

08-02 07-06 06-02 08-04 07-07

08-05 07-03 07-09 05-01 08-07

08-03 07-07 06-03 08-05 07-08

08-06 07-04 07-10 05-02 08-08

08-04 07-08 06-04 08-06 07-09

08-07 07-05 05-03 08-09

09-01 08-05 07-09 06-05 08-07 07-10

08-08 07-06 05-04 08-10

09-02 08-06 07-10 06-06 08-08

08-09 07-07 05-05

09-03 08-07 06-07 08-09

08-10 07-08 05-06

09-04 08-08 06-08 08-10

Active AI 06-04 05-07 05-05 04-10 04-09 Refrigerant Analysis 06-06 06-03 05-09 05-07

Simplified 06-06 05-09 Cover with Handle 06-08 06-04 05-08

05-07 07-08

01 102

* Varies by 06-01 building, location, operating patterns and various other factors. 06-02 06-03 06-04 06-05 06-06 06-07 06-08 06-04 06-09 06-05 06-10 06-06 06-07 08-04 08-05 08-06 08-07 08-01 08-08 08-02 08-09 08-03 08-10 08-04 08-05 08-06 08-07 08-08 07-01 07-04 07-02 07-05 07-03 07-06 07-04 07-07 07-05 07-08 06-01 07-06 07-09 06-02 07-07 07-10 06-03 07-08 07-09 07-10 ** Based on testing in accordance with the Eurovent testing rule, at the end of December 2020. Tested on 22.4~56kW models of the Samsung DVM S2 compared to 07-01 07-02 07-03 07-04 07-05 07-01 07-06 07-02 07-07 07-03 07-08 07-04 07-09 07-05 07-10 07-06 06-03 06-01 06-04 06-02 06-05 06-03 06-06 06-04 06-07 06-05 06-08 06-06 06-09 06-07 06-10 06-08 06-09 06-10 05-04 05-06 05-05 05-07 05-06 05-08 05-07 05-09 05-08 05-10 05-09 05-10 the same capacities 08-01 08-02 08-03 08-04 08-05 07-01 07-02 07-03 07-04 07-01 07-05 07-02 07-06 07-03 07-07 07-04 07-08 07-05 07-09 07-06 07-10 07-07 07-08 07-09 06-04of another 06-02 06-05 06-03 06-06 type 06-04 indoor 06-07 06-05 06-08 06-06 06-09 06-07 06-10 06-08 06-09 06-01 06-10 06-02 06-03 06-04 brand, using ducted units. 05-05 05-06 05-07 05-08 05-09 03-01 03-02 07-02 07-02 07-03 07-03 07-04 07-04 07-05 07-05 07-06 07-06 07-07 07-07 07-08 07-08 07-09 07-09 07-10 07-10 06-04 06-03 06-05 06-04 06-06 06-05 06-07 05-01 06-06 06-08 05-02 06-07 06-09 05-03 06-08 06-10 05-04 06-09 06-10

07-03 08-01 07-05

08-03 07-03

06-02 05-05

09-03 08-03

08-01

07-01 09-04 08-04

08-02

07-02 09-05 08-05

08-03

07-02 06-05

06-04

07-03 06-06

07-01 06-05

08-01 07-04 06-07

07-02 06-06

01 102

08-01 07-04 08-02 07-04

07-02 08-02 07-03

08-02 07-05 08-03 07-05

07-03 08-03 07-04

08-03 07-06 08-04 07-06

07-04 08-04 07-05

08-03 09-01 08-05

08-01 08-02

08-04 09-02 08-06

08-02 08-03

09-01 08-05 09-03 08-07

08-03 09-01 08-04

09-03 10-03

09-01

08-01 09-04 10-04

09-02

08-02 09-05 10-05

09-03

08-02 07-05

07-04

08-03 07-06

08-01 07-05

09-01 08-04 07-07

08-02 07-06

01 102

09-01 08-04 09-02 08-04

08-02 09-02 08-03

09-02 08-05 09-03 08-05

08-03 09-03 08-04

09-03 08-06 09-04 08-06

09-03 09-05 10-01

09-03

09-05 10-01 09-07 10-03

www.fourwaysgroup.co.za 09-01 09-04 09-02

A.08

07-03 09-06 08-06

08-04

07-04 09-07 08-07

09-01 08-05

07-05 09-08 08-08

07-01 09-02 08-06

07-06 09-09 08-09

07-02 09-03 08-07

07-07 09-10 08-10

07-03 09-04 08-08

07-08

07-04 09-05 08-09

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