Timber iQ December 2013 / January 2014 | Issue: 11 by Trademax Publications

ISSN 2305-9648

CONTENTS

CONTENTS 16

ED'S NOTE

CONTRIBUTORS

DESIGN - TOAST OF THE TAVERNS

DECKING - CHOOSING A DECK BUILDER

COMPANY PROFILE - SAUNA AND DECKS FOR AFRICA

SUSTAINABILITY - SWARTLAND

QUALITY PRODUCTS. EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE. SABS approved structural timber can be used for trusses, rafter and general construction

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DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

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CONTENTS

TIMBER FRAME BUILDING - SWISSLINE DESIGN

MAINTENANCE - INVESTMENT CONSTRUCTION

ARCHITECTURE - ONE TASTE HOLISTIC HEALTH CLUB

EDUCATION & TRAINING - NMMU GEORGE CAMPUS

COMPANY PROFILE - CRICKMAY

INDUSTRY INSIGHT - PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

ARCHITECTURE - TASTEFUL

INDUSTRY INSIGHT - BUILDING WITH TIMBER

KILN DRYING - TIMBERSOFT CC

ARCHITECTURE - BELMONT CENTRE

INDUSTRY INSIGHT - STRIKING OUT

CASE STUDY - HAKKASAN DUBAI

MACHINERY - ALLWOOD TECHNOLOGY

COMPANY PROFILE - TIMBER FANS

CASE STUDY - LA GALERIE DE LUNETTES

CSR - LONZA FULFILLS A GOAL

NEWS - NEW CEO FOR RUTHERFORD

Up to 6m long - 250 x 250 mm or bigger! Cut to order. Fully pressure treated. Cheaper than you think. Phone for a quote or see our website. Tel: 013 751 3021 / Mobile: 082 785 8215 / Email: pullscar@mweb.co.za

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// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

At Lonza Wood Protection we have been supporting the Vulingqondo Crèche for the last seven years as one of our community projects. Every year we sponsor the Crèche's annual Graduation and Christmas Party. This year we are proud to share these special moments and special drawings done by some of the Crèche’s children.

On behalf of Lonza Wood Protection, we would like to thank you for your support in 2013. May the Festive Season be joyous, safe and peaceful. And we wish you every success in 2014.

16 Indus Road, Marburg • Port Shepstone PO Box 54344, Marburg, 4252 • South Africa Tel: +27 (0)39 315 8400 • Fax: +27 (0)39 315 8408 www.tanalised.co.za •E-mail: info@tanalised.co.za

Arch Wood Protection (SA) (Pty) Ltd t/a Lonza Wood Protection

ED'S NOTE

To be gifted I distinctly recall the man I had the fortune of having as my science teacher for the latter part of my high school career. He had a wry and cynical demeanour about him and often seemed at a loss when encountering what he deemed to be academic mediocrity, if not pure idiocy, in our classroom.

understood that his frustration with many of us may have been in part because of the academically ‘gifted’ students he taught on a part-time basis when he wasn’t teaching us, whose rock star smarts must have made our attempts at chemical formulae seem ‘gifted’ in their own way. Despite the mild disgust on his part, I do think he appreciated us in some way and every so often, when we got onto the subject of giftedness, he would conduct a quick test in our classroom for this rare quality. I recall it being my turn one day, when he shared a simple diagram with me and asked me what I ‘saw’. What I saw was a rudimentary configuration of a square and a triangle, which may have been a representation of a house, or a stubby crayon at best – an answer which rendered me, in his eyes, completely ungifted and, I suppose, utterly useless and unimaginative. His response resounded, “Jennifer, I’m sorry. You’re not gifted.”

Welcome to the December/January issue of Timber iQ. I wish you a happy and safe festive period and a prosperous 2014. Jen Forward your comments, suggestions and contributions to editor@trademax.co.za.

Thanks to my love for academia and my passion for faring well at school, this disappointing news did not deter me from trying anyway. And although I am still not entirely sure as to how an on-the-spot interpretation of a stick drawing can be a reliable determinant for giftedness, I think, if we work hard enough, try new things often enough, and take enough chances, we create our own giftedness. This issue of Timber iQ has come to represent, for me, a showcase of giftedness. From the rudimentary stickdrawing, the basic bare-bones notion of a house or a shelter, these projects do not respond with the obvious; they respond in fluid, liquid lines of timber that make a space for healing amid the bustle of a city. They talk back, in echoes of a barrel, to the heart of an old family wine farm, and offer dignity and vibrant sophistication to community spaces that, historically, have enjoyed none. This is giftedness.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

A test for giftedness. What do you 'see'?

CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTORS RICHARD BENTLEY

THE TEAM

Richard Bentley has been active in the SA timber industry for more than 17 years, having started his career as International Business Development Manager for Mondi Mining timber in 1996. He started at Rhoms Timberworld in 2002 and left in 2010 to start his own business, Richard Bentley Consulting. Today his focus is on project management and timber consulting, the importing and distribution of unique decking and flooring related products, managing a deck building and wood restoration company, as well as being the master franchisor for the Mr Sandless system for resealing wood floors without sanding.

EDITOR:

DANIEL CONRADIE Daniel is a Candidate Senior Architectural Technologist and freelance writer based in Cape Town. He is passionate about the design process and how the technology and materials employed are composed to express it. Jason Bakery lattĂŠs, sci-fi novels and Cape Town summers assist him in retaining his sanity and fervour.

Jennifer Rees 0861 727 663 076 119 8819 editor@trademax.co.za

PUBLISHER: Billy Perrin billy@trademax.co.za 0861 727 663

ADVERTISING: Angeline Martin angie@trademax.co.za 0861 727 663

LAYOUT & DESIGN: Craig Patterson craig@trademax.co.za

SUBSCRIPTIONS & DATA: Celeste Perrin celeste@trademax.co.za 0861 727 663

JACQUES CRONJE Jacques is a registered Professional Senior Architectural Technologist (Pr.S.Arch.T). While his architectural training is informal, having learnt by on-the-job experience, mentorship and self-study, he has degrees in building management and economics, a post-grad certificate in energy economics and has done several courses in energy efficiency and sustainable development.

TRADEMAX PUBLICATIONS Tel: 0861 727 663 Cell: 082 266 6976 Fax: 0866 991 346 www.trademax.co.za P.O. Box 37053 Chempet 7442

DISCLAIMER

ILENE POWER Ilene Power, BA LLB (LLM), is a leading practitioner in employment law, consulting on employment law, workplace relations, conflict management, dispute resolution, litigation and facilitation. She is an admitted advocate of the High Court of South Africa. Her more than ten yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; industry experience includes eight years as legal advisor in the trade union movement, including being head of legal for SASBO and legal union official for Solidarity. She runs her own labour law practice in Somerset West and has distinguished herself as a training facilitator and conflict resolution mediator.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Trademax Publications. Although we have done our best to ensure the accuracy of our content, neither Trademax Publications nor Timber iQ magazine will be held liable for any views expressed or information disseminated in this issue.

CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTORS PETER SORFA Peter Sorfa graduated in chemical engineering and chemical technology, but spent all his working life until present in South African timber processing industries. He started as an R&D officer in 1971 at Bruynzeel Plywoods (Bruply), the largest diversified wood processing company at the time and later he joined National Timber Research Institute of the CSIR and was appointed as the deputy director and acting chief director. 26 years ago he started a private consulting practice called Timber Technology Services and carried out number of projects mostly for large timber processing companies and government departments. He also had assignments in most of SADC countries and in East Africa. Peter has no plans to ever retire.

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DESIGN

Toast of the taverns A multiple award-winning interior design solution by Inhouse Brand Architects features a warm, bespoke use of timber throughout

DESIGN

ownship taverns are sociable, but often rudimentary places. Historically, advertising collateral in this context has responded by being cheap and basic and competition between beer brands is tough: rivals rip down, cover or paint over competitor branding. The resulting environment is not a pretty one. Cutting through this clutter to reach consumers is a real challenge for brand managers. To make matters worse, for decades, tavern owners have been legally required to serve drinks from behind ugly security ‘cages’ generally resembling prison bars. The difficulty for Windhoek Lager and its company, Brandhouse, lay in creating a point of difference in this challenging advertising environment. Windhoek’s advertising agency, The Jupiter Drawing Room, turned to Inhouse Brand Architects for a solution. In response to the need for permanent branding that could not be defaced, as well as an aesthetic solution that treated tavern patrons with respect, the Inhouse team came up with a concept for custom-made interiors.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Creative Director, Aidan Hart and principle designers, Cara Siegers and Michael Kieck, worked with Jupiter and commissioned a team of artisans to incorporate the Windhoek logo into the interior. The end result constitutes a South African first. Not only is the Windhoek brand messaging impossible to deface or remove, but it is also enjoying support from communities for being the first beer brand to treat tavern culture with a level of sophistication. Inhouse’s concept has improved venues by being decorative, offers built-in functionality, obeys the law and places permanent branding where it works best. This innovative and humanizing design solution was awarded a Silver Lion for Point of Sale at this year’s Cannes Lions Awards held from 16 to 22 June 2013. Arguably the globe’s most prestigious accolade, the Cannes Lions Awards have set the benchmark for excellence in creative communications since 1954. The Silver award affirms the relevance of the campaign, and alerts to the greater need to review the way that tavern culture is conventionally treated by brands.

DESIGN

A further confirmation for this design innovation came in the form of one Gold and two Silver Loeries at the recent Loerie awards. The Windhoek project was awarded Gold and Silver in the category of 3Dimensional & Environmental Design – Interior Design and Temporary Structures, and Silver in the Design Mixed Media category. Inhouse combined the talents of both a traditional interior design firm and a branding agency in order to translate the Windhoek identity and messaging into a three-dimensional, physical experience. Inhouse’s team spans both these disciplines and brings a weight of experience from other areas of design. “We are thrilled to have been recognized at Cannes and the Loeries for such a meaningful piece of design that forms part of a larger umbrella campaign for Windhoek, which sees existing venues relaunched into Windhoek's Pure Beer Society venues. It was exciting to come up with a unique branding solution in South African taverns. We’re pleased to have been appointed as the custodians, or project managers, if you like, of the roll-out into taverns in South Africa’s major city-centres,” says Inhouse’s Creative Director, Aidan Hart.

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

DESIGN

Inhouse designed and commissioned elements such as branded seating and tables that double-up as gaming surfaces. The design firm was also appointed to create a range of Windhoek branded elements for both upmarket venues and township taverns, and worked with a range of local designers to create bespoke pieces that incorporated the Windhoek brand language. The use of timber is a signature element in the interior design schemes for both environments and is used throughout for its connotations of warmth and its long tradition of hand-craftsmanship – both values that are associated with Windhoek beer. For example, the innovative DJ booth features a smooth wooden front in a single shade of stained pine that is waxsealed with a special water-resistant sealant so that you don't get watermarks if you happen to put a beer bottle down on it. The front is stained a dark, rich tone to match the other components in the scheme. The sides of the booth are juxtaposed with this façade. On each end of the booth, Inhouse used the rough end grain of the timber cut into cubes and squares and to create a more natural texture in contrast to the smooth finish of the front. These blocks are stained in various shades to create visual variety.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

The chairs and bar stools combine wood with powdercoated mild steel components that have been bent and laser cut to form the shape of the Windhoek ‘double flourish’ as back-rests that are supported by timber uprights. The chair design is bespoke. The Inhouse team started from scratch and worked with industrial designers to help make their vision come to life. The chair is made from solid Ash that has been stained and oiled. The seating is solid timber with a studded leather inlay. Solid timber legs are stabilized by a black powder-coated steel footrest. As a branded feature wall for the interior, a wall-mounted screen was created using 120mm x 120mm timber blocks stained in three different shades. These blocks were each cut by machine and the direction of the grain and use of knotted timber was celebrated throughout the construction of the unit. Selected timber blocks were clad with metal plates to add the sheen and lustre of metal and to relate the screen back to the overall concept where metallic elements sit alongside wood. Glass tile lights were also embedded into the screen in a random pattern to lend depth to the unit. The Windhoek logo was laser cut from steel and fixed to the wood using steel pins.

DESIGN

For the freestanding wooden furniture pieces, certain designers and artisans were selected by Inhouse to collaborate with them and be part of the creative team. Every artisan who participated in the project has a stamp on their work, so that their craftsmanship is honoured. This relates back to Windhoek’s brand values as an originally handcrafted beer. So the story of craftsmanship is celebrated consistently throughout. The venues themselves are known as ‘Windhoek Pure Beer Society’ venues. One such designer artisan, James Mudge, harks back to traditional forms of carpentry and joinery and is known for his clean lines. He was commissioned to create a range of bespoke wooden furniture in oak for the ‘Boy Bar’ environments. Mudge created a communal ‘tasting’ table, which has brass coasters that are inlaid and randomly embedded into the tabletop. Each coaster has a story about Windhoek on it. He also produced a ‘timeline’ table that is a square, solid oak table with the Windhoek ‘W’ routed into the centre of the tabletop. Brass timeline rulers have been embedded into two sides of the table and these have been laseretched with the full timeline of Windhoek. The Windhoek history begins on one side and ends on the other. Another designer, Jared Odell, was commissioned to create a range of custom-made furniture for tavern environments. Chairs and tables were made out of beer crates, steel and marine ply – which is a composite timber that happens to be on trend as a surface finish. The tabletops were laser-engraved with a board game that is played with beer bottle tops.

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

DESIGN

To hold it all together, the entire interior of each Windhoek Pure Beer Society venue is ensconced by a solid oak beer rail, which runs around the room. Sections of the rail are laser-engraved with Windhoek anecdotes and history. To date, the campaign has transformed three pilot venues: one tavern in Mamelodi and two so-called ‘boys’ bars,’ one in Centurion and the other in Pretoria. Interior designs for further venues will now be rolled out into 2014. Cheers!

ABOUT INHOUSE BRAND ARCHITECTS

CREDITS THE JUPITER DRAWING ROOM (CAPE TOWN) ROSS CHOWLES – Executive Creative Director JOANNE THOMAS – Creative Director: Design ANDREW LANG – Creative Group Head ALEX HAYN – Designer GUGULETHU HLEKWAYO – Copywriter

INHOUSE BRAND ARCHITECTS AIDAN HART – Creative Director CARA SIEGERS – Senior Designer and Project Manager MICHAEL KIECK – Interior Designer

Inhouse is a leading and comprehensive South African agency specializing in turnkey solutions for all sectors of design, with specialized expertise in interior design and brand architecture.

CRAFTSMEN

With offices in Cape Town, Johannesburg and London, Inhouse concentrates on innovative and appropriate ideas in response to the diverse needs of its clients.

ADDITIONAL CREDITS

Visit inhouse.ws

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

JAMES MUDGE – James Mudge Furniture JARED ODELL – Jared Odell Furniture/Design RYAN MATCHETT – Ryan Matchett Design House

BRAND BOTES – Illustrator SIMON BERNDT – Illustrator MARK LANNING – Photographer ANDREW BRAUTESETH – Photographer

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DECKING

Millboard weathered oak – driftwood.

Choosing a deck builder What you need to know By Richard Bentley of Professional Deck & Floor Design

lients have a wide choice of decking contractors for their new deck, and comparisons are not always easy to make, so decisions are invariably incorrectly made on price and price alone without taking cognizance of many other critical factors. An incorrect decision made on your choice of contractor may have enormous long-term cost implications in terms of maintenance and, at worst, catastrophic failure of your deck. In our daily course of business, we see all too often cases where decks have been built by contractors who are ‘doing it on the cheap,’ who clearly have no technical knowledge or understanding of what they are building or simply just do it all wrong. Sometimes we are called in to adjudicate while work is in progress, more often, when it is too late, two years or more down the line when the wonderful asset that was created two years ago has now become a major liability to the home owner. The points made in this article all come from our clients’ experiences with various deck builders.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Internationally, exactly the same materials are used to build decks, in equally harsh climates as we find in South Africa, but they have life expectancies, and guarantees, of 20, 40 and sometimes even 60 years. How many 20 year old decks have you seen in South Africa and in what state were they? Today, part of one’s buying process for any major item is the initial education or learning that one does about the product. With this is mind, we believe that it is important to help our clients understand a little about what they are purchasing with their new deck and in a series of e-books we cover most of the critical facts about deck building. We present here the following questions that should be asked before you select your deck contractor, bearing in mind that the old adage of getting what you pay for invariably holds true. Once you have qualified your contractor in this manner, you will hopefully be in a better position to make a qualified decision with regard to who is going to build your deck.

DECKING

Millboard enhanced grain, coppered oak.

QUALIFY YOUR DECK BUILDER

QUALIFY THE DECK BUILDER'S REFERENCES

Ask about the background of the builder you are about to use: find out how long he has been building decks and what he did before he started building decks.

Do not be afraid to ask about and for references – check the pictures are real ones on his website by visiting them – there are lots of pretty deck pictures available on the internet.

The answers you receive will tell you a great deal about the builder you are about to use.

QUALIFYING THE COMPANY Ask about the background of the decking company you are about to use; how long has the company been in business, when it started and where does it operate, locally or nationally? The objective is to learn if you are dealing with an experienced deck building company.

QUALIFY THE DECK BUILDER'S MARKET Ask about what size decks the company usually builds – large commercial or small private ones. You need to make sure you have the correct person to build your deck. If the builder/company has a record of building small low-cost decks, they may not even be able to provide you with an accurate quotation for a large project with steps, balustrades etc., let alone building it or supplying the latest products or even correct products for your application.

The answers to the above questions will indicate whether the person is being honest or if the story told to you is fabricated. Once a deposit has been paid to the deck builder, you are in their hands. Most importantly, ask for and speak to the references provided. Deck builders are proud of the decks they have built. A good builder will be more than happy to provide you with references in the area for you to contact or view and a happy client is more than willing to provide references for the contractor. If the builder does not have any other jobs on the go, this is a bad sign but you may use it to your advantage to negotiate the price on your quotation. If the builder declines for you to visit the site they are working on, this is also a bad sign and you may wish to select another builder. When you get to his worksite, have a look for overall appearances, housekeeping and condition of tools and vehicles. These are all indicators of the quality of contractor with whom you are dealing. If the deck builder asks you to pay one of his suppliers directly, do ask why. This should be a warning sign that all is not well.

Conversely, if the builder/company deals with high-end decks, they will likely quote higher for a simple small rectangular deck of 12m², as they have much higher overheads to recover.

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

DECKING

Millboard enhanced grain, limed oak.

WHO WILL DO THE WORK? If one has built a rapport with the salesman who is planning your new deck with you, you may have established confidence in that individual as a deck builder and the person who arrives may not be the type of person you want around your home. Remember that a cheap price will mean unskilled labour – a specialist deck builder has trained and experienced staff that understand and know correct deck building procedures.

THE DANGERS OF QUOTATIONS An accurate quotation for a complex design may take a few days and should be provided on a company’s letterhead. A quote provided on a piece of scrap paper is not reliable. Beware of quotes that do not provide detailed explanation, are unspecified on the work to be done and may contain hidden extras. It’s always the extras that hurt when it comes to paying the bill.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Note if the quotation includes Value Added Tax, this will give you an indication of the size of the company you are dealing with. If the company is not registered, they are smaller, but it does not mean that they are unreliable. It does mean, however, that the more reliable company is immediately at a price disadvantage because of the VAT component. If a designer/builder is providing you a verbal or written estimate quote for the construction of your deck, you may be liable for substantial additional costs. The builder may take longer on the project and charge you hundreds of Rands for extra labour, or may require more timber, for example, and you may end up paying double the initial estimate provided. Remember if you are paying for or providing the materials, all wastage or mistakes made by the builder will affect your pocket rather than his, as he has no accountability to ensure material is not wasted. Make sure that you always compare like for like between quotations and consider all aspects of who is offering you the quotation.

DECKING

The way in which a deck is maintained has an enormous impact on how the deckboards will behave in the future, so you may find that a deck-builder’s guarantee has limitations attached to it.

LIABILITY INSURANCE Most businesses should carry ‘third party liability’ insurance to a certain value to cover you, your house, your family and property against accidental damage whilst ‘on site.’

Millboard weathered vintage oak.

TIME FRAME Once the order is placed and deposit paid, many builders will disappear for weeks before starting with your decking project, as they have to complete other work first. The only way to overcome this is to request a starting date in writing from the builder before paying a deposit. The written quotation from the builder must include a reasonable estimated time frame for the completion of your deck. It may be difficult to obtain, but you need confirmation from the builder that they will be on site every day until job has been completed.

PAYMENT TERMS You must be wary of a builder who asks for a full payment upfront before starting with your deck. They do have to purchase materials for your project and have other working costs, but you are in a very weak bargaining position once they have been fully paid. The incentives to work to the schedule and provide you with the best workmanship are gone and your job is not as important anymore. The usual method is 50% -75% deposit upfront and the balance upon completion once final invoice has been received. Do not pay the final amount until you are happy with the end result of your deck.

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEES A reputable decking builder includes a 12 month guarantee against faulty workmanship. If no guarantee is provided by the builder, you may wish not to use them. A reliable builder will replace any faulty timber or workmanship in the first year at no additional cost.

HANDOVER AND MAINTENANCE Once the deck is complete and handed over, if there are any issues of concern or that you do not understand, do not be afraid to ask a third party to help you. Remember that once you have handed over the final payment, the chances of seeing some builders again are remote. Ask for a maintenance schedule or plan, detailing what products have been used to seal the deck, what you should use and how often. Some reputable deck builders even provide a maintenance plan and often their guarantee is linked to this, as the correct maintenance is critical.

CONCLUSION You are making a large investment in your deck which will be a wonderful asset to your home’s value and to your own lifestyle. Make sure you do your research before you make this investment, otherwise that marvelous asset will become a major liability in two to three years’ time and you may have to pay as much as you first did to make things right again.

REFERENCES Richard Bentley Consulting – Operating Standards 2011 TRADA – Timber Decking, the Professionals Manual 2006 Andrew Hunt – What your deck builder doesn’t want you to know

Look forward to: Richard Bentley’s Quotation Checklist for deck building in the next issue of Timber iQ – understand your decking quotation and learn what to check for and clarify in the light of material, decking types, deck supports and sub-structure design.

Bear in mind that wood is a natural substance and it is impossible to predict what is inside or how it will behave once installed on your deck.

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

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COMPANY PROFILE

Villa Haskell sauna and steamroom - Fresnay, Cape Town.

Sauna and Decks for Africa Sauna and Decks for Africa has been involved in construction using wood for over 15 years and is focusing on Africa. Formerly Cape Sauna and Decks, the company's name change is synonymous with its expansion into Africa.

ichard Jones joined the company three years ago with an aim of setting a strategic direction based on his knowledge of the hotel development market gained through various management positions within the hospitality industry. “There are relatively few new hotels on the cards for South Africa, but the sub Saharan region is attractive in this regard,” says Richard, adding “Our mission is to become the premier provider of sauna, steam and decking products for the region in the next three years.”

incorporate glass and aluminium into our designs, which adds value for the architect, designer and homeowner,” he adds.

The focus on Africa is paying off with some really big projects in the pipeline. Huw Jones, who started the company with his father, is the technical director, and consults to architects and designers, adding his knowledge of wood to create beautiful sauna interiors, designer decking, balustrades, and pergolas. “We have teams of master craftsmen in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and can complete projects both nationally and on the sub continent,” says Huw. “We specialise in designing and building saunas and steam rooms mainly, and will

VILLA HASKELL

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Recent projects awarded are sauna and steam rooms for the airport in Lagos, Nigeria, saunas for the Park Inn Hotel group in Kigali, Rwanda, and several saunas for diplomats in Tanzania. All our products are professionally crafted and installed by master carpenters and tradesmen.

This bespoke work was created by Huw Jones, who added to the architect’s designs by incorporating a floating bench, installing a mirror wall to increase the reflected wood effect, and was completed in Norwegian Spruce and Bass Wood. The creation is a designer sauna and exquisite steam room, boasting black granite and a smoked glass roof with built-in LED waterproof lighting, adjoining the gym, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean in Fresnay.

COMPANY PROFILE

LEEUKOPPIES The architect’s brief for the pergolas was for a bold design which fitted with the neo-Dutch guest accommodation on Sol Kersner’s Hout Bay estate. Doubled uprights add a solid wood look and the pergolas are cladded by installing bamboo under thermo clear Perspex, which creates a rain free outside living area for alfresco dining in winter. The larger-than-life beams add an opulent look to the buildings and lend a natural wood feeling without overstating the architect’s original design.

BONNE NOUVELLE

Leeukoppies.

"Our mission is to become the premier provider of sauna, steam and decking products for the region in the next three years."

Bonne Nouvelle, Bantry Bay - deck.

This deck was built using Purple Heart 90mm x 19mm deck planking six months ago and the picture shows how wood exposed to the harsh Cape winter fades to a dull grey, which some architects and owners love. This means that the installation is maintenance free. Floating 10mm toughened frameless glass ensures that sea views are unobstructed from the deck. “The owners recently asked us back to build a staircase and walkway down through the deck to the rocks below in Bantry Bay using the same materials. Fixing the staircase and walkways to the boulders was a challenge, but we found a solution. The staircase and walkways have been left untreated to match the deck above – a pity to let that purple colour fade to shades of grey, but it will blend in with the environment nicely when it does,” says Huw. The result is a beautiful and safe facility, which is used as private access to the granite boulders and crashing waves in front of the apartment block. Sauna and Decks for Africa is well set to capitalise on the growth and development in South Africa, and is looking at using more sustainable sources of wood and coatings, entering into the retail market with its products, and supplying foreign countries with raw timber materials, which are more affordable than their current suppliers can provide. The agency with Helo, the world’s largest sauna heater and steam generator manufacturer, places it as the leader in the field for bespoke gymnasium, hospitality and home relaxation solutions. If you are planning a wood design or implementing a lifestyle/health area, these are the guys to go to. See their work on www.flickr.com./photos/saunaanddecks. or make an enquiry via their site at www.capesauna.co.za. Contact the office on 021 557 5532, or send an email to info@capesauna.co.za. Contact their marketing and sales manager, William Gubb on sales@capesauna.co.za or on his mobile at 071 602 5793.

Bonne Nouvelle, Bantry Bay. // DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

SUSTAINABILITY

Achieving long-term sustainability with wood Cobus Lourens from Swartland offers an overview on what makes the use of timber products from Swartland such an effective longterm contributor to sustainability and green building practices.

SUSTAINABILITY

ood is a great green construction material – it is both sustainable and renewable when it is sourced from sustainably managed forests and mills. Says Cobus Lourens from Swartland, “Forests help the earth to sequestrate carbon, and you can promote forestation and timber economies when they choose to use sustainable wood products.” He explains that there are many green benefits when using wood as a construction material: “Timber is a renewable resource – if managed correctly, trees can be harvested and replanted or regrown. It is also a really durable product – timber joinery lasts for an average of 35 years. Furthermore, it is easily reused, recycled or broken down into compost after use. It is also highly efficient in use, and it is an excellent insulator. And last, but certainly not least, wood adds a timeless, rich and beautiful organic aesthetic to any building it graces.” However, Swartland hasn’t stopped there; instead, it has adopted the mantra “think long term,” which embodies the principles of quality and durability where products are concerned, but that also reflects the important values that relate to environmental responsibility and sustainability of everything else in which it partakes. Cobus explains, “Our ‘think long term’ philosophy guides us at Swartland in everything we do, not just in the materials we choose to use, but it includes the manufacturing process, and the way the company is run. Our commitment to increased energy efficiency and environmental sustainability is deeply ingrained. These principles are promoted today, more strongly than ever. It may cost Swartland more to produce a green product, but if it means giving back to the environment, then that is a cost we encourage.”

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Since its inception, Swartland has been working hard to achieve its impressive set of green credentials – often setting the benchmark for the industry. Follow the company’s sustainable journey below to see how it continually strives to maintain and better its commitment to the environment:

1. AT THE SOURCE Only wood from sustainably managed forests is sourced by Swartland. Okoume trees grow for years and absorb tons of carbon from the earth’s atmosphere in their lifetime.

2. SUSTAINABLE HARVESTING Swartland supports mills that follow sustainable harvesting practices. According to strict government forest management policies, on average only two trees per hectare every 25 years may be harvested. Senior management regularly visit the mills for inspection and provide guidance on waste reduction.

3. HOME GROWN Swartland also sources Pine from suppliers who are certified with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). By using FSC timber, Swartland helps to promote socially and environmentally responsible forestry.

4. MAINTAINING THE ECO-SYSTEM By strategically harvesting individual trees, managed forests remain a natural eco-system capable of sequestrating massive amounts of carbon, whilst maintaining the valuable biodiversity balance of our planet. Swartland believes that with responsible management, wood is a renewable resource.

SUSTAINABILITY

5. RESOURCE EFFICIENCY By optimising the harvesting and transport process from the forest, Swartland is able to achieve resource efficiency. Each part of every harvested log is put to good use. The timber is cut to predetermined sizes based on the endproduct usage to eliminate process waste. Off-cuts are placed between the layers of timber to allow for drying and to protect against damage during transit. This process ensures that almost all of the materials arrive at the factory in perfect condition – eliminating as much waste as possible.

6. MAINTAINING A LOW CARBON FOOTPRINT The comparatively low energy that is embodied in the harvesting and transporting of Okoume timber from Gabon to South Africa is just one of the reasons why Swartland’s products have a relatively low carbon footprint. Pine is also sourced as close as economically possible to the manufacturing source.

7. EVERYTHING GETS USED The best woodcuts from the tree are used to create the finest quality windows and doors. Other cuts of a lower grade are used in wood laminate products, and that which does not get used in production is used as fuel for the boilers that kiln-dry Swartland’s wood. Shavings and sawdust are sold to local farmers for chicken bedding. Everything is used and virtually nothing is wasted.

8. MADE FOR OUR SOUTH AFRICAN CLIMES Swartland products are built to perform best in our unique southern African climes. The timber is dried in Swartland’s own computer-controlled kilns to an optimal mean of 8% moisture content to eliminate possible contraction of the wood following production. This unique process increases the quality, stability, durability and performance of the end product.

9. INCREASED INSULATION Our homes cause around 28% of all carbon dioxide emissions that can be reduced if they are properly insulated. Swartland’s timber products are extremely efficient insulators with its double-glazed products rated as some of the most energy efficient products in the country.

10. COMPLIANCE WITH ENERGY EFFICIENCY LAWS Swartland continuously tests its products to ensure that they are compliant with all the required National Building Regulations. In order to ensure that its windows and doors are compliant with the SANS 613 and 204 (Fenestration

Products) Mechanical Performance Criteria, its innovative Ready-2-Fit range of pre-sealed and pre-glazed windows and doors has been tested for deflection, structural strength, water-resistance, air-tightness, operating forces, and the best possible energy efficiency. As a result, all Swartland’s Ready-2-Fit windows and doors have unique mechanical property values, from A1 to A4, assigned to them.

11. WHAT'S ON THE OUTSIDE Swartland’s German-formulated and manufactured ecofriendly, water-based Maxicare wood treatment product ensures that the lifespan of its doors and windows is extended, with very little maintenance required. This treatment process helps to provide Swartland customers with the unique product guarantee that they have come to expect.

12. NATURE'S TAKE-BACK POLICY The primary 'cradle-to-grave' benefit associated with our wood products is something Swartland says that it simply can’t take credit for. As a truly natural material, wood will biodegrade after deconstruction if it isn’t reused – it’s Mother Nature's own take-back policy.

13. AN INDUSTRY FROM WOOD Swartland has its own way of promoting an environmental stewardship philosophy that requires adding positively to the eco-systems from which it harvests its raw materials. By using timber, Swartland is helping to create a forestry industry that will continue to ensure that more trees are planted as demand rises, and in turn, ensuring that the earth’s natural carbon dioxide absorption process is maintained.

14. THE NEW ONES Younger trees are much more efficient at photosynthesis than older trees. Research suggests that sustainably harvesting small sections of forest and planting new trees can increase the production of oxygen in the forest, so promoting sustainable forestry actually increases the amount of oxygen being produced.

15. SOCIAL CONTRIBUTION Forestation is an important economic, labour and social contributing force in Africa, and it is good to know that Swartland is playing a positive role, whilst also contributing to the environment and to our planet's general wellbeing.

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Global value and sustainability by using wood The FOURTH WOOD-CONFERENCE present unique opportunity for exchange of ideas, information and inspiration on the topic of wood, in its various states and applications, as a viable and natural building material.

Get inspired - join the FOURTH WOOD-CONFERENCE Please diarise our upcoming activity. It will take place on the 11th February 2014 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The conference would focus on sustainability and its global process. For more information and applications, please contact: +27 (0) 76 401 91 20 z.davids@hwzinternational.com RSVP by 24 January 2014

www.hwzinternational.com

HWZ International SA (Pty) Ltd 4 Sedgemoor Road Camps Bay 8005 / Cape Town South Africa

TIMBER FRAME BUILDING

Sustainability simplified by Swissline Design Under the leadership of owner, Marc LĂźdi, the team at Swissline Design has been foremost in remaining informed and updated on sustainable ways of building in South Africa.

wissline Design recently launched their new concept of building timber frame homes using their specifically designed floor plans, or custombuilt to the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specifications, with top quality construction timber sourced from sustainably controlled forests. Although this is a fairly uncommon way of building in South Africa, the concept has been around and used successfully in other parts of the world for centuries. Swissline have completed a family home in the suburbs of Cape Town with great interest from the public, partly due to the fact that the home was erected within days, but most importantly, because the structure has little or no negative impact on the environment and does not sacrifice the desire for an aesthetically pleasing and functional home.

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THE BUILDING METHOD It is quite simple: all the elements (roof, floors and walls) are manufactured to the exact specifications in the workshop, where clients enjoy the added benefit of being able to view the progress at their convenience. Once all the elements are complete and the foundations are ready, the elements are simply delivered and, by way of a crane, assembled in modules to fit perfectly. This process can take as little as four days on site, after which the finishing touches are carried out. The sustainable timbers used for the construction are European Construction Spruce and Siberian Larch, as well as Oriented Strand Boards (OSB) and Eco-Insulation.

TIMBER FRAME BUILDING

THE WAY FORWARD Swissline believes this way of building is definitely the way of the future in South Africa, and it is creating a lot of interest from the public. The question often arises how this way of building compares to the conventional brick and mortar way of building, and the answer to that is obvious: • Building with timber allows for limitless and heightened architectural design capabilities • Timber has proven to have a positive impact on the environment • Far less on-site operational costs, quick to construct and therefore more cost efficient • The utilization of local climate conditions is limitless, and timber has a characteristic of a natural insulator,resulting in a far higher R-value • Examples of timber frame homes built in the 12th century still exist today, proving that a timber frame home will last just as long as any other new home • Fire-resistant materials are used for the insulation and structural elements, which allows for a far slower and more controlled loss of structural integrity in case of a fire, making it far safer to live in These reasons alone are enough motivation for Swissline to encourage the building of timber frame homes or industrial buildings in South Africa in the future.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Marc Lüdi Tel: (021) 932-3342 or 083-709-0390 info@swisslinedesign.co.za www.swisslinedesign.co.za

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MAINTENANCE

Shedding light on timber maintenance Choosing the right timber species for your environment and following correct maintenance schedules will greatly improve your timber product's lifespan, reduce your carbon footprint and save you money. 40

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MAINTENANCE

imber maintenance has been known to appear on many a client’s pros and cons list when deciding on what material to use around their homes. Many times, correct timber maintenance is not performed, leaving the product looking a far cry from the envisaged finish, resulting in the possible removal and replacement of the timber. When choosing the best timber for external or internal use, it is important to use a timber well suited to your environment. For instance, when we take a look at decking material, there are some known favourites that include Balau, Garapa, Iroko, Massaranduba and Rhodesian/ Zimbabwean Teak, to name a few. Balau, Garapa and Massaranduba seem to be better suited to the Coastal climates. These timbers do well in more humid conditions with plenty of air flow, but are seemingly less favourable to the drier Highveld and inland areas, whereby the latent oils often drain from within the core of the timber and this can cause splintering and warping over time. Due to their density, Iroko and Rhodesian/Zimbabwean Teak are amongst more favourable options for the Highveld.

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR TIMBER Timber is flexible and it moves, forming microscopic cracks in the wood that need to be filled with sealant in order to prevent water from seeping into these cracks, eventually causing damage to the timber. On average, timber can take approximately two years to settle into its new environment, after installation. It is important to note that within these first two years, a strict maintenance schedule will assist the timber to settle properly. For optimal results, the timber should be lightly sanded and coated every three months within the first year and then every six months in the second year; thereafter annual maintenance is advisable to prevent UV damage.

WHICH MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS TO USE Solvent-based options include the use of polyurethane coatings, preservatives and oils. • A polyurethane coating is a good choice for heavy traffic areas, such as busy walkways and floors. This is a harder coating that seals the timber from the outside, much like a skin. • Timber preservatives are wax-based products that draw into the timber through exposure to heat and release their properties over time, making them a good choice for products that undergo prolonged periods of direct sunlight, such as pergolas and balustrades. • Natural oils are derived from tree gums and these oils are absorbed deep into the fibres of the timber. This method of maintenance should be performed more frequently than other methods and is a good choice for the maintenance of outdoor furniture covered by a patio shade, for example, that reduces exposure to direct sunlight. Solvent-based products penetrate between one and two millimetres into the timber, depending on its density. This enhances the timber’s grain and provides long-term protection. Choosing responsibly sourced timber from reputable companies and maintaining these products correctly will go a long way in ensuring that you enjoy your investment for years to come.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: (t) 011 614 1103 (c) 082 301 2134 (e) sales@investmentconstruction.co.za (w) www.investmentconstruction.co.za

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ARCHITECTURE

A lake of pleasure in a cup of tea One Taste Holistic Health Club

ARCHITECTURE

One Taste Holistic Health Club, located between Hangzhou city's Chenghuang Temple and the West Lake, is China's first club that focuses on the healing of minds.

aring for the society’s wellbeing, One Taste wishes for the development of spiritual enlightenment. This is where avant-garde architect, Tsung-Jen Lin, has incorporated western holism with eastern serenity to create a space for spiritual awakening. Here lies a scene to which to escape: a scene of the West Lake overlooked by the Chenghuang Temple, up on the mountains. Amidst this ethereal intertwining of wind and water, Lin has composed an air of fluidity within One Taste, focusing on the form of the lake water by using ripples as the main design concept.

safety we need, and from a place of peace, we can then enjoy and ponder the wonders and beauties of nature,” says Lin. His concept is portrayed through snaking timber, flowing across One Taste that defines the sense of the public and the private. It gives the space a multi-leveled layering effect, achieving the feel of wind gliding over water. Rhythmic lines, slowly invert perspectives and project them from within. The flow of the timber creates multifunctional areas between the curls and waves that curve off naturally to reveal new vistas.

“We often experience nature’s beauty from afar, generally from our comfort zones. A subtle separation can create the

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ARCHITECTURE

Practicing the art of a peaceful state of mind is a beautiful exercise. By utilizing natural materials, such as solid wood and stone, with the reflections of silver foil, Lin believes in capturing the essence of natural beauty. The use of materials in One Taste places a strong focus on simplicity, so as to ensure the feel of the materialsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; original charm and warmth. Not only has Lin preserved the simple beauty of the materials themselves, he has also projected the fusion of eastern and western ideals for beauty upon them. The layout was configured through the use of flexible thresholds, like curtains and movable mirrors, to create an open environment that can be utilized freely, as well as closed for exclusive workshops. The light that reflects inwards is derived from the sunlit courtyard outside and spreads light and shadow throughout One Taste.

ELEGANCE OVER DECADENCE A place of Zen in the bustle of a cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre is, without doubt, hard to find. That breezy lifestyle of leisure, that peaceful space for meditation, can all be experienced in the haven amidst the clamour. The holistic health club makes space for all activities that benefit the mind and soul; meditation, taichi and yoga followed by strolling through the gardens and enjoying tea in the courtyard, reaching for a balance between the ideals of east and west.

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ARCHITECTURE

It is also a place where confidants can gather and chit-chat over aromatic brews, meditate together and read leisurely on the wooden decks. This is the purpose of Lin’s design – to give people a space for quiet contemplation or just a space for escape within the city. Influenced by the western world’s way of life, pleasure is no longer in decadence, but in subtle elegance; this is the ideal for a new generation of China. Pure white walls and timber design set the tone for a warm and simple One Taste. Together with the reflecting silver foil ceiling, Lin has handpicked tasteful ornaments to decorate the club, solidifying the tranquil and serene mood it exudes.

PROJECT DETAILS: DESIGN OFFICE: CROX International Co., LTD- www.crox.com.tw HEAD DESIGNERS: Tsung-Jen Lin, CROX International Director DESIGN TEAM: Ying-xiu Lin, Ben-tao Li CLIENTS: One Taste Holistic Health Club PROJECT COMPLETION: June 2012 AREA: 360m² MATERIALS: Teak timber flooring, fir timber ceiling, lauan wood, marble stone, mirrors, foil ceiling PHOTOGRAPHER: Black

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ARCHITECTURE

Tsung-Jen Lin, Director of Crox International, specializes in architecture and urban planning and has a good sense of design and a sharp business understanding of all aspects of a successful project. His practice spans from window displays, sceneries and interiors to large scale projects, like exhibitions, architecture and urban landscape. With unique design ability and user-focused approach, Lin looks into the context for solutions beyond traditional ideals. He serves as a cohesive force that fosters an integrated design consulting service at Crox.

EDUCATION Master of Urban Management and City Design, Domus Academy, Milano, Italy Bachelor of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chung-Hua University, Taiwan

For more information, please contact crox@crox.com.tw.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Growing tomorrow: As part of this year’s Mandela Day celebrations, Forestry student, Kutelani Tshivhase oversees the planting of a Yellowwood tree at George High School, one of the George Campus top partner schools.

Growing tomorrow at NMMU George Campus Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (George Campus) is situated in the Southern Cape, the historical and traditional timber centre of South Africa.

he campus focuses on becoming a world-class knowledge catalyst for the green economy and a more sustainable future. The university plans to realise this through cutting edge research and engagement, quality teaching and learning, as well as competitive innovation and entrepreneurship. With the Faculties of Science, Business & Economic Sciences, and Education represented here, the campus is well positioned to develop students’ insights, skills and practical know-how, which can help them make a real difference in the agriculture, forestry, conservation, business, accounting, tourism and education fields.

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SCHOOL OF NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT The George Campus is home to the School of Natural Resource Management within NMMU’s Faculty of Science and offers a unique mix of career focused diploma and degree programmes in Agricultural Management, Forestry, Game Ranch Management, Nature Conservation and Wood Technology. From 2014 the university will further expand its focused programme offerings in natural resource management with the introduction of a Higher Certificate programme in Veldfire Management.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Class of 2013: A group photograph of the George Campus graduating class of Forestry and Wood Technology students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a tradition dating back to 1932.

FORESTRY The George Campus offers a three-year Diploma programme in Forestry that consists of four academic semesters at the campus and two practical, in-field semesters at an approved forestry estate in southern Africa or elsewhere. The South African forestry industry is renowned for the strong emphasis it has placed on the management of renewable resources, continually striving to ensure sustainability in an economic, social and environmental context. Forest management has become one of the most important prerequisites for the survival of the forestry industry today. It is of the utmost importance that the application of technical knowledge and skills is integrated with sound management principles. The Forestry programme offered at the George Campus more than adequately equips its students to satisfy this need. The BTech Degree (one year full-time or two years parttime), perfect for foresters wishing to specialise in specific

disciplines, such as forest engineering, silviculture and forest management, is also available at the George Campus. Postgraduate study opportunities in Forestry include a research-based MTech Degree programme.

WOOD TECHNOLOGY A three-year Diploma programme in Wood Technology, as well as a BTech Degree (part-time on a block release basis over two years) in the same discipline, is also offered at the NMMU George Campus. The programmeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modules cover the entire spectrum related to the working industrial environment and is packed with new and relevant information as the industry grows. Class time is also interspersed with visits to primary and secondary wood processing plants to expose students to working environments and new technologies.

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EDUCATION & TRAINING

Historic first… For the first time in the history of the International Forestry Students’ Association (IFSA), two South African students – both of them master’s students from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (George Campus) – occupy the highest positions in the Association. Kutelani Tshivhase and Sikhumbuzo Nxumalo were elected as the new IFSA President and Vice President, respectively.

VELDFIRE MANAGEMENT The Higher Certificate programme in Veldfire Management (one year full-time or two years part-time) will be introduced to the George Campus programme and qualification mix from the 2014 academic year. Students in this programme will learn how to manage resources, vegetation and human activities in the natural environment in such a way that nature, human life and assets will be protected from fire and unwanted fires can be prevented and/or suppressed to curb fire impact and cost.

GRADUATES' EMPLOYABILITY With its high employment rate, the NMMU George Campus prides itself in the fact that its academic programmes pre-eminently equip its students to satisfy the needs of the Forestry and Wood Technology industries – worldwide.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: (t) 044 801 5111 (e) george-info@nmmu.ac.za (w) georgecampus.nmmu.ac.za

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Campus Principal Leadership Excellence Award: The winners in this prestigious category – Tatenda Mapeto and Hannes van Zyl – are both accomplished master’s students (Forestry – Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management) at the NMMU (George Campus). They were acknowledged for their proven leadership in various spheres and significant contributions to student life. In addition to the Campus Principal Leadership Excellence Award, both received a book prize, very aptly titled, Voices from the Forest: Celebrating Nature and Culture in Xhosaland.

George Campus Saasveld

COMPANY PROFILE

Crickmay

Supply chain evolution Crickmay was founded as a consultancy to the forestry and sawmilling industry in the early 1980s by David Crickmay. One of the main focusses of the consultancy was to provide clients with continuous improvement through its benchmarking process and it was here that a product called the Intermill Comparison had its origins.

he process of continuous improvement succeeded in what was a particularly brutal industry and which saw 75% of the formal sawmills closing their doors over a 20 year period. Interestingly, 75% of the original Intermill Comparison clients survived and now flourish.

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This process of continuous improvement forms the basis of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s philosophy and has successfully been introduced into a number of industries. As the process became better defined, so too did the IT capability supporting it and the greater the application for it.

COMPANY PROFILE

Through its base in benchmarking and expanding IT capability it has branched out to incorporate value chain optimisation, enhancing company visibility and operational reporting. All these aspects have proven instrumental in creating greater operational efficiency and higher return on investment in industries such as mining, sugar and bulk transport to name a few. In each industry that Crickmay works, the process has led to the emergence of specific optimisation solutions. In the sugar industry, for example, the FREDD vehicle scheduling system has dramatically improved mill turnaround times and regular delivery of cane to the mills who use it. In addition to this, another solution in high demand is the monitoring and improving of the availability/utilisation of both agriculture and mining equipment resulting in better returns on funds invested.

WHAT CRICKMAY DO IN FORESTRY In the timber industry, Crickmay currently deploy three core products from their benchmarking suite. They continue to produce the Intermill Comparison, a quarterly benchmarking tool that provides industry average information on productivity and profitability to their clients, who represent approximately 80% of the structural sawn timber market in South Africa.

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COMPANY PROFILE

They also produce a monthly publication known as the SA Lumber Index, which was started in the mid-1990s. The purpose, or mission of the Lumber Index, is to provide aggregated information to sawmills to assist them in identifying areas in which they need to improve their efficiency if they wish to remain competitive in the national and international markets, while at the same time providing market information to end users to assist them in acquiring lumber at competitive prices. Trends in prices are monitored using an index of the average delivered price of sawn softwood timber, derived from the average sales mix of the softwood structural sawmills who participate in the Intermill Comparison. The third product is specific to the forestry sector and aims at improving the understanding of cost escalations, similar to the way in which the Producer Price Index and Consumer Price Index work. It is known at the Forestry Cost Index. Through extensive research Crickmay established a cost profile for silviculture, harvesting, as well as shorthaul and loading activities. These were then broken down into more detailed input costs and a basket of goods was established for each cost element. Here again the indices are used to monitor trends in the costs of carrying out the plantation activities.

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COMPANY PROFILE

From time to time Crickmay also publish resource studies covering the supply and demand of commercial roundwood in South Africa. These are macro studies aimed at helping the timber industry at a strategic level, the next edition due during the course of 2014 which will expand its scope to include a broader range of Southern African countries.

CRICKMAY GOING FORWARD Crickmay are committed to continuing and expanding their current work in the timber industry, providing reliable information on which informed decisions can be made. By leveraging experience gained across other sectors, Crickmayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expanded business encompassing benchmarking, optimisation and real time business reporting will be brought to bear on the Forestry industry to deliver on its promise of visibility with purpose to African businesses. For more information, visit www.crickmay.co.za.

Khulani Timber Industries Pty (Ltd) Pressure Treated Pole Products Creosote and Tanalith

Pole products: Creo & Tan Ranch Fencing (SABS 457) Creo & Tan Droppers & Laths (SABS 1288) Creo & Tan Poles (SABS 457) Tanalised Poles (SABS 754) Creosote Poles (SABS 754)

NEW SALIGNA RANCH FENCING Contact: (t) 015 309 9525 or 015 309 9202/3/4 (c) 082 896 1520 or 082 896 1531

(e) adele@khulani.co.za (e) sales@khulani.co.za (w) www.khulani.co.za

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Past, present and future Research and development in SA forest products industries Words: Peter Sorfa of Timber Technology Services.

Era gone by - NTRI staff at its heyday.

ood is probably the most versatile material known to man. Its many useful properties make it suitable for manufacture and fabrication of a wide range of products, as well as for house building and structural applications. In addition, it has inherent beauty, offering endless decorative options. The totally unique feature is that it can simultaneously act as an efficient long-term store of carbon (reduction of COâ&#x201A;&#x201A; in atmosphere) or can be used as source of renewable energy. It just returns into the atmosphere the COâ&#x201A;&#x201A; it took out during the tree growing period. And we must not forget that trees and forests have major beneficial effect on the environment and contribute greatly to the quality of our lives. On the economic front, the forest products and wood processing industries (and not forgetting about forestry on its own) are making a significant contribution to the South African economy and therefore, ensuring usefulness and desirability of wood based products, as well as positive economic performance are very important for the South African economy and its people.

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South African plantation forestry used to be the world leader in the field. Even today, when other countries developed much larger plantation forests than South Africa can ever have, our expertise is still highly regarded. Our knowledge and expertise regarding the properties of the plantation-grown timbers (eucalyptus and pine) also used to be advanced and at the leading edge. South Africa pioneered stress grading of pine structural timber and was the leader in structural finger jointing. However, about 15 years ago our capacity regarding timber production and technology started to decline. Today, this presents a serious challenge to our wood processing industry, as well as to the users of locally grown commercial timber. In order to meet the requirements of the forest products industry and the users, the capacity for research and development in the light of timber properties and relevant technologies needs to be rebuilt and revitalized.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Its purpose was to facilitate and encourage development and progress of the forestry and timber processing industries. The Forestry Council was collecting a so-called ‘forestry levy,’ which was charged on sales of round wood and timber imports. The collected funds were then mostly used for research and development purposes carried out by formal research and development organizations (e.g. National Timber Research Institute, the research section of the Department of Wood Science, University of Stellenbosch).

Sawmilling investigations start in the forest.

This requires broad co-operation and a co-ordinated national approach involving the forestry, organised wood processing industries, users of the wood and wood-based products, state institutions, universities and research and development establishments. The countries which have substantially higher usage of wood and wood-based products than South Africa generally have one thing in common: a large and wellfunded capacity to investigate wood and wood-based products and associated technologies. This is enabled by broad and very active interaction between the industry, research and development organizations, state institutions, universities and professional training bodies.

THE ROAD TRAVELLED South Africa had virtually no natural forests to provide for the needs of the industrialized society, which stimulated the development of plantation forestry. Initially it was mainly eucalyptus for the emerging mining industry, but later the state began large-scale planting of selected pine species which would grow well in South African conditions. Private companies also became involved in the plantation forestry, which led to the development of expertise in this field which did not exist anywhere in the world at the time. Until late 1940s and early 1950s, South Africa was almost exclusively dependent on structural lumber imports. Then the pine plantation started to reach maturity and serious work started on establishing its suitability for structural applications. This led to the development of stress grading and perfection of finger jointing for structural applications. This resulted in the rapid replacement of structural timber imports with locally grown pine. Other industries using locally grown wood also started to develop: wooden boxes, pallets, plywood, particleboard, fibreboard, laminated beams, laminated shelving, mining supports, etc. The state played very important role in these developments and in 1968 the ‘Forestry Council’ was established.

The selections of the projects were done by industrial sectorial associations (SA Lumber Miller Association, SA Pulp and Paper Association, SA Mining Timber Association and others). This also stimulated some additional positive spin-offs: • The industrial associations often provided additional funding from their members in support of desirable projects. • Individual companies frequently made use of the available facilities and expertise for contract development work. However, the state involvement also had some significant commercial implications, specifically in the sawmilling sector. In this case, the following was the situation until the late eighties: • Log prices were negotiated with the Department of Forestry on the basis that at least 15% return on investment in the sawmills was achieved. The sawmillers were therefore able to influence log prices to their advantage. • Sawn lumber prices were controlled by so called ‘Lumber Marketing Agreement’ and no discounting was allowed. • The sawmillers were therefore able to influence the input costs and product prices by negotiations. This effectively eliminated competition and reduced the importance of productivity and efficiency. While this scenario was biased in favour of the sawmilling industry, it had also some long-term negative side effects: • Productivity was not a key issue for achieving profitability; therefore there was no strong incentive to be aggressive in that direction. • The need to invest in new and more efficient equipment was not paramount. Consequently, the mills eventually became old and outdated. • Production costs became relatively high in comparison to world standards. • Exports of sawlogs became attractive, because the world prices were significantly higher than the domestic roundwood prices. That set the scene for rapid log price escalation once the protective measures were abolished.

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

The situation changed dramatically in the second half of the eighties and during the nineties: • The Lumber Marketing Agreement was removed, as it was in conflict with the competition laws. • Open competition started and lumber prices became ruled by free market forces. • The state formed commercial company, SAFCOL, which took over running of the state forests. SAFCOL was given two key objectives: • The forests had to be run on the basis of normal business principles with the aim to generate profit. • Make the state forests commercially attractive so their management could be ‘sold’ to private companies on the basis of long-term management contracts through a privatization process. The state would still remain the owner of the land and the successful bidders had to comply with specified conditions. • Round wood prices started to increase and so-called ‘evergreen’ log supply contracts from the state forests were stopped. That opened competition for log supplies. • Forestry levy was abolished and it was left up to individual associations to collect the funds from their members for the required development work. • Due to rationalization at CSIR – the National Timber Research Institute (105 staff at the time) was incorporated into a larger multi-disciplinary unit. This destroyed the close relationship between NTRI and the industry, which took decades to establish. This unit eventually fell apart and Forestek was formed by combining what was left from the old NTRI with SA Forest Research Institute. The wood processing and wood science activities were gradually scaled down, mainly due to reduced support from the industry. From the remnants was eventually formed Forestry and Forest Products (FFP) Research centre, a joint collaboration between CSIR and the University of KZN in Durban. FFP is currently devoting most of its activities to research on wood properties relevant to the pulp and paper industry, which provides funding. No systematic research on wood processing and woodbased products is currently done. • SALMA initially extended their activities promoting timber frame construction, training and continued to support Research and Development efforts, but on reduced scale. After facing serious internal problems including funding difficulties SALMA eventually closed down. With that, any systematic focussed development work for the benefit of the whole sawmilling industry came to an end, too. • The faculty of civil engineering of Pretoria University, which had long-term cooperation with NTRI since the 1980s continued to deal with some timber engineering aspects, mainly on contract basis with private companies.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

However, no national timber engineering programme was undertaken, as far the author could establish. • On the ashes of SALMA, a new organisation – Sawmilling South Africa (SSA) – was formed in 2007. The sawmilling industry regained a united voice. Among the SSA objectives is “to collect, analyse and disseminate relevant information.” However, the objectives of SSA do not explicitly specify promotion and support of research and development. Notwithstanding that, the SSA was able to become the main funder of the project for evaluation of structural properties of pine carried out at the University of Stellenbosch. This project is of great practical significance for the sawmilling industry and users of structural timber. • Two specific areas of sawmilling continue to be very active in terms of co-operation and information sharing: • saw doctoring and • kiln drying • Forestry, however, continued to be well-organized under the umbrella of Forestry South Africa (FSA). The forestry research is very active, as can be witnessed by numerous publications and research reports. Much of the work is done at the Institute for Commercial Forestry Research at the University of KZN and at the Forestry section of the University of Stellenbosch. South African forestry is still counted as a significant force in international circles. • The Wood Foundation was formed in 2009. Its main objective is to promote the growing of trees and the use of wood and wood products. Eight existing timber and forestry sectorial organizations are the principal members, namely: • • • • • •

Forestry South Africa (FSA) Sawmilling South Africa (SSA) Institute for Timber Construction (ITC) The Institute of Timber Frame Builders (ITFB) Thatchers Association Paper Manufacturer’s Association of South Africa (PAMSA) • SA Wood Preservers Association (SAWPA) • SA Utility Pole Association (SAUPA) • Sadly, a very significant sector of wood-based panel products (chipboard, fibreboard and plywood) does not seem to be part of the organized forest products industry. No association of the producers of panel products seems to exist at the moment. No projects and developments of national importance are being reported, nor are any plans to undertake them, yet this is the fastest growing sector of this industry.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

• The common problem which SSA and The Wood Foundation face is a lack of funding. This means that only very limited support can currently be provided for systematic development programmes of national importance. • While several private companies sponsor some research and development work, this is done mainly for their own specific business interests. Individual private companies cannot be expected to fund and drive projects of general national importance.

INTO THE FUTURE The forestry and forest products industries are structurally well and comprehensively organized under the national umbrella of The Wood Foundation. The forestry and certain sectors of the forest products industries are doing significant work to ensure their future prosperity. Other sectors, e.g. sawmilling, have serious intentions to put their forces together for the common good, but are able to support required research and development work only on a limited scale. A number of organizations and companies, including private companies, are seriously working on development and promotion of forestry, wood and wood-based products.

However, in many instances, the currently available capacities are not adequate to undertake large systematic programmes of national significance which would be required. There is no lack of good will and sincere intentions to promote the wood and wood-based products. What seems to be missing is adequate and reliable funding mechanism which could facilitate implementation of comprehensive development and promotional programme serving the whole industry and its specific sectors in a balanced way. If the funding would be provided, it would still be necessary to build: • Sufficient research and development capacity to undertake such programmes, specifically covering wood processing, wood utilization and promotion. The existing organizations can deal with isolated subjects, but none has anywhere near the capacity which NTRI used to have in the past. • Pool of active, experienced professional researchers who can manage and conduct required research and development programmes. The times when the state was the positive driving force and facilitator are now over. It is up to the industry to look after its own needs.

There are places and units at several universities and the CSIR, which are capable of doing research and development work for the industry and assist with promotion.

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ARCHITECTURE

Tasteful

Van Loveren's tribute to wine tasting Words: Daniel Conradie.

ARCHITECTURE

ince the deregulation of South Africa's former trade policies (and the subsequent restructuring of the agricultural sector itself), the prevalence of independent wine cellars has become notably more commonplace in the rural landscape. Naturally, this boom in the industry made itself apparent in the construction industry through the erection of new buildings. The celebration of wine making and the architectural interpretations employed to enhance this particular experience have since become a major contributor to the evolution of South African architecture. Earlier architectural typologies adopted by this emerging market had never been clearly articulated. Prior to deregulation, marketing and distribution were normally delegated to larger corporations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it had never been a requirement for the average wine farmer to establish a platform from which their product could be exposed to the consumer directly. Van Loveren Wine Estate has always been an attractive cellar. Located along a very charming stretch of road in the Robertson Wine Valley, a simple white silhouette of gable-ended structures is perched comfortably and framed beautifully within its natural setting of mountain, river and vine.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

ARCHITECTURE

However simple its formal expression, the close proximity of the complex to the main road required a more careful approach to its detailing, something that becomes apparent through the intricate application of plastered mouldings on its façade. The building’s iconic presence and the clarity of its association with a quality product (renditions thereof were incorporated in earlier versions of their wine labels) has long been entrenched into the consumer's subconscious. The cellar, owned by the Retief family, was one of the first in the region to offer wine tastings to visitors – predominantly urban dwellers coveting a weekend of refuge and to enjoy the relaxed hospitality for which the area has since become renowned. The former facilities and activities available at Van Loveren's venue were, however, limited and the necessity for expansion became obvious as their market expanded. “Our goal is to offer something for every visitor. The new tasting venue and bistro that opened its doors in December 2011, in addition to the rich history of the farm that finds expression in the gardens, creates the ideal environment where wine lovers and their families can spend many leisurely hours,” explains Van Loveren CEO, Phillip Retief

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ARCHITECTURE

Kruger Theron Architects were approached by the client to address the design challenge. The architects were clearly aware that the most logical approach to the extension would be to mirror the existing triangular gable condition. However, in order to emphasise its dissimilar function (being reserved for wine tasting and sales) in relation with the balance of the building, the architects decided to visually break the two by displacing the new white gable-end from the established line, by which the current faรงade is dictated. The extension thus merges contiguously with the whole, yet manages to attain visual independence. In between its monolithic brickwork walls, a steel portal frame construction defines the volume of the new space. Its scale is immense; the existing overall proportions were mimicked to ensure visual congruency on the exterior and in response, the architects envisioned a secondary steel structure with a delicate curved geometry clad with a lattice of timber strips.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

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PRODUCTS:

The arch motif effectively invokes a visual reference to wine barrels – it is a pleasant and original interpretation without trying to be overly obvious. This strategy successfully breaks the scale of the space visually and makes for a more intimate experience. An expansive glazed wall with large stacking doors opens out onto and embraces the venue's famous established garden. The viewer steps out onto a large Balau timber deck that hugs a beautiful Rhus lancea tree, whose shadows animate the deck and interior playfully and provide the guests with shelter from the harsh summer sun. The deck's generous extent is framed by a raised natural spring water feature which assists in defining the outside space. “This extension represents a significant investment in the region’s wine tourism and helps to establish a home for our brand – a place where wine lovers can relax,” Retief explains. The present typology for wine cellars is still being defined and an estate’s capacity to offer the consumer more than just traditional wine tasting is paramount in determining whether a brand will grow or diminish. It is in the writer's humble opinion that the architects have succeeded in creating an architectural work which respects the existing condition, yet manages to exude an understated elegance while taking its own stance. Details are executed beautifully and are humble in their material honesty and the focus remains firmly on the experience derived from the wine, the way it is meant to be.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

The benefits of building with timber Excerpt from presentation delivered at the Cape Construction Expo, 31 October, at the CTICC, Cape Town, as part of the 'Materials Zone' workshops. By Jacques Cronje, of Jacques Cronje Timber Design.

n general, people respond to wood as if connected to it somehow – it appeals to more than just the visual sense – also to touch and smell. If someone walks into a kitchen with a wooden counter top, or picks up one of my timber light fittings, the first thing they do is run their hands over it, to feel its smoothness, and sometimes they will even smell it. You don’t often see that happening with other materials.

WHY SHOULD WE BE USING WOOD? When thinking of using wood, some of us think of the negatives, like deforestation, or the combustibility of timber. I am going to share with you the other side of the story: We are all aware that our planet is in trouble. We are faced with the threat of unprecedented global warming, most of which is now known to be manmade; in terms of resources, we’ve reached the point where current demand exceeds supply, so we’ve started eating into our resource capital.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Worst still, the waste we produce is polluting the depleting remaining capital, further reducing the effective balance and we now face a huge potential energy crisis. This is coupled with expanding (albeit slowly at present) economies causing the need for ever-increasing resource extraction, and a growing population, with a housing backlog of 2.1 million houses in South Africa alone. So the question is, how do we meet, not just in South Africa, but worldwide, the need for housing? That is, without further increasing carbon emissions and depleting resources? What we have is a situation of housing vs. climate change. The solution that is being put forward is known as ‘decoupling’ – or achieving growth and prosperity without resource depletion and ever-increasing carbon emissions. So why should any of this affect what and how we build?

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

The reason, quite simply, is because the construction industry and the built environment consume: • close to 50% of all resources globally • 50% of all CO2 emissions • 50% of energy consumed So the built environment can be considered the ‘low hanging fruit’ with regards improving our situation, as any improvement in the way we construct can have a real and positive effect on our environment and many think that timber can play a large role in the solution

COMPARING BUILDING MATERIALS Concrete, steel and masonry are all great building materials – there is no doubt about that, but: • CO2 is one of the direct by-products of the manufacturing process of cement • Steel is also energy intensive to produce • Combined steel and concrete account for approx 8% of all greenhouse gas emissions • Clay for bricks is extracted from the earth, meaning that it is of a finite quantity, and then fired in an energy intensive process

BUT WHAT ABOUT WOOD? • Wood is essentially grown by the energy of the sun • In terms of carbon, when a tree grows, it soaks up carbon dioxide from the air, giving off the oxygen we breathe as a by-product • If a tree is left to live out its natural lifespan, when it falls over and eventually rots, it gives back only the CO2 that it absorbed • Similarly, if it burns, it also gives back the same amount • If you build with wood, or convert it into furniture or products, that CO2 gets locked away – one cubic metre of wood stores 0.9 tonnes of CO2 • Wood is the only major building material that is renewable • At the end of the lifespan of a building or product, we can burn the wood to use its stored (solar) energy, rather than burning oil, coal or gas to obtain the equivalent amount of energy • Wood has an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio Using wood instead of conventional materials not only reduces the amount of CO2 emitted, at the rate of 0.9 tonnes of CO2 per cube of material used, but also locks away CO2 for the lifespan of the product, and then, if disposed of, makes its stored energy available. This is not to say that we should try to use wood for everything, as each type of material has its advantages; concrete and masonry have, for example, high thermal mass, which is often required in a design, but in general, the more wood

we can use to replace other materials, the better for the environment. With statistics indicating that 70% of the developed world’s population lives in timber frame homes, why is the percentage of timber buildings so small in South Africa?

POSSIBLE REASONS FOR SLOW UPTAKE OF TIMBER HOMES • The perception of timber as a cheaper and therefore less desirable alternative • Though many have attempted, there has been little uptake in the low-cost housing sector • Due to inexpensive labour and plentiful clay, brick homes have been the historically preferred choice

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT TIMBER BUILDINGS 1. FIRE Timber is combustible, but not flammable, which means it needs a high temperature to get it burning. Large dimension timber is very difficult to get burning, and when it does, it chars, which protects the timber and slows down its combustion. Fire engineers can calculate burn and charring rates, and hence the safety factor for varying sizes of timber. There are fire retardants available, for example, for timber homes in close proximity to one another, so as to avoid the spreading of fire. Timber retains its structural integrity for longer than steel when in a fire, doesn’t change dimension under high temperatures and in the case of a fire, its performance is very predictable. Effective design for fire safety is not about preventing a building from burning if a fire gets out of control, but rather to ensure a safe evacuation of the occupants. This means that the structure must remain stable long enough to get everyone out safely.

2. DEFORESTATION We need to build and we need more housing for a growing population, and wherever we can use wood instead of high carbon emitting, non-renewable materials with high embodied energy, we are doing the environment a favour. Cutting down the wrong trees and transporting timber halfway around the world is not sustainable, but utilising local timber from managed plantations is perfectly sustainable.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Photo by Scott Anderson.

Wood is a renewable resource and for every tree harvested another can be planted. SAFCOL, one of South Africa’s large forestry companies, is currently planting more than they are harvesting. South Africa has more than enough SA Pine to meet current housing needs, and some of our forest areas are under-planted, so if/when demand grows, planting can be increased.

OF INTEREST:

On renewability, the Canadian architect, Michael Green, who is developing systems for building multistorey high-rise timber buildings, has calculated that to grow the equivalent of enough wood for a twentystorey building, taking into account all of the forest areas of the US, will take effectively only 13 minutes.

3. DURABILITY - HOW LONG WILL MY HOME LAST? There are timber homes and buildings which have been standing for hundreds of years. Preservative treatments can prolong the lifespan of timber indefinitely. Some insects have a taste for timber and the reality is that wood is food for some, particularly softwoods, so it must be treated.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

4. MAINTENANCE In reality, the maintenance of a timber home can vary greatly, depending on the type of timber building. A timber clad timber home will require regular re-sealing every couple of years, though this is a relatively low-skill and simple task. A fibre cement clad timber frame home should require less maintenance than a plastered brick home.

ADVANTAGES OF BUILDING A TIMBER HOME There are many advantages of using timber from an environmental point of view, but there are also a number of advantages of building a timber home for the client, the architect or designer, and the builder.

FOR THE CLIENT: • Insulation – And therefore energy costs. Perhaps not yet such a huge issue, but with a potential electricity hike of around 16% for the next five years at this stage, it soon will be. • Natural home – Many clients choose to build a timber home, because they want a more natural home that better fits into its environment. • Ease and timeframe of construction – It takes significantly less time to build a timber home than a similar brick and mortar home. It’s also easier to alter or add to at a later stage – and a lot less messy.

• Difficult and sensitive sites – Due to using relatively lightweight materials, timber homes are ideal for difficult-to-access sites. For sensitive sites, timber construction also allows one to nestle right in between the existing vegetation with minimum disturbance to surrounds. There are also potential cost savings on steep sites, by using suspended floor structures. • Higher floor area to building area ratio – As the walls are much narrower than for masonry construction, in the case of typical timber frame, 150mm to around 300mm for a plastered cavity brick wall, you get an extra square metre of floor area for every seven running metres of external wall – which can be invaluable on small sites. This should be considered when comparing square metre rates.

DUNSTONE TIMBER & GAME FARM CC

FOR THE ARCHITECT/DESIGNER: • Contemporary – Timber, along with other new lightweight building systems, allows us to be part of the technological revolution. Technological advances in design software and digital fabrication technologies are now allowing timber to be cut and fashioned to any desired shape. • Versatility – Thanks to timber’s versatility, a timber home could be anything from a humble log cabin, to a grand Cape Cod style beach house, or a digitally crafted open-plan contemporary house with a freeform double curved roof. • Building Regulations – Timber homes are included in the South African National Building Regulations standards, in SANS 10082 – Timber Buildings. When built to these standards they also automatically achieve the standard required for registration with the National Home Builder Registration Council (NHBRC). They are also easily designed to meet the requirements of the new Energy Efficiency regulations SANS 10400 Part XA.

For all your pole and dropper/lath requirements on the lower South Coast, contact: Jamie at 082 410 7252 or Mariaan at 076 666 5099 Email: dunstonetimber@gmail.com

FOR THE BUILDER: • Passion – Speak to any specialist timber builder and you are likely to find someone with a passion for their craft and for working with wood. • Precision and neatness – Building with timber is a precise form of construction. Everything needs to be just right to work. For a builder and all involved it’s easier to monitor and see that everything is working according to plan. There is a continuous drive to increase awareness of the benefits and to promote timber frame as a building method, as well as to get government departments to consider timber buildings as an option. From a consumer perspective, we should start viewing our building materials the same way we view our food – instead of extracting and manufacturing, we should think about growing it. Nature has, after all, provided us with an option about which we seem to have forgotten – a perfect building material that we can grow, harvest, re-grow and use in perpetuity.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

PO Box 36 Paddock 4244

(t) 021 702 2968 (e) info@timberdesign.co.za (w) www.timberdesign.co.za

Cell: 076 666 5099 Fax: 086 600 1702

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

KILN DRYING

Timbersoft cc Moving towards production orientated eco-friendly timber drying

ith an increased focus on global warming, and the carbon footprint left by industry, Henco and Johan Viljoen from Timbersoft cc decided in 2012 to harness their 50+ years of combined timber drying and automation experience to develop a more environmentally friendly kiln. Following intense research, they developed a unique, South Africanfirst ‘production orientated’ green kiln, the Timbersoft Hybrid Kiln (TH Kiln) that is already being applied in practice with very promising results.

THE NEED FOR CHANGE Traditionally, the energy requirement for kiln drying of sawn timber has been fulfilled by burning the by-products of the sawing process, namely bark, sawdust and timber off-cuts. However, the combustion process leaves room for drastic change, because it is such a large contributor to increasing the carbon footprint of the drying process. Additionally, running fans 24/7 draws heavily from Eskom power – at a significant expense.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Drawing from their vast experience of the industry, the Viljoens spent more than a year applying their knowledge to research, design, develop and build a small solar firewood drier for testing energy availability. Their efforts have brought about the prototype TH kiln at Knysna Eco Drying in Knysna. The kiln does away with the combustion process completely and is only partly reliant on the Eskom power grid. Although it is not completely out of the final R&D testing phase yet, the aim is to secure a more cost- and energy-efficient, as well as environmentally friendly drying process, due to the following: • No boiler is required — therefore no smoke • Lower capital layout — due to no boiler being required • Lower per cubic metre drying cost — due to lower energy demands • No 24/7 boiler operators required

KILN DRYING

THE TIMBERSOFT ADVANTAGE The whole process is controlled by the Timbersoft Drying Control System that has been implemented and utilised successfully in more than 50 kiln installations across Southern Africa. The control system consists of a Unitronics PLC (with HMI screen at the kiln), which has been programmed to not only measure and control the conditions inside the kiln, but also to look at the absolute humidity and ambient conditions outside when deciding on a humidity management strategy. The kiln controls include an online moisture content measuring system (currently in BETA testing) and will allow the control system to automatically adjust the drying schedule according to the timber moisture content when fully operational.

THE TH KILN INNER WORKINGS - ALONGSIDE NATURE The kiln absorbs what energy it can from the sun, and switches over to Eskom power seamlessly and automatically when nature’s bounty of energy disappears behind the horizon. Essentially, the TH kiln is a traditional compartment kiln built inside an oversized solar geyser. During sunshine hours, the solar geyser heats up water that is stored inside a tank within the kiln’s roof, and then gets circulated through radiator-type heat exchangers inside the kiln. The air is heated up and circulated by fans that move the heat energy to the boards and transport moisture away from the surface of the boards. When there is enough energy during sunlight hours to keep the water temperature above 50°C, the kiln operates like a normal kiln venting out excess moisture. When the temperature in the solar collector drops below 50°C/at night, the kiln automatically switches over to ‘dehumidification mode’ and no venting takes place. The water temperature is maintained at 45°C with an Eskompowered heat pump, which allows drying to continue at night, although at a slightly slower rate. The peak electricity requirement during the night will be less than 10 kW, dropping to less than 1 kW during good weather days and sunlight hours. Electricity during sunlight hours is provided by 1.3 kW of solar panels, and is enough to power the fans and circulation pump. The addition of extra deep cycle batteries will extend the sun’s energy well into the night.

All critical information is measured by the PLC and recorded on a notebook running Z-View SCADA software. The notebook is connected to the control system via a wireless link. Schedule changes can be done via the software that has built-in user level security to prevent unauthorised tampering of drying schedules. The notebook is also connected to the Internet, with remote access software enabling management to access the kiln controls 24/7 from anywhere in the world where an Internet connection is available.

BLAZING THE WAY FORWARD The development kiln takes approximately 9 cubic metres of sawn 25mm boards, and should dry most species between7 to 21 days, depending on specie, board thickness, initial moisture content, and weather conditions. The target specie for the kiln will be mostly indigenous hard woods, exotics like blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) and commercial Eucalyptus species. The TH kiln is already drawing interest across Southern Africa. The efficiency of this innovative and unique kiln drying system is sure to fill the gap between air drying, other entry level drying systems, dehumidifier kilns and full-scale commercial kilns.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Timbersoft cc - Kiln Drying Specialists Henco Viljoen (c) 072 331 8857 (e) hencov@lantic.net (w) www.tskilns.co.za

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

ARCHITECTURE

Belmont Community Rehabilitation Centre The Belmont Community Rehabilitation Centre in Victoria, Australia, offers an active, goal-focused rehabilitation program in a residential setting. Photography: Tony Miller

he program focuses on preventing further disability by supporting clients to reduce the chance of relapses and improve their wellbeing. Sited adjacent to the Kardinia Health GP Super Clinic (completed by Billard Leece Partnership in 2009) and connected via enclosed pedestrian link to the Community Health Centre with which it shares reception, the Rehabilitation Centre is an important addition to this community healthcare hub. Located on a prominent corner, the building form and materiality seek to engage with the surroundings. White cypress timber was selected as the primary façade material due to its sustainability, inherent warmth and natural appeal.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

The façade is articulated with recessed self-shading windows to the street elevations, and expressed sunshades to the windows to the garden areas. The strong motif of glass and timber showcases the timber’s natural grain and colour, expressing the form and design of the façade and creates a non-institutional and engaging building, easy to construct and maintain.

White cypress timber was selected as the primary façade material due to its sustainability, inherent warmth and natural appeal.

ARCHITECTURE

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

ARCHITECTURE

The strong motif of glass and timber showcases the timber's natural grain and colour, expressing the form and design of the façade and creates a noninstitutional and engaging building, easy to construct and maintain. Sitting in a garden setting, a new mobility garden provides external rehabilitation facilities and seating in a wind protected sunny courtyard between the new Rehabilitation Centre and existing Community Health Centre. The northwest facing courtyard façade, engaging with the garden and solar orientation, consists of framed panels of ship lap timber that contrast with large windows screened with dynamic folded sun shades. The rigorous panellised timber delineates a crisp pattern juxtaposed with the shades’ dynamic shadows. Large self-shading windows to all habitable rooms provide natural light, ventilation and aspect to the single-storey Centre’s surrounding garden.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

ARCHITECTURE

FAST FACTS: ARCHITECTS: Billard Leece Partnership CLIENT: Barwon Health SERVICES ENGINEER: AHW Waterman STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: Irwinconsult PROJECT MANAGER: Aurecon QUANTITY SURVEYOR: Sweett Group BUILDING CONTRACTOR: Rendine Constructions TOTAL CONSTRUCTION COST: $3.5 million AUD GROSS FLOOR AREA: 600sqm COMPLETION: 2012

• Agents and merchants of imported and African timbers • Suppliers to Boat Builders, Joiners, Carvers, Furniture Manufacturers, Shopfitters, Cabinet Makers and Kitchen Manufacturers • We also supply direct to the public and cater for the hobbyist • Importers of Oak, Beech, Maple, Cherry, Teak, Meranti and many more • Over 60 species of timber in stock • Customers are welcome to come in and select their own timber • Solid T&G wood flooring and solid mouldings available • Machining Service: timber cut and planed to customer’s specifications • Bargain Bins and Turners Corner with new exotics in stock

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 021 5522631 Fax: 021 5522678 15 Second Street Montague Gardens

Email: sales@countrywoods.co.za

CONTACT SALES Mark Machattie: 083 234 6497 Cameron Herbert: 082 449 0541 Roy Purdham: 082 493 0211

Website: www.countrywoods.co.za

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Striking out Labour lawyer, Ilene Power, weighs in on labour unrest in South Africa.

outh Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Labour Relations Act and Constitution guarantee the right to strike, but those that we see today are exaggerated and often result in armed demonstrations that are, or become, violent. There are ways of understanding why strikes occur and how they can be prevented. Any strike, irrespective of its size, can be an expensive exercise for you. Can your business afford to lose production because of a strike? Can you afford the relationship damage that often occurs during a long and acrimonious strike?

WHY DO EMPLOYEES STRIKE? Employees have a constitutional right to strike. However, strikes are not only expensive for the employer, but also for employees. Employees lose income during a strike (due to the no-work, no-pay principle) and there is no guarantee that the employer will improve its offer. Strikes could lead to a loss of orders and hence restructuring/retrenchments could become a reality. The law also allows a company to retrench people if their action (the strike) causes operational damage, so workers could legitimately lose their jobs by striking. Some workers now even fear striking because of the negative effect the violence and intimidation causes in their communities.

WAGES The main reason for industrial action and loss of work days during the 2004 and 2005 strike season was disputes over wages; employees are willing to sacrifice pay to demand more pay. However, strikes are not always only about wages; we have also seen strikes about improving conditions of employment.

PERCEPTION From a review of previous strike seasons in South Africa, it seems that the most encouragement an employee needs to go on strike amounts to perception, even if it is inaccurate. Unions also often fuel these perceptions by broadcasting that managers are paid too well.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Photo by David (dbking).

Research reported by PE Corporate Services indicates that the wage gap between top corporate executives and lowest level employees is at its widest for more than a decade. Some 10 to 12 years ago a chief executive of a mediumsized company was earning 38 times more than the lowest paid employee. Today it is over 50 times more.

COST OF LIVING The cost of food is rising and factors, such as higher fuel prices, higher prices of basic necessities, the cost of plastic packaging materials and higher maize prices influence employees. These employees spend the majority of their income on these essential items, which has a major impact on their ability to provide for their families.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

In 2005, we saw strike action that had a very negative impact on the South African economy. These strikes were exaggerated, caused loss of life and damage to property and could not be contained. Upon reviewing the impact of these strikes, we primarily noted that managers often made the mistake of being arrogant and complacent about strikes in their work place. Most employers failed to see that the living expenses of their employees were increasing and they failed to increase their wages accordingly. This resulted in a feud of great magnitude in 2005, which is the case again in 2013. The price of petrol and electricity has sky-rocketed in the past few months and yet employers are perceived to not care that their employees are struggling to cope/survive. We know that this is a very difficult situation to manage, because employers also have to consider the future of their business and the sustainability of high increases. It is therefore paramount to negotiate these issues in a calm and professional manner. With that in mind, we look at the impact of conflict negotiations.

CONFLICT NEGOTIATIONS AND FOCUS AREAS There are some key areas where facts and strategies need to be duly correct in order to understand the background against which employees are negotiating to ensure effective negotiation and to avoid conflict. In order to determine your strategy, you need to be aware of the factual background from which the workers are negotiating:

LOW WAGES Although economists talk about the high cost of labour in South Africa, at certain enterprises and in certain industries, strikes take place simply because the minimum wage levels were very low. These employees have very little to lose by going on strike, because they aren’t taking home very much money anyway.

POOR COMMUNICATION WITHIN THE EMPLOYER ORGANISATION One of the key reasons for strikes is the high level of mistrust between employers and trade unions. In the past, a strike has taken place because the employer pleaded poverty during the negotiations, but announced healthy profits before the end of the wage negotiations. Employers must be very careful of mishaps such as the above, because they can instantly destroy employeeemployer relationships. Ensure that the rest of your business is synchronised with your Human Resources Department when you are embarking on wage negotiations.

DISPARITY REGARDING INCREASES AWARDED TO SENIOR PEOPLE Employees or trade unions will not take you seriously during negotiations if you argue for limiting wage increases, while, at the same time, the Boards of Directors or Remuneration Committees have declared enormous increases or special payments to directors and/or senior managers. In the first instance, this suggests indifference to the plight of employees and secondly, it creates perceptions that increases due to employees are being given to other parties within the enterprise. In some cases the increases given to directors have been so high that the negotiating capacity of company negotiators has been totally compromised. Employers must use their discretion when handling such matters, because they will result in employee disengagement.

EMPLOYEE DEBT This has become a serious problem and the reality in South Africa is that some employees are in so much debt that they are left with as little as 20% of their pay after paying their creditors. There are so many emoluments attachment orders against them, that they take very little money home, because of the deductions employers make in terms of these court orders. This was one of the biggest contributors that lead to the Marikana strike. Employees have very little to lose by going on strike, because they aren’t taking home very much money anyway. So they are prepared to take the risk of going on strike to get a bigger increase. They also face family pressures, because they have to explain why very little money is brought home. This may also lead to hardened attitudes towards the employer. It is a fact that it is in the best interest of the company to train their employees in terms of debt. Even though the debt is the responsibility of the employee, the collection of the debt can become the employer’s problem. It then becomes very easy for the employee to blame the employer who does not pay enough, something that is crippling the mine working industry.

CONSUMERISM Employees look at their colleagues, who may have purchased an expensive motor vehicle or household goods and this can give rise to feelings of anger and envy. We are in an age of consumerism and although the need is articulated in different ways, employees strive to increase their purchasing power to obtain items such as TVs, toasters, vacuum cleaners, etc. Employees might resent not being able to obtain these ‘basics’ for their families, and with no wage increase, a strike can become inevitable.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT EXPECTATIONS The reality is that Affirmative Action, Employment Equity, Black Economic Empowerment, the skills development legislation, the establishing of SETAs and a government sympathetic to workers has created certain expectations. Despite these efforts, there are many employees who feel they have not been given their ‘place in the sun’ and that they have not benefited from the new democracy. As these issues are a reality and form part of every organization, employers must make sure that they are aware of which factors are driving their employees’ demands and must be ready to bargain and negotiate if/ when the time comes.

BARGAINING TACTICS AND INEXPERIENCED NEGOTIATORS There are three main points to keep in mind when bargaining in the case of strikes. Firstly, one must remember that positional bargaining can be very dangerous. In cases where both parties have adopted very hard and fixed positions, this can make negotiations extremely difficult. Secondly, one must also remember that inexperienced negotiators can let you down. I recommend that professional negotiators should be introduced to assist the company if you have inexperienced negotiators. Last, but not least, keep in mind that there may be unions who can try to use strikes as a marketing tool in order to enhance their personal positions and gain membership amongst employees, something that is especially true in the cases of minority/new unions and can result in a very bad situation for any company. Take for example the organisation BAWUSA, which is now celebrating the first anniversary of the farm workers’ strike that crippled the industry last year. They are calling for unrest and protest, despite the increase received and there being no current issues. They use the workers to enhance their personal position and to gain from tragedy. The 2012 strikes were not conducted according to procedure and caused many an HR Manager in the industry sleepless nights. The rule of law was not adhered to in this case and the strikers simply carried on, creating more momentum with each passing day; this despite legitimate rulings that ordered them to go back to work. What is there to be done in such a case?

THE COURTS' APPROACH - INTERDICTS AND UNIONS' ATTITUDES TOWARD STRIKES The process to deal with an illegal strike is to approach the Labour Court for an interdict.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

However, employers often find themselves questioning whether they can rely on the court to help them interdict an unlawful strike. The Labour Court will attempt to enforce the constitutional right to strike. Normally, however, they will interdict misconduct on the part of the strikers and unlawful strikes. However, where an employer seeks to interdict a strike which, on the face of it, is lawful, the Labour Court considers the situation very carefully and attempts to enforce the constitutional right to strike. If arguments are highly technical, the Labour Court has become increasingly less inclined to assist. This is particularly so for secondary strikes. A secondary strike is defined as follows: when employees of employer B (the secondary employer) go on strike in support of a demand made by employees of employer A (the primary employer), who are striking against employer A over their demand. A secondary strike is sometimes called a sympathy strike, because, in effect, the employees involved in the secondary strike are on strike in sympathy with their colleagues at the primary employer. A secondary strike is designed to compel the secondary employer to put pressure on the primary employer to give in to the demand of its employees, usually when there is a connection of some sort between the two businesses. Thus, if one has relied on interdicts in the past to strengthen a specific position during disputes, one may find that they have become less effective. Sometimes reliance on the legal route can indicate that the negotiators weren’t sufficiently skilled to resolve the wage dispute. Therefore it is critical to start the procedure properly by using skilled or professional negotiators. The attitudes of unions in the situation of a strike are a key factor in South African labour relations. In the normal scheme of things, employers seem to believe that unions relish in the idea of a strike. However, in my experience, having worked for two of the major unions in the country, most major unions prefer to avoid strikes for certain reasons; they recognize that a social partnership with the employer is the preferred option, they also acknowledge that employees will lose income during a strike and that there is no guarantee that the employer will improve its offer. They concede that strikes could lead to a loss of orders and hence restructuring/retrenchments and a loss of members, as some employees may resign from a union during a strike to avoid its negative effect. Therefore it is not a given that unions will support their members during strikes. One should realize that most major unions are skilled and confident in the provisions of the Labour Relations Act and so it will be difficult to use interdicts as a basis for undermining strikes in future negotiations on conditions of employment.

Therefore an employer should base collective bargaining strategies on that assumption and adopt a more realistic position to resolve wage disputes. One should try to build levels of trust between negotiators and union officials/ shop stewards so that a proper platform can be established for engaging in collective bargaining. No matter how vigorously representations are made, if there is an absence of trust, one will not be taken seriously. These key elements require every employer’s consideration, and are especially important to remember when dealing with strikes and can lead to successful implementation of methods to avoid future strikes.

SUMMARY: MISTAKES TO AVOID MAKING • Don’t be complacent and anticipate that strikes will not take place at your enterprise or industry just because you’ve not had strikes for some years. • Some employers appear to be arrogant and underestimate trade unions. They assume that the unions at their enterprises or in their industries are weak and that employees would accept whatever was proposed by management. • Some employers have misunderstood the link between inflation and costs. Although inflation has been low, the cost of food and energy has increased significantly and these costs have cut into the wages of employees. At the lower end of the scale, the impact on workers who spend a greater portion of their wages on food and energy was that they were experiencing inflation higher than the official inflation rate. Employers didn’t always take this into account in the increases they proposed. Where financial managers determined the mandates of employers in the region of 3% or 4% based on inflation, these offers clearly fuelled angry responses and hardened attitudes on the part of employees. • In addition to these misconceptions, there are some key areas where you need to get your facts and strategy correct and understand the background against which your employees are negotiating to ensure effective negotiation and to avoid conflict. It is commonplace overseas to engage in a fact-finding exercise prior to engaging in collective bargaining. This has proven to be a useful strategy. Having accurate facts (for example, on the impact of rising food costs and energy) can help to formulate proposals to defend. Inappropriate and callous statements (for example, that employees have not contributed to the current substantial profits) should be avoided, as these only serve to intensify conflict and hinder the competency of those Human Resources representatives to achieve appropriate settlements with the union representatives. There are ways of understanding why strikes occur and they can be prevented, lest the employer applies their mind to the above-mentioned methods and are at all times aware of what happens in their business, in order to prevent any surprises with regard to strikes. Prevention is better than cure and the overall best strategy for developing and maintaining peaceful industrial relations is the creation of a culture of peace, mutual trust and harmony. While there’s no easy or ideal recipe for achieving this challenge, your approach can contribute to avoiding strikes or the escalation thereof and limit the potential damage they can cause.

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CASE STUDY

Hakkasan Dubai: The dragon takes flight in the heart of Dubai Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant puts the spotlight on American red oak at newly opened Jumeirah Emirates Towers establishment Photographs: Victor Romero

fter conquering the UAE capital, Michelin-starred and premier Chinese restaurant, Hakkasan, opened the doors to its new Dubai branch at the very posh Jumeirah Emirates Towers, showcasing its signature blend of Chinese culture and cuisine combined with the mystique of the Arabian region. The opening marks the entry of a totally unique experience in fine dining, and includes trademark Hakkasan elements – a dining area, lounge and blue-lit bar section. The new facility is divided into sections separated by carved wooden lattice screens made of American red oak, providing a cosy complement to the luxurious interior of the restaurant.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

The 152-seat restaurant, which means ‘Hakka,’ Chinese dialect and ‘San,’ the Japanese form of addressing someone, features a dramatic entrance via a slate stone walkway and has two private dining rooms and Ling Ling lounge in black, gold and white, giving diners a more relaxed feeling that makes for good conversation or just lounging around and taking in the sights. New to the network is an outdoor terrace, which seats an additional 88 people, and proves to be equally fantastic with its spotlight on cascading wooden pavilions, that have been made out of American red oak, surrounded by a wall of lush green vegetation.

CASE STUDY

Backed by the success and overwhelming reception gathered from Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, which opened in June 2010, Hakkasan aimed at opening a new branch in Dubai, retaining the same chic ambience of the original London restaurant, but with the infusion of an Arabic touch. The design of the new Dubai branch was once again handled by Hakkasan’s long-time design partner, Gilles and Boissier, a leading Paris-based interior design firm. Gilles set up his 14-strong team design studio eight years ago with his partner Dorothée Boissier and is based in Paris. He is currently working on another Hakkasan venue due to open in New York and currently has 40 projects on the go.

Haruo Morishima, Design and Development Executive, Hakkasan, joined the Hakkasan in-house design team in 2003. Commenting on the design of the space, Morishima says, “We wanted to create a theatre with this design, something to make people feel like they were not in Dubai. A seduction of the senses through its ambience.” “The venue used to be a gym and we were lucky, because there were not the usual challenges regarding technical details, such as back of house, because Jumeirah Group helped us every step of the way with planning and government regulations. It was the smoothest project I have ever done and took seven months to complete,” adds Morishima.

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CASE STUDY

Hakkasan Dubai’s design pays homage to the emotional aspects of the venue, aiming to highlight the impact made by each space and the emotion or mood that follows the experience. The restaurant’s unique feel is the result of using the Chinese mystical art of Feng Shui, which attunes the layout and design of the restaurant with the social dynamics of the facility space or how people would interact in each of the sections. Woods Bagot, a global design studio specialising in the design and planning of facilities, served as the executive architects for the Hakkasan Dubai project. Having also handled the execution of Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, the leading design firm has been signed on as the executive architect for all upcoming Hakkasan global projects – with the New York branch already under construction and designs for branches in San Francisco and Los Angeles also in their development stages. “We have also begun design work on San Francisco and Los Angeles, with another two sites under negotiations. This global relationship is led by our London studio, which is around the corner from Hakkasan’s headquarters in Soho. In addition to the executive architect role, Woods Bagot is also the concept designer for the new Hakkasan at the St. Regis Hotel in Doha,” said Duncan Parkinson, Principal, Woods Bagot.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

According to the Woods Bagot design team, one of the main challenges posed in the execution of the design was the construction of the restaurant’s terrace and bar areas. The venue was originally designed as a gym and converting the area into a restaurant called for negotiations with Jumeirah Estates management, DEWA and the Office of Civil Defense to make revisions in the original blueprints and integrate provisions for gas supply fume extraction and increased water supply. To do this, certain parts of the area’s curtain wall needed to be taken down to allow smooth access to the terrace. Also, underground services, like pipelines and such were remodelled and rerouted to give way to the new gas pipes and increased water supply. “Access to the large terrace area necessitated demolition of parts of the curtain wall, which meant revisiting the structural design from 1998. It was also criss-crossed with underground services which made the construction of the terrace challenging,” adds Steven Velegrinis of Woods Bagot.

CASE STUDY

Another challenge that Woods Bagot faced was the procurement and delivery of the restaurant’s unique components that were sourced from different parts of the globe. “Items such as the AV equipment, custom design wine fridges, specialty kitchen equipment from numerous suppliers in Europe, custom designed leathers and joinery from France and timbers from the USA were all specified, imported and coordinated on site within the programme. Our joint desire to make the garden terrace a memorable place meant that we needed to procure the right kind of mature trees and determine a way to build the first major green wall in Dubai. Fortunately, we managed to get quite a special result and the terrace is a unique feature for the Dubai Hakkasan restaurant,” concluded Parkinson. Located at the Boulevard, on the ground level of the Emirates Tower’s Hotel, Hakkasan Dubai has its own private entrance and offers valet parking for its customers. The newly-opened restaurant is the sixth global Hakkasan branch and the second for the UAE. The Abu Dhabi branch has already received numerous accolades, including the prestigious ‘Restaurant of the Year’ award at Abu Dhabi Gourmet Stars Awards and the ‘Best Restaurant of the Year’ and ‘Best Far Eastern Restaurant of the Year’ awards at the annual What’s On Abu Dhabi Awards 2012.

With both traditional Chinese and Arabic design sharing certain elements, such as screens and latticework (mashrabiya), the design of Hakkasan Dubai evolved as a modern international interpretation of eastern Chinese design – a fact acknowledged by Gilles and Boissier and Woods Bagot in the delivery of the project. The Woods Bagot team have, in fact, pointed out that the large presence of American red oak and marble remain as signature elements of the design, which can easily be noticed by customers familiar with both the Abu Dhabi and Dubai branches.

PROJECT DETAILS: PROJECT NAME: Hakkasan Restaurant at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel, Dubai CLIENT: Hakkasan Ltd. UK EXECUTIVE ARCHITECT: Woods Bagot INTERIOR DESIGNER: Gilles & Boissier LIGHTING DESIGN: Firefly Lighting Design DIMENSION: 13 000 sq.ft WOOD SPECIES: American red oak PHOTOGRAPHER: Victor Romero GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Decovision LLC PROJECT MANAGER: Woods Bagot

“In the Dubai restaurant, the interior design is an evolution of the Abu Dhabi project, and also includes large amounts of sustainable American red oak. The oak and marble ‘cages’ are still the signature element of the design. Customers that are familiar with both rooms will notice the similarities and also the subtle differences between the two,” says Velegrinis.

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// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

MACHINERY

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Allwood Technology

Ending 2013 on a high note Local woodworking machine supplier, Allwood Technology, has recently installed a new model Edge Master Edge Bander in Sasolburg, plus an Edge Master Edge Bander and a Thicknesser in Bloemfontein. “Allwood Technology owner, Scott Myles, has been very helpful during the installation process and helped us through the learning curve. We find the machines very impressive and will, in future, make use of more of Allwood Technology’s products and services,” reports Santos and Son Construction owner, Frank Dos Santos.

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DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

MACHINERY

Pronto Edge Bander.

Touch Screen control.

ALLWOOD TECHNOLOGY'S PRONTO EDGE BANDER IN DETAIL Allwood Technology’s Pronto Edge Bander, a very fast Edger, can apply edging of up to 3mm thick and can process 20m of board each minute. The machine’s two saw motors for front and back trimming allow for the speed.

ALLWOOD TECHNOLOGY'S EDGE BANDER RANGE Allwood’s range now also includes a variety of Edge Banders, small, medium, large and extra large, which offer a variety of options, such as up to 20m/min edging, top and bottom, front and back trimming, corner rounding and pre-milling, starting from as little as R55 000.

It also features a downwards pressure bar with small rollers and bearings, which are ideal for holding and applying pressure to small pieces of board 50mm wide, with fast, efficient change overs. Furthermore, top and bottom radius cutters and scrapers and buffers and digital readout ensure clean, smooth and polished edging. Coming in at only R220,000 it's a steal!

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// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

COMPANY PROFILE

12 V DC 1.4m Mahogany fan with built-in LED light.

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eiling fans have countless benefits over floor standing fans or air-conditioning units. As well as bringing energy saving benefits to your home or office, they are a happy meeting of the economical and aesthetic. Timber Fans are South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest handcrafted paddle fans and are each made to the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own specifications. Our Classic Range ceiling fans use less power than an 80 watt light bulb. In order to reap the optimal energy saving benefits from your ceiling fan, it is important to install several fans throughout your home or office in key locations. For optimal performance, your ceiling fan should sit between 2.3 and 2.5m off the floor. In the summer months, ceiling fans offer the greatest energy saving benefits, lowering the ambient temperature in a room and in turn reducing energy bills. Our fans are whisper quiet and have become the choice of leading architects, interior designers and decorators in both South Africa and the rest of the world. Our attention to detail and quality is unrivalled. Situated in Knysna, Timber Fans is comprised of a dedicated team, and all products are certified by a master craftsman, specialised in ventilation and air conditioning, with over 50 years of experience.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Timber Fans have pioneered the self-ventilating motor hub. By creating a suction gap between the motor and the hub, the fan motors run at temperatures considerably lower than other comparable makes, thus ensuring the lifespan of the motors are greatly extended. All testing is done electronically and dynamically to extremely close tolerances, resulting in the unrivalled and perfectly balanced run of the Timber Fan. Having become the choice of leading architects, interior designers and decorators, Timber Fans have found their way into homes, businesses, resorts and lodges throughout South Africa, Australia, Europe and the Indian Ocean Islands.

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South African Wood Preservers Association

Promoting timber treatment and treated timber products Tel: 011 974 1061 or E-mail: sawpa@global.co.za Website: www.sawpa.org.za

IN SOUTH AFRICA TREATED TIMBER IS BY LAW REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH NATIONAL AND COMPULSORY SPECIFICATIONS AND MUST BEAR MARKING CONTAINING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION

POLES (Metal marker)

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN BUYING AND USING PRESERVATIVE TREATED TIMBER

HOW TO PLANT A POLE

SAWN TIMBER (Ink stamp)

ABCTT 457 H5 10

ABCTT

457 H4 10

CHOOSE THE CORRECT HAZARD (H) CLASS H6 - High Hazard: Prolonged immersion in sea water (Marine piling, jetty cross-bracing, landing steps, retaining walls etc.) H5 - High Hazard: Outside in contact with heavy wet soil or in fresh water (piling, substructure for walkways & jetties, vineyards etc.)

Poles intended for planting in the ground must be purchased at required lengths. Never plant a cross-cut end of a treated pole or post into the ground as this will expose the untreated heartwood to fungal and termite attack resulting in premature failure.

CROSS CUT ENDS

H4 - High Hazard: Outside in ground, subject to periodic wetting and leaching (fencing and structural posts, landscaping, stakes, pergolas, etc). H3 - Moderate Hazard: Outside above ground, subject to periodic wetting and leaching (cladding, decking, stairs, balustrades, log homes, etc). H2 - Low Hazard: Inside above ground, protected from wetting and leaching (roof trusses, framing, panelling, laminated beams, flooring, etc).

All machining, cutting or drilling of preservative treated timber should be done prior to preservative impregnation. Areas exposed after impregnation due to cross cutting etc., must be treated by liberally applying a suitable paint-on or brush-on remedial or supplemental preservative (excluding ground contact).

CASE STUDY

La Galerie de Lunettes

American hard maple brings warmth and light to Paris retail design Rue Yves Toudic in Paris is a fast developing neighbourhood with increasingly diverse consumer needs. La Galerie de Lunettes (optician's shop) is a former art gallery located on rue Yves Toudic.

he total area of the shop is 60m², which includes a sales area of 36m² and a spiral staircase at the back of the store that leads to a small office on the first floor. Great care was taken in designing the interior to ensure it would stand out from the many other shops in the area. American hard maple was specified for the interior furniture by architect, Marion Dumazer from Dumazer & La Falisse. The architectural concept is in keeping within the original ethos of the space, exhibiting the glasses as if they were works of art. The eyewear collection is composed of selective and retro fashion brands, such as Garrett Leight, Graz, Lunor and Prism London.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

“We have designed a piece of furniture using lightcoloured wood,” says architect, Marion Dumazer. “It stretches and follows the curves of the wall in order to create eye-catching exhibition areas visible from the shop window. We specified maple for its clarity, colour and even grain. The client wanted to create a different atmosphere from other optical stores, which can be quite clinical and bright and opted for something warm, natural and feminine.”

CASE STUDY

The layout of the space lets customers move about with ease and the visual and physical impact often keeps them in the shop for a longer time. Niches built into the wall are well lit, artistically displaying the glasses, which vary in shapes and colours with the seasons. The eyewear cabinet is built in plywood and covered in Oberflex BIOPLY maple veneer. A simple matt varnish was added to the natural veneer. Opposite the cabinet is a gallery of antique mirrors where customers can try the different brands of glasses.

AMERICAN HARD MAPLE

PROJECT DETAILS: PROJECT: La Galerie de Lunettes LOCATION: Rue Yves Toudic, Paris ARCHITECTS: Dumazer & La Falisse BESPOKE JOINERY: Bois Design et Agencement BUDGET: EUR 50 000 TIMBER: American Hard Maple PHOTOGRAPHY: Simon Deprez

The sapwood is creamy white with a slight reddish brown tinge and the heartwood varies from light to dark reddish brown. The wood has a close fine texture and is generally straight grained, but it can also occur as ‘curly,’ ‘fiddleback,’ and ‘birdseye’ figure. Hard maple trees are located in the Eastern USA, principally Northeastern and Lake States. The timber is widely available as lumber and veneer. The wood is hard and heavy with good strength properties, in particular its high resistance to abrasion and wear. It also has good steam bending properties.

// DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

CSR

Lonza Fulfills a Goal for Try Again Football Club The dreams and aspirations of Ugu District's Try Again FC team, received a tremendous boost when Lonza Wood Protection stepped in and kitted the team out with brand new quality soccer boots, shin guards, training bibs, goalkeeper gloves and 21 training balls.

he boys of Try Again FC, also known as the UGU S.A.F.A. – S.A.B League or the 4th Division of the South African Football Association, now run onto the field with a renewed sense of team pride. This has brought a turning a point in the lives of these young and talented soccer players, according to Albert Ngcobo, team coach and Production Supervisor at Lonza Wood Protection. “Before receiving the new kit, the boys had to borrow soccer boots and shin guards each time they played. We only had three soccer balls and no training bibs or cones. The sponsorship the team has received from Lonza is more than just new kit. It tells these young players that Lonza believes in their talent and is prepared to invest in their soccer career. Words cannot describe how grateful we are,” said Albert Ngcobo.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Lonza Wood Protection’s Marketing Manager, Gerard Busse, commented, “It is a core objective of Lonza to care for its community and we are thrilled at the opportunity to play a role in providing not only equipment, but an inspiration to a young and talented soccer team to believe in and pursue your dreams at all costs.” “Try Again Football Club management would like to express their gratitude to Lonza for a job well done to inspire the disadvantaged youth in our community. We look forward to building on this relationship in the future,” concluded Alson Ngcobo, Try Again Team Manager.

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NEWS

New CEO for Rutherford as Bob Cameron-Smith bows out Rutherford, a wholly owned subsidiary of JSE-listed Hudaco Trading (Pty) Ltd,has announced that Martin Peterson will take over the reins as its new Chief Executive Officer from February 2014, upon the retirement of the company's current CEO, Bob Cameron-Smith, who has been with the Group for the past 41 years.

eterson, a Chartered Accountant, was appointed from Filter & Hose Solutions, another Hudaco Group company. He was part of the management team that originally owned Filter & Hose Solutions and was very involved in the sale of this business to Hudaco in 2010. “Taking over the leadership of such a mature and wellentrenched business is exciting and challenging,” Peterson says. “With four different product ranges, four markets and four sales forces, Rutherford is certainly not a onedimensional business. The power tool business operates in a particularly stimulating market, because of the tough competition in this arena. It’s necessary to pay close attention to range, pricing and route to market, as it’s very much a moving target. “However, each of the four divisions is headed up by directors who are experts in their own right and these assets, together with the depth of skills across the entire business, will provide an excellent platform for building future growth.” Cameron-Smith comments that Peterson’s excellent commercial background and open mind, combined with the strengths of the existing business, are a definite recipe for future success as the company continues to consolidate its position as a leading supplier. Cameron-Smith moved over from another part of the Hudaco Group to Rutherford 21 years ago, when the company was primarily focused on marketing Makita power tools and woodworking machinery. Under his leadership, Rutherford restructured in 1998 by incorporating three of the Group’s trading businesses, Mercury Marine, VI Instruments, and FTS Industries and rationalising non-core product ranges. “We made it a focus of the business to build these brands and our efforts have paid off, because today Mercury is number two in the local market and Makita is one of the leading power tool brands — very possibly the second or third biggest privately owned Makita distributor in the world.

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014 //

Rutherford’s fourth division, F.T.S. Industries, has become the largest importer and distributor of blind rivets and riveting tools to all sectors of Southern African industry and VI Instruments, trading in high-tech instrumentation for the construction and mining industries, has earned the distinction of being the market leader in compaction measurements for road construction.” Today Rutherford employs 205 people across its Johannesburg head office and warehouse, and major distribution centres in Durban and Cape Town, as well as a sales office in Port Elizabeth.

100 YEARS In 2012 Rutherford celebrated 100 years of service to the Southern African industrial arena. The company holds three key ISO accreditations: ISO 90012008 for quality, ISO 14001-2004 for environment and OHSAS ISO 18001-2007 for occupational safety and these standards are continually updated to incorporate the latest amendments. Rutherford has occupied the same headquarters in Germiston for decades, with 5 500m² of warehousing and 1 600m² of office space. Full technical support and back-up services are offered from this site, as well as the other centres.

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