African Design Magazine May 2016 | Page 22

It was important for all teams to communicate and have visual connection with each other. The double volume spaces and open plan office design encourage this, creating a light and open feel with transparency between departments and a sense of community. To assist with visual interaction and communication between staff within the building, the 620m2 building is focused around a central courtyard. The courtyard forms the heart of the building and offers a recreational space for staff to have their lunch breaks and provides views and natural light from all sides of the office space. There is a curved void in the timber deck and lawn courtyard, which allows a tree to grow through from below. The tree offers shade while the void allows for natural light and ventilation into the parking area below. A lawn area is provided outside the back of the building with a vertical living wall. This green area provides a relaxing pause and entertainment area. ROJECT TEAM The design incorporates insulation, shading devices and high performance glazing to help thermally regulate the building. Openable windows allow for natural ventilation and an abundance of natural light, which reduces energy usage. A timber-slatted pergola provides shade to the glazing on the north façade. Indigenous landscaping is used throughout to conserve water and wherever possible, plants were kept and re-planted after construction. Ultimately, the new office building provides a healthy, high quality work environment. ARCHITECT: Evolution Architects IDEVELOPER/OWNER: Altix Holdings STRUCTURAL & CIVIL ENGINEER: Linda Ness Associates QUANTITY SURVEYOR: MHS Consulting CONTRACTOR: Betts Construction MECHANICAL: Roux Air ELECTRICAL: KGH Electrical