Architect and Builder August 2017 | Page 80

WINNER: OTHER DEVELOPMENTS Johannesburg Council Chambers T he City of Johannesburg’s new Council Chamber forms the nucleus of Johannes- burg’s new Metro Centre in Braamfontein and is an emblem of this city’s transformation into an economic hub. With its prime position at the top of Rissik Street, the new Chamber will become an iconic structure symbolising the City’s transformation in line with the core values of transparency, accountability and accessibility. The conceptual design was inspired by the African drum and the Tswana word Lekgotla, meaning ‘a place where meetings are held’. The circular ‘drum’ design is transparent and enables an unimpeded visual link between the indoors and outdoors. The incorporation of gold colours and elements form part of the recognition of the city’s heritage and status as the City of Gold. The architecture seeks to celebrate African principles of place-making, while incorporating smart technologies and green building systems. As a transparent ‘Lekgotla’ it is hoped that the Chamber will be a hub that nurtures and enhances positive dialogue and instills a sense of servant leadership. It has a large foyer with amenities, seating for 361 councillors and officials on the ground floor and a second floor gallery which can accommodate 158 people. The chamber integrates seamlessly with its surroundings and connects with the city through the newly developed People’s Piazza, which was 80 developed around the ‘placemaking’ concept of creating quality places which are interesting, visually attractive and mix public art with creative activities. The Rainbow Walkway to Freedom gives pedestrians the ability to walk safely under solar streetlights to outdoor chess and planter benches where workers and councillors alike can relax