Architect and Builder August/September 2018 | Page 55

contributes to lower energy consumption as required by SANS10400 XA. Construction materials and construction systems were specified and designed to achieve a reduced construction time. Steel, off-shutter concrete panels and pre-manufactured insulated wall panels were chosen for their quick assembly properties as well as their excellent adaptability to the modular architectural design. The building envelope of the assembly and machining facilities consisted of a combination of reinforced ‘u shaped’ concrete columns to receive the off- shutter concrete walls followed by 125mm thick Chromadek insulation wall panels. The floor consists of reinforced power floated concrete finished with a polyurethane floor finish. Natural and muted colours were used throughout. Reclaimed timber in key areas and a recreational area inclusive of a boma reference the African identity of the client. Recreational outdoor spaces with generous green areas i.e. sports field, boma, canteen garden with pool and natural veld grass, were introduced to contrast to the industrial environment. This serves as a healthy retreat for staff and visitors in an otherwise fast paced environment. The client’s foresight and aspiration with the determination of a project team that executed the development within strict time frames, culminates in what can be coined the most modern and advanced aircraft manufacturing facility in Africa. AHRLAC GROUND FLOOR PLAN 55