Architect and Builder December 2019 | Page 58

Façade The main façades of the building have been constructed using Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) fitted onto a steel structure and finally rendered as a textured, Bauhaus-toned finish. These façades are connected to the concrete slabs on the roof and second floor, creating the loops of the Infinity symbol, while LED strip lights follow the loops on both the south and north façade. Challenges There are complicated pile foundations to a structured parking level and a transfer slab. Space was very confined as the project is located in a residential suburb of Bedfordview where access is limited and noise and pollution (dust and waste) had to be kept to a minimum. HVAC and Wet Services All plumbing is ducted from the penthouses through to the lowest level of apartments and directed to the municipal connection below the basement parking slabs. Mechanical extraction for the apartments is ducted in the corridors and expels at the roof level in the central core. Sustainability All the apartments are fitted with low voltage LED light fittings, a gas stove, and do not have any geysers installed as the hot water is supplied via a heat pump in the basement levels. All the glazing for the building has been installed as Low-E type glazing so that the building complies with the energy regulations set out by SANS 10400. Interiors The concept for the interior space planning focuses largely on the views out to the surrounding context in that bedrooms are designed so that one could lie in bed and look out at the expansive views to their left or right. The kitchen and living rooms are one open- plan space that creates the opportunity to take advantage of these magnificent scenes, captured as part of the apartment experience.Penthouses follow the same principle along the walkway between bedrooms, providing a truly remarkable experience where you absorb a full double-volume sized view of the suburb. Materials used aim at creating the feeling of a modern and slick living experience, while the neutral tones carry the essence of a subtle tranquility by not standing 58 Infinité