panel. Over 2,000 panels have been designed. The vision glass is a reflective performance glass which has a high light transmission level and maximises visibility out of the building whilst maintaining a high comfort level. The glass product is AGC Stopray vision 36T.
The spandrels are a bespoke textured glazed custom glazed unit, fired at 680 º with a silver backing, insulation and an aluminium panel; the glass is Safety Shield Imagin Krizet with Ipasol chrome coating. This glass has not been used in South Africa before and this project seeks to exploit not only design but materiality.
In addition to glass performance, the building volumes have impacted on the design. Where sections of the building cast shadows on itself, the size of the spandrels reduce to allow more light. Façade patterning has generated an environmental analysis and heat gain to reduce energy consumption and maximise user comfort levels.
It was important for Paragon Architects to push boundaries in this design which is characterised with light volumes externally and two dramatic skylights articulated with accoustic baffles, internally. These elements drive a light and airy concept. The building has 7 basements levels with ten storeys above ground. The concept of open, transparent and remote work spaces is extended to embody the mores of Sasol to include interactive facilities such as restaurants, canteens, auditoriums, art galleries and coffee shops.
While currently housing 2,500 employees, along with 300 auxiliary staff, the building can accommodate more employees as the company grows. The building is extremely flexible in terms of its design. There is room to densify quite comfortably and to reconfigure space quite quickly, so should there be a requirement, the building allows for it.
The main contractor tender was awarded to Aveng Grinacker-LTA and the 3 year construction programme reached completion during November 2016. Paragon Interface won the tender for the Interior Design, Space Planning and Service coordination commission.
Sustainability The building achieved a 5-Star Green Star SA-Office v1 Design rating in October 2016. Sustainable building features include:
• There are four air cooled chillers in the basement and three reversible heatpumps on the roof.
30 Sasol