2017 _ MW & S _ Final. pdf 1 2017 / 01 / 25 08:10
One would think that the internal curtain wall of a building would be insignificant, but not so on the iconic SASOL Head Office – a building that would be comfortable on the world stage of progressive architecture. The 9,000sqm of geometrically complex unitised curtain walls tower over the space age atrium interspersed with seamless walkways suspended between the various buildings. World of Windows Group was awarded the internal package.
Given that this was prior to World of Windows developing the 3D-direct-to-fabrication technology with SHoP Architects from New York, on the Botswana Innovation Hub, it had to be done in 2D. This proved to be very challenging and help was provided by a TEKLA designer from PURE, who developed some of the geometry to establish the‘ flattened’ templates of the complex corner units. These units were curved and sloping, cylindrical shaped with varying building faces sloping at differing degrees on either side of the corner. The floor plates can be accessed through 135 frameless glass automatic swing doors, which are integrated into the façade.
Given the tight timeframe and project size the teams were put under pressure to perform without compromising on quality. A passing compliment from Paragon Architects on the quality of the product was well received.
Words from Neil Macleod, Partner at Pure Consulting, the façade engineers for the Sasol Project:“ From a façade engineering point of view, the geometry of the atrium unitised façades was complex and challenging. We were really impressed how World Of Windows overcame these challenges within a tight programme and delivered a high quality unitised curtain wall façade”.
www. worldofwindows. co. za info @ worldofwindows. co. za
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