Architect and Builder February 2017 | Page 38

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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