NEWSWATCH
THE LATEST NEWS AND PRODUCTS FROM THE BUILDING INDUSTRY
NEWSWORTHY
SAINT-GOBAIN LAUNCHES NEW GYPREX CEILING TILES
Saint-Gobain ’ s Gyproc division has recently launched a new product in the ceilings category ; the lightweight Gyprex L ceiling tile . Targeted primarily at commercial institutions including offices , education , healthcare and retail developments , the new Gyprex L tiles , locally manufactured in 6.4mm thickness , are easy to handle and install . “ Gyproc South Africa ’ s range of ceiling systems provide amongst the most versatile design and aesthetic options in the market , whilst incorporating the unique environmental properties of natural gypsum ,” says Paul Louw , Product Category Manager : Ceiling Solutions and Metals . “ The new Gyprex L ceiling tiles are a great option for areas that require fit-forpurpose level vinyl ceiling tiles . Additionally , the tiles are available in two types of finishes , namely , white vinyl or fissured facing ”. Using the new cost-effective lay-in solution , a Gyprex L ceiling tile will not sag when correctly installed and is robust enough to be scratch and dent resistant . Manufactured with a 100 % recyclable gypsum core , the low maintenance tiles are easy to clean and provide a degree of sound insulation . For more information on the new Gyprex L ceiling tiles please visit : www . gyproc . co . za / products / ceilings
BLOOMINGDALES LIFESTYLE VILLAGE , PORT ELIZABETH
Bloomingdales Lifestyle Village is an existing urban precinct synonymous with quirkiness and in need of major intervention as it was outdated and badly constructed . Spaces were not practical and disjointed on the whole and functionality needed to be introduced . Although the centre was poorly planned , with a grouping of attached and semi-detached buildings , the fact that it was a mismatch of structures added to the feeling of village and community . It was important that whatever was introduced needed to be done in such a way that not only was this urban village vibe maintained but also enhanced by adding architectural value .
Designed by DMV Architecure for Western Gruppe Properties , the idea was to retain the existing structure on the ground floor and allow for the original plan to be re-orientated sensibly , with any architectural intervention being interpreted through colour and material detail .
An entire new first floor was added over the existing floor by means of a lightweight structural steel component designed to a scale and consistency that did not dominate any space internally or across its façade . The first floor aligns itself to the existing footprint below to create a sense of rhythm by projecting the original plan form into its elevation and re-invented façade . A double volume vein runs through the building to help orientate and connect activity across all floors . Colour was of utmost importance , not only to define existing versus new , but to clearly make a statement on its street edge . This was achieved by introducing differing building elements and materials and an urban artwork was commissioned from artist Nathan Sanan to run as graffiti connecting all activity to both sides of the building .
The 4,000m 2 centre now offers both commercial office and retail space and has managed to attract a diverse range of tenants . Retail stores and restaurants are mostly positioned to the ground floor , with corporate and flexible office space to the upper floor .
The end product makes a statement along Main Road , Walmer . Every building should add to the context that it is set within and this one really displays a sense of fun for its user . Civil & Structural Engineers : Elwandle Consulting Engineers Main Contractor : Alpha Omega
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