Architect and Builder July/August 2015 | Page 53

Neighbouring commercial buildings had to give permission for departures and it was stipulated that the design also had to respond to the residential nature of the surrounds. As a result, the west elevation was broken down into a combination of glass and masonry elements, including smaller windows that speak to the mixed-use residential context. The design makes the most of the Waterfront location, incorporating large balconies facing the water. Human interaction is maximised by means of boardwalks on the waterfront side and open walkways along the Carl Cronje Drive edge. The above ground parking levels were screened using a carefully designed ‘random’ pattern, which helps to break up the scale of the building. This also allowed for natural ventilation of the parking. Materials The elevations are clad in high-performance double glazed aluminium curtain walling with metal fins and The Edge spandrel panels. Masonry is coated with Comet, a cementitious coating that requires little maintenance. Eva-Last composite decking was used for all decked areas, as well as for the innovative screening design used to clad the parking levels. The plant machinery on the roof is also screened off using Eva-Last. Up front CAPEX expenditure on finishes ensures the reduction of running costs in the long term. Interior The entrance foyer is characterised by a layering of natural granite flooring, raw wood and copper to create an elegant front door to the building. A glazed canopy covers the entrance while the granite floor begins externally and continues into the arrival space. Natural textures and neutral tones in the entrance foyer with strong bursts of accent colours and textured wallpaper combine to form a sophisticated space. The utility cupboards are cleverly hidden behind custom designed joinery that resembles a sculptured ‘screen’. 51