Architect and Builder Magazine South Africa July/August 2014 | Page 43

concrete & bricks) was crushed for use as
fill material.
Empowerment & Job Creation
During construction, the main contractor
employed ±750 workers and subcontractors employed another ± 750
over a period of two and a half years. The
consultant team employed ±100 highly
qualified staff over a six year period. The
average BEE level for the consultants and
contractor is Level 2.
Local developing artists were used to
produce artworks & sculptures as part of
the project. The artworks were specifically
chosen and commissioned to portray
the role of the Military Health Service.
A photographer was commissioned to
capture SAMHS personnel and equipment
in action and these are displayed as large
scale artistic prints in the buildings to
further create a sense of place.
Workmanship
Meticulous care was given to the detailing
and construction of each building element.
Two architectural clerk of works, a structural
resident engineer and an electric resident
engineer monitored construction quality
throughout the project. Quality of work
was addressed with each sub-contractor
and the main contractor on a continual
basis to ensure finishes with good
longevity in a challenging environment.
Management
The extensive BMS allows for the accurate
monitoring and reporting of electricity
use, water consumption and the efficiency
of HVAC installations. Any deviations in
the design performance can be identified
and addressed promptly.
The building contract included a
12 month maintenance contract for all
equipment and installations. This gives
the DPW and SAMHS opportunity
to witness the maintenance and
Military Health Base Depot

servicing of installations before taking
over responsibility.
SUMMARY
The new MHBD raises the standard
for multi-functional military bases in
South Africa to a new level. It puts the
latest technology and best facilities at
the disposal of its users. Not only is the
technical efficiency of the SAMHS boosted,
but the military personnel are also given
a pleasant, architecturally stimulating
work environment that encourages
best performance.
Inspection visits by DPW and military
delegations showed a favourable response
to the project. The complex has generated
a new excitement about the possibilities of
re-use and campus design for government
departments.

ADVERTISERS ON THIS PROJECT:
Jeremie Malan
Architects + Interiors
Architects
Impendulo Design Architects
Architects
Civil Concepts
Structural Engineers
Emzansi Consulting Engineers
Structural Steel Engineers
JP Partnership
Mechanical Engineers
Liviero Building (Pty) Ltd
Main Contractor
Mnjiya Consulting Engineers
Fire, Electronic &
Mechanical Engineers
Mokate Monk & Du Plessis
Quantity Surveyors
Ukhozi Consulting Engineers
Electrical Engineers

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