Architect and Builder Magazine South Africa May/June 2015 | Page 47

which allowed for a growth of ±40% for Afrihost at the time of planning. However, now a year later, the building is almost full to capacity. A major focus of the design was to connect with the outdoor spaces and to create areas of work relief. This is important to the well-being of the employees who work at high pace and under huge stress. The outdoor patio under the enormous and beautiful plane tree forms the heart of staff gatherings. The gym, games area and roof terrace are other offerings specifically provided for the staff. Afrihost All interior fittings are bespoke and carefully designed around the specific needs of Afrihost. Colours are kept to neutral palettes, with mostly red accents incorporating the company’s strong branding. The new office building accommodates the entire head office facility under one roof Execution The design brief adapted to the changing client needs throughout the planning stage and even a long way into the construction stage of the project. This necessitated constant co-ordination meetings with the 47