Architect and Builder Magazine South Africa September/October 2013 | Page 69

space. All the plant species are indigenous and
endemic to Gauteng, and the 80m long water
feature with its playful spouts boasts chunky
granite rocks which are off-cuts salvaged from
a local quarry. Cycling and pedestrian paths
flow through the landscape with numerous
welcoming decks and seating areas, even a
dedicated zone for guide dogs. Some of the
protruding roof structures are also planted with
grasses to blend into the setting. All tenants
ascend from the basement parking levels via
escalators that arrive in the heart of the gardens
so that each user has the opportunity to catch
some fresh air and sunshine on their way to
their office. 30 Baker Street’s strategic location

Standard Bank

adjacent to the Gautrain station, wide-ranging
public transport system and easy access to
amenities will endorse the piazza’s future as a
well utilised, popular neighbourhood link.
The architectural materials ensure that a
unified ideology flows seamlessly from outside
to inside. Standard Bank’s values of quality,
integrity and permanence are reflected in the
choice of solid classical elements such as stone,
marble, granite and timber. In harmony with
these elements the client’s progressiveness
and pursuit for innovation is represented by
the more sleek, modern steel and glass. The
warmth and character introduced by multiple
components of sustainably sourced timber is

The reception desk
and benches in the
vast atrium are flowing
and organic in contrast
with the clean, crisp
lines of the structure

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