Architect and Builder May/Jun 2024 | Page 8

NEWSWORTHY
DHK ARCHITECTS APPOINTS NEW PARTNER
Experienced architect , Martin Lardner-Burke , has been appointed as a partner of dhk Architects , bolstering the leadership team as the practice continues to expand its project portfolio locally and abroad . Martin Lardner-Burke joined the studio in 2017 as a senior associate . Some of his notable projects in Cape Town include Battery Park and 32 Napier Street . He was also integral in the development of the Old Cape Quarter in De Waterkant where dhk ’ s Cape Town office is situated . As the firm ’ s projects expanded , in 2020 Lardner-Burke relocated to the dhk Johannesburg office , leading the team alongside co-founder and partner Peter Fehrsen . His passion for and expertise in sustainable design and BIM technology has been invaluable . He is currently working on projects such as residential development One Rosebank . Lardner-Burke says he is looking forward to embarking on a new challenge and offering his knowledge to ensure the firm continues to produce considered architectural , urban and interior design . He notes : “ I ’ m very excited about the challenge ahead , but most of all I ’ m excited about the Johannesburg office and how we ’ re growing . I see us building a very solid platform . We ’ ve got a great team with good energy , and the office is growing from strength to strength .”
TRUWORTHS DISTRIBUTION CENTRE DEBUTS NEW FLOOR
Truworths recently announced the successful completion of its expanded distribution centre , showcasing cutting-edge floor slabs supplied by Concrete Laser Flooring ( CLF ). This significant achievement focused on building an expanded distribution facility , incorporating premier products from Sika South Africa and concrete supplied from Métier .
CLF is renowned for its expertise in industrial flooring solutions , specialising in innovative and precise concrete flooring applications . With a steadfast commitment to cutting-edge technology and quality craftsmanship , CLF consistently delivers exceptional results in large-scale projects .
Tasked with pouring a robust and hardwearing concrete slab for the expansive 55,000m 2 warehouse , CLF rose to the challenge with precision and expertise . The floors were coated with Sikafloor-3 QuartzTop , a one-part , pre-blended mineral dry shake hardener known for its impact resistance , fast application and easy cleaning . Every joint was meticulously treated with Sika Primer-3 N and Backing Cord , followed by sealing the joint with Sikaflex Construction + sealant , guaranteeing durability and longevity .
In spite of initial obstacles encountered by the Truworths Distribution Centre , such as base floor misalignment of up to 20mm , the primary contractor swiftly tackled the issue , facilitating uninterrupted advancement . Utilising sophisticated laser technology for adjustments proved instrumental in correcting the base floor misalignment , showcasing a dedication to precision and excellence .
The Truworths Distribution Centre expansion project exemplifies a commitment to excellence and innovation in construction . Spearheaded by CLF and incorporating premium products from Sika , the flooring of the distribution centre establishes a benchmark for durability , quality , and precision . www . zaf . sika . com www . concreteflooring . co . za
8 News Watch