Architect and Builder November/December 2018 | Page 49

Engineering Challenges The highly dramatic spiral staircase in the main foyer, originally planned on the western end of the triple volume, was relocated to the eastern end after the suspended slabs were already cast. This required the design of the staircase to be made as light as possible and additional strengthening of the floors allows the loading to be hidden inside the ceiling voids where space and clearance are at a premium. The suspended concrete floors were designed as post-tension slabs due to practical and financial considerations. The design allowed thinner, lighter floors with columns that could be spaced further apart than practical with conventional flooring, which gave the architects a higher level of freedom in the design. This came with the added responsibility of ensuring that all coordination was done to the finest detail with cast in supports for the façades and service sleeves perfectly in place prior to casting of the slabs. of specialised bollards, tree up-lights and accent lighting that complements the landscaping and conforms to the low power consumption aimed for. Both buildings are fed with a single 400kVA auto change over back-up generator supporting the facility 100%. Landscape Design Concept The prominent corner announcement is planted with concentric half circular shapes of low clipped hedging to emphasise the imposing arrival shape of the glass façade of the main building. Different species of clipped hedge planting in varying heights form strong layers to offset free growing mass flowering effects. The building entrance façade and parking deck is softened by the evergreen rhythm of Outeniqua Yellowwood trees. Extended tree ambiance is enhanced by using indigenous Fever Trees and White Stinkwood trees throughout the development. Electrical and HVAC During the entire electrical design process emphasis was placed on efficiency whilst not compromising the overall aesthetic look and feel of the building. A combination of LED and T5 energy saving fluorescent lighting solutions delivered the desired efficiency in power saving and budget outlines. Feature lighting installed in the office reflects the perfect combination between architectural desires and practical application. Numerous custom-made pendants, suspended linear and free form LED lighting create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout. Motion sensors installed throughout ensure that lighting in unoccupied spaces is switched off to save electricity. Albeit soft, the external lighting creates a striking effect and accentuates the façade features. LED lighting was utilised in the form Fintech Campus 49