Architect and Builder November/December 2018 | Page 57

façade strategy with an exoskeleton of shaped
louvres, creating a mask of various treatments
in response to solar exposure and internal
functionality. These deliver a vertical filter on the
east and west, horizontal on the north and are
absent on the south to promote a slick, longitudinal
projecting glazed bay.
The extensive curtain wall enveloping the
atrium enjoys a veiled quality to the east, but this
dematerialises on the south to announce entrance
and promote focussed ocean views. External
verandas on the north east corner and south
edge capitalise on sea views and connectivity
to the office park landscaping, being expressed
as subtractive elements in the overall form and
animating the building.
ABSA Ridgeside
The entire structured parking podium is clad
in vertical tubular screens designed to reduce
the scale of this substantial element, promote
natural ventilation and simultaneously integrate
with the office component above. Complimenting
the layered façade is a continuous over-sailing
roof which is dematerialised by a broad, visually
light, louvred rim to deal with the north sun. The
overall impact of this veiled approach is thus one
which derives from applying simple and effective
screening devices over a relatively ordinary and
economical inner skin. The exterior is largely
rendered in silvers and greys with a charcoal base
connecting the elevated offices to the ground, thus
yielding a limited material palette and somewhat
understated composition.
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