and is covered by an overhanging fretted glass canopy , providing filtered light and protection from the elements .
Pedestrian Square The existing cobbled paving was uneven and was difficult to walk on . The brief was to come up with a new , more practical paving option that still had an aged appearance , to blend in with the neo-classical design of the Square itself . A custom concrete paver was developed that looked weathered but yet met the requirements for a smooth , pedestrianfriendly finish . The paving laying directions differ to add interest and also incorporate the existing water feature , which was refurbished . The jets and lights are linked to a computer , allowing for a variety of water and colour displays .
CONTRACTOR ’ S PERSPECTIVE The construction works were executed by the NMC Construction Group ’ s building division , NMC . The NMC team ’ s primary emphasis was to ensure that its operations in ( and outside ) of the public eye blended seamlessly into the luxurious surroundings of Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City .
In terms of the project programme , the most challenging aspect was not so much the workload , but rather the logistics of executing the project within a live retail environment . With the bulk of the works taking place in the heart of the malls boasting luxury international brands , the entire programme was structured around this consideration . Work in isolated areas took place in trading hours , with construction activities within a live mall environment executed after hours . This was achieved with advance planning between the NMC management team and client ’ s project managers .
The role of ‘ invisible contractor ’ extended to careful thought being given to the placement of temporary hoarding , lighting and public safety communications and the maintenance of these elements .
With work taking place in and around a fully operational retail space , safety was a crucial facet to every aspect of the project . Each and every element of the project ( from installing a light bulb to planting a tree in a planter ) happened hand in hand with a method statement ; analysed in detail by the project team before pushing the go-button .
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