a canteen restaurant with an extensive outdoor terrace , a coffee bar , a lounge area , auditoria , an executive boardroom , meeting pods and several meeting rooms . The small component of offices housed on this floor are for some of the specialised departments of the bank .
Key architectural elements include the extensive use of glass , the granite cladding and the innovative fritted glass solar shading . Several glazing systems were adopted , each responding directly to the views and solar requirements of the particular elevation . Apart from the basement walls , all the other solid external walls are clad with Namibian granite , two tones , each with different finishes .
The signature element of the building has to be the solar shading to the glazed atrium . The two outside edges of the atrium are entirely glazed over their full height and length , and the exposure of these northeast and northwest façades called for extensive shading . A bespoke system of fritted glass panels , supported on a matrix of brushed stainless steel spider fittings and support rods , shields the inner double glazed skin from the direct sunlight . It creates a spectacular pattern across the two façades and reinforces the sophisticated elegant aesthetic that the client was keen to retain .
The use of water plays a key element to the external environment of the building . This is achieved by way of two water features , one runs along the entrance façade of the building , while the other is a cascading water feature along the driveway of the premises .
The interior design of the building is in line with Investec ’ s cultural look and feel , which is characteristic of its offices around the world . This is evident in the use of transparency , light and movement to the open plan offices and public and private meeting spaces .
In line with Investec Bank ’ s business responsibility of sustainability , which is reflected in Investec Property ’ s adherence to green building principles , the new head office is designed to be respectful of the environment .
The new building includes extraordinary glass innovations to manage the heating and cooling of the space and to use natural light to its best effect . Motion sensor lighting , water recycling and an advanced building management system are all the design elements that contribute to the energy efficiency of this prime head office .
With indigenous flora , bicycle racks and showers for those who cycle to the office , the finest details have been incorporated to ensure a vibrant , functional and positive setting .
Conclusion Offices in Durban have traditionally favoured multi-tenant environments and it was exciting to undertake this singular and innovative project .
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