Architect and Builder Offices Retrospective | Page 141

elements . The buildings will incorporate storm water retention tanks in the basement area for reuse in irrigation and other requirements . A number of other sustainable elements include insulation , thermally efficient glass , energy efficient lighting and air ventilation systems and solar heating panels for geysers .”
“ Heat build up on the roof will be significantly reduced by accessible roof gardens with spectacular 360 degree views .” The Illovo area is one of the highest natural points in Johannesburg and views from the roof gardens include the Magaliesburg Mountains to the north .
Flexible and Customised Interior Design Key to the building design of both buildings was the notion of open plan workspaces but with each Illovo Edge owner being able to determine their own space and interior design features .
The Bentel Interior Design team is responsible for the Interior Design and Space Planning of Building 2 , which accommodates the architectural practice . The design direction took its lead from the ‘ studio ’ type environment , which is critical for the effective communication and teamwork required to complete successful building design .
Central to this , is the need to achieve line of sight for all staff and team members throughout the space , as visual connection to all departments is essential for an efficient design and workflow process . This was achieved by planning the entire office around a triangular , double volume , open plan studio , with boardrooms and executive offices flanking it along two of its sides .
This concept was further reinforced through the positioning of the coffee stop and snack area , printing and photocopying areas , as well as the
general communal work functions , at the centre of the open plan section . This ensures that one-onone communication , as well as group interaction , is maintained throughout the day .
All spaces within the office enjoy natural light and are visually connected to the landscaped boulevard between Buildings 1 and 2 , and they enjoy connectivity to the public coffee shop within the Boulevard .
All interior finishes take their lead from the external architectural features - public areas with limestone clad walls and floors are softened with American walnut timber cladding . The use of glass boardroom walls and stainless steel handrails are used to accentuate the pure forms of the building and to allow for further views through to the Boulevard and the rest of the Precinct .
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