“ This is the first time this suspension system has been implemented in Southern Africa ,” says Pat Henry . Although the system had been used extensively elsewhere in the world , it needed to be adapted for local conditions by local façade engineers . It also had never been used on an 11-storey building before . “ The system has the ability to accommodate pre calculated expansion and contraction as well as changing wind pressures ”.
The truss was designed in a boat shape as both an aesthetic and practical solution to carrying the glazed roof . Another practical consideration included in the design is the gondola rail at the top of the building to clean the glass façade . An illuminated crown has been added to help identify this building in the built up Sandton precinct .
The new skin of the building gives the building façade a contemporary sophistication while also offering a performance cloak – it controls the heat while letting in an abundance of natural light .
Soaring Lobby The atrium is a soaring space and attracts many visitors into the lobby area . Reflections in the glass confuse perceptions ; an experience which Pat Henry says has exceeded his expectations . “ I knew that the glass would create a kaleidoscope of reflections but didn ’ t think it would be quite as exciting as it has turned out . Although it is essentially a triangular space , it looks square when you look up the atrium ,” he says .
The view from the new atrium is onto the intersection of 5th and Maude Streets and down the axis of Maude Street towards the International Convention
Centre . All of this helps give the building a sense of place , its own identity and its own street address .
The lobby area features a unique canopy over the reception desk . “ We had allowed for an artwork to be suspended in the atrium , but soon saw the need for shading the reception area from the sun . MDS Architecture designed a unique contemporary canopy which is illuminated at night ; it not only acts as a practical solution for the desk , but also as an artwork for the lobby and the streets outside . It has turned out to be quite a striking feature ,” says Pat Henry .
A green living wall made from recycled material is another striking feature in the atrium . “ We utilised specialist expertise to ensure that the living wall would be suitable for an air-conditioned environment . Mark Young , the landscape architect , recommended a system for moisture and feeding which works on the basis of a series of removable and interchangeable trays ,” he says .
The colour palette at Atrium on 5th has been achieved with dark stone look porcelain tiles , Carrara marble and the introduction of warmth with French Oak timber panelling . Timber was also introduced into the lift lobby ceiling bulkheads , while stainless steel and glass on the walls bring a contemporary and practical element to the building .
New and Energy Efficient Plant The ageing services including lighting were obviously no longer energy-efficient and needed to be replaced . A new plant is located on the roof and the building serviced from the top down via vertical ducts created on either end of the building . The roof plant room
290 Atrium on 5th