for uncomplicated fulfillment of functional and environmental concerns .
The formally defined street entrance leads into the main atrium volume from which office levels above are visible , but also the canteen and courtyard , the main social spaces of the building . Articulated circulation elements and the spatial hierarchy make the building harmonious and legible .
Workmanship The two main façade features comprise white off-shutter concrete fins and portals and a coated aluminium clad corner feature . The concrete was painstakingly detailed to make aesthetic merit of shutterwork and jointing . The sourcing and construction was coordinated with the contractor and supplier and was ground breaking for SA . The aluminium cladding comprises solid panels with a pearlescent coating , giving a more lustrous effect to that of other commonly available products .
Plastered surfaces have an application of acrylic bonded coating , which was enlivened by the considered use and placement of jointing . Interior public spaces make extensive use of FSC European oak with a grey oiled finish .
Facilities Facilities for staff include a canteen with a coffee and food counter . The main feature of the building is the central open courtyard with planting and integrated and movable seating . This space is accessible to all staff from the canteen and main foyer spaces and allows for open-air lunches and quiet retreat from the office environment . The design also allows for adaptability in the case of corporate functions .
The office levels are provided with 5 pause areas with kitchenette , bar , table and lounge seating . Other facilities include bicycle , change and shower areas for office staff .
Overall Impact In terms of its conception , an exceptional degree of coordination was required from the professional , construction and supply team . This was necessary to integrate the high demands placed on everyone involved in achieving the seamless integration of innovative construction methods , sustainability concerns , safety and security , challenging design , amongst many others .
The highest level of egalitarianism and social prioritisation was applied to the design - not only for Chevron employees , but especially towards the hundreds of construction workers employed on the site over the 18 applicable months .
In a context of ubiquitous , speculative , lowgrade commercial development , Chevron stands out as a signator of enduring quality and durability with a design life that promises to perform for its single owner-occupier - rather than simply for the duration of a five or ten year lease .
The end product speaks for itself ; not just a building , but an artifact that will stand the test of time .
Sustainability As part of a global entity that is committed to reducing its environmental footprint , as well as an employer of choice in the Western Cape , Chevron required the building to be certified against the South African Green Star standard , as well as the internationally recognised LEED standard for green buildings .
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