and allow the planting of shrubs and additional trees , creating a stronger sense of place . The positioning of the pot groupings were done in such a way to create maximum visibility of the building whilst allowing free flowing pedestrian traffic though the area .
In addition to the existing trees , carefully preserved during construction , Ekebergia capensis ( Cape Ash ) trees were introduced in the pots for their evergreen canopy , ornamental shape and ability to cope with semi-shade conditions . The landscape was further extended by introducing creepers on the vertical plane of the building also highlighting the architectural features of the façade .
Sustainability Water efficient initiatives have been implemented in the new development . These include sensor taps in the ablutions facilities , kitchens and pause area faucets . In addition to this , all showers in the building are fitted with low-flow showerheads . These initiatives collectively reduce the building ’ s potable water demand .
A significant portion of the building occupants will have a direct line of site to the outdoors . This means that people can adjust the focus of their eyes beyond the building , helping to prevent eyestrain . Research has shown that these microbreaks can improve concentration .
The extensive glass façade as well as internal atriums also allow ample natural light to enter the building , resulting in a reduced need for artificial lighting . Glass façades often come with the downside of daylight glare which can be very uncomfortable for building occupants seated where direct sun shines onto the workspace . Blinds have been installed to all office floors to mitigate the above and optimal occupant comfort is ensured .
Energy saving light fittings have been installed throughout the building . Office floors and meeting rooms have also been fitted with occupancy sensors with lighting zones no greater than 100m 2 . This minimises the energy consumption for lighting purposes by a large extent , turning off lights in unoccupied zones .
All water use and major energy consuming equipment is metred and connected to the BMS for real-time monitoring , allowing for timeous reporting and response on all faulty systems . This ensures that the building operates as per the intended design .
The interior of the building is finished with materials that provide building users with a desirable acoustic environment . Multiple roof layers contribute towards the reduction of external noise pollutants travelling into the workspace . These include steel roof-sheeting , slip-sheet roof , layers of gypsum plaster and acoustic ceiling tiles . Tremendous commitment and effort from the mul-
584 33 Baker Street