a large cantilevered edges which proved to be an engineering challenge with a post-tensioned slab . This was handled by cleverly designed slab steps and perimeter upstand beams . The upstand edge was disconnected from the slab edge and set back , creating a two-tiered perimeter boundary to each balcony .
Materiality and Sustainability The external building palette of materials is a combination of Marmoran and full height glazing with stainless steel elements seen on the feature balustrade edges . The marmoran generates a variety of textured panels creating depth to the façade . The ground floor plane was painted with a highly textured , large scale marmoran application along the rising lift shaft walls . The balcony edges were applied with a smaller , more detailed marmoran texture contributing to a fine grain texture as the building rises out of the ground .
The parking levels were designed to be robust and durable . Exposed concrete soffits , minimal painted edges and rounded corners to columns and walls allows the parked environment to have longevity .
Each lift lobby is expressed by lightweight vertical timber elements which clad the lift walls . Black granite edges forge feature lines between the timber elements and breaks the continuity giving interest and diversity within the space . The lobby floors are covered with a light grey 17mm polished concrete topping with exposed white and dark grey aggregate and are edged with black skirting .
Energy efficiency is built into the building dynamics in a cost-effective manner . These sustainable elements include low-flow fittings installed in all bathrooms , provision for bicycle parking throughout the parking structures along with shower facilities , movement-sensor lightfittings , stormwater attenuation tanks used for watering the indigenous landscaping and recycling is encouraged by providing a collection of storage areas .
Conclusion Ridge 7 is a fine example of FWJK Development ’ s delivering a building on-time and within budget . The architectural aesthetics are charming and engaging and proudly takes its places within the exclusive Ridgeside precinct of uMhlanga .
638 Ridge 7