Architect and Builder September 2020 | Page 42

This Spread: Penthouse minimisation of ambient noise transfer. The stepping façade of the tower allowed for open balconies that are screened from each other’s view, whilst solid balustrades protect personal privacy and waist-to-ceiling windows direct the eye to the mountain and cityscape views - screening city streets and rooftop plant below. The design of all windows was assessed by an acoustic engineer, culminating in the targeted installation of double glazing in applicable areas which were deemed to be susceptible to high ambient noise levels, as well as high heat transfer. Chiller compressors and cooking extract outlets (of adjacent restaurants) were upgraded and relocated. Facilities The intense densification of a tight and obstructed inner-city site was achieved through inspired and detailed design and engineering. Key facilities include limited parking, a 24-hour security concierge desk, electronic surveillance, stretcher elevator, back-up generator, borehole water backup and two rooftop sundowner terraces. Environmentally Sustainable Design Tuynhuys was built during Cape Town’s historic drought of 2018, and thus water-conservation has been key. To reduce the use of municipal water a double pipe system was incorporated, providing 42 Tuynhuys