WALLS & CLADDING
Beyond aesthetics, the facade needed to withstand environmental demands without disrupting hospital operations. Water runoff, rain, heat, UV exposure, and wind load were critical considerations. Oosthuizen chose Lifespan’ s hollow-core aluminium composite profiles in 5.8m lengths for their tensile strength and lightweight properties. These were securely fastened across two floors at a time, achieving an almost flawless timber texture with minimal visible joints.
“ After careful calculation and consideration of material tolerance and installation guidelines, I was confident they would tolerate the stress and withstand any expansion and contraction on the concrete sub-structure,” Oosthuizen adds.
“ By using Lifespan architectural beams from Eva-Last( www. eva-last. co. za), we managed to adapt to the challenges of this concrete construct. We combined the versatility of the composite profiles with the confines of the concrete to soften the lines without compromising on safety, longevity, or attractiveness,” he explains.
The result is a comprehensive facade transformation. Lifespan’ s aluminiumreinforced profiles introduce natural timber tones and texture through vertical screening, enhancing the building’ s appearance while improving safety and functionality.
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The hospital group appointed Hugo Oosthuizen of Graceland Architects to revitalise the exterior. Graceland brought a fresh perspective from designing healthcare and natural healing environments to the facelift.
Design response
Oosthuizen introduced long vertical slatted screens from floor to roof, using lightweight Lifespan bamboo composite beams in a Savanna colour that offers a light timber tone effect. The finish draws the eye vertically away from the heavy horizontal plane, adding a warm, organic element to the concrete exterior, while also concealing casting imperfections and offering unexpected cost-savings.
Lifespan beams of varying sizes, including 150 x 50mm beams and contrasting 50 x 30mm Savanna and Xavia profiles, were alternated to create a striking screen. The system hides unsightly features such as extractor fans, enhances balcony safety, and provides patient privacy without obstructing views. It also offers protection from sun and wind, improving comfort and usability.
The orientation of each composite beam was carefully considered to create shadow, depth, and decorative patterning. Installed from the first floor to the rooftop, the screens form a unified building envelope. The duo-tone aesthetic reads as a solid surface from a distance, while revealing a slatted structure up close. www. tobuild. co. za | winter 2026 89