Developed by Growthpoint Properties and currently targeting a 4-Star As-built rating, this modern office comprises two basement floors, two office floors and third floor roof area. Surrounded by a xeriscape garden, the 3770sqm project has implemented internal building service and architectural sustainability initiatives that demonstrate Best Practice.

Prior to construction, a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan was developed and implemented to minimize the impacts of construction work on the local environment. The building aims to have over 70% of its demolition and construction waste reused or recycled. Contractors on the project have also been conscious of the materials used within the structure, making use of concrete with reduced a Portland cement content, and reinforced steel containing 92% recycled content.

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) has been the main focus of the development. The HVAC system is an air-cooled system that does not use potable water, with fresh air supplied at a rate of 12.5l/s/person for 95% of the usable area. Ample natural daylight and views of the surrounding landscape have been designed into the building, with options to control glare for overall user comfort. The building has also implemented a non-smoking policy; and low-VOC materials have been specified to prioritise the quality of the air to which users are exposed.

Efficient energy and water usage have been prioritised throughout the development, with initiatives including the installation of lighting occupancy sensors; and sub-metering provided for all substantive energy uses within the building to monitor energy consumption and limit the building’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Water sanitary fittings are all fitted with actuators to reduce and control water consumption; and the project has implemented a rainwater harvesting system which provides water to the toilets and urinals, further reducing the use of potable water.

Building users are also encouraged to limit their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions by rethinking their modes of transport. The building makes preferential provision for alternative fuel vehicles, motorbikes/scooters, and cyclist facilities that include racks, lockers and showers.

To maintain the sustainability initiatives throughout the building’s lifespan, Growthpoint required a Building Users’ Guide to create awareness of the building’s systems and their optimal use; and has included a green lease within their agreement to ensure that all future tenants will be required to monitor the performance of energy, water and waste consumption on an ongoing basis; and to prepare a procurement policy for the use of environmentally friendly consumables.

Professional Team

OWNER: Growthpoint Properties
ARCHITECT: EPA Architects
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER: DBA Consulting
FIRE ENGINEER: Woollatt & Clarke
LIFT SPECIALIST: Schindler Lifts (SA)
MECHANICAL ENGINEER & WET SERVICES ENGINEER: Spoormaker & Partners
QUANTITY SURVEYORS: FWJK
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS: Arup
SUSTAINABLE BUILDING CONSULTANT: Solid Green Consulting
MAIN CONTRACTOR: Trencon
PROJECT MANAGER: Betts & Townsend Construction Project Management
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT: SHE Sage