The refurbishment of the iconic Creative Council building, now a distinctive landmark along the M1 highway, has transformed it into a cutting-edge, eco-friendly workspace. With four basement levels and five office floors, the building not only offers functional and modern office spaces but also sets a new standard for sustainability in urban architecture.

The ambitious goal of achieving a 6 Star Office Rating for both Design and As Built, along with Net Zero Carbon certification, underscores Balwin’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The removal of three cones and the addition of two new floors beneath the elevated concrete box have added both functionality and a contemporary aesthetic to the building.

Green design elements are seamlessly integrated into the structure, enhancing its visual appeal while also serving as an educational tool. These features promote a deeper understanding of ecological principles, encouraging both residents and visitors to appreciate and engage with sustainable practices. Balwin’s commitment to achieving multiple Green Star rating certifications further solidifies its reputation as a leader in sustainable development, demonstrating a clear dedication to reducing environmental impact and promoting a healthier, greener future.

By incorporating Net Zero Waste practices, the project ensures that waste is managed responsibly, with an emphasis on reducing, reusing, and recycling materials. This goal complements the building’s other green initiatives, reinforcing its role as a model for sustainable urban development. The integration of these certifications demonstrates Balwin’s holistic dedication to environmental responsibility, making the HQ a beacon of sustainable design and operation.

Building Information

Address: 105 Corlett Drive, Birnam, Johannesburg
Total gross floor area: 7656 m²
Total commercial office area: 5986 m²
Car parking area: 7294 m²

Sustainable building features include

The new Balwin HQ integrates a wide range of sustainable features that go beyond architectural design to include thoughtful building management and operational strategies. These features include:

• Building Management and Indoor Environment Quality: The building’s management system is designed to optimize indoor environment quality, ensuring that occupants benefit from healthy air quality, comfortable temperatures, and natural light. This focuses on creating a healthy indoor environment that supports the well-being and productivity of everyone in the area.
• Smart Energy Efficiency: The building employs smart energy efficiency systems that continuously monitor and optimize energy use. These systems work in tandem with the building’s high-performance insulation, low-emissivity windows, and energy-efficient lighting to reduce overall energy consumption and minimize the carbon footprint.
• Sustainable, Non-Toxic, and Locally Sourced Materials: The project prioritizes the use of materials that are sustainable, non-toxic, and locally sourced. These materials are selected for their low environmental footprint, durability, and potential for recycling or reuse. This strategy not only reduces waste but also supports local economies and reduces carbon emissions related to transportation.
• Landscape Irrigation Systems: Sustainable irrigation systems are implemented to ensure efficient water use in landscaping. These systems are designed to complement the use of native plant species, further reducing water consumption and supporting local ecology.
• Physical Initiatives: The building promotes physical activity by encouraging employees to take the stairs instead of elevators. This initiative not only supports a healthy lifestyle but also reduces energy use associated with elevator operation.

These integrated features demonstrate Balwin’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, extending from the materials used in construction to the daily operations and lifestyle of building occupants.

Project Team

OWNER: Balwin Properties
ACCREDITED PROFFESSIONAL: Solid Green Consulting
ARCHITECT: Paragon Architects
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER: Sutherland Engineers
FIRE ENGINEER: Sutherland Engineers
LIFT SPECIALIST: Kone
MECHANICAL ENGINEER: Sutherland Engineers
QUANTITY SURVEYORS: JMHT Quantity Surveyors
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS: Sotiralis Consulting Engineers
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN REVIEW: Solid Green Consulting
SUSTAINABLE BUILDING CONSULTANT: Solid Green Consulting
WET SERVICES: Sutherland Engineers
MAIN CONTRACTOR: Onsite Solutions
PROJECT MANAGER: Onsite Solutions
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT: LEAP Environmental
INTERIOR DESIGNER: Paragon Interface
COMMISSIONING AGENT: Cardinal Commissioning Services
RENEWABLES: RWP; Block Power

Certificates

Green Star

NET Zero

Building Users Guide