South African office building was designed to keep its occupants healthy

The design of this sculptural office building in South Africa encourages its occupants to stay healthy. With bicycle storage spaces, showers, changing rooms and lockers, the amenities encourage users to cycle, walk or even run to work. Designed by MDS Architecture, the project also boasts several sustainable features, prompting it to be awarded with recognition from the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA).

The office building is located in Sandton, area situated within the metro area of Johannesburg, South Africa. It replaced a single-storey building constructed in 1991 that was being dwarfed by neighboring developments. MDS Architecture designed the building to manage heat build-ups of its west-facing facade and control glare issues. The west-facing facade features massive, full-height fins that mitigate excessive sunlight, while the north-facing façade is fully glazed, opening up the office spaces to views across Bryanston.

The building has energy efficient lighting and cooling, as well as smart waste management systems and reduced water consumption. Its construction significantly cut carbon emissions through the use of more than 60% total recycled content for all steel elements. The quantity of Portland cement was reduced by over 30% across all concrete mixes used during construction, while the use of PVC was cut by more than 30% on the project through the use of alternative products. Secure bicycle storage spaces, showers, change rooms and lockers provided in the building encourage a healthy lifestyle among the occupants.