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CONSTRUCTION WORLD
JULY
2016
Erected in two phases, first the piling then the
actual construction of the building, certain
requirements presented a number of chal-
lenges. For example, the distribution centre
needed to be operational long before the
offices were completed which meant ensuring
that people working in the distribution centre
were safe while it was still a construction
site. And, fire prevention requirements were
onerous. Large underground water storage
tanks were required and fire escape routes
had to run from the roof to the ground floor,
serving the offices and the distribution centre.
Sustainable elements
It has a number of noteworthy green elements
which were incorporated into the design
according to Emmett. “The building faces
south which is the correct orientation to
ensure that the sun does not shine directly into
the front façade. On the east-side decorative
fins have been designed to deflect the morning
sun which has a significantly beneficial effect
on the air conditioning running costs.”
The twelve 7 650 mm x 1 250 mm
aluminium fins were a collaborative effort
between Emmett Architects and Bernice
Rumble from Land Art Studio. Rumble devel-
oped the design of an ocean wave which was
used and briefed the aluminium manufac-
turer using the perforation options which
they’d provided. Emmett Architects detailed
all the technical fixings.
Other green elements include a rear north
facing wall which has been designed as
a green wall with mesh panels on which
creepers will be encouraged to grow. And, the
decking is recycled plastic with a mainte-
nance free lifespan of more than 15 years.
And, with the building being Universal
Access compliant, The Lion Match Compa-
ny’s new headquarters are designed to be
aesthetically pleasing as well as usable to the
greatest extent possible by everyone, regard-
less of their age or ability.
With decks that wrap around each floor
and clear view fencing around the north east
fire escape stairwell the spectacular harbour
views have been well accommodated and
maximised. And, the roof garden which
is seen as a definite usable area has been
designed to be a well-considered space to
look over the neighbouring buildings and
360 degree view. Astro turf, glass balustrades
and attractive paving all contribute to making
the roof a desirable space.
Facilities include: nine paraplegic toilets,
one on the ground floor and two on the other
four levels; two prayer rooms (one each for
men and women); a kitchens and toilets on
each floor; three boardrooms, half a dozen
meeting rooms, conference and a private
gym for staff. “We have created a home for
The Lion Match Company for a long time to
come, which adequately takes care of its long
term vision for growth,” said Abdoola.