The Towers in the Cape Town CBD is undergoing a major transformation as part of the Green Star South Africa Existing Building Performance pilot programme.
Speaking at the Green Building Council of South Africa’s seventh annual convention in Cape Town, Xander Rau, Regional Development Manager of Redefine Properties, which owns The Towers, explained developers’ commitment to social and environmental responsibility. “A truly green building should incorporate not only environmental design, but should also aim to make the least impact on the environment by maintaining peak renewable energy and resource efficiency.
Cape Town has always been among the most environmentally aware cities in the country, and this is probably understandable given the rich diversity of the [regional flora and fauna]. Capetonians are more conscious than most of the need for and benefits of environmental sustainability, saving electricity and other green initiatives.”
Embodying this objective and the latest in innovative green building standards, the ‘green-over’ of the building previously known as the Standard Bank Centre will include a new flushed glazed system on the external façades, which will reduce the cooling demand by approximately one third. The common areas of the building have been fitted with energy-efficient lighting using timer controls and occupancy sensors, which mean the lights switch off automatically upon area vacation. The installation of photovoltaic panels on the rooftop to save energy is also under consideration.
By offering the latest technology in building design and environmental impact mitigation, properties rely less on the grid, bringing tenants substantial business benefits. Research has revealed that, aside from the reduced utility costs, well-designed office space (in terms of lighting, ventilation, and room for mobility, for example) improves staff engagement, wellbeing, and productivity – all of which affect the corporate bottom line.
As of September, the installation of the building facade is gaining momentum. As the refurbishment of each floor is completed, the distinctive, modern profile of The Towers emerges. The aluminium protrusions along the sides will be fitted with LED lights to showcase the landmark tower at night time, while by day the familiar landscape of Cape Town will be majestically mirrored. Construction is scheduled to end in 2015, with the refurbishment expected to elevate The Towers’ value by around R498 million.
Commercial office space is available to let in this premium high-rise office building situated alongside the Cape Town station. There is direct routing to all main routes in and out of the CBD, with easy access to all public transport. It is also close to the banking district with ample parking as required. On the ground, a walkway is planned that will link Hertzog Boulevard and Old Marine Drive at the Station Entrance. The wide space would be ideal for quick and informal gatherings around the working schedule.
