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The internal facade is fully glazed, and solar-tracking louvres ensure shading is always at an optimum level. -
Zinc roofing sheets replaced slate. -
Judith Paterson. -
Bob van Bebber.
PHOTOS Michael Schmucker/Studio88, Boogertman + Partners architects WORDS Malibongwe Tyilo
After the iconic BMW Group SA head office in Midrand was refurbished in 2014, we were curious to know what the architects – of the original building and the renovation – think about it.
Originally designed and built by legendary architect Hans Hallen in 1984 and 1985, the BMW Group SA head office was refurbished in 2014 by architects Boogertman + Partners, and was recently awarded a 5-star Green Star As Built rating by the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA).
On a visit to the building we chatted to Hans, who is now 85 years old, as well as architects Judith Paterson and Bob van Bebber from Boogertman + Partners.
How do you feel about the changes?
Hans: I think the building has been refurbished at the right time in its life. I am especially glad to see that the essence of the original building is still here: Its form, its shape, its relationship with the freeway, its pedestrian access… all its main elements are still here.
What were the major architectural interventions in the refurbishment?
Bob: We took away the inner facade and added a walkway to improve the inner circulation of the building. The idea was also to bring as much natural light into the building as possible. We added fritted-glass louvres and replaced the original slate roof, which had deteriorated, with new roofing sheets. We reused the slate to create walls in the gardens. The other major intervention was creating a double-volume exhibition space that also serves as the staff restaurant.
What are some of the green measures you implemented?
Judith: Working with an existing building is inherently sustainable, because you have embodied energy. In terms of our demolition, we managed to recycle 98 % of the building material. And an energy centre was built for lighting and heating. The solar-tracking louvres also won us innovation points. The carpet is made from 95 % recycled fishing net and the entire building uses LED lighting, resulting in low energy consumption.
