Alexander Forbes Head Office is a Winner

WORDS Lindi Brownell Meiring PHOTOS via zenprop.co.za

The AfriSam-SAIA Award for Sustainable Architecture 2014 (Built Work Category) went to the 4-star Green Star rated Alexander Forbes headquarters in Sandton.

Paragon Architects and Paragon Interface took not only the Alexander Forbes employees into account when coming up with their design, but the environmental impact the building would have on its surroundings. Since opening its doors two years ago, water consumption has been reduced by 70%, waste generation by 50% and energy consumption by 40%.

AfriSam CEO, Stephan Olivier says, “In acknowledging this building as the recipient of the AfriSam-SAIA Award for Sustainable Architecture for 2014 in the built category, it is hoped that the Alexander Forbes Headquarters will provide a beacon of inspiration, not only as a place to work, but also as a worthwhile contribution to the urban fabric of Johannesburg and human experience in the area.”

Watch below to find out more about this outstanding example of environmental architecture.

Durban-based Koop Design took home the award for Works of Social Importance category (including research) for Vukuzakhe.

“Vukuzakhe is a brave attempt to record, evaluate and propose systems for urban construction in South Africa,” adds Olivier. “The litmus test remains for the document to be implemented and robustly challenged which, if successful, could offer realistic opportunities for urban development in South Africa.”