Leading the Breeze Block trend are brick experts Klay – and there’s no better example of their product than the new Bendehuis office space in the Old East Precinct, Pretoria.
WORDS VISI Staff PHOTOS Supplied
Designed by Slee + Co architects in collaboration with Atterbury Property, Bendehuis is a new commercial space in Pretoria’s Old East Precinct. And one of its most distinctive features is the 15 000+ Klay Mirage screen blocks (or breeze blocks) that make up its facade. It’s one of the largest showcases of screen-block design in South Africa, and an indication of the scale and artistry possible with Klay’s products.
Bendehuis demonstrates how thoughtful design can create spaces that inspire and sustain those who inhabit them – and Klay’s screen-block facade is an integral part of the building’s character and functionality. Their earthy tones and textured patterns shape the rhythm of the space, creating a calming atmosphere that supports both focus and wellbeing.
A testament to collaboration
The development reflects a collective commitment to building in a way that is both responsible and sensitive to context. Bendehuis sits on a compact site, which required close collaboration to protect the mature acacia and jacaranda trees that have long defined the character of the property. The teams involved worked with care to ensure that these natural elements remained part of the story.
Designing with nature in mind
Tree preservation shaped many of the design decisions. Protective measures, specialised construction guidelines and respect for the existing landscape all played a role in determining how the building was placed on the site. This method gave equal importance to ecological responsibility and the everyday experience of the people who will be using the building. It’s an approach that aligns naturally with Klay’s values, helping to ensure that nature remains an integral part of the identity and character of Bendehuis. |
klay.co.za
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