African Design Magazine March 2015 | Page 30

African project: iiNet Call Centre The designers created the concept iiNet Raw as a reference to the industrial context and original function of the historic building. A stimulating and flexible working environment references the Australian brand’s values and provides geographical connection to the continent. The centre currently takes up three floors of the building, and each floor comprises open plan office space, with breakaway areas, partially enclosed pods, and meeting rooms. The design aesthetic is creative and fresh, and references the factory setting using vintage furniture and retro typography, with a palette of vibrant colours that appeal to the predominantly young workforce. The nature of the business means that there are large numbers of staff moving through the centre on shift rotations, and requires hard wearing functional fittings and finishes. The canteen takes its cue from the industrial aesthetic of the original 1940s clothing factory, with raw timber, exposed ducting, and eclectic collection of chairs, while maximising the spectacular views towards Cape Town’s famed Table Mountain and Lions Head. A smoothie bar takes centre stage, encouraging staff to make healthier choices during their breaks. The play zone is filled with energising entertainment, such as a punching bag, table tennis, pool table and even a mini-cinema. It’s a The renowned Rex Trueform Building, which recently underwent major alterations, required a complete HVAC installation to accommodate each of its new tenants requirements. AIRFREEZE’S INVOLVEMENT Daikin VRV Type Air-conditioning Systems were utilised due to their modular design, enabling the right mix of equipment and technology to ensure an optimal balance of temperature, humidity and air freshness, creating the perfect comfort zone. These systems are at the forefront of energy efficiency directives, with the use of inverter technology incorporated throughout their product range, thus greatly reducing energy input and related costs. Daikin inverter driven air-conditioning system are up to 30% more energy efficient. 30 africandesignmagazine.com The anchor tenant, iiNet have incorporated Daikin’s I-Manager to maximise and optimise their Daikin systems as a total solution for their space, allowing total climate control, further reduced costs and a reduced environmental impact. Airfreeze (Pty) Ltd.’s, ability to overcome co-ordination challenges in accommodating new architectural changes within a tight construction program, as well as a quick turnaround, contributing in these facilities opening on time, is what awarded Airfreeze (Pty) Ltd. the Rex Trueform Project.