GIFP office development extension on Plot 132
GIFP is situated under Kgale Hill and adjacent to Game City Shopping Complex, with direct links to the CBD via Western bypass. This creates an attractive commercial orientation and a visually appealing setting under Kgale Hill and views over Gaborone Dam. The first phase of GIFP is nearing completion with the second land phase fully sold out ensuring that the momentum of development is maintained. To add to this the current expansion of Game City Centre and the adjacent Commerce Park, will see the area consolidate its position as a major commercial hub.
Plot 132 is located in the first phase of GIFP, directly below Kgale Hill and is part of the Southern Park development plan. This has seen a number of developments completed in an office park theme of similar architectural style to consolidate an impact. Plot 132 is part of this group using pitched roof and brickwork facades below the attractive nature reserve Kopie.
The development is of two buildings approximately 2,500m each over full basement parking and on four floors. The offices are planned to allow maximum flexibility for either open plan or separate offices around a central core. High quality finishes are also employed and in particular stone cladding to the external facades. This cladding will offer maintenance free finish and blend attractively with the natural stone of Kgale Hill as if the buildings were carved out of the hill itself.
Gaborone has expanded its commercial centers significantly over the past decade, with its Central Business District (CBD) becoming a natural extension to the original center. Beyond the CBD are Gaborone International Finance Park (GIFP) to the South West and Fairgrounds to the East. These areas are now the principal focus of commercial expansion and have seen dramatic increase in development.
The eco or green movement is steadily gaining momentum as an awareness of energy consumption impacts in the design of buildings. Plot 132 incorporates a number of principals which greatly assist in reduction of buildings energy consumption.
Energy Consumption
There are no large curtain wall glazed facades that allow heat buildup within the buildings and the stone cladding offers a further control in reducing the passage of heat. In addition the buildings orientation and roof overhangs increase shadow and consequently reduce heat gain. The air conditioning system also employs the latest efficiency in both energy consumption and planning within the building. All materials used in the construction are also from local or regional sources which assist in reducing the carbon foot print.
The contractors, Stefanutti Stocks, have “fast tracked” the project in order to meet a tight development schedule. This involved two teams, one on each of the buildings and a race against time to see who would complete first.
As commercial expansion reaches the limits of zoned development, significant pressure is occurring on the local infrastructure. This is particularly true for parking provisions and road access. Plot 132 development includes full basement parking for 113 spaces above and below ground to ensure adequate facilities. The two buildings have separate access and parking but could be combined if necessary.
The development is due for completion by December 2009 and will offer independent access and services to both buildings. This project will conclude the first phase of GIFP development beneath Kgale Hill, providing a dramatic backdrop and state of the art facilities.
Materials and Finishes
Construction involves a reinforced concrete frame structure and In situ-rib flooring system to speed up the method of building. The facades will be clad using local polished stone on a metal hanging system, with carrara granostone above. Glazing and windows contain free powder coated aluminium and solar control glass to reduce glare and heat buildup. Concrete tiling is used on a pitched roof which provides an insulated barrier above the top floor and ensures a watertight roof even in heavy rain conditions.
*NB: All information was provided by REKISA AGENCIES
PROJECT TEAM
Consultants
Project Architect : B&M Architects (Pty) Ltd
Civil and Structural Engineer : Kukhama Consultants
Electrical and Mechanical Engineer : A. R. Edwards
Quantity Surveyors : Akanyang Skinner
Contractor
Stefanutti Stocks Botswana (Pty) Ltd
