Occupying a landmark position on the Nelson Mandela Corridor - considered the gateway to Tshwane - The South African Department of Environmental Affairs new headquarters is an outstanding demonstration of how Government can lead by example through sustainable innovation. Awarded a six-star Green Star rating by the Green Building Council of South Africa, the building communicates an architectural language that reflects the Department’s environmental and sustainable ideologies and willingness to live up to its environmental values.

The architectural concept and form are inspired by one of nature’s underlying systems of proportions and sequences – the Golden Section Spiral.

Three distinct structures make up the building. A feminine, organic central reception building welcomes and draws visitors in. Spanning out behind sits the practical and functional masculine office wings, while a bridge or central spine not only links everything together but accommodates essential support services. Breaking away from the typical high-rise building with banks of lifts, space has been evenly distributed across three floors allowing for wide corridors and staircases, promoting interaction and engagement. Sustainable design, energy and resource efficiency are demonstrated through the extensive use of outdoor and indoor gardens including a four-storey-high vertical garden, expressive water collectors and a photovoltaic farm covering most of the roof.

Developer Aveng Grinaker LTA
Area 25000 sqm - 50000 sqm
Completed 2008
Project Manager Aveng Grinaker LTA
Quantity Surveyor Pentad Quantity Surveyors
Structural Engineer PD Naidoo & Associates
Mechanical Engineer PD Naidoo & Associates
Electrical Engineer PD Naidoo & Associates
Landscape Architects Uys & White
Space Planner Beads
2016 - AfriSam - SAIA Award Shortlist Green Building Council South Africa Green Star Ratings 2013 - GBCSA 6 Star Green Star Office V1 Design 20114 - GBCSA 6 Star Green Star Office V1 Built