Civil Engineering November 2022 | Vol 30 No 10

Civil Engineering November 2022 17 CAD. However, due to the geometric complexities of the new building, 3D modelling and collaboration was vital for the success of the project. The building is defined by its curvy geometry with all the floor plates differing from each other. Together with the architects, Zutari drove the BIM collaboration on the project, ensuring all the services are coordinated on one federated model. The benefits of modelling in 3D were trans- ferred to the contractor, who initially struggled to visualise the complex slab geometry. Zutari assisted the contractor with installing Navisworks Freedom and showed them the basics required to op- erate the 3D model. This, together with the colour coding of the beams, made it easier for the contractor to design the formwork for the slabs and beams. USER-FRIENDLY INTERIOR AND OPTIMAL BUILDING PERFORMANCE Enhanced indoor environment quality was achieved by means of increased ventilation rates, glare-control elements, optimised external views and connection to nature, thermally-comfortable spaces, combined with the use of occupant- friendly materials and finishes. Dedicated exhaust risers within the tenancies ensure that air pollutants – for ex- ample from printing machines – are exhausted outwards. The building’s optimal energy performance is a result of rigorous com- missioning of all services, use of energy efficient air-conditioning and lighting systems as well as the implementation of a comprehensive energy metering strategy. Where individually-enclosed spaces are unoccupied for a period of time, the BMS automatically switches off electricity- consuming services. Other sustainability features include endemic landscaping, water-efficient fittings, and a comprehensive water metering system. OPTIMUM REUSE OF EXISTING CAMPUS FACILITIES The location of the building provided the opportunity to ensure that the existing Merchant Place Campus was utilised to its maximum efficiency by drawing in non-core functions and consolidating them in one space as centralised existing services and facilities. Examples are a standby generator farm, back-up chiller capacity and the wider-campus BMS, as well as parking spaces, which would have had to be sourced independently for a conventional building. These measures make the project unique from a reuse of equipment and facilities perspective, and certainly contribute to the improved overall environmental performance of the building. AN EXEMPLAR OF HUMAN‑CENTRIC DESIGN The environmentally sustainable design credentials of the building, as well as the implemented occupant health and well-being features, are testament to the commitment of Rand Merchant Bank and its parent company FirstRand Limited to a better world and a better future for all.