Construction World May 2018

• North East Parkade is also SA’s largest precast concrete structure to date. • The project has broken the mould for the design and

construction of parking structures. • Faster. Less disruption. Propless.

“With the advances in construction technology and techniques available today, precast structures of this type will become indis- tinguishable from those constructed using non-precast methods. Designers are no longer obliged to work within tight constraints. Due to the availability of an increasing number of precast elements they are now able to incorporate increasing variety and design complexity in their buildings. “North East parkade is a functional and aesthetically pleasing end product which will surely be classified as one of South Africa’s ground-breaking structural applications. “The true value of this flagship project is yet to be fully realised and it should promote greater liaison between the precast producer and the design team. However, it already represents a significant shift towards prefabricated construction methodology and is encour- aging construction professionals to take a fresh look at the benefits of precast. “Educating the current and upcoming generation of young profes- sionals in the correct use and appreciation of precast construction is one of our primary objectives as professionals and North East Parkade will provide a valuable reference point for South African professionals and educators who are involved and/or considering similar projects. “Moreover, continuous investment and innovation by the South African precast concrete industry will pave the way for ever more complex layouts and external treatments,” concluded Petrov. 

The completed third floor showing the columns, beams and fourth floor slabs.

LEFT AND BELOW: Sections of the parkade under construction.

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD MAY 2018