Construction World November 2018

URBAN DESIGN INSPIRED BY ITS ENVIRONMENT Kyalami Corner’s appointed architects envisioned an elegant and energy efficient shopping centre where sustainable design would complement the natural, equestrian setting.

Project team Architects: Stauch Vorster Architects International Rhino Wood installer: Inovar Floor®, Sandton

phase modification. It’s a process that permanently changes the properties of the raw pine to create a stable, durable and long-lasting building material. After the thermal heat and steam modification process, the timber is pressure impregnated with a natural wax compound that plugs the naturally occurring voids in the cells to increase stability and durability. • The timber that stands the test of time Rhino Wood has been tested for a number of performance characteristics both locally and abroad. The tests conducted are available on the Rhino Wood website. • What is laminated timber? Laminating timber is the process of joining up multiple smaller sections to make one large piece/element. The benefit of lamination is that the resulting product has even greater levels of stability and rigidity while also being able to maintain its integrity under it’s own weight. • Applications Indoor and outdoor, Decking, Cladding, Pergolas, walk and stairways and larger timber constructions where laminated beams are required. • Characteristics Dimensionally stable, Chemical Free, Durable, Resilient, Low maintenance, Fungal and rot resistant, Wood borer and termite resistant, Multi-functional. 

E fficiency and sustainability were non- negotiable criteria from the start and when it came to specifying timber, the architects, who have used eco-friendly, sustainable Rhino Wood extremely successfully in other large projects, did not hesitate. High performance Rhino Wood is one of the ‘new’ naturally modified timbers created using innovative, cutting-edge timber technology. The major advantage of a modified timber is that the modification process is completely natural and chemical free and the results remarkable. Created from carbon-negative raw SA plantation pine, modified Rhino Wood has enhanced qualities that match, and sometimes even exceed, the much sought after properties of endangered hardwoods like Balau, Mahogany and Teak, making it a perfect choice for large scale construction; with the added warmth and elegance only timber can offer. The proposed design for Kyalami Corner turned out to be the perfect canvas against which to showcase the various Rhino Wood applications. The timber dominates throughout the mall illustrating architectural flair, integrating urban space with nature, softening features and adding texture and colour. Rhino Wood cladding on the impressive mall towers and the use of expansive pergolas over open spaces are two other

impressive applications. In addition, there are planter boxes in various sizes, screens, slats and ceiling detail emphasising the sustainable architectural theme throughout. Solid timber was used for the cladding of the ‘V’ Columns, towers and planters whilst laminated Rhino Wood was used for the pergolas above the exterior walkways and the ‘V’ columns framing the entrances. Two large screens were installed with the timber in horizontal orientation. Unique and highly effective to the installation of screens that size is the exposure of the thinner 20mm edge of the Rhino Wood boards rather than the board face. The biggest challenge of this project overall, was that most specifications were for sizes broader and longer than those typically available. It required that Rhino Wood custom-make the specific dimensions, a bespoke service that the company offers. A seamless architectural profile can also be delivered thanks to the secret fix profile that conceals nails and screws giving Rhino Wood a flawless appearance. What’s more, this new age timber is practically maintenance-free (left to nature it gradually weathers into a beautiful grey patina) The Rhino Wood difference Amongst modified timbers, Rhino Wood stands apart because of its unique, patented and completely natural two-

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD NOVEMBER 2018