Leading Architecture + Design

Construction

03 Oct 2025

Invisible security – Redefining safety in South Africa's luxury lodges

In South Africa’s luxury lodge sector, guest expectations are as high as the nightly rates, often exceeding R10 000 per guest. Travellers yearn for uninterrupted views and natural immersion but without compromising on safety. The biggest design challenge for these lodges is finding the perfect balance between visibility and security. A new approach to lodge...
03 Oct 2025

AXOR ShowerSphere: More comfort, less water

Discover the future of luxurious and efficient showering experiences with AXOR ShowerSphere – a standout in bathroom innovation by Antonio Citterio. Designed with an elliptical, monolithic elegance and infused with sustainable technology, the AXOR ShowerSphere blends beauty, functionality and water conservation seamlessly. The ‘family feeling’ core of the AXOR ShowerSphere range ensures compatibility between this...
03 Oct 2025

Zinc protects steel in South African construction

The building and construction industry forms the backbone of engineering growth in South Africa and across Africa. It supports crucial infrastructure like rail networks and underpins vital economic activity, including mining. However, beneath this robust foundation lies a persistent, silent enemy: corrosion. Often unnoticed until damage worsens, corrosion severely impacts steel structures. This silent destroyer...
12 Sep 2025

Protecting wood for the future: A guide to pressure treatment preservatives

In South Africa’s variable climate, safeguarding wooden structures from decay, rot, and pests is key to durability and safety. Explore the latest wood treatments that help you choose the right pressure treatment preservatives for your timber needs. Wood preservatives fall into three key categories tailored to specific applications: Water-borne preservativesCommon treatments include Copper Chrome Arsenate...
29 Aug 2025

Migration to SANS 53501-1: Key Updates to SANS 10400-T:2024 Ed 5 Fire Protection Standards

In January this year South Africa introduced the new SANS 53501-1: Reaction to Fire Classification of Thermal Insulation Products, replacing SANS 428: Fire Performance Classification of Thermal Insulated Building Envelope Systems. This update forms a significant part of SANS 10400-T:2024 Edition 5, which governs fire protection in buildings. Here’s what this change means for the construction and building...
29 Aug 2025

Prince Buthelezi Mall: Transforming Empangeni's retail landscape

Construction on the highly anticipated Prince Buthelezi Mall in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, is officially underway. Designed by MDS Architecture, this innovative project is transforming a former sugar cane field into a modern and convenient retail destination for the local community. A joint venture by Moolman Group, Twin City and Melta Capital, with Moolman Group leading the...
31 Jul 2025

Innovative waterproofing solutions for high-end roofing

When designing high-end homes, architects and developers need solutions that not only enhance aesthetics but also ensure long-term durability and protection. In Gauteng’s prestigious Eye of Africa Estate, Sikalastic®-560 and Sika® Reemat Premium were used at a luxury home that required a waterproofing system able to handle the demands of a complex roof design while...
17 Jul 2025

A contemporary tribute to travel: ‘The Louis’ in Shanghai

Louis Vuitton has unveiled a remarkable new architectural and cultural space in Shanghai, redefining the boundaries of retail and cultural dialogue. Named ‘The Louis’, this striking maritime-inspired structure blends retail, dining, and an immersive exhibition: Louis Vuitton Visionary Journeys. Honouring Louis Vuitton’s legacy of travel As a brilliant homage to Louis Vuitton’s 19th-century roots in crafting...
01 Jul 2025

Green Building Certification: Certified Buildings Deliver Higher Returns - GBCSA

According to the MSCI Index, green-certified office buildings consistently outperform their non-certified counterparts across key financial metrics. Findings show that certified offices achieve a 1.5% higher annual return, 30% higher net operating income per square metre, and stronger tenant retention and rental stability over time.
01 Jul 2025

The importance of developing women leaders in construction – a cidb perspective

We have seen the value of collaborative initiatives, such as our Empowerment and Recognition of Women in Construction Awards, that bring together women from all grades and different sectors in the industry.