The new Discovery global headquarters in Sandton Central has become the largest new build project to receive a 5 Star Green Star
rating by the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) to date. Developed in a JV by two of South Africa’s leading property companies, Growthpoint Properties Limited and Zenprop Property Holdings, the iconic new 112,000 m2 resource-efficient, cost-effective and environmentally-innovative Discovery head office is the largest single-phase commercial office development in Africa.
From its design to construction and operation, sustainable development has been a key priority for Discovery, Zenprop and Growthpoint. Growthpoint Properties Office Division Director, Rudolf Pienaar, comments: “We are thrilled with the 5 Star Green Star certification, especially considering its scale and complexity. The Discovery head office is now among the most environmentally sustainable and efficient buildings in South Africa. ”Zenprop Property Holdings CEO, James Tannenberger, says: “This is a significant milestone for Zenprop, especially considering our long history of delivering sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings since 2008 when the commercial rating tool was first launched in South Africa.”
Aurecon is responsible for overseeing the delivery of the developers’ and Discovery’s green intent for the building. Their role has been to ensure it has been designed and constructed with the highest sustainability credentials to demonstrate leadership in the transformation of the South African real estate industry.
The new building features energy optimisation through advanced design of its envelope and building services, ‘green’ lighting, ventilation and daylight optimisation. Grey and rainwater systems, efficient sanitary fittings, efficient irrigation system and water-wise landscaping contribute to the building’s optimal water performance.
Aurecon’s Martin Smith adds that the expansive ground floor of the building accommodates Discovery’s retail partners, client services, walk-in centre, staff restaurants and coffee shops, offering an energising experience to both visitors and staff alike. Located on the corner of Rivonia Road and Katherine Street, diagonally opposite Sandton City and one block from the Sandton Gautrain Station, the building comprises three linked office towers, a ground floor, eight office floors and a roof level, which holds Discovery’s sports facilities. There are nine basements with 5,000+ parking bays.
Discovery is expected to take occupation of the property, which is owned by Growthpoint (55%) and Zenprop (45%), towards the end of this year.
More information from Rudolf Pienaar, Tel: 011 944 6282 / RPienaar@growthpoint.co.za
