On the back of the success of Waverley Office Park’s first phase – which was leased to auditing firm Sekela Xabiso and engineering firm Jacobs Matasis – Barrow Properties has now broken ground on the second phase of the project. Construction of the two new buildings which comprise Waverley Office Park Phase II – measuring 3 351m² and 2 123m² respectively, to create a total rentable area of 5 742m² – is expected to be complete in June 2016.
Says Paul Barrow, MD at Barrow Properties, “There are a number of features which will appeal to corporate tenants. Chief amongst these is the site’s visibility: located at the intersection of Corlett Drive and the M1 off-ramp – tenants are assured outstanding exposure from the M1 highway, one of the busiest motorways in South Africa’s business capital.”
This ideal location further grants proximity to the city’s major business hubs: the office park is close to the Sandton, Rosebank and Johannesburg CBDs and is just minutes away from key amenities like Melrose Arch, schools and other shopping centres.
The building’s striking appearance is certain to attract attention. According to Ivan Schlapobersky of M-Architects, the extensive use of glass and architectural accent in bold colour has contributed to a modern look. These aesthetics are complemented by features designed to ensure the building is a pleasant, functional and conducive working environment. The buildings are ideally suited to companies looking to occupy their own building along with having exceptional highway exposure and quick access to the M1.
Careful thought has been given to addressing common employee concerns: for example, with 284 parking bays contained in a parking basement, staff members are assured of ample parking. Their security is also taken care of with manned access control and the premises’ perimeter bound by electric fencing. The office park also provides accommodation for a live-in caretaker – providing further peace of mind to tenants.
A number of entertainment facilities have been incorporated: covered and open roof terraces, where product launches and client events can be hosted or where Friday afternoon gatherings may be enjoyed against the dramatic backdrop of the Sandton skyline. There are also a number of outdoor balconies located on the upper floors and ground floor terraces below. Landscaped gardens, featuring indigenous plants, surround the buildings.
Utilities supply has been designed with an eye to both reducing tenants’ carbon footprint and mitigating against the effects of load shedding. Special highlights include full back up power via diesel generators to the park and backup water tanks located on the roof, energy efficient lighting, and architecture which optimises natural light in all offices. Throughout the building, 6mm low E glass has been used in order reduce the effects of heat and noise, while double glazing on all west-facing windows provides further protection against the sun. The building is able to make use of either split or VRFV air conditioning. Basement storerooms provide additional storage space for tenants allowing for efficient space utilisation of office floor areas.
“Waverley Office Park provides the perfect blend of amenities to cater to employer requirements and employee comfort,” Barrow concludes.