Balwin Properties has achieved its tenth 6-Star Green Star Design Rating for a lifestyle centre with its Thaba Eco-Village Lifestyle Centre and Montessori School in Gauteng. The accolade includes a Net Zero Carbon Level 1 design rating by the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA).
Balwin’s green building strategy for the 1 928m2 Thaba Eco-Lifestyle Centre, which features wellness and recreational spaces, and the 660m2 Montessori School, emphasises specific areas including management, indoor environment quality, energy efficiency, transport, water conservation, materials, land use and ecology, emissions reduction, and innovative practices.
The project utilised eco-friendly, locally sourced and recyclable materials to reduce carbon emissions and to enhance building durability with a green roof over a portion of the Montessori school providing natural insulation and mitigating urban heat.
Windows were strategically placed to maximise views and natural ventilation while minimising reliance on HVAC systems while energy-efficient LED lighting with smart controls reducing electricity usage.
Water conservation measures include low flow fittings, rainwater harvesting and dual flush toilets which are flushed with either rainwater or treated water from a future wastewater treatment plant.
A solar PV system with a capacity of 66.2kWp generates an annual production of 111 MWh.
The architectural approach also aims to connect occupants with nature via indigenous xeriscape plants to minimise irrigation and complemented by green spaces with active facilities including a gym, six padel courts, skateboard parks, half basketball court, mini soccer fields, a kiddies play area, bike and hiking trails, and a Thaba Paws dog park.
The latest achievement joins Balwin’s portfolio of 6-Star Green Star Design Rated Lifestyle Centre properties at developments Greenlee, Greenbay, Greencreek, Greenpark, The Reid, Fynbos, The Huntsman, Ballito Hills, and De Zicht, as well as the Balwin Properties head office.
