N O   1   S I L O

Allan Gray Headquarters, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

2013

Silo 1, together with its neighbour Silo 2 (7 floor residential and ground floor retail) define the northern edge of the new Silo Precinct and are the first phase of the new Precinct at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa.  They are informed by an urban design concept which gives significance to the existing, historical 1920s Grain Silo (home of the Zeitz MOCAA gallery) positioned at the heart of the Precinct.

The building’s conceptual foundation and façade resolution were informed by the integrity of the industrial and historical V&A Waterfront buildings, whose character was functionally efficient and honest, giving priority to practicality over image. The new building reflects these principles to achieve authenticity and contextual sensitivity.

The main entrance to No 1is aligned with the historical grain conveyor belt axis, which linked the Silo to the quayside.  This axis leads into the atrium, a key space in the building. This atrium includes the primary circulation elements, maximises internal transparency and facilitates communication within the building. The main office spaces are arranged across five levels around it, looking both into the atrium and out towards the harbour. Meeting rooms, some of which project as pods into the atrium space, are easily accessible throughout.

Sustainable design was implemented without compromising on functionality, aesthetics or occupants’ comfort, and the building achieved the second Office 6-star as-built rating from the Green Building Council of South Africa. Key sustainability features of the building include the triple glazed skin façade with automatically controlled blinds between the skins. This reduces heat gain and glare whilst providing occupants with light, comfort and views. This, along with a sophisticated sea-water cooling system and ‘displacement’ ventilation, substantially reduces the energy demand of the building.

Project in association with Rick Brown + Associates.

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