Project Features

Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) was appointed by Tswalu Private Game Reserve, along with a fantastic professional team, for the construction of their new luxury tented safari camp, Loapi in South Africa’s Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, a privately owned game reserve in the Northern Cape.

Project Team
The Oppenheimer family for their investment and belief in Tswalu
Peta Bank of Designbank, overall project manager and Tswalu client representative
Gapp Architects and urban designers
Kobus Duvenhage Builders
Gregory Mellor Design, interior designers
RLB Quantity Surveyors
DEVS SiVEST, engineers (structural, mechanical and HVAC)
QDP, electrical engineers
Dawid Klopper, landscaping
The Tswalu team for their passion and commitment in turning Loapi into a reality
Photography by Andrew Morgan

Having worked on a previous project at Tswalu, RLB was well-versed in the complexities and challenges of working in this remote and environmentally sensitive location. Confident that we could once again provide reliable, full quantity surveying services to our client, thereby enabling them to bring imagination to life and establish a world-class luxury lodge.

A sense of solitude and seclusion

Designed to exacting environmental standards by Cape Town architectural firm GAPP Architects, Loapi offers a true wilderness experience in the largest privately protected area in South Africa. The camp is unique in that guests don’t share any communal spaces. Instead, there are six private tented safari homes, (four onebedroom homes, and two two-bedroom homes), which span over 300m2 and over 400m2, respectively. These micro-camps are at least 50 metres apart, providing a sense of solitude and seclusion.

Expertly crafted from glass, steel, and timber, the modular, contemporary pavilions offer guests panoramic views of the Kalahari’s arid savannah. Situated away from the main living and dining areas, the bedrooms are cocoonlike sanctuaries capped with canvas, providing an unmistakable luxury safari ambiance. This design connects guests with the sights and sounds of nature, offering a genuine wilderness experience while ensuring exceptional comfort and insulation from the Kalahari’s extreme temperatures.

Deep, shaded decks, plunge pools, and fire pits provide opportunities for relaxation and reflection, all while adhering to a philosophy of minimal disruption to the environment. The expansive overhangs from the sophisticated tented design, offer more than just shade from the Kalahari sun; they also play a pivotal role in lowering energy consumption.

Ecological impact kept to a minimum

Through the use of solar power and advanced water recycling technology, the camp operates with exceptional efficiency while keeping its ecological impact to a minimum. Energy-efficient air conditioning and solar-powered pool pumps further contribute to its sustainable practices, setting a noteworthy example of green construction that is both inspiring and achievable.

The modular design, combining canvas, steel and glass, was largely manufactured off site to minimize the environmental impact and protect the iconic shepherd’s trees.

“The main design intent was that, should it ever be required, it would be possible to take the built structure apart and cart it away, leaving the environment exactly as it was found,” said Sally Tsiliyiannis, of GAPP Architects.

The camp’s dedication to sustainability aligns with Tswalu’s mission to safeguard biodiversity and wildlife habitat while showcasing the region’s natural beauty. As sustainability becomes a bigger focus in the construction industry, RLB was the perfect partner for this project. As a global business, we are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 and to partnering on projects that contribute to environmental and social value.

With global knowledge and expertise, we aim to lead the way in providing a sustainable, competitive advantage to our clients, and are committed to delivering high quality outcomes through advice focused on the cost, quality and sustainability of the built environment.

RLB is a global independent construction, property and management consultancy with registered offices in South Africa, Kenya, DRC and Botswana, and formalised partnerships in Namibia, Angola and Nigeria. Furthermore, RLB is active in at least 15 countries in Africa, and in South Africa is a proud Level 1 B-BBEE contributor.

Nestled in one of the most coveted areas of Cape Town, this hotel’s strategic location was a beacon of promise.

Overlooking the City Bowl, the site presented an opportunity for a landmark transformation. Converting a commercial structure into a hospitality haven required not only vision but also the right construction solutions. Saint-Gobain’s lightweight drywall solutions emerged as the beacon that guided this project to its successful completion.

One of the standout advantages of this transformation was the exceptional views it offered to guests. The City Bowl sprawled below, revealing Cape Town’s charm in all its glory. Saint-Gobain’s drywall systems ensured that guests could savour these panoramic views in a setting designed for comfort, safety, and luxury.

Project challenges

The challenges encountered during this transformation were formidable, but the project team was determined to overcome them.

Foundation cost savings

One of the initial hurdles was the need for durable and lightweight construction materials to save on foundation slab reinforcement costs. Traditional construction materials can be weighty, necessitating robust foundations.

In contrast, Saint-Gobain’s drywall and ceiling system solutions offered a path to overcome this challenge. The decision to use these lightweight solutions not only alleviated the burden on the foundation but also streamlined the entire construction process.

Moisture resistance

Hotels, by nature, incorporate wet areas such as bathrooms. These spaces demanded construction materials with inherent moisture resistance, especially in Cape Town’s humid climate.

Here, Saint-Gobain’s drywall solutions proved indispensable, offering the requisite moisture resistance that ensured the long-term structural integrity and aesthetics of the hotel’s interiors.

Fire safety compliance

Safety is paramount in the hospitality industry. The South African National Standard (SANS) 10400-Part T Fire Legislation mandates a 1-hour fire rating between rooms for guest safety. Meeting this stringent requirement demanded non-combustible materials.

Saint-Gobain’s Gyproc and Isover systems were not only non-combustible but had been rigorously tested and approved to meet SANS 10177-Part 5 standards, ensuring the highest level of safety for guests and the hotel’s management.

Project Info
Building size: 540 rooms, 29 storeys
Developer: Zenprop & Richland Properties
Architect: Noero Architects (initial design), Vivid Architects (implementation)
Main contractor: WBHO
Drywall contractor: Dracon, Ceilwall & Scheltema, Esomoene Ceilings & Partitions
Quantity Surveyor: MLC Quantity Surveyors
Project manager: Planning Connection Project Management cc

Project solutions

Saint-Gobain’s drywall solutions were critical for the project’s success. Here’s a closer look at the key solutions and products that played a pivotal role:

Acoustic Comfort Ceilings and Walls: In the vibrant heart of Cape Town, minimizing unwanted external and inter-room sounds was paramount for guest comfort. Saint-Gobain’s drywall systems featured acoustic comfort ceilings and walls, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere within the hotel.

Thermal Comfort Ceilings and Walls: Maintaining an energy-efficient indoor temperature was essential for guest comfort and operational efficiency. Saint-Gobain’s thermal comfort ceilings and walls facilitated precise temperature control, enhancing the comfort of the hotel’s guests while optimizing energy consumption.

Lightweight solutions: The project team recognized the importance of minimizing waste management and foundation costs for the building. Saint-Gobain’s drywall solutions proved to be not only lightweight but also highly efficient, resulting in considerable cost savings and a more expedited construction process.

Dry Build solutions: Cape Town’s water resources are precious, and every effort to conserve water is crucial. By employing dry build solutions, Saint-Gobain’s approach not only minimized water consumption during construction but also aligned with sustainable practices and local resource management initiatives.

Products used

The walls were constructed using RhinoBoard® FireStop® dB plasterboard and RhinoBoard® MoistureResistant plasterboard, supported by a Gypframe® UltraSTEEL® stud and track system. This combination not only met fire safety and moisture resistance requirements but also contributed to the hotel’s overall aesthetic appeal.

The drywall system received its finishing touch with the application of the luxurious RhinoLite® CreteStone® skimmed plaster finish. This resulted in smooth and visually appealing walls that enhanced the ambiance of the hotel.

To provide guests with a comfortable and quiet stay, Cavitybatt™ glasswool acoustic and thermal insulation was installed within the drywall system. This insulation not only helped regulate temperature but also added an extra layer of acoustic protection, ensuring that guests enjoyed a peaceful environment.

Role of construction materials and solutions cannot be overstated

In the realm of hospitality, where every guest’s experience is paramount, the role of construction materials and solutions cannot be overstated. Saint-Gobain takes immense pride in its contribution towards realizing the grand vision of Hotel Sky, where the goal is to ensure that every guest and visitor embarks on an unforgettable and extraordinary journey.

One of the cornerstones of this transformation was the satisfaction of the implementation architects. Saint-Gobain’s commitment to excellence in system and service delivery on-site left the architects highly impressed. This level of satisfaction speaks volumes about the effectiveness and reliability of Saint-Gobain’s solutions in translating architectural visions into reality.

Furthermore, the project embraced the principles of Lightweight and Sustainable Construction, aligning with the growing emphasis on eco-conscious building practices. Saint-Gobain’s dedication to sustainability dovetailed seamlessly with the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Critical aspects

In its quest to enhance the experience of guests and employees at Hotel Sky, Saint-Gobain addressed several critical aspects:

Acoustic efficiency: Saint-Gobain’s expertise in creating optimal acoustic environments was brought to bear through a best-practice dry walling system. With a global reputation for delivering solutions that align perfectly with architects’ specifications, Saint-Gobain ensured that every space within the hotel resonates with tranquillity and comfort.

Visual appeal: Recognizing the role of aesthetics in captivating guests, Saint-Gobain’s contribution to the hotel’s mission of providing beautiful decor and ultimate guest comfort was invaluable. The Gyproc Gyptone™ BIG Line 6 ceiling system, specified for the foyer area, welcomes guests with an element of visual splendour, setting the tone for an enchanting stay.

Climate control & environment: Hotel Sky’s commitment to providing impeccable indoor air quality was supported by Saint-Gobain’s choice of moisture performance boards for ceilings and bathroom walls. These boards not only ensure a mould-free environment but also contribute to a climate-controlled ambiance, where guests can breathe easy.

Safety: Last but certainly not least, Saint-Gobain’s solutions met and exceeded the stringent fire legislation requirements, underscoring the commitment to guest safety. In a world where safety is paramount, this achievement provides guests with peace of mind, knowing that their well-being is a top priority.

Elevating the guest experience to unparalleled heights

Saint-Gobain’s collaboration with Hotel Sky has been instrumental in elevating the guest experience to unparalleled heights. By addressing critical aspects such as acoustics, aesthetics, environmental responsibility, and safety, Saint-Gobain has not only met but exceeded the expectations of this visionary project.

Hotel Sky stands as a testament to the synergy between innovative construction solutions and the pursuit of extraordinary guest experiences, and Saint-Gobain takes pride in having played a vital role in this inspiring journey.

As Cape Town continues to evolve as a vibrant destination for both business and leisure travellers, this project stands as a testament to how innovative construction materials can breathe new life into existing spaces, creating modern, functional, and inviting environments.

Saint-Gobain’s unwavering commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions in the construction industry has left an indelible mark on Cape Town’s skyline, ensuring that guests who visit the hotel in the City Bowl experience nothing less than excellence in every aspect of their stay.

Akani Properties is not just another property development and management company, its unique focus on the peri-urban towns of South Africa makes a compelling investment proposition to long-term investors and retailers alike, particularly in an economy that is struggling to grow and create jobs.

Akani Properties, founded in 2005, is a 100% black-owned property investment, development, and management company with more than R4 billion in total assets under management.

The company specialises in investing, developing, and managing commercial, retail, and hospitality properties with a strong focus on the peri-urban towns such as Zeerust, North West; Middelburg, Mpumalanga; and others – believing strongly that small towns represent the next growth phase for the South African economy that has been struggling to grow since the 2008 financial crisis.  

Our growing portfolio comprises more than 16 properties located in Gauteng, Limpopo, Free State, North West, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, with plans to expand to other regions of South Africa and the rest of the African continent.

These properties include the luxurious Raddison Hotel and Convention Centre, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo, located in the city of Ekurhuleni, Nicolway Shopping Complex in Bryanston, Panorama Plaza in Kroonstad, Autumn Leaf Shopping Mall in Zeerust, Destiny Country Lodge in Mpumalanga, Parkview Shopping Centre in Pretoria, MEPF Shopping Centre in Klerksdorp, Bauhinia Centre in Limpopo, Akani House of Retirement Funds in Kempton Park, just to name a few.

Autumn Leaf shopping mall development

As part of its peri-urban investment strategy, Akani recently unveiled Autumn Leaf shopping mall in the Ramotshere Moiloa local municipality, in the transit town of Zeerust, North West Province.

The 18 000m² Autumn Leaf mall, which opened its doors to the shoppers on 26 October 2023, has major retail tenants such as Checkers, Mr Price, Truworths, PEP, Woolworths, Clicks and major banks such as Capitec Bank and others. The mall is within a short travelling distance for the locals who had to travel to either Rustenburg or Mafikeng to access premium brands.

This development, which includes a taxi rank and a fuel station, by Akani Properties in conjunction with the Municipal Employees Pension Fund, is a first phase of a mixed-use property development that will include a hotel and a private hospital. The objective is to transform Zeerust into a bustling transit town and economic node on the border between South Africa and Botswana – creating sustainable jobs in the process.

The mall development procured materials from local suppliers and employed local SMMEs and local labour. The total procurement spend was about R70 million on civils contractors, a local labour spends running into millions of rands and close to 500 jobs were created during the duration of the project.

Radisson Hotel and Conference Centre, Middelburg

Akani is in the process of completing construction of a R695 million hotel and conference facility in Middelburg, a growing mining and farming town in the Steve Tshwete local municipality, Mpumalanga Province. The 150-room hotel and 1 000-seater capacity conference centre will have all the facilities of a discerning business and leisure tourist attraction, expected from a modern high-end development.

Upon completion, it is estimated that a minimum of 200 full time jobs will be created with the majority of employment opportunities filled by the residents of Middelburg.

Akani’s investment strategy focusses on developing hospitality and retail property assets in the secondary and peri-urban towns by creating sustainable shareholder returns, empower local communities, and contribute to job creation.

The hotel will boast standard rooms to suites, conference facility, spa, gym facilities, fully licensed restaurant, and bar, among other features.

Radisson Hotel and International Convention Centre, OR Tambo

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Akani successfully launched a R950 million O.R. Tambo Radisson Hotel and Conference precinct in Kempton Park in October 2020, located in the City of Ekurhuleni, a significant boost to South Africa’s tourism economy.

The hotel debuted Radisson Hotel Group’s fourth brand, the upscale Radisson, in South Africa and is one of the key projects and catalysts towards the realisation of the City of Ekurhuleni’s 30-year Aerotropolis masterplan, seeking to transform the city into a global logistical hub – using the O.R. Tambo International Airport as the springboard. 

Of the total capital investment, R545 million was spent on the development of the 248-room hotel boasting state-of-the-art facilities, suited for discerning leisure, meetings, incentives, conference and exhibition as well as business guests.

The Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, O.R Tambo, is ideally located in Bredell, an area that is primed for urban renewal and just a 10-minute drive from Africa’s biggest and busiest O.R. Tambo International Airport.

Conceptualised and developed by Akani Properties, the hotel and convention centre are owned 20% and 80% by both Akani Properties and the Municipal Employees Pension Fund respectively and operated by Radisson Hotel Group, one of the world’s largest hotel groups.

It’s at this opulent hotel that you will find the state-of-the-art, world-class restaurant, Level Seven Restaurant, perched at the top of Radisson Hotel. The restaurant, which optimizes quintessential Johannesburg glamour, offers fine dining and the best high-level experience for all customers. Besides serving great food, customers are spoiled with good music and performances.

“This investment in the City of Ekurhuleni is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the future of the city as the next frontier of investment and development and our contribution to the Aerotropolis vision of the City that centres development around OR Tambo International Airport,” said Zamani Letjane, Chairman of Akani Properties.

“As investors, we invest for the long term and greater good of society while generating sustainable returns for our clients.”

Nicolway Shopping Mall, Bryanston, Johannesburg

In January 2022, Akani announced the R1.1 billion acquisition of the Nicolway Shopping Centre in Bryanston, a leading shopping centre in the north of Johannesburg, on behalf of its client, the Municipal Employees Pension Fund (MEPF).

The transaction includes the acquisition of all properties in the Nicolway Precinct: the Nicolway Bryanston Shopping Centre, Decathlon retail component as well as the office building known as Nicolway West offices. The acquisition includes all rights in the leases of all properties and all other assets necessary for the carrying out of the business enterprise. 

“The acquisition of Nicolway demonstrates our optimistic view on the recovery of the SA economy from the effects of the Covid pandemic. We are also seeing a shift from large shopping malls to small convenient shopping centres – a growing trend that presents growth opportunities for our property portfolio,” said Letjane.

“The Nicolway acquisition will greatly improve our client’s balance sheet and income stream as the transaction is underpinned by quality tenants with long-dated leases,” he added.

The centre is 75% anchored by national tenants such as Woolworths, Food Lovers Market, Dischem, Checkers, and more.

The Decathlon Sport Hub concept, a partnership between South African wellness brands and sporting goods designer, Decathlon, brings fitness and wellness enthusiasts under one roof, is one of the only concept stores in SA located in a three-story building at the Nicol Way Shopping Centre.

The shopping centre is well located in terms of access and visibility on the Winnie Mandela Road in the heart of Bryanston and it’s strategically located in a high LSM area surrounded by the Bryanston commercial node. The office node is showing strong growth and is likely to expand over the next 10 years. Large volumes of traffic use the Winnie Mandela off-ramp from the N1 as their access into and out of Sandton, Africa’s largest financial services hub.

Proven track record of successfully acquiring, developing, and managing properties

Akani’s expertise in property management and investment strategies has allowed them to thrive in the competitive real estate market. Additionally, their commitment to community empowerment and job creation sets them apart as a socially responsible company. The growing property portfolio extends across the entirety of South Africa, providing quality property assets to retail tenants in the country’s growing economic hubs. 

The ultimate aim is to become one of Africa’s leading commercial property company. To achieve this goal, Akani strives to continually expand their portfolio of properties and enhance their services to meet the growing demands of both local and international clients. They are committed to providing top-notch facilities and exceptional customer service, ensuring that their properties remain sought-after destinations for business and leisure travellers alike. 

With a proven track record of successfully acquiring, developing, and managing properties across various sectors, Akani Properties is dedicated to maximising returns for their investors while providing exceptional service to tenants and clients.

T          +27 (0)11 578 5333

E          info@akaniproperties.co.za

LinkedIn: Akani Properties

Facebook: Akani Properties

W         www.akaniproperties.co.za

Akani Properties is not just another property development and management company, its unique focus on the peri-urban towns of South Africa makes a compelling investment proposition to long-term investors and retailers alike, particularly in an economy that is struggling to grow and create jobs.

Akani Properties, founded in 2005, is a 100% blackowned property investment, development, and management company with more than R4 billion in total assets under management.

The company specialises in investing, developing, and managing commercial, retail, and hospitality properties with a strong focus on the peri-urban towns such as Zeerust, North West; Middelburg, Mpumalanga; and others – believing strongly that small towns represent the next growth phase for the South African economy that has been struggling to grow since the 2008 financial crisis.

Our growing portfolio comprises more than 16 properties located in Gauteng, Limpopo, Free State, North West, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, with plans to expand to other regions of South Africa and the rest of the African continent.

These properties include the luxurious Raddison Hotel and Convention Centre, Johannesburg O.R. Tambo, located in the city of Ekurhuleni, Nicolway Shopping Complex in Bryanston, Panorama Plaza in Kroonstad, Autumn Leaf Shopping Mall in Zeerust, Destiny Country Lodge in Mpumalanga, Parkview Shopping Centre in Pretoria, MEPF Shopping Centre in Klerksdorp, Bauhinia Centre in Limpopo, Akani House of Retirement Funds in Kempton Park, just to name a few.

Autumn Leaf Shopping Mall development
As part of its peri-urban investment strategy, Akani recently unveiled Autumn Leaf Shopping Mall in the Ramotshere Moiloa local municipality, in the transit town of Zeerust, North West Province.

The 18 000m2 Autumn Leaf Mall, which opened its doors to the shoppers on 26 October 2023, has major retail tenants such as Checkers, Mr Price, Truworths, PEP, Woolworths, Clicks and major banks such as Capitec Bank and others. The mall is within a short travelling distance for the locals who had to travel to either Rustenburg or Mafikeng to access premium brands.

This development, which includes a taxi rank and a fuel station, by Akani Properties in conjunction with the Municipal Employees Pension Fund, is a first phase of a mixed-use property development that will include a hotel and a private hospital. The objective is to transform Zeerust into a bustling transit town and economic node on the border between South Africa and Botswana – creating sustainable jobs in the process.

The mall development procured materials from local suppliers and employed local SMMEs and local labour. The total procurement spend was about R70 million on civils contractors, a local labour spends running into millions of rands and close to 500 jobs were created during the duration of the project.

Radisson Hotel and Conference Centre, Middelburg
Akani is in the process of completing construction of a R695 million hotel and conference facility in Middelburg, a growing mining and farming town in the Steve Tshwete local municipality, Mpumalanga Province. The 150-room hotel and 1 000-seater capacity conference centre will have all the facilities of a discerning business and leisure tourist attraction, expected from a modern high-end development.

Upon completion, it is estimated that a minimum of 200 full time jobs will be created with the majority of employment opportunities filled by the residents of Middelburg.

Akani’s investment strategy focusses on developing hospitality and retail property assets in the secondary and peri-urban towns by creating sustainable shareholder returns, empower local communities, and contribute to job creation.

The hotel will boast standard rooms to suites, conference facility, spa, gym facilities, fully licensed restaurant, and bar, among other features.

Radisson Hotel and International Convention Centre, OR Tambo
In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Akani successfully launched a R950 million O.R. Tambo Radisson Hotel and Conference precinct in Kempton Park in October 2020, located in the City of Ekurhuleni, a significant boost to South Africa’s tourism economy.

The hotel debuted Radisson Hotel Group’s fourth brand, the upscale Radisson, in South Africa and is one of the key projects and catalysts towards the realisation of the City of Ekurhuleni’s 30-year Aerotropolis masterplan, seeking to transform the city into a global logistical hub – using the O.R. Tambo International Airport as the springboard.

Of the total capital investment, R545 million was spent on the development of the 248-room hotel boasting state-of-the-art facilities, suited for discerning leisure, meetings, incentives, conference and exhibition as well as business guests.

The Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, O.R Tambo, is ideally located in Bredell, an area that is primed for urban renewal and just a 10-minute drive from Africa’s biggest and busiest O.R. Tambo International Airport.

Conceptualised and developed by Akani Properties, the hotel and convention centre are owned 20% and 80% by both Akani Properties and the Municipal Employees Pension Fund respectively and operated by Radisson Hotel Group, one of the world’s largest hotel groups.

It’s at this opulent hotel that you will find the state-of-the-art, world-class restaurant, Level Seven Restaurant, perched at the top of Radisson Hotel. The restaurant, which optimizes quintessential Johannesburg glamour, offers fine dining and the best high-level experience for all customers. Besides serving great food, customers are spoiled with good music and performances.

“This investment in the City of Ekurhuleni is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the future of the city as the next frontier of investment and development and our contribution to the Aerotropolis vision of the City that centres development around OR Tambo International Airport,” said Zamani Letjane, Chairman of Akani Properties.

“As investors, we invest for the long term and greater good of society while generating sustainable returns for our clients.”

Nicolway Shopping Mall, Bryanston, Johannesburg
In January 2022, Akani announced the R1.1 billion acquisition of the Nicolway Shopping Centre in Bryanston, a leading shopping centre in the north of Johannesburg, on behalf of its client, the Municipal Employees Pension Fund (MEPF).

The transaction includes the acquisition of all properties in the Nicolway Precinct: the Nicolway Bryanston Shopping Centre, Decathlon retail component as well as the office building known as Nicolway West offices. The acquisition includes all rights in the leases of all properties and all other assets necessary for the carrying out of the business enterprise.

“The acquisition of Nicolway demonstrates our optimistic view on the recovery of the SA economy from the effects of the Covid pandemic. We are also seeing a shift from large shopping malls to small convenient shopping centres – a growing trend that presents growth opportunities for our property portfolio,” said Letjane. “The Nicolway acquisition will greatly improve our client’s balance sheet and income stream as the transaction is underpinned by quality tenants with long dated leases,” he added.

The centre is 75% anchored by national tenants such as Woolworths, Food Lovers Market, Dischem, Checkers, and more.

The Decathlon Sport Hub concept, a partnership between South African wellness brands and sporting goods designer, Decathlon, brings fitness and wellness enthusiasts under one roof, is one of the only concept stores in SA located in a three-story building at the Nicol Way Shopping Centre.

The shopping centre is well located in terms of access and visibility on the Winnie Mandela Road in the heart of Bryanston and it’s strategically located in a high LSM area surrounded by the Bryanston commercial node. The office node is showing strong growth and is likely to expand over the next 10 years. Large volumes of traffic use the Winnie Mandela off-ramp from the N1 as their access into and out of Sandton, Africa’s largest financial services hub.

Proven track record of successfully acquiring, developing, and managing properties
Akani’s expertise in property management and investment strategies has allowed them to thrive in the competitive real estate market. Additionally, their commitment to community empowerment and job creation sets them apart as a socially responsible company. The growing property portfolio extends across the entirety of South Africa, providing quality property assets to retail tenants in the country’s growing economic hubs.

The ultimate aim is to become one of Africa’s leading commercial property company. To achieve this goal, Akani strives to continually expand their portfolio of properties and enhance their services to meet the growing demands of both local and international clients. They are committed to providing top-notch facilities and exceptional customer service, ensuring that their properties remain sought-after destinations for business and leisure travellers alike.

With a proven track record of successfully acquiring, developing, and managing properties across various sectors, Akani Properties is dedicated to maximising returns for their investors while providing exceptional service to tenants and clients.

The 2022 SAISC Steel Awards was the first in-person awards ceremony held since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. The event, which demonstrates excellence in the use of steel in construction, reaffirmed the resilience of the local steel industry sector over the past two years and celebrated the innovation, ingenuity and sense of community within the steel construction industry.

SAISC CEO Amanuel Gebremeskel commented on the number of high-quality, truly excellent projects that were showcased at this year’s annual Steel Awards. Safintra’s Saflok 700 concealed fix and Newlok standing seam profiles once again featured prominently in a number of winning projects.

‘House Benoni’ wins in two categories

Winner of two categories – Residential and Best Project Gauteng – was House Benoni, a residential home. House Benoni demonstrated innovative use of steel, combined with all the other elements of construction to deliver a statement piece of architecture and a warm, welcoming family home. Safintra’s elegant standing seam profile, Newlok, completed the high visual impact of this stunning showpiece by adding a crisp modern look and feel to this high-end residence.

The main contractor on the project, Dave Monro of Monro Roof Sheeting, commented: “A great deal of time was spent in discussion with the client regarding finishes. We set out to build an award-winning house. Newlok delivers an excellent aesthetic effect, and the wide pans allow for a very pleasing finish to the vertical and angular cladding. It is very versatile and one of the best standing seam roofing products available on the South African market.”

Freshmark: Best Project Limpopo

Winner of Best Project Limpopo, was Freshmark, a distribution centre in Polokwane. The project made use of particularly innovative cladding: atypical of a warehouse building, and technically challenging to achieve. The result was aesthetically pleasing, with a design element of curved bullnoses from roof to cladding. Safintra’s concealed fix roofing profile Saflok 700 was used for the project.

Johann Walters of Van der Linde Venter Projects, the main contractor on the project commented, “Safintra inspected the installation and the manufacturer carried out an inspection of the coating to ensure the quality was acceptable, giving the client peace of mind.”

Several finalists also used Saflok 700

Several other projects which used Saflok 700 were finalists in the Steel Awards. These included:

• ACDC Dynamics, Cape Town: A flagship warehouse, distribution centre and retail store. 
• Drakenstein Sentrum, Paarl, Cape Town: A boutique retail mall.
• Imperial Health Logistics, Gauteng: A warehouse-design facility. This project received commendations in the metal cladding and roofing category.
• Getworth, Cape Town: A vehicles signature showroom.

What is concealed fix roofing and what makes it exceptional?

Safintra’s concealed fix roof sheeting has attained its position as the preferred system for long-span or low-slope roofs due to its versatility, durability and proven functionality.

These systems are ideal for long length sheets on industrial and commercial buildings and have also become extremely popular in high-end residential applications, allowing for the construction of eye-catching roofing systems which were never previously possible with traditional pierced fixed profiles and tiles.

Well-designed concealed fix roofing and cladding solutions can handle the most robust of weather conditions with ease and offer superior performance under foot traffic and associated roofing workloads.

One of the main benefits of concealed roof sheeting is that the sheets are secured to the purlin with a clip system from underneath and are not pierced with any fasteners. The clips which are required to fix the sheets to the purlins serve two purposes:

1. They sidestep the need for holes in the sheet (which prevents the possibility of leakage through perforation).
2. When faced with changing thermal conditions the roof is allowed to expand and contract in a sliding movement over the clips which helps to prevent tearing around the fastener points.

The only solution for large-span metal roofs

In large-span metal roofing applications, concealed fix systems are the only choice. Considering the size of investment concerned in these applications, the engineering performance of the entire roofing and cladding “system” is critical.

Concealed fix systems enable professional teams to reliably serve the long-term interests of their clients and reduce liability for all concerned. Modern, large span projects dictate the innovative use of concealed fix systems. Designs are increasingly becoming more bold, daring even, and a feverish pursuit of sustainability seems to dominate the realm of architectural design. It is in exactly this nuanced space, that concealed fix systems can contribute massively towards sustainability and a solid return on the client’s investment.

Steel used is 100% recyclable

The steel used in concealed fix profiles is 100% recyclable, and modern coating technologies render the roof much cooler than what was conventionally achievable.

The latest polyester paints display unsurpassed colour stability with cutting-edge technologies being applied to ensure maximum effectiveness and reflectivity under harsh UV elements. These modern adaptations of traditional technology take a massive leap towards sustainability – without compromising economical prudence.

The secret to robust concealed fix solutions is in the clip

When it comes to concealed fix roofing, the design of the clips is of paramount importance. The clip serves as the “anchor” which secures the sheet to the sub-structure and holds it down in all weather conditions.

The material and thickness of the clip helps to determine its inherent strength, which in turn determines the minimum wind-uplift resistance requirements for a particular roof.

The overall “system” design defines the manner in which the clip locks into the sheet profile. The clip should engage every rib of the profile to prevent wind cushioning under the unsecured rib and distorting the sheet off the clip.

As a general rule, the more ribs that are secured with a positive clasp holding it to the purlin, the stronger the wind-uplift resistance. If not positively secured, the ribs should be shaped to provide a strong and stable interlock with the clip at every point. A complete system will also offer a high wind load detailing for particular terrain categories or design parameters such as wide overhangs.

Additional benefits of concealed fix roofing systems

• Aesthetically pleasing with no visible fasteners on the roof.
• Versatile application on both high pitched roof slopes and almost flat roofs.
• Watertight roofs with no exposed fixings and therefore less prone to leakage.
• No limit to the length of the roof sheet as roof sheets that exceed transportable lengths can be rolled on site to provide a fit for purpose solution.
• No end laps eliminate potential for ingress at laps along with accelerated corrosion.
• Outstanding thermal and acoustic performance.
• Can be used in conjunction with Green Roof systems.
• Increasingly secure with non-visible fixtures preventing easy removal to gain access to a building.
• Roof sheets can be disassembled and recovered for later use.
• Ideal for rainwater harvesting.

Safintra’s concealed fix roofing profiles

Safintra offers three concealed fix roofing profiles, Saflok 700, Saflok 410, and Newlok, a standing seam profile.

Saflok and Newlok are both concealed fix and secret fix profiles as the anchoring system is not visible. This allows unrestrained thermal expansion and contraction. The difference between concealed fix (Saflok) and standing seam (Newlok) is that the Newlok profile can be seamed either mechanically or by hand, giving it additional wind hold-down capability.

Saflok concealed fix roofing is the most widely specified system available. The precisely engineered clip and the dimensional consistency of the Saflok profiled sheet provide a robust and reliable roof system. Over 10-million square metres of this sheeting have been installed over the past three decades in South Africa alone – underlining Saflok’s proven track record and best-in-class credentials.

Saflok 700

Saflok 700 is the most advanced wide coverage concealed fix system on the market with a cover width of 700mm per sheet for fast, cost-effective installation. The profile’s re-engineered clips ensure superb sheet engagement at every rib, and total stability at the male-female lap while its deep pans allow for excellent water run-off, even at a 2° pitch.

The profile has achieved significant market share over the past 30 years and has a proven track record. Saflok 700 has an unapologetically rugged yet aesthetically pleasing design, and its components include detailing for both high wind loads and structurally challenging installations

Saflok 410

Saflok 410 is Safintra’s flagship product within the concealed fix market. It has an effective cover width of 410mm and is an angular interlocking trapezoidal rib profile which can be roll-formed on site.

The key to Saflok 410’s unmatched performance is the interaction between the profile’s innovative geometric design and the performance of its second-generation clip. This winning formula has proven itself in the testing grounds of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape where typically high wind loads have allowed Safintra to build up a track record for the Saflok 410 profile as truly the best in its class.

The Saflok 410 roofing system has been independently tested at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) by Dr Adam Goliger, widely regarded as the leading engineer in the field of wind upliftment and as one of the pioneers of topographical wind environmental studies. During the tests, the profile excelled in the following:

• Exceptional uplift performance and serviceability (ideally suited to push the boundaries of modern design criteria).
• Exceptional point load carrying ability (reduced damage due to foot traffic and the subsequent installation of rooftop items such as HVAC or solar panels which impose point loads).

Newlok

Newlok is a concealed fix, standing seam profile with an effective cover width of 445mm and a rib height of 50.8mm.

It is designed for use on low pitched roofs and can withstand high wind conditions in industrial, commercial and residential applications. Newlok’s unique interlocking clipping system incorporates a concealed cleat to positively hold down the male-female joint at every rib.

The two-part cleat allows for natural thermal expansion and contraction of the sheet, while the rib height delivers optimal water shedding capabilities at slopes as low as 1.5°. The profile can be roll-formed by a mobile mill on the building site, in continuous lengths.

Safintra now has mobile mills across the country

Safintra’s award-winning concealed fix profiles are the preferred choice among professionals in the South African construction industry. These profiles have proven their worth over the past decades in high wind environments, giving owners complete peace of mind that their roofing system will remain structurally sound for far longer than its competitors.

Safintra now has mobile mills across the country and roofing sheets can be ordered in any length required although on-site rolling is recommended for lengths in excess of 13.2 metres due to practical transportation requirements. Safintra’s best-in-class concealed fix profiles are backed by a full Safintra warranty and are available countrywide.

As a professional, you should demand full technical details of the system you intend to specify and request technical support throughout the installation itself. Safintra is proud to offer this service free of charge to all its customers from seven branches countrywide.

South African operations are in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Polokwane, Nelspruit, Gqeberha, Bloemfontein while further operations are in Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Angola, Uganda and others.