African Design Magazine ADM #38 March 2018 | Page 3

CREDITS EDITOR’S NOTE PUBLISHED BY African Design Magazine (Pty) Ltd EDITORIAL | Allyson Koekhoven [phone] [email protected] SALES | Brenda Visser [phone] | [phone] [email protected] DESIGN | Gerda Cotty [phone] [email protected] SOCIAL MEDIA | Riandi Appelgryn [phone] [email protected] PUBLISHER | Cecile Nel [phone] [email protected] Disclaimer: While precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of African Design Magazine’s contents and information, neither the editor, publisher, nor its contributors/agents can accept responsibility for supplied copy that is not factually correct or for personal opinions supplied in the copy, or for any damages, injury or legal claims which may arise therefrom. All rights reserved. © African Design Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, photocopying, electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owners The first quarter of 2018 is almost behind us and many people will be heading off for a few days’ holiday. It is easy to get bogged down in negative news, but there are some positive reminders that the economy is improving in certain sectors. Take for example the findings of the Afrimat Construction Index (ACI). Compiled by renowned economist Dr Roelof Botha on behalf of Afrimat, this composite index of the level of activity within the building and construction sectors, shows a steady growth in construction and building. “The construction sector at large continues to outperform the economy as a whole by a considerable margin, with the ACI having expanded by 25.4% since the third quarter of 2010 (the base period). This is substantially higher than the rate of growth of 15.8% for the economy over this period (in real terms).” On that very upbeat note, we would like to highlight our cover feature, which showcases the ambitious Knightsbridge Manor revitalisation project, increasing the GLA from approximately 10 000 m² to approximately 30 000 m² over seven buildings. We also take a look at the very unusual Genome Centre project in Nigeria. Currently in the construction phases, the building features rammed earth walls and a number of clever architectural features that both allow it to blend in with the environment as well as capitalise on reducing its carbon footprint. Over to the chillier shores of the United Kingdom, where the Boathouse 4 project looks at redefining a building that was otherwise destined for demolition old into an attractive and functional multi-purpose space. Finally, find out how Activate Architects have used their philosophy of providing high-performance architecture to survive and thrive over the past two decades. Allyson Koekhoven FOLLOW US MEDIA PARTNERS