A cutting-edge facility for a sustainable technology group

RUBICON

Richmond Park in Milnerton, Cape Town, is the new consolidated, custom designed headquarters of the sustainable technology company Rubicon.

The new facility spans 9,300m² and combines Rubicon’s operations, which were previously spread across six different sites in Cape Town. The facility has been specifically designed to meet Rubicon’s needs and includes a 7,532m² warehouse and 1,780m² office space. Additionally, there is a 521m² showroom with an option to expand by an additional 1,200m².

The overarching goal was to integrate modern architecture and sustainable building principles, to create a structure that significantly reduces environmental impact while upholding style and functionality. The building has achieved approximately 60% of energy-saving, which not only breaks new ground but also qualifies it for a world leadership EDGE Advanced certification – Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiency – with the GBCSA.

The energy-saving features include a two-part PV system with battery back-up, consisting of rooftop solar panels and solar car ports, a high-efficiency H-VAC system, and low-wattage LED lights. A significant portion of the total roof area has been designed as a rainwater catchment area, contributing to a 20% water saving. This is further enhanced by the use of low-flush toilets and flow rate restrictors for some taps. The third component of the certification consists of a 30% saving achieved in the material category, taking sustainable building principles to the next level.

RLB provided cost management and quantity surveying services on this sustainable and innovative project.