The design of 78 Corlett Drive, Illovo Johannesburg incorporates strong minimalist geometries, with the shading louvers acting as a dynamic facade element.
The use of dark tones creates a strong street presence, elevating the building above the parking space below.

Project Name: Corlett
Studio Name: Daffonchio and Associates Architects
Developer: Legaro Property Development
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Photography: Adam Letch
Project size: 1800 m2
Completion date: 2019
Building levels: 3

78 Corlett By Daffonchio and Associates Architects - Sheet1
Waiting Lounge ©Adam Letch

The floating effect of the building is further enhanced by the articulation of its relationship to the ground plane; only gently interfacing with the ground through a small glass box that houses the main circulation core and a concierge service.

We are very proud to have achieved a 6 Star Rating and a Net Zero Carbon accreditation on our design for 78 Corlett. This is the first office development in Africa to be awarded a v1.1, 6 Star Rating. Through efficient design, we achieved this rating with ZERO premium on the building cost, compared to the market average of a 12% premium for green star certification.

78 Corlett By Daffonchio and Associates Architects - Sheet2
Cafeteria ©Adam Letch

The development aims to set a new standard for vibrant and trendy co-working office spaces by providing a cutting edge 6-star rated Green Building. With innovative additions such as electric car charging stations, full cyclist facilities, passive solar shading design, and a full photovoltaic array, the design not only redefines the way people live and work but also prioritises sustainability & respect for the natural environment, whilst ensuring low running costs for the developer.

The design incorporates strong minimalist geometries, with the shading louvers acting as a dynamic facade element. The use of dark tones creates a strong street presence, elevating the building above the parking space below.

78 Corlett By Daffonchio and Associates Architects - Sheet3
Outdoor View ©Adam Letch

The floating effect of the building is further enhanced by the articulation of its relationship to the ground plane; only gently interfacing with the ground through a small glass box that will house the main circulation core and a concierge service.

The upper ground floor of the building will house a mixture of vibrant open co-working spaces and cellular offices, interspersed with social and formal meeting spaces, all revolving around a central coffee bar located in the triple volume daylit atrium. The first floor has additional co-working spaces and larger formal offices to cater for a diverse variety of tenants.

Author

Nikhil is a creative and adaptable member of the in-house team at Re-thinking The Future and Eduwik. With a deep interest in research and writing along with skill of graphic designing, he brings a strong sense of visual aesthetics, attention to detail, and creativity to his work. He has the ability to transform ideas into compelling visual identities while ensuring that each design communicates its intended message effectively. Approachable, enthusiastic, and committed to quality, Nikhil readily takes on new challenges and contributes across a range of creative requirements, making him a valuable part of the team.