The RGC Engineering building was constructed in 1960, as a mixed use, light industrial facility. The building provided assigned office space and direct access light industrial factory floor.

Aartium undertook to renovate an existing 1000sqm light industrial factory floor into contemporary offices and showroom space, for the legacy company, RGC Engineering.

Reflecting the brands’ heritage and commitment to quality and precision, our design vernacular was minimal and high-tech. It reflects the utilitarian nature and practical outlook, described in the products RGC Engineering provides to its legacy and parastatal customers.

Additionally, a high-tech, low-energy ethos was used through, designing all the spaces with motion-sensor lighting, adaptive climate control, and low power systems – all supplied by battery powered solar panels.

Our challenge was to offset initial cost with a cost saving in the future, by reducing the ecological footprint and maintaining a high-level, sustainable product. Therefore, material, product, and system choice was evaluated throughout the process in order to maintain a low ecological impact by reducing power demand and material wastages throughout.

The project is run exclusively on solar panels, which feed additional power back into the grid. Every light is smart-activated with motion sensors to reduce unnecessary load. All spaces are centrally climate controlled with smart monitors, using eco functions. All doors self-close to reduce internal climate leakage. All windows were replaced with double glazing, to reduce climate effects. Smart taps were installed to reduce flow and manage water use, which is recycled as grey water. Exposed industrial ceiling are exposed to reduce material use and waste, throughout.
Additionally, internal glass office partitions were installed to enhance the natural light which pours into the offices, reducing the overall need for lighting fixtures.