Why green-star rated commercial developments in Claremont are on the rise.
Category Commercial Property News
Worldwide, property developers are adopting a greener approach when it comes to the planning and construction of commercial space. This also holds true for new commercial buildings in the Western Cape, in particular, the popular commercial node of Claremont. These "green" buildings are rated in accordance with the Green Building Council South Africa, and are becoming increasingly popular among investors and tenants.
The Green Building Council South Africa is one of 75 members of the World Green Building Council. This dedicated team works in collaboration with industry bodies, leaders, government departments and professionals to develop market-based green building solutions for the transformation of the South African property industry. The core focus of this member-based organisation is green building certification and training. According to the GBCSA, it has become critical to design, construct and operate buildings that are energy efficient, resource efficient and environmentally responsible. Green buildings offer their occupants better health and productivity and are additionally cost-efficient to operate. They also aim to save energy, reduce waste, cut down on green house gas emissions, and conserve natural resources like water and air quality.
Draper on Main in Claremont is one of Cape Town's most recent green buildings in the increasingly popular commercial node of Claremont. Located on Main Road in Claremont, this AAA-grade mixed-use development boasts majestic views of Constantia Mountains and is within walking distance of Virgin Active, Pick n Pay, Woolworths and Cavendish Square Shopping Centre. At the heart of the project is an existing heritage building structure which has been the driving factor in creating the shape and flow of the building's unique attributes.
The building uses high-efficiency LED light fittings and is designed in accordance with the average lux level and light intensities as stipulated by the Green Building Council of South Africa. This provides a uniform light level with minimum power usage. The DALI lighting system controls the switching and dimming of the office lights via daylight and occupancy sensors. This reduces energy consumption and provides optimum light levels at all times. The building's air conditioning system uses a centralised, chilled water plant that meets the required cooling demand throughout the year. Equipped with ice storage tanks to store energy overnight, the building's electricity bill is therefore drastically reduced.
It goes without saying that buildings with green features such as Draper On Main provide attractive savings in operating costs and help to reduce your business's carbon footprint. The GBCSA also lists the following 11 benefits of investing in a green building:
Lower Operating Costs
Research reveals that Green Star SA buildings enjoy energy savings of between 20% and 50% compared to buildings designed to SANS 204 standards. The payback periods of energy and water saving practices are becoming much shorter as a result of increasing utility costs and the wider availability of more affordable green building technology.
Increased Productivity
Improved internal environment quality (IEQ) from increased ventilation, temperature and lighting control, the use of natural light and the absence of toxic materials result in the improved health, comfort and wellbeing of building occupants. This has been shown to increase productivity - always a significant factor in the profitability of a business.
Increased Property Values
Decreased operating costs, lease premiums and more competitive, less risky, future-proofed buildings contribute to the value of green buildings.
Enhanced Marketability
Green building creates a differentiated product in the market, which is viewed as technologically advanced and environmentally and socially responsible. These attributes are positively linked to the company brand and image of the owner and/or the tenant.
Reduced Liability and Risk
Green buildings are future-proofed against increases in utility costs, potential energy and water supply problems, tightening legislation, carbon taxes and the impact of mandatory energy efficiency disclosure, as well as costly retrofits or even obsolescence.
Attracting and Retaining talent
Skilled staff members are hard to attract and retain. However, educated people, particularly younger graduates, are increasingly aware of sustainability and wellness issues and consequently, may be more attracted to working in a green environment.
Minimising Churn
With increased comfort, occupant satisfaction, and more flexible spaces, green building can minimise the costs and impact of churn. Churn represents a significant cost to businesses.
Retaining government and other major tenants
The Department of Public Work's planned 'Green Building Framework' is likely to include certain green building requirements for government accommodation. This will increasingly apply to large multi-national tenants too.
Combat Climate Change
Green building practices can have a significant impact on combating climate change and help to create truly sustainable communities.
Responsible Investing
Investment in green building is an integral part of the worldwide trend to more responsible, sustainable and ethical investing.
Green commercial developments are undoubtedly on the rise and there's no better time than the present to invest in them. If you are interested in relocating your business to an area with ample green buildings like the Claremont commercial node, don't hesitate to pick up the phone and contact OfficePlace today. One of our specialist commercial brokers will be on hand to provide you with expert advice and a comprehensive list of available "green" commercial properties in the area
Author: Officeplace Commercial Property Specialists