Plumblink by Empowered Spaces Architects
To establish their new home in Waterfall City, local plumbing giant Plumblink called on Empowered Spaces Architects to craft a structure worthy of their name. The task was to amalgamate Plumblink’s Midrand-based head office, logistics, and customer collection into a colossal new 14 500 m² facility. The result is a design that emerges as a fusion of traditional warehouse pragmatism and contemporary office elegance.
Consolidating various business facets under one roof presented an opportunity to cultivate a cohesive company culture and elevate Plumblink’s corporate identity. The facility is multi-use, with 2000 m² of office space spread over 3 storeys, 800 m² of showroom, and order collection spaces alongside extensive warehousing. Positioned along the Buccleuch interchange, the building can be seen from the main arterial traffic routes connecting Johannesburg and Pretoria. This strategic placement offers panoramic city vistas whilst amplifying brand visibility to passing traffic, a key asset in Plumblink’s growth strategy. Positioned as a frontrunner in the industry, Plumblink’s relocation places them in a highly accessible and well-connected locale, aligning perfectly with the needs of the expanding customer demographic.
Traditional warehouse meets modern office
Architecturally, the facility seamlessly blends traditional warehouse elements with modern office design. The façade arises from juxtaposing industrial materials, like corrugated sheeting and raw concrete, with large glazing sections and balconies that add a contemporary aesthetic. Timber sections add texture and warmth, contrasting against the other elements. Additionally, the horizontal linear cladding that cascades across each floor evokes a sense of fluidity, while verdant foliage softens the urban landscape, harmonising nature with architecture. The design elements not only enhance aesthetics but also foster functional social spaces, emphasising the synthesis of form and purpose.
The essence of Plumblink
Plumblink’s industrial essence is underscored as you enter the reception where you are greeted with raw, exposed surfaces and services. The spacious and luminous triple-volume atrium and reception area, along with its sculptural staircase, create a welcoming entrance space from where you can access the corporate offices and adjacent showroom. Planted partitions and polished concrete floors exude contemporary elegance, blending the internal aesthetics to serve the diverse needs of Plumblink’s showroom, warehouse, and office spaces.
Considering environmental responsibility
The building is not only a massive feat in terms of design and aesthetics. It is also a testament to the brand’s consideration beyond itself. By implementing water-saving fixtures, adopting efficient waste management practices, supporting progressive environmental initiatives, and the use of recycled building materials, Plumblink demonstrates its commitment to being environmentally responsible, presenting a 4-star Green Rated building.
Drawing on the brand’s context to guide their design, Empowered Spaces Architects masterfully crafted a space that fulfils all of Plumblink’s needs. Balancing practicality and function, form and style, and even environmental consideration, the new facility in Waterfall City is a bold and modern approach to large-scale working spaces.
This article is an extract from our May Issue. Read the full issue here.
