In conversation with Reinhard Kretzen, Stuart Allan and Anton Jansen van Vuuren
URBAN SPACES
Building within constraints Every project comes with limitations, but Cipla’s headquarters had some particularly complex technical conditions. Chief among them was the TABS (thermally activated building system), which regulates temperature through water pipes embedded in the concrete floor slabs. To maintain efficiency, only 25% of the ceilings could be covered, and floor finishes had to allow for thermal transfer. “One of the biggest challenges was the ceilings,” says Reinhard. “We had to keep substantial areas exposed for the TABS system. Both from an aesthetic and a functional point of view, some kind of ceiling treatment was necessary, particularly for acoustic control. Recycled PET panels have
First-floor open-plan offices
carpet tiles which work with the system, perform well acoustically, and they gave us a way to add texture and visual interest across the space.” Sustainability ran through other aspects of the design too. Many of the workstations and chairs were reused, either as they were or with new upholstery.
been used for their acoustic properties and flexibility – they have been creatively shaped into interesting bulkheads and used as opportunities to link back to the brand.” Floor coverings were also carefully considered. “We couldn’t use heavy carpets or anything that blocked thermal transfer,” says Anton. “We used vinyl
October 2025 | Issue 141 | Asset Magazine 169
168 Asset Magazine | Issue 141 | October 2025
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