KSB Pumps and Valves, a leading provider of pumping solutions, is undergoing a major renovation of its multi-story building at Activia Park. The transformation aims to create a modern and collaborative workspace for its administrative staff, enhancing productivity and fostering innovation.
Terence Barkhuizen, the Facilities Development Manager at the company says the renovation gives new life to the property which has been occupied by KSB Pumps and Valves since 1970. “When we acquired the land in 1967, we built the existing buildings approximately three years later.
“However, the multi-story building was originally designed as a stores building and was not completely suitable as an office space. We realised the need to bring our admin staff together in one building and create a workspace that aligns with the future of work,” he says.
KSB Pumps and Valves iconic site in Activia Park is being transformed
He explains that the project’s scope involves refurbishing the existing store building to house various administrative departments of KSB Pumps and Valves. The renovation will also consolidate the first aid and nurses’ office, ensuring a functional space for medical needs and incidents required by the company’s mandate.
The goal is to create flexible and fluid open-plan spaces that encourage collaboration among departments while still meeting their individual requirements. “We are moving away from the traditional cellular office environment and incorporating contemporary ergonomic and flexible desks, kitchenettes, printing areas, and quiet spaces on each floor.”
The revamped building will feature four floors, covering approximately 2890 m², and accommodate around 100 staff members. Barkhuizen also highlighted an exciting architectural adjustment that will improve the occupants’ experience within the building.
“We raised the floor level to reticulate services below, which not only freed up reticulation but also raised the user’s line of sight. Now, sitting at their desks, our employees will be able to observe air traffic at the nearby international airport and witness traffic congestion on the N12 highway,” Barkhuizen explained. “This adjustment will truly connect our staff with the world outside, and the new link between the two administrative buildings will further facilitate movement and collaboration.”
Regarding the timeline and technological advancements, Barkhuizen revealed, “We are aiming for the contractor to hand back the building to KSB by the end of April 2024. This will be followed by a period of commissioning and furniture setup. In terms of technology, we are incorporating the latest energy-efficient electrical fittings and implementing smart building systems and automation where applicable to optimise our operations.”
Furthermore, the renovation project aligns with KSB’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. “We are focused on reducing the building’s carbon footprint and utilising responsible sourced materials,” Barkhuizen emphasised. “The fully glazed outer skin, along with a maintenance walkway acting as a shading device, will minimise glare and solar exposure. We will also collect roof water for pump testing and capture rainwater run-off for landscaping, water features, and irrigation.”
As for the grand unveiling, Barkhuizen shared, “While we are still finalising the exact date, we will keep our stakeholders informed as we progress toward this exciting milestone. We cannot wait to see our revitalised building come to life and witness the positive impact it will have on our employees and customers.”
The renovation project at KSB Pumps and Valves is set to redefine the company’s workspace and enhance collaboration among its administrative staff. With a focus on modernisation, sustainability, and energy efficiency, KSB is paving the way for a new era of productivity and innovation.
To find out more, contact KSB Pumps and Valves South Africa. You can reach Annett Kriel, Media and Events Manager, on (+27) 876-5600, or e-mail Annett.Kriel@ksb.com,
