Kansai Plascon defined the need to move the existing Laboratory, then located in Alberton, to Luipaardsvlei. Kansai Plascon approached ProjectWorks to design, as well as project manage a new Laboratory on their behalf.

The decision for the relocation was aimed at reducing transport costs as well as travelling time between facilities. After several discussions between the client and the designers further motivation is for the consolidation of various segregated functions onto a single campus. This to optimize performance and innovation opportunities with full integration of departments promoting information and skills transfer development. Kansai Plascon required a world-class laboratory that reflected their drive for innovation and excellence in the paint industry. Green is not just a colour to Kansai Plascon, they strive to implement environmentally considerate practices in every aspect of their business. This was reflected in the design as well.

The brief for the design of the building was to bring in maximum natural light into the building and use only Kansai Plascon’s products as far as possible. The client requested a functional work environment, incorporating the complexity of various test rooms, laboratory benches and related services within the restricted area where the site is located. Using an old factory’s foundations, ProjectWorks proceeded to create a world class laboratory. Due to the nature of work in the laboratory, health and safety was treated with high regard before and during construction. The look and feel of the design exhibits the functionality of the building with the ducting and piping painted in selected Plascon colours. The overall design of the facility displays the processes, as well as the products developed with the Kansai Plascon Laboratories. The building enhances the working environment to create opportunities for innovation by the staff. The environmental, economic and humanist impact on the client as well as the end user was integrated to create a conducive and safe environment for future developments.