In today’s challenging economic climate, achieving successful project delivery without cutting corners is not only possible but necessary for creating a sustainable future. Concor, a leading construction company, continues to demonstrate this ethos by adhering to fundamental principles and uplifting small to medium enterprises (SMMEs) in the construction industry. The company’s approach, founded on getting the basics right, has consistently enabled it to deliver projects on time and within budget, even in the most demanding environments.

A prime example of Concor’s successful project delivery model is the current construction of two new buildings, 10 Parks Boulevard and 55 Eastwood Road, within the prestigious Oxford Parks Precinct in Johannesburg. Known for its top-tier tenants, Oxford Parks is a highly sought-after commercial area, and the calibre of its developments is testament to the commitment of both Concor and the client, Intaprop, in enhancing the exclusive feel of the precinct.

Warren Mills, Contract Manager at Concor, says work on the project commenced in February 2024, with bulk earthworks completed by March and raft foundations following in April. “Once construction of the super-basement was underway, focus then shifted to the 10 Parks office tower and the project has progressed to the completion of level five on 10 Parks and activities on three for 55 Eastwood,” he explains. Both buildings are being constructed simultaneously, ensuring that timelines are met and that efficiencies are achieved throughout the process.

The common basement of 10 Parks Boulevard and 55 Eastwood Road is a substantial structure, utilising 15,350 cubic metres of concrete and 1,620 tonnes of rebar to ensure its strength and durability. With a footprint of 21,035m² spread over four levels, the basement also incorporates 520,000 bricks for internal brickwork, providing the foundational support needed for both buildings.

The 10 Parks Boulevard office tower will require 4,250m³ of concrete, 510 tonnes of rebar, and 450,000 bricks to complete its structure, with a Gross Lettable Area (GLA) of 7,562m² spread across its five floors. Meanwhile, the 55 Eastwood Road building will use 3,250m³ of concrete, 370 tonnes of rebar, and 370,000 bricks for its four floors, with a total GLA of 4,734m². These materials reflect the scale and quality of the construction, ensuring both buildings meet high standards of durability and aesthetic appeal.

Despite some challenges, Concor’s 10 Parks project is currently ahead of schedule, highlighting the company’s ability to deliver quality work while adhering to tight timelines. This success can largely be attributed to Concor’s experienced project team, which has extensive knowledge of the Oxford Parks Precinct, having worked in the area for over seven years.

Central to Concor’s success in Oxford Parks is its commitment to uplifting SMMEs. “We have actively pursued a dedicated programme of mentoring small subcontractors from the start of our work within the Oxford Parks Precinct. One of our focuses has been to ensure they meet the high standards required for quality and safety, and this approach not only ensures that work is completed to our quality specifications but also helps develop a skilled and sustainable subcontracting workforce for the future.”

Significantly, this Concor programme has seen many of these subcontractors become preferred partners, further ensuring that Concor’s projects remain ahead of schedule and exceed client expectations.

Mills stresses that it is important to note that Concor remains competitive by tendering out all subcontracting work, thereby giving a wide range of SMMEs the opportunity to participate. “By spreading these opportunities, we help foster a more inclusive and dynamic construction industry, ensuring that the benefits of projects are shared among a broader pool of businesses.”

The 10 Parks Boulevard and 55 Eastwood Road developments will be impressive additions to the Oxford Parks Precinct. 10 Parks offers five floors of office space and a retail floor totalling 7562m² GLA, while 55 Eastwood provides three floors of office space and a retail floor covering 4734m² GLA. The buildings share a four-level basement that includes parking and energy centres. Additionally, both buildings will feature rooftop solar installations, contributing to the sustainability of the project.

The ground floors of the buildings will house retail outlets, opening onto open terraces and pedestrian walkways. Terraces will also be available on the first and top floors, providing open spaces for social interaction. Both buildings are designed with curved east-facing facades to invite more natural light, and 10 Parks will feature a mechanically fixed tile façade, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the development.

The Oxford Parks Block 2A Phase 1 project is targeting a Green Star V2 certification, reinforcing Intaprop and Concor’s commitment to sustainable construction. Achieving this certification requires a collective understanding and effort from the entire professional and construction team, including subcontractors and labourers. Communication and education are key in ensuring that every team member is aware of the requirements to minimise the project’s carbon footprint.

Concor’s operating model is centred on a back-to-basics approach, which focuses on executing the fundamental aspects of construction to the highest standard. Mills say that this attention to detail has proven time and again to be a formula for success. “When the basics are done right, everything falls into place, and the result is a successful, high-quality project.”

Agility also plays a critical role in Concor’s project delivery. The company’s ability to accommodate reasonable changes in design or programme allows it to remain competitive in a dynamic market, particularly when dealing with the ever-evolving demands of the property rental sector. Whether it’s adjusting to a tenant’s request for an earlier occupation date or modifying design elements, Concor’s agility ensures that its projects stay on track without sacrificing quality.

Concor’s continued success in delivering quality projects, even amid economic challenges, is a testament to its commitment to excellence, sustainability, and inclusivity. By focusing on the basics and uplifting small contractors, Concor ensures that each project is completed to the highest standard while contributing to a sustainable future for the construction industry. The 10 Parks Boulevard and 55 Eastwood Road developments are just the latest examples of how Concor’s tried-and-true approach continues to deliver remarkable results in the built environment.

A prime example of Concor’s successful project delivery model is the current construction of two new buildings, 10 Parks Boulevard and 55 Eastwood Road, within the prestigious Oxford Parks Precinct in Johannesburg.

The common basement of 10 Parks Boulevard and 55 Eastwood Road is a substantial structure, utilising 15,350 cubic metres of concrete and 1,620 tonnes of rebar.

The 10 Parks Boulevard and 55 Eastwood Road developments will be impressive additions to the Oxford Parks Precinct.

10 Parks offers five floors of office space and a retail floor totalling 7562m² GLA, while 55 Eastwood provides three floors of office space and a retail floor covering 4734m² GLA.

The Oxford Parks Block 2A Phase 1 project is targeting a Green Star V2 certification, reinforcing Intaprop and Concor’s commitment to sustainable construction.

Concor’s ability to accommodate reasonable changes in design or programme allows it to remain competitive in a dynamic market.