by Estelle van Staden, Johannesburg, 23 June 2005

The uppermost floors of the almost completed Michelangelo Towers in Sandton Johannesburg has been developed into what is being hailed as the most spectacular and magnificent penthouse in South Africa. 

The penthouse, known as the "Observation Suite" was conceptualised and designed by Bentel Associates International, locally and internationally known for their innovative but practical design work.

"As the building developed, we realised that the organic and flexible design of the building would allow for the construction of a penthouse that could be built on the top level," says Franc Brugman, design and project director of the Michelangelo project.

The suite is on the 32nd, 33rd and 34th floors of this state-of-the-art building and has a 360o view across the surrounding panoramic vistas. Topped by the spectacular stainless steel structure that forms the impressive stainless steel dome of this prestigious building, the Observation Suite will be the largest and most sought after rental unit in the building.

The ultra-luxury suite is a multi-purpose unit. There are three floors: the lower floor contains three luxury bedrooms, all en-suite, and the middle floor comprises the main reception area, an open area lounge, a dining area, a pub and a fully equipped kitchen. The most notable component of this level is the hi-tech boardroom that will enable the hotel rental pool to rent out the suite for both residential and business purposes. The top floor of the penthouse is a private pool deck consisting of a pool, probably the highest private swimming pool in Africa, a gym, a steam shower, a change room area and an outdoor dining and sunning area.

"The deck was a challenge to the design team as the lift motors are housed here and some skilful and careful planning, including a reduction in the size of the lift motor room, was required to develop the pool deck," says Brugman, "what we have designed here will truly rate as one of Jo'burg's finest penthouse suites!"

Bentel Associates International, which is a multidisciplinary design company, were not only responsible for the architecture of this level but were also the managing and coordinating agents responsible for the full design detail of the Observation Suite including the interior design architecture. The Bentel team has created a remarkably beautiful space for the interior designer Stephen Falcke to decorate. The interior furnishings and details are currently under final design and construction and will be completed by the end of August 2005.

The Observation Suite will undoubtedly become a prestigious and popular venue for business meetings in the heart of Africa's largest and most vibrant commercial centre. 
 

  
 
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