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Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), South Africa

A flagship public-private partnership project showcasing South Africa to the world.

Client

Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)

Project date

Completed in just 24 months, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) headquarters in Tshwane is a landmark project that brought an eclectic and asymmetrical architectural vision to life. As a flagship public-private partnership (PPP), the building reflects South Africa’s identity and aspirations on the global stage.

The opportunity

The project presented a unique challenge: translating a complex and visually striking design into a functional and structurally sound building. The aesthetic importance of the architecture demanded innovative engineering solutions, even for seemingly simple elements.

What we did

Zutari played a leading role in delivering the engineering infrastructure for the DIRCO building. Key contributions included:

  • Designing and resolving complex spiral staircases to facilitate internal movement, addressing out-of-plane forces for structural stability

  • Developing “spider” columns by fixing structural steel to cast-in-situ concrete columns, finished with precast concrete to achieve intricate vertical and horizontal curves

  • Avoiding the use of costly off-shutter concrete through innovative design and construction techniques

  • Collaborating closely with design and manufacturing teams to overcome challenges in the production, transport and installation of structural elements

  • Implementing stack bond blockwork for the external façade, requiring alternative connection methods to integrate with internal standard brick modules

Innovative engineering brought complex architectural features to life, including spiral staircases and spider columns.

The outcome

The DIRCO building stands as a testament to engineering excellence and collaborative problem-solving. Zutari’s solutions enabled the successful realisation of a complex design, resulting in a visually compelling and structurally sound facility. The building now serves as a dignified home for South Africa’s international relations efforts.

The DIRCO headquarters is more than just a building—it is a symbol of South Africa’s democratic values and global engagement. Through innovation, collaboration and technical expertise, Zutari helped create a space that reflects the country’s vision and ambition on the world stage.

The DIRCO project showcased Zutari’s ability to deliver engineering excellence within a flagship public-private partnership.

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