"50 Years in the Industry" |
Bing Walker,
Bing Walker & Associates, Cape Town |
The architectural design of Bing Walker's home in Llandudno reflects his meticulous precision and signature quest for perfection. With fifty years in the industry which started as an engineering graduate from the University of Cape Town (UCT), one of the first projects that Bing undertook was the design and construction of his massive five storey home, which is considered a structural masterpiece.
It was also Bing's engineering qualification which paved the way to a series of further intricate projects which called on his vast expertise across all disciplines. "When I studied civil engineering at UCT, the qualification covered a broad spectrum which ranged across the architectural, structural and mechanical engineering disciplines. The interrelatedness of the course also allowed us to appreciate the architecture of building systems within its overall building design."
"There were not as many civil engineering consulting firms in the 1950's as building contracting firms and these specialized in the planning, designing and oversight of a building's construction from start to finish," explains Bing, recalling the early years.
Bing acquired his Llandudno property in 1960 and set about to design the first three stories, drawing inspiration from a bridge model. An unfortunate electrical fault in 1994 led to a fire and the house subsequently burnt to the ground. "We were at a sixtieth birthday party on the beach when someone spotted a house on fire in the distance. It was with horror that I realized that it was my home but it was too late to save anything by the time the authorities arrived," he explains.
Bing is however quick to point out the silver lining in his story, and proudly shows off his handiwork in the fourth and fifth floors which were later added to the original design. "The re-design and construction of the house allowed me to increase the living space to accommodate my entire family when they come for a visit. I now have a suite for myself and my wife, a suite for my daughter and her husband, one for my son, a level for all the kids and a sun filled office on the top floor."
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Most of Bing's designs are constructed using AllyCAD, a program which he has nothing but high praise for. "The software is so easy to use and even easier to learn. I basically taught myself how to use the software and was able to produce high level designs in no time. Although I design a large amount of architectural and structural plans I have also been able to put the software to good use when planning civil infrastructure," he explains.
An interesting design which dates back as far as 1975 and which resurfaced nearly 35 years later is the Trans Caprivi Highway, Okavango River Bridge. "I was happy to be involved in this project as it resulted in the establishment of the first incremental launch bridge, completely unique to Africa. It was therefore a good surprise after working on the construction of the original bridge in 1975 to be involved in the design of the widening for the structure to accommodate two lane traffic flow for vehicles in 2008."
"The current design for the Okavango River Bridge also involved a cross section through to the existing bridge to accommodate the bridge lengthening. The project, which is currently at tender phase would entail the design of a structure around the existing 150 metre bridge so that labourers could work inside the unit during the construction of a further 34 metres," explains Bing with delight.
Bing has been able to diversity his skill set and consults on a regular basis to the built environment on new methods and techniques. His love and appreciation for fine architectural designs, solid and durable structures and precision perfect input has led him to become a household name in the industry. As to the thought of retirement Bing is adamant: "For the next 10 years I don't plan to slow down at all. I've always liked what I do and over the years it has also become a hobby so why spoil the fun? If your input is precise, you can be assured of an aesthetically pleasing result time and time again."
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Bing Walker
Bing Walker's working career began as far back as 1955 when he joined the then Clifford Harris contracting engineering company to apply his skills in the architectural, structural and civil fields. He acquired further exposure in civil infrastructure at Vela VKE Engineers before starting his own concern, Bing Walker & Associates in 1983 where he offered extensive consulting services in his fields of expertise. Bing is married with two children and balances a fulfilling career with valuable family time spent in his leisure.
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Block I, The Terraces, Steenberg Office Park, 1 Silverwood Close, Tokai 7945.
Tel: +27 +21 701-1850 Fax: +27 +21 701-1822
Web: www.knowbase.co.za Email: info@knowbase.co.za
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