Background Uganda Insurance commission organised a design competition in May 2003 for their proposed office block. AFL and 5 other architectural firms were invited to submit proposals. The site is located in Nakasero, a high-class residential neighbourhood that is speedily being transformed into a civic zone. Proximity of the site to the CBD of Kampala meant that this was principally an “urban design project.” Design Brief The clients outlined brief included design of a 10-storey structure to house rentable office accommodation in addition to office space for the client. Other requirements included parking space for vehicles, Fire exits, provision for lifts, amenities like toilets, kitchen on each floor, banking services, and a health club. Design Intervention The overriding concept here was to realise a design that reflects the Commission’s image and provide a modern building with state of the art facilities that stands out as a landmark amongst neighbouring structures. Hence it’s staggered plan layout, complemented by independent circular structural columns intended to give “volume” to the buildings façade. The convex mid section of the front façade is cladded with mirror glass fenestration to create reflected images of the surrounding buildings and greenery. Design considerations took into account possible preferences for air conditioning or natural ventilation.