Commercial real estate

Pran Boulevard: A beacon of modern security

Organization: Pran Boulevard

Location: Umhlanga, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa

Customer need: Access management, Parking

Umhlanga, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, 2019

Pran Boulevard sets a new benchmark in security, leveraging advanced surveillance systems to ensure the safety of its contemporary spaces.

A new face of security at Pran Boulevard

The Pran Boulevard development in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) stands as a testament to modern architecture and design. Developed by Shree Property Holdings, and designed by the Paragon Group, these two green buildings have transformed the landscape of Umhlanga Rocks Drive in the prestigious precinct of Umhlanga Ridge. Spanning 5,640 m2 of lettable space, they house office areas, common spaces, conference facilities, canteens, and a coffee shop.

The architectural brilliance is evident in the division of the structure into two buildings. This design choice not only enhances natural light, but also caters to the tropical climate of KZN. The space between the buildings serves as a communal area for staff, shaded by a large overhanging cantilever roof. Additionally, a multi-level basement garage offers 240 parking bays.

Identifying the need for advanced security

The vast open spaces and common areas of Pran Boulevard presented a unique challenge. The developers recognised the need for a comprehensive security and surveillance solution that left no stone unturned. Being a greenfield site, the advantage was the absence of legacy equipment, allowing for the integration of the latest digital-centric technology.

Given the multi-tenant model of the development, it was essential for each tenant to have access to their own security footage, in addition to the primary control room. This encompassed video coverage of office spaces, parking garages, common areas, and even the restaurant.

The Surveillance Factory, with its extensive experience in video surveillance solutions, was chosen for the task. They proposed a system comprising Axis cameras, Milestone software, and Dell EMC server and storage solutions.

“The client requirement was clear. They wanted a modern, user-friendly surveillance system that could monitor all areas and integrate seamlessly with the control room environment,” states Deon Chiesman, Owner at The Surveillance Factory KZN Pty Ltd. “They also wanted high-end cameras, access control solutions, and overall good quality equipment. There could be no room for error and no situation where an inferior product could be blamed if something went wrong.”

The client is ecstatic with the system as it meets all their requirements. The quality of the system and the images captured are superior to any other solution they investigated, and they are already talking about expanding the intelligence capabilities of the system to improve on preventative surveillance and access control into the future.

Deon Chiesman, Owner at The Surveillance Company

Crafting a comprehensive security framework

The client's familiarity with the quality of Axis network cameras played a significant role in the tender's award. The deployed system now monitors the property's 65 doors with 75 cameras.

For entrances and exits, the Axis network cameras were chosen for their innovative design and capability to capture details in varying light conditions. Another Axis network camera was selected for its 360° overview and the ability to focus on specific areas of interest. Outside, cameras were installed with recess mounts and colour-coordinated to match the building's exterior. All these cameras are connected to a central server room, equipped with a UPS backup.

“The landlord at Pran Boulevard places extensive emphasis on security and his security team monitor every aspect of the building daily. In fact, they can tell you who is in the building, what is going on at the site, and track the movement of people and cars with a state-of-the-art license plate recognition system at the entrances. They are currently considering the integration of a full access control solution with the system,” adds Chiesman.

The surveillance system operates from the core server room, branching into two core network nodes, one in each building. Managed via the Milestone software, it offers granular visibility to each tenant and the security control room. The server boasts over 10 TB of storage space, retaining video footage for 90 days with the potential for expansion.

“The client requirement was clear; they wanted a modern fool-proof surveillance system that could monitor all areas and integrate seamlessly with the control room environment.”

Elevating safety and efficiency

The state-of-the-art security system at Pran Boulevard has set a new benchmark. It ensures a safer environment and provides full visibility to all areas, including offices, open spaces, and parking garages. This advanced system has also led to cost savings for Shree Property Holdings by reducing the need for additional security patrols.